Baldwin Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Baldwin, Wisconsin with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Baldwin Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Tour Guide for Baldwin, WI

Baldwin is a charming town in Northwestern Wisconsin that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to explore the region’s rich history, indulge in outdoor activities, or enjoy its culinary scene, Baldwin has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your trip to Baldwin, Wisconsin. From the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more, we’ll cover it all!

Introduction to Baldwin

Baldwin is a town in St. Croix County in the state of Wisconsin. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, Baldwin is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is located about 45 miles east of Minneapolis, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation.

List of Places to Visit in Baldwin

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Baldwin Area Historical Society: The society’s museum houses a collection of historic artifacts and photographs that showcase Baldwin’s rich history. The museum also hosts a number of educational programs and events throughout the year.

  2. The Historic Octagon House Museum: Built in 1855, the Historic Octagon House Museum is a fine example of mid-19th century architecture. The house is also home to a number of historic artifacts and offers guided tours.

  3. The Village of Hammond Museum: Explore the region’s history through a number of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Hammond and its people. The museum also hosts several educational programs throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Baldwin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Straight Lake State Park: Located just southwest of Baldwin, Straight Lake State Park is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and camping. The park is home to a number of scenic trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  2. Kinnickinnic State Park: This beautiful state park, located just east of Baldwin, features over 1,200 acres of scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.

  3. Willow River State Park: Located about 20 miles northeast of Baldwin, Willow River State Park offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, camping, and fishing. The park is also home to several stunning waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Baldwin

  1. Kinnickinnic River Trail: This scenic trail follows the Kinnickinnic River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and fishing.

  2. Cattail Trail: This 6.5-mile trail winds through some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. The trail is open year-round and is a popular destination for hiking and cross-country skiing.

  3. Great River State Trail: This 24-mile trail follows the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is popular among hikers, bikers, and cross-country skiers.

Best Things to Do in Baldwin: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a scenic drive: Baldwin is home to some of the most beautiful scenic drives in the region. Take a drive down County Road E and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  2. Go fishing: Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, Baldwin has something to offer for everyone. The region is home to a number of streams and lakes that offer excellent fishing opportunities.

  3. Visit a local festival: Baldwin hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Baldwin Bluegrass Festival and the Baldwin Woodville Fall Arts and Crafts Show.

Week-Long Itinerary for Baldwin

Day 1: Visit the Baldwin Area Historical Society Museum and the Historic Octagon House Museum.

Day 2: Head to Straight Lake State Park for a day of hiking and fishing.

Day 3: Take a scenic drive down County Road E and explore the surrounding countryside.

Day 4: Spend a day at Kinnickinnic State Park and enjoy a range of outdoor activities.

Day 5: Visit the Village of Hammond Museum and learn more about the region’s rich history.

Day 6: Go fishing at one of the local streams or lakes.

Day 7: Attend one of the local festivals or events, such as the Baldwin Bluegrass Festival.

Food and Drink Scene of Baldwin

Baldwin has a thriving culinary scene that showcases the region’s local flavors and ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cheese Curds: This local favorite is made from fresh cheese curds that are lightly battered and deep-fried to perfection.

  2. Bratwurst: Wisconsin is known for its bratwurst, and Baldwin is no exception. Try this local favorite served with sauerkraut and mustard.

  3. Fish Fry: This Wisconsin staple is a must-try if you’re in Baldwin. Enjoy freshly caught fish served with fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. New Glarus Brewery: Located just south of Baldwin, the New Glarus Brewery is known for its award-winning beers, including the Spotted Cow and the Moon Man.

  2. Fisher King Winery: This local winery is famous for its flavorful wines made from locally grown grapes.

  3. St. Croix Vineyards: This family-owned winery produces a range of award-winning wines that showcase the region’s unique terroir.

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

Baldwin offers a range of accommodation options for every budget and taste. Here are some of the best places to stay in Baldwin.

  1. AmericInn by Wyndham Baldwin: This comfortable hotel offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a free hot breakfast.

  2. Baldwin Creek Lodge: This charming lodge is located in the heart of Baldwin and offers cozy rooms and a range of amenities, including a spa and a hot breakfast.

  3. Baldwin House: This historic guesthouse is located in a restored 19th-century home and offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a garden and a communal lounge.

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

Baldwin offers a range of locally made products and souvenirs that make great gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best things to buy in Baldwin.

  1. Cheese: Wisconsin is known for its cheese, and Baldwin is no exception. Sample some of the region’s famous cheese varieties and bring home your favorite.

  2. Local Crafts: Baldwin is home to a thriving arts and crafts scene. Visit the Baldwin Woodville Fall Arts and Crafts Show and shop for locally made pottery, jewelry, and more.

  3. Wine: Bring home a bottle of locally produced wine from the St. Croix Vineyards or Fisher King Winery.

Local Culture and Customs of Baldwin

Wisconsin is known for its friendly and welcoming culture, and Baldwin is no exception. The town is proud of its rich history and cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to explore its many attractions and museums.

Best Time to Visit Baldwin

Baldwin is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring and fall. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the region’s scenic beauty is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Baldwin

Do:

  1. Do explore the region’s rich history and culture.

  2. Do indulge in the local cuisine and try the famous cheese curds and bratwurst.

  3. Do spend time outdoors and explore the region’s many parks and trails.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter or leave trash behind.

  2. Don’t ignore safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities.

  3. Don’t be rude or disrespectful to locals or other visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Baldwin

Baldwin is a safe town, but visitors are encouraged to take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities. Always dress appropriately and bring enough water and food for your trip. It’s also important to be aware of your surroundings and follow all safety guidelines when visiting parks and other attractions.

Health in Baldwin

Baldwin has a range of medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, for your healthcare needs. It’s important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors to prevent heatstroke or sunburn.

Getting to Baldwin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Baldwin is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are some transportation options for getting to Baldwin.

Airports Near Baldwin

  1. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport: Located about 45 miles west of Baldwin, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport is the largest airport in the region.

  2. Chippewa Valley Regional Airport: Located about 50 miles east of Baldwin, the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport offers daily flights to Minneapolis and other major cities.

Bus Stations Near Baldwin

  1. Greyhound: Located in the nearby town of Hudson, Greyhound offers daily bus service to and from Baldwin.

Other Options

  1. Car rental: Renting a car is a great option for exploring the region at your leisure. Several car rental agencies are located in the nearby towns of Hudson and River Falls.

  2. Taxi/rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services are also available in the region for your transportation needs.

How to Get Around in Baldwin

Baldwin is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. If you’re looking to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is a great option.

Where to Go Next from Baldwin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Hudson: This charming town is located just 15 miles south of Baldwin and is famous for its historic downtown district and stunning river views.

  2. Cornucopia: Located about 100 miles north of Baldwin, Cornucopia is a popular destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

  3. Minneapolis: This vibrant city is located about 45 miles west of Baldwin and offers a range of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.

Conclusion

Baldwin is a hidden gem in the heart of Wisconsin that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. From exploring its rich history to indulging in its culinary scene, there’s something to offer for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Baldwin, Wisconsin and discover all that this charming town has to offer.