North Central Wisconsin Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay and more in North Central Wisconsin. Plan your trip today!


Introduction to North Central Wisconsin

Welcome to North Central Wisconsin! Located in the Midwest of the United States, North Central Wisconsin offers travelers a unique blend of rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and an array of outdoor adventures. From charming small towns to bustling cities, there is something for everyone in North Central Wisconsin.

List of Places to Visit in North Central Wisconsin

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, North Central Wisconsin has plenty of attractions to explore. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum: Featuring an impressive collection of contemporary art, this museum offers visitors a chance to marvel at works by world-renowned artists.
  • Wisconsin Historical Society Museum: Discover the rich history of North Central Wisconsin at this informative museum, which features exhibits on the Native American tribes who once inhabited the region, as well as exhibits on the area’s logging and mining industries.
  • Stevens Point Sculpture Park: Take a walk and experience the natural beauty while enjoying the various sculptures.

Natural Attractions of North Central Wisconsin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ice Age Trail: This 1,000-mile trail takes hikers through some of North Central Wisconsin’s most beautiful landscapes, including lakes, forests, and rocky ridges.
  • Rib Mountain State Park: Hike to the top of Rib Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forests and hills.
  • Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest: Featuring over a million acres of pristine wilderness, this national forest offers visitors the chance to hike, bike, fish and camp in some of North Central Wisconsin’s most remote areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Central Wisconsin

North Central Wisconsin is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Burkhardt Trail: Located in Rib Mountain State Park, this trail features stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.
  • Mountain-Bay State Trail: Stretching 83 miles from Weston to Green Bay, this popular trail is perfect for bikers and hikers alike.
  • Plover River Trail: This scenic trail runs along the Plover River and offers great opportunities for birdwatching and fishing.

Best Things to Do in North Central Wisconsin: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun and unique things to do in North Central Wisconsin. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Visit a cranberry bog: North Central Wisconsin is the largest producer of cranberries in the world, so be sure to stop by one of the area’s many cranberry bogs for a tour and to sample some fresh cranberries.
  • Take a brewery tour: North Central Wisconsin is home to dozens of microbreweries, so why not take a tour and sample some of the area’s best craft beers?
  • Attend a local festival: North Central Wisconsin is home to many festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from local heritage to outdoor recreation.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Central Wisconsin

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to North Central Wisconsin:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wausau
Day 2 Hike the trails in Rib Mountain State Park and enjoy the scenic views
Day 3 Take a brewery tour in Stevens Point
Day 4 Explore the Wisconsin Historical Society Museum in Madison
Day 5 Visit a cranberry bog in Wisconsin Rapids
Day 6 Drive through the scenic Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
Day 7 Attend a local festival in one of the area’s small towns

Food and Drink Scene of North Central Wisconsin

North Central Wisconsin may not be known for its cuisine, but it offers plenty of tasty local specialties and craft brews. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bratwurst: Served up at many of the area’s many sausage shops and microbreweries, bratwurst is a classic Wisconsin dish that is a must-try.
  • Fish fry: Friday night fish fries are a staple in North Central Wisconsin, with many restaurants and bars offering their own version of this beloved dish.
  • Cheese curds: North Central Wisconsin is famous for its cheese, and cheese curds are a popular snack that can be found at many local markets and grocery stores.

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer: North Central Wisconsin is home to dozens of microbreweries, so be sure to sample some of the area’s best craft brews.
  • Cranberry wine: North Central Wisconsin’s cranberry bogs produce some of the best cranberry wines in the country, so be sure to try some during your visit.

Where to Stay in North Central Wisconsin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Central Wisconsin offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious downtown hotels. Here are some of the top options:

  • The Jefferson Street Inn: Located in downtown Wausau, this upscale hotel offers a great location and all the amenities you’d expect from a luxury hotel.
  • Red Lion Hotel Paper Valley: Located in the heart of Appleton, this hotel offers great views of the Fox River and easy access to some of the area’s top attractions.
  • Woodside Cottages: Located near Wisconsin Dells, these cozy cottages offer a quiet and secluded retreat in the heart of nature.

What to Buy in North Central Wisconsin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir to remember your trip to North Central Wisconsin? Here are some of the best local products to bring home:

  • Cranberry products: From fresh cranberries to cranberry jelly and jam, North Central Wisconsin is home to a wide range of delicious cranberry products.
  • Cheese: Wisconsin is famous for its cheese, and North Central Wisconsin is no exception. Be sure to bring home some authentic Wisconsin cheese to enjoy.
  • Wood carvings: There are many local craftsmen in North Central Wisconsin who specialize in wood carvings, so be sure to pick up a unique and beautiful piece to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of North Central Wisconsin

North Central Wisconsin is a friendly and welcoming place with a rich history and strong sense of community. Here are some things to know about local culture and customs:

  • Respect for nature: North Central Wisconsin is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the country, and locals take great pride in preserving and protecting the environment.
  • Friendliness: Locals in North Central Wisconsin are known for being friendly and welcoming to visitors, so don’t be shy about striking up a conversation with a local.
  • Love of the outdoors: With so many natural attractions and outdoor activities to enjoy, it’s no surprise that locals have a great love of the outdoors.

Best Time to Visit North Central Wisconsin

The best time to visit North Central Wisconsin is between June and September when the weather is warm and the outdoor attractions are in full swing. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy some winter activities, consider visiting between December and February when the area is covered in a beautiful blanket of snow.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Central Wisconsin

Here are some key do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to North Central Wisconsin:

Do:

  • Explore the outdoors: With so many natural attractions and outdoor activities to enjoy, be sure to spend plenty of time exploring the great outdoors.
  • Try the local cuisine: North Central Wisconsin is home to some delicious local specialties, so be sure to try some during your visit.
  • Be respectful of nature: Locals in North Central Wisconsin take great pride in preserving and protecting the environment, so be sure to do your part and respect nature.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the weather: North Central Wisconsin can experience some extreme weather conditions, so be sure to pack appropriately and check the forecast before heading out on any outdoor activities.
  • Disrespect local customs: North Central Wisconsin is a friendly and welcoming place, so be sure to show respect for local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

North Central Wisconsin is a relatively safe and healthy place to visit, but there are still some things to keep in mind during your trip.

Safety in North Central Wisconsin

  • Watch out for wildlife: North Central Wisconsin is home to many different species of wildlife, including black bears, so be sure to keep a safe distance and know what to do in case of an encounter.
  • Be prepared for weather conditions: North Central Wisconsin can experience extreme weather conditions, so be sure to pack appropriately and be aware of any weather warnings or advisories.

Health in North Central Wisconsin

  • Ticks and Lyme disease: North Central Wisconsin is an area where ticks are commonly found, so be sure to take precautions such as wearing long sleeves and pants when hiking, as well as performing regular tick checks.
  • Sunburn: With so many outdoor activities to enjoy, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated.

Getting to North Central Wisconsin: Transportation Options and Logistics

North Central Wisconsin is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some transportation options and logistics to keep in mind:

Airports Near North Central Wisconsin

  • Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA): Located in Mosinee, this airport offers direct flights to many major cities in the United States.
  • Appleton International Airport (ATW): Located in Appleton, this airport offers direct flights to many major cities in the United States.

Bus Stations Near North Central Wisconsin

  • Greyhound: Greyhound operates buses from many major cities to North Central Wisconsin.
  • Badger Bus: Badger Bus operates buses to North Central Wisconsin from many cities in Wisconsin.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option for visitors to North Central Wisconsin, as it allows for greater flexibility and the ability to explore the area at your own pace.
  • Train: Amtrak operates train service to many cities in North Central Wisconsin, including Wausau and Stevens Point.

How to Get Around in North Central Wisconsin

Getting around North Central Wisconsin is easy and convenient. Rental cars and taxis are widely available, and many cities offer public transportation options such as buses and trams.

Where to Go Next from North Central Wisconsin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North Central Wisconsin is located in the heart of the Midwest, making it a great starting point for exploring other nearby destinations. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Door County: Located on the eastern edge of Wisconsin, Door County is a popular tourist destination known for its quaint small towns, scenic shorelines, and delicious local cuisine.
  • Minocqua: This charming small town in northern Wisconsin is surrounded by beautiful lakes and forests, and offers plenty of outdoor activities and natural attractions.
  • Chicago: While not located in Wisconsin, Chicago is only a few hours’ drive from North Central Wisconsin and offers plenty of attractions, including museums, parks, and world-class restaurants.

Conclusion

North Central Wisconsin is a unique and beautiful travel destination that offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs to foodies. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and friendly locals, North Central Wisconsin is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler. Plan your trip today and experience all that North Central Wisconsin has to offer!



    Coloma
    Eagle River
    Green Lake
    Hurley
    Marshfield
    Medford
    Rudolph
    Stevens Point
    Wausau