Stevens Point Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Stevens Point, Wisconsin, with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Stevens Point

Nestled in the heart of North Central Wisconsin, Stevens Point is a charming city with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant local culture. Located in the scenic Wisconsin River valley, this city is a popular destination for those who love the great outdoors, as it offers a wealth of natural attractions and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you are a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, there is something for everyone in Stevens Point.

List of Places to Visit in Stevens Point

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Stevens Point has an impressive collection of museums and historical places that serve as a testimony to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Stevens Point Sculpture Park: This 20-acre park features the work of local artists who use metal, stone, and other materials to create beautiful sculptures that capture the spirit of the region.
  • University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Museum of Natural History: This fascinating museum features a diverse collection of natural history exhibits, including taxidermied animals, fossils, and geologic specimens from around the world.
  • Historic Jensen Center: The center is housed in a beautiful Tudor-style building that has played an important role in the community’s history. The center features exhibits on the history of the region and offers guided tours of the building and the surrounding area.

Natural Attractions of Stevens Point: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Stevens Point is blessed with beautiful scenery and a diverse range of outdoor recreation opportunities. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Stevens Point:

  • Wisconsin River: This beautiful river is the lifeblood of the region and is a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and fishing.
  • Green Circle Trail: This 27-mile trail loops around Stevens Point and encompasses a variety of natural habitats, including wetlands, prairies, and forests. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.
  • Mead Wildlife Area: This large nature reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, wolves, and bald eagles. The area features several hiking trails and provides excellent opportunities for birding and wildlife photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Stevens Point

Stevens Point is a great place for those who love to hike and bike in the great outdoors. Here are some of the best routes in the area:

  • Schmeeckle Reserve Trail: This 5.5-mile trail is located within the 280-acre Schmeeckle Reserve and offers stunning views of wetlands, forests, and prairies.
  • Tomorrow River State Trail: This 29-mile trail connects Stevens Point with Manawa and passes through a diverse range of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and farmland.
  • Standing Rocks County Park Trail System: This park features over 15 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through woods, wetlands, and prairies. The park also has a challenging disc golf course.

Best Things to Do in Stevens Point: Activities and Tours

In addition to its incredible natural attractions, Stevens Point offers a variety of fun activities and tours for travelers of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top things to do in the city:

  • Riverfront Rendezvous: This annual festival takes place in late June and features live music, food booths, carnival rides, and fireworks over the river.
  • Central Waters Brewing Company: This award-winning brewery is located in a former railroad depot and offers tours and tastings of its delicious craft beers.
  • The Fox on Main: This cozy venue features a variety of live music, comedy, and theater performances throughout the year.
  • Sunset Point Winery: This charming winery offers tours and tastings of its delicious wines, as well as stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Stevens Point

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Stevens Point:

Day Activities
1 Visit the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Museum of Natural History; hike the Schmeeckle Reserve Trail
2 Explore downtown Stevens Point and its shops and restaurants; watch a performance at The Fox on Main
3 Bike the Tomorrow River State Trail; visit the Standing Rocks County Park Trail System
4 Take a guided tour of the Historic Jensen Center; taste craft beers at the Central Waters Brewing Company
5 Spend a day at the Mead Wildlife Area, birdwatching, and hiking
6 Have a picnic on the banks of the Wisconsin River; go kayaking or tubing
7 Visit the Stevens Point Sculpture Park; taste local wines at the Sunset Point Winery; attend the Riverfront Rendezvous festival

Food and Drink Scene of Stevens Point

Stevens Point boasts an impressive food and drink scene, featuring a variety of local specialties and international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish Fry: This classic Wisconsin dish features deep-fried fish served with coleslaw, fries, and tartar sauce.
  • Bratwurst: This savory sausage is a staple of the Midwest and is often grilled and served with sauerkraut and mustard.
  • Cheese Curds: These golden-fried cheese nuggets are a Wisconsin specialty and are often served with ranch dressing or other dipping sauces.

Local Beverages

  • New Glarus Spotted Cow: This delicious beer is made by the New Glarus Brewing Company and is a Wisconsin favorite.
  • Point Root Beer: This iconic root beer is made by the Stevens Point Brewery and is a perfect drink for a hot summer day.
  • Cranberry Wine: This sweet and tart wine is a regional specialty and is made from cranberries grown in the surrounding area.

Where to Stay in Stevens Point: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Stevens Point offers a variety of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the top options:

  • Cobblestone Inn & Suites: This modern hotel is located downtown and features comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a free breakfast buffet.
  • Baymont Inn & Suites: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms and an indoor pool and hot tub.
  • B&B Hitching Post: This charming bed and breakfast is located near the Historic Jensen Center and features cozy rooms and a delicious breakfast.

What to Buy in Stevens Point: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Stevens Point has a variety of local products and souvenirs that make great gifts or keepsakes. Here are some of the best things to buy in the city:

  • Wisconsin cheese: Wisconsin is known for its delicious cheese, and Stevens Point is no exception. Be sure to bring home some local cheddar or Gouda.
  • Kraut and Pickles: These traditional Wisconsin condiments are made by local producers and are a delicious addition to any meal.
  • Handmade crafts: The Stevens Point area is home to many talented artisans who create beautiful pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Stevens Point

Stevens Point is known for its friendly and welcoming locals and strong community spirit. Visitors to the city should be sure to respect local customs and traditions, such as:

  • Wisconsin supper clubs: These classic restaurants are a Wisconsin tradition and feature hearty meals, cocktails, and live music.
  • Tailgating: Wisconsin loves its sports, and tailgating is a popular pre-game ritual that involves grilling, drinking, and socializing in the parking lot.
  • Polka music: Polka is a popular dance in Wisconsin, and many bars and clubs feature live polka bands and dance floors.

Best Time to Visit Stevens Point

The best time to visit Stevens Point depends on your interests and preferences. The summer months (June-August) are popular for outdoor activities, while the fall (September-November) is great for fall foliage and festivals. The winter (December-February) is ideal for snow sports, and the spring (March-May) offers mild temperatures and beautiful wildflowers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Stevens Point

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including cheese, bratwurst, and fish fry.
  • Visit the local museums and historical sites to learn about the city’s rich heritage.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as tailgating and polka dancing.

Don’t:

  • Litter in natural areas or disrespect the environment.
  • Be rude or dismissive of locals or their traditions.
  • Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Safety and Health

Safety in Stevens Point

Stevens Point is a safe city to visit, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. Visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Health in Stevens Point

Stevens Point has several hospitals and medical centers that offer high-quality care to visitors in need. Travelers should be sure to have adequate health insurance before visiting the city.

Getting to Stevens Point: Transportation Options and Logistics

Stevens Point is easily accessible by car, plane, or bus. Here are some transportation options for getting to the city:

  • Central Wisconsin Airport: This small regional airport is located just outside of Stevens Point and offers flights to major cities across the region.
  • Greyhound Bus Service: The bus station in nearby Wausau offers connections to major cities across the country.
  • Car Rental: Several car rental companies are located in the city, making it easy to explore the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Stevens Point

Stevens Point is a walkable city, and many attractions and restaurants are located within easy walking distance of each other. There are also several taxi and rideshare options for those who need to get around the city quickly. Car rental is also a popular option for visitors who want to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Stevens Point: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Stevens Point is located in the heart of North Central Wisconsin, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out:

  • Wisconsin Dells: This popular vacation spot is known for its water parks, amusement parks, and scenic boat tours.
  • Door County: This beautiful peninsula is known for its charming towns, picturesque lighthouses, and wineries.
  • Madison: Wisconsin’s capital city has a thriving food and drink scene, as well as a variety of museums, galleries, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Stevens Point is a gem of the Midwest, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and Midwestern hospitality. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure, delicious food, or a glimpse into local culture, this charming city is sure to delight and inspire. We hope this guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to Stevens Point and discover all that the city has to offer. Happy travels!