Coloma Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, food and drink scene, places to stay, and transportation options in Coloma, Wisconsin. Plan your itinerary with our guide.


Introduction to Coloma

Located in North Central Wisconsin, Coloma is a small village with a rich history and beautiful natural scenery. It offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and ancient landmarks that attract travelers all year round. Whether you’re an ardent hiker, a history buff, or a food lover, Coloma has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ve curated the top destinations that you can visit in Coloma. So, put on your adventurer’s hat and let’s explore!

List of Places to Visit in Coloma

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Richford Historical Society Museum: The museum showcases the history of Richford and Coloma since 1849. Explore artifacts, photographs, and historical documents that depict the lifestyle and culture of the people of yesteryears.

  2. Coloma Area Historical Society Museum: Explore the agricultural heritage and industrial past of Coloma through the exhibits, photographs, and collections of the museum.

  3. Patterson Memorial Library: The library boasts a collection of over 25,000 books, audiovisual materials, and digital resources. Attend storytelling sessions, movie screenings, and other community events held here throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Coloma: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mecan River State Fishery Area: This 6,818-acre state park offers ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, camping, and fishing. Explore the trails that meander along the Mecan River, the Tiffany Floodplain, and the Pike Lake Chain.

  2. Emmons Creek Fishery Area: This state park is home to several species of gamefish, including trout, bass, and panfish. It offers a serene environment for picnicking, hiking, and biking the trails that wind through the dense woods.

  3. Coloma Park: The park provides a perfect picnic spot for families and friends. It offers a playground for kids, a basketball court, a volleyball court, and a pavilion where you can relax and enjoy your packed lunch.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coloma

  1. Ice Age National Scenic Trail: The Coloma section of the trail covers a distance of 29.7 miles and requires moderate to challenging levels of skill. It passes through the Mecan River, the Emmons Creek, and the John Muir County Park.

  2. Pine River Trail: This 9.2-mile long trail passes through the beautiful pine forests and wetlands. It is a perfect place for birdwatching, hiking, and mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Coloma: Activities and Tours

  1. Explore the Mecan River by tubing, kayaking, or canoeing. The river boasts some of the best trout fishing spots in the state.

  2. Visit the ancient Indian Mounds, called the Coloma Mounds, that depict the culture and lifestyle of the indigenous people who inhabited this region thousands of years ago.

  3. Attend the annual Bluegrass Festival held in Coloma every August. The festival features live music, food vendors, and camping facilities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Coloma

Day Destination Activities/Tours
Day 1 Coloma Explore the Mecan River Fishery Area
Day 2 Richford Visit the Richford Historical Society Museum
Day 3 Coloma Hike the Ice Age National Scenic Trail in John Muir County Park
Day 4 Wautoma Visit the Nordic Mountain Ski Resort for skiing and snowboarding
Day 5 Coloma Visit the Coloma Area Historical Society Museum
Day 6 Coloma Go for a scenic drive to the beautiful Pine River Trail
Day 7 Coloma Attend the Bluegrass Festival held annually in August

Food and Drink Scene of Coloma

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Bratwurst: Coloma is famous for its grilled bratwurst topped with sauerkraut and served with a side of Wisconsin cheddar cheese.

  2. Fish Fry: Try the Friday fish fry, a Wisconsin classic, served alongside rye bread, coleslaw, and potato chips.

Local Beverages

  1. Spotted Cow Beer: This ale is brewed locally in New Glarus and is available in most bars and restaurants throughout Coloma.

  2. Wisconsin wines: Wineries like Burr Oak Winery and Vines & Rushes Winery offer locally produced wine, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, and Pinot Grigio.

Where to Stay in Coloma: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Redgranite Inn: Located near the Mecan River and state parks, the Redgranite Inn offers comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and continental breakfast.

  2. Penny Pinchers Motel: This budget-friendly motel located in downtown Coloma offers clean rooms, cable TV, and free parking.

What to Buy in Coloma: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Honey: Buy locally produced honey from the Richford Honey Company, which uses sustainable beekeeping practices to produce pure, unprocessed honey.

  2. Cheese: Buy slices of Wisconsin cheddar or a wheel of Colby cheese from the local dairy farms.

Local Culture and Customs of Coloma

Coloma is known for its rich agricultural heritage, deep-rooted cultural traditions, and humble community spirit. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and they take great pride in their way of life.

Best Time to Visit Coloma

The best time to visit Coloma is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. Fall and spring are also good options when the foliage colors and outdoor activities are at their peak, but be prepared for cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coloma

Do:

  1. Respect the heritage and culture of the local community.

  2. Leave no trace while exploring natural areas and parks.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage public property.

  2. Trespass on private property without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coloma

Coloma is a safe and peaceful community with low crime rates. However, it is recommended to take necessary precautions, like locking your car and reporting any suspicious activities to the local authorities.

Health in Coloma

There are no major health concerns in Coloma. However, it is advisable to carry insect repellent and sunscreen when exploring the outdoors.

Getting to Coloma: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Coloma

The nearest airport to Coloma is the Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee, which is 50 miles away. Visitors can also use the regional airports in Appleton and Madison, which are 60 and 80 miles away, respectively.

Bus Stations Near Coloma

The closest bus station to Coloma is the Wautoma Greyhound Bus Stop, located 10 miles away.

Other Options

You can also reach Coloma via car, as it is located close to major highways like the I-39 and I-94.

How to Get Around in Coloma

The best way to explore Coloma is by car. Visitors can rent cars or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Cycling and walking are also viable options for exploring the downtown area and nearby parks.

Where to Go Next from Coloma: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Wisconsin Dells: Known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, Wisconsin Dells is located 50 miles south of Coloma and offers amusement parks, water sports, restaurants, and shopping areas.

  2. Eau Claire: Located 105 miles north of Coloma, Eau Claire is home to several cultural attractions, including the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire and the Chippewa Valley Museum.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Coloma is a charming village with offerings that appeal to everyone. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, delicious food, and welcoming community, it offers travelers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your itinerary, and get ready to experience the best that Coloma has to offer!