Necedah Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to buy in Necedah, Wisconsin. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Necedah

Necedah is a charming village located in the Baraboo River Valley of Southwest Wisconsin. It is surrounded by the beautiful landscapes and forests of the Midwest, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The village has a rich history and culture, with several museums and cultural attractions. Travelers looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled break will both find plenty to do in Necedah.

List of Places to Visit in Necedah

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Necedah National Wildlife Refuge: This 44,000-acre refuge is home to over 200 species of birds and other wildlife. It is also home to the historic Necedah Crane Refuge, where visitors can see sandhill cranes.
  • Necedah State Wildlife Area: This 16,000-acre wildlife area is a popular destination for hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It has several nature trails with beautiful scenic views.
  • Roche-A-Cri State Park: This beautiful state park features a 300-foot-high rock formation, with 303 steps leading up to a lookout point with a stunning 360-degree view of the area.
  • Necedah Area Historical Museum: This museum showcases the rich history and culture of the Necedah area, from Native American artifacts to the modern era.

Natural Attractions of Necedah: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Yellow River State Wildlife Area: This 14,000-acre wildlife area has several hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing areas. It is also a popular destination for hunting and fishing.
  • Petenwell Lake: This beautiful lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. It has several campsites and picnic areas.
  • Necedah Bluff State Natural Area: This area has several hiking and biking trails, with breathtaking views of the Baraboo River Valley.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Necedah

  • Necedah Wildlife Refuge Loop Trail: This 4.3-mile trail takes visitors through the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, with stunning views of the sandhill crane refuge and wetlands.
  • Roche-A-Cri State Park Trail: This 2-mile trail takes visitors to the top of the Roche-A-Cri rock formation, with stunning views of the area.
  • Yellow River State Wildlife Area Trail: This 3-mile trail takes visitors through the beautiful landscapes and forests of the Yellow River State Wildlife Area.

Best Things to Do in Necedah: Activities and Tours

  • Canoeing/Kayaking: There are several companies in Necedah that offer canoeing and kayaking tours of the Yellow River and other waterways in the area.
  • Fishing: Necedah is a popular destination for fishing, with several lakes and rivers in the area.
  • Birdwatching/Wildlife Viewing: The Necedah National Wildlife Refuge and other wildlife areas in the area are perfect for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Necedah

Day 1 Arrival in Necedah, check into hotel, visit Necedah Area Historical Museum
Day 2 Hiking at Necedah Bluff State Natural Area, boating/fishing at Petenwell Lake
Day 3 Canoeing/kayaking tour of Yellow River, visit Roche-A-Cri State Park
Day 4 Fishing the Yellow River, explore nearby towns like Mauston and New Lisbon
Day 5 Wildlife viewing/birdwatching at Necedah National Wildlife Refuge
Day 6 Hiking at Yellow River State Wildlife Area, enjoy a picnic lunch
Day 7 Departure from Necedah

Food and Drink Scene of Necedah

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wisconsin Cheese Curds: These deep-fried cheese curds are a Wisconsin staple and can be found at most restaurants in the area.
  • Bratwurst: This German sausage is a classic Wisconsin dish, and is served at many local restaurants.
  • Fish Fry: This Wisconsin tradition involves deep-fried fish (usually cod or perch) served with fries and coleslaw.

Local Beverages

  • New Glarus Beer: This Wisconsin brewery is famous for its Spotted Cow beer and other brews.
  • Wisconsin Wines: The Necedah area has several wineries, with wines made from locally grown grapes.

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

  • AmericInn by Wyndham Necedah: This hotel is conveniently located near several attractions and has free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
  • Countyline Motel: This pet-friendly motel offers affordable rates and comfortable rooms.
  • Necedah Motel: This motel has several amenities, including free Wi-Fi and a picnic area.

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

  • Local Cheese: Wisconsin is famous for its cheese, and you can find a variety of local cheeses at specialty shops in Necedah.
  • Honey: The Necedah area is home to several beekeepers, and local honey is a popular souvenir.
  • Crafts and Artwork: The Necedah area has several artists and crafters, and you can find unique handmade items at local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Necedah

Wisconsin is known for its friendly, welcoming culture, and Necedah is no exception. The area has a rich history and culture, with several Native American tribes calling the area home before European settlers arrived.

Best Time to Visit Necedah

The best time to visit Necedah is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, fall is also a popular time to visit, with the beautiful changing leaves and fall festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Necedah

Do:

  • Do explore the beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife areas in the area.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do ask locals for recommendations on what to see and do.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environments while hiking or camping.
  • Don’t speed on the rural roads or highways in the area.
  • Don’t forget to pack appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Necedah

Necedah is a safe area for travelers, but it is always important to take precautions while traveling, such as locking car doors and securing valuables.

Health in Necedah

Necedah has several medical facilities and pharmacies for travelers in need of medical attention. It is also important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun while spending time outdoors.

Getting to Necedah: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Necedah

  • Central Wisconsin Airport: Located in Mosinee, WI, this airport is approximately 90 miles from Necedah.
  • Dane County Regional Airport: Located in Madison, WI, this airport is approximately 85 miles from Necedah.

Bus Stations Near Necedah

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Mauston, WI: This bus station is approximately 15 miles from Necedah.
  • Jefferson Lines Bus Station in Tomah, WI: This bus station is approximately 30 miles from Necedah.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Several car rental agencies are located in nearby cities such as Madison and La Crosse.
  • Private Transportation Services: Several private transportation companies offer shuttle services to and from the area.

How to Get Around in Necedah

A car is the best way to get around in Necedah and the surrounding areas. However, there are several bike trails and scenic drives in the area for those who prefer a more active mode of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Necedah: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Wisconsin Dells: This popular tourist destination is located approximately 30 miles from Necedah and is known for its water parks and amusement parks.
  • La Crosse: This charming city located on the Mississippi River is approximately 70 miles from Necedah and has several cultural attractions and outdoor activities.
  • Madison: Wisconsin’s capital city is approximately 85 miles from Necedah and has several museums, restaurants, and shops.

Conclusion

Necedah is a hidden gem in the Midwest, with its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and friendly culture. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or a peaceful getaway, Necedah has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your next trip to Necedah and experience all that this charming village has to offer.

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