West Bend Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure to West Bend, Wisconsin with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food and drinks to try, and activities to do in this charming destination.


Introduction to West Bend

Welcome to West Bend, a hidden gem located in the heart of southeast Wisconsin, USA. With a small town vibe, rich history, and picturesque landscapes, this charming destination offers the perfect retreat from city life. From exploring historical sites and museums to indulging in outdoor adventures and culinary delights, West Bend has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in West Bend

Whether you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, West Bend has plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. Here’s a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • West Bend Art Museum: Home to over 2000 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.

  • Old Courthouse Museum: Housed in a historic courthouse building, this museum features exhibits on local history and culture.

  • Kettle Moraine State Forest: This 30,000-acre park is a hiker’s paradise, with miles of scenic trails to explore.

  • Sandy Knoll County Park: This park boasts a beautiful beach and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping.

Natural Attractions of West Bend: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pike Lake State Park: This park is a perfect destination for a family day out, with a sandy beach, playgrounds and plenty of picnic areas.

  • Mauthe Lake Recreation Area: This is a popular spot for fishing and boating, and the nearby hiking trails offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding forest.

  • Lizard Mound County Park: Take a scenic hike along the trails that lead to a beautiful view of the Milwaukee River

  • Regner Park: This park has something for everyone, boasting hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West Bend

West Bend is a true outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. With so many beautiful trails to hike and bike along, it’s easy to see why. For those looking to explore the great outdoors, here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • Ice Age Trail: This 1,000-mile trail passes close to West Bend and is a must-visit for hikers, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and glacial geology.

  • Newburg Nature Trail: This 1.5-mile trail is a great option for families, with plenty of benches and picnic areas along the way.

  • Lac Lawrann Conservancy: This 140-acre nature preserve boasts over four miles of trails, making it a popular destination for hikers and bird-watchers.

Best Things to Do in West Bend: Activities and Tours

From wine tasting to brewery tours, West Bend offers plenty of exciting activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best:

  • Spirits of Norway Vineyard: Take a guided tour of this award-winning vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting session.

  • Barley Pop Pub & Restaurant: Take a brewery tour and sample some of the finest local beers at this popular brewpub.

  • West Bend Riverwalk: Rent a canoe or kayak and explore the scenic Milwaukee River.

Week-Long Itinerary for West Bend

If you’re planning a week-long trip to West Bend, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your stay:

Week-Long Trip to West Bend

Food and Drink Scene of West Bend

West Bend is home to a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local and regional culinary delights to try. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheese curds: This iconic Wisconsin snack is a must-try for cheese lovers.

  • Bratwurst: This delicious sausage is a Wisconsin staple and can be found on almost every menu in West Bend.

  • Fish fry: This classic Friday night meal is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Local Beverages

  • New Glarus Spotted Cow: This locally brewed beer is a must-try for beer lovers.

  • Point Root Beer: This refreshing soda is a favorite among locals.

  • Grape Stomp: This locally made wine is perfect to pair with cheese and crackers.

Where to Stay in West Bend: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

West Bend offers plenty of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Chalet Motel: This budget-friendly motel is located near the town center and offers clean and comfortable rooms.

  • Isadoras Bed and Breakfast: This cozy guesthouse is perfect for those looking for a more intimate and personalized experience.

  • AmericInn by Wyndham: This popular hotel chain offers comfortable and affordable rooms, ideal for families and groups.

What to Buy in West Bend: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

West Bend is known for its many local and regional products, making it a great place to find unique and memorable souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Cheese: Wisconsin is known for its cheese, and West Bend offers many local varieties to try.

  • Local wines: Take a bottle of locally made wine back home to share with your friends and family.

  • Artisanal chocolates: These handcrafted chocolates make great gifts for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Local Culture and Customs of West Bend

West Bend has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by its German-American community and agricultural roots. Visitors can experience this unique culture through various events and festivals held throughout the year, such as the German Fest and the Annual Hmong New Year Festival.

Best Time to Visit West Bend

The best time to visit West Bend depends on your preferences. Summers are the busiest and offer the best weather for outdoor activities, while the winter season offers a magical winter wonderland for those who love snow sports. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and stunning fall foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of West Bend

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to West Bend:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and cultures: Take time to learn about the local culture and customs and show respect to the locals.

  • Take advantage of outdoor activities: West Bend has a beautiful natural landscape, make sure you take advantage of it.

  • Try the local cuisine: Wisconsin is known for its delicious cheese and beer, make sure you sample some of the local delicacies.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep West Bend’s natural beauty intact by disposing of trash properly.

  • Be disrespectful towards the locals: Treat the locals with respect, and avoid any actions or behaviors that could be considered insensitive.

Safety and Health

Safety in West Bend

West Bend is a safe place to visit, with a low crime rate and a welcoming community. However, it’s always important to take the necessary precautions, such as locking your car and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Health in West Bend

West Bend has a high-quality healthcare system, with several hospitals and medical facilities in the area. However, it’s always important to come prepared with any necessary medications and travel insurance.

Getting to West Bend: Transportation Options and Logistics

West Bend is easily accessible by road, and there are several transportation options available:

Airports Near West Bend

  • General Mitchell International Airport: This airport is located in Milwaukee, which is about an hour drive from West Bend.

  • Chicago O’Hare International Airport: This airport is about a two and a half hour drive from West Bend.

Bus Stations Near West Bend

  • Greyhound: There are several Greyhound bus stations located near West Bend, including one in Milwaukee and another in Sheboygan.

Other Options

  • Renting a car: Renting a car is a convenient option for those who wish to explore the surrounding areas on their own.

How to Get Around in West Bend

West Bend is a small town, and most attractions and facilities are located within walking or biking distance. However, for those who prefer to drive, there are several rental car options available, as well as Uber and taxi services.

Where to Go Next from West Bend: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

West Bend makes an excellent base for exploring some of the nearby destinations and attractions, such as:

  • The city of Milwaukee: Just an hour’s drive from West Bend, Milwaukee is a bustling city with plenty of museums, art galleries, and cultural attractions to explore.

  • The city of Sheboygan: Known for its beautiful beaches and parks, this coastal city is a popular destination for water sports and outdoor activities.

  • The Kettle Moraine State Forest: This vast forest provides an excellent opportunity to explore some of the stunning natural landscapes of Wisconsin.

Conclusion

West Bend is a hidden gem in the heart of southeast Wisconsin, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the natural beauty of the state. With plenty of attractions, activities, and amenities, this charming town is the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.