Wausau Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Wausau, including outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, local food and drink scene, safety tips, transportation options, and more. Plan your trip with this detailed travel guide.


Introduction to Wausau

Wausau is a charming small city located in North Central Wisconsin, United States. It is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the Wisconsin River and Rib Mountain State Park, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. However, Wausau also has a rich cultural heritage, with several museums and historical attractions.

Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or exploring museums, Wausau has plenty of things to see and do. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local customs of Wausau.

List of Places to Visit in Wausau

During your stay in Wausau, you’ll find plenty of options for entertainment and sightseeing. Here are some of the most popular attractions you won’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum - Featuring a collection of contemporary art in a variety of media, including paintings, sculptures, and prints.
  2. Marathon County Historical Society - Discover the history of Wausau and Marathon County through exhibits, tours, and educational programs.
  3. The Grand Theater - Located in the heart of downtown Wausau, the Grand Theater is a historic venue that showcases live performances, concerts, and movies.
  4. Wisconsin Valley Fairgrounds - Home to one of the largest fairs in the state, this venue hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Wausau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Rib Mountain State Park - Explore the trails and scenic views of Rib Mountain, the highest point in Wisconsin.
  2. Dells of the Eau Claire - A spectacular gorge created by the Eau Claire River with scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
  3. Granite Peak Ski Area - Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding at one of the Midwest’s premier ski resorts.
  4. Lake Wausau - A popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wausau

Wausau has a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the area’s natural beauty. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

  1. Rib Mountain State Park - Challenge yourself on the trails that climb to the top of Rib Mountain and take in the stunning panoramic views.
  2. Mountain-Bay State Park Trail - This 83-mile trail passes through forests and wetlands, offering plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.
  3. Nine Mile County Forest Recreation Area - With over 30 miles of trails for mountain biking and hiking, the Nine Mile County Forest is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Wausau: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Wausau, including tours and activities:

  1. Brewery Tours - Tour local breweries and sample craft beer in Wausau.
  2. Kayak the Wisconsin River - Enjoy a peaceful paddle down the scenic Wisconsin River.
  3. Segway Tours - Explore Wausau in a unique way with a guided Segway tour.
  4. Paint-Your-Own Pottery - Get creative and make a unique souvenir to bring home.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wausau

If you have a week to explore Wausau and the surrounding areas, here is one possible itinerary:

  • Day 1: Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum and downtown Wausau
  • Day 2: Rib Mountain State Park and Granite Peak Ski Area
  • Day 3: Dells of the Eau Claire and Lake Wausau
  • Day 4: Marathon County Historical Society and The Grand Theater
  • Day 5: Kayak the Wisconsin River and Nine Mile County Forest Recreation Area
  • Day 6: Mountain-Bay State Park Trail and local brewery tours
  • Day 7: Paint-your-own pottery and souvenir shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Wausau

Wausau has a variety of dining options, from fine dining to local eateries offering comfort foods. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Bratwurst - A local favorite, you’ll find bratwurst on many menus throughout Wausau.
  2. Friday Night Fish Fry - A Wisconsin tradition, you won’t want to miss the Friday night fish fry at many restaurants in Wausau.
  3. Cheese Curds - A classic Wisconsin snack, cheese curds are a must-try while in Wausau.

Local Beverages

  1. Point Brewery Beer - Founded in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, Point Brewery is a favorite among locals, offering a variety of beers and seasonal brews.
  2. Central Waters Brewing Company - Sample craft beer and relax in the taproom at this popular brewery.
  3. Sunset Point Winery - Enjoy a glass of wine with stunning views of Lake Dubay at this local winery.

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

Wausau has a variety of lodging options to suit your needs and budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  1. Jefferson Street Inn - Located in downtown Wausau, this boutique hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites.
  2. Plaza Hotel and Suites - This hotel features spacious rooms and suites, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.
  3. Motel 6 Wausau - For budget-friendly accommodations, Motel 6 Wausau offers clean and comfortable rooms.

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

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Wausau:

  1. Maple Syrup - Wisconsin produces some of the best maple syrup in the world, and you can find it at local shops and markets in Wausau.
  2. Cheese - Wisconsin is known for its cheese, and Wausau has several shops that offer a variety of cheeses to bring home.
  3. Handmade Pottery - Support local artisans and bring home a unique piece of pottery from one of Wausau’s art studios.

Local Culture and Customs of Wausau

Wisconsin is known for its “Midwestern Nice” culture, and Wausau is no exception. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and often strike up a conversation with out-of-towners. It’s also common to see people wearing Packers gear, as the Green Bay Packers are the state’s beloved football team.

Best Time to Visit Wausau

The best time to visit Wausau is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, fall is also a popular time to visit when the trees in Rib Mountain State Park change colors, creating a beautiful autumn landscape.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wausau

Do:

  1. Do try the local beer and cheese.
  2. Do explore the natural beauty of Wausau on foot or by bike.
  3. Do attend a local festival or fair.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter, and respect the natural environment.
  2. Don’t forget to tip your waitstaff.
  3. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wausau

Wausau is generally a safe place to visit, with typical precautions recommended when travelling in any new area. Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

Health in Wausau

Medical facilities in Wausau are of a high standard. Pharmacies are readily available, but check hours of operation ahead of time.

Getting to Wausau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Wausau is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane:

Airports Near Wausau

Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) - Located just minutes from Wausau, CWA offers direct flights to several major cities, including Chicago and Minneapolis.

Bus Stations Near Wausau

Greyhound Lines - Greyhound offers several daily trips to Wausau from cities throughout Wisconsin and the surrounding states.

Other Options

Car Rental - For those who prefer to drive, rental cars are available at central locations in Wausau.

How to Get Around in Wausau

Wausau is easy to navigate by car or bike, but several taxi and ride-sharing services are also available, including Uber, Lyft, and local taxi companies.

Where to Go Next from Wausau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in the area, consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  1. Stevens Point - Located just 30 minutes south of Wausau, Stevens Point is home to several breweries and a university.
  2. Medford - Known for its cranberry festivals and outdoor recreation, Medford is just over an hour’s drive from Wausau.

Conclusion

Wausau is a charming city with plenty of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, you’ll find plenty to do in Wausau. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to this wonderful part of Wisconsin.

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