Central Wisconsin Travel Guide: Things To Do & More (2025)

Don’t sleep on Central Wisconsin! The heart of Wisconsin is a haven for visitors, with its lakes, rivers, mountains, and rich cultural heritage.

I’ve lived in Central Wisconsin for several years, and there’s so much to love.

Check out the 27 miles of gorgeous scenery at Green Circle Trail, see cranberries in bloom or full harvest, and check out the best birdwatching in the entire state.

Is It Worth Visiting Central Wisconsin?

The heart of Wisconsin has so many natural landscapes, cultural glimpses, and fun things to do.

While the state has many outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to do inside— from museums to vibrant arts and crafts.

It’s so worth visiting this area. No matter what time of year you plan to travel, the Wisconsin Heartland has something fun to do and see.

Best Time To Visit Central Wisconsin

Typically, the best time to visit Wisconsin is from May to October. You’re more likely to get great weather during those months.

However, the climate can vary a lot depending on the geography. If you’re further south, you’ll get hotter weather, and the areas around bodies of water are cooler.

Winter is the most challenging time to visit the area. Still, the heavy snowfalls make it perfect for winter sports, so it depends on what you want to do.

Places To Visit In Central Wisconsin

It’s tough to narrow down the places to visit because there are so many beautiful things to do and see.

If you love waterparks, check out the Wisconsin Dells and have fun on the slides!

If you love the outdoors, Rib Mountain State Park or Necedah National Wildlife Refuge might be the best for you.

The 50-mile tour of the Cranberry Highway is an autumn bucket list item, and almost every single county has excellent hikes.

I’ve broken down the top 10 best counties to visit in Central Wisconsin. Each one has a lot to offer— choosing just a few items to feature was hard! I’ve also included a recommended place to stay to make your trip planning even more straightforward.

1. Adams County

If you’re heading to Adams County, there are two places you should definitely put on your to-do list.

First and foremost is Castle Rock Park. Open year-round, this beach park is 141 acres and is the 4th most significant body of water in the entire state.

You’ll find a game room, heated showers, and a concession area— all open 24 hours a day!

The second place you should add to your list is Quincy Bluffs and Wetlands Preserve. It’s a large, landscape-scale natural area. Quincy Bluff itself rises 200 feet tall and is approximately two miles wide.

Given its size, you’ll find a large variety of terrains. Think bluffs, swamps, wetlands, northern dry forests, and open cliff areas. This means you’ll likely see an impressive number of animal species.

It’s definitely a spot where you’ll want your binoculars! Bird watchers, you’ll find Quincy Bluffs to be paradise.

Happy Trails Cabin is a lovely place to stay, especially if traveling with a large group. It’s bright, airy, spacious, and can accommodate up to 12 people with 4 bedrooms.

Drink a hot cup of coffee on the wrap-around porch, and spend your days enjoying the gorgeous Adams County.

2. Green Lake County

The third most minor Wisconsin County, Green Lake, makes up for its size with many enjoyable things to see and do.

Green Lake is the perfect getaway location, home to the deepest natural inland lake (in the state, anyway).

A pre-glacial river formed the lake over 12,000 years ago. When you swim, you’ll literally be diving into history.

It’s not the only lake in the county, so if you’re dreaming of a quiet and peaceful stay at a lakeside cottage, Green Lake County is the place to go.

Twenty-seven miles of pristine shoreline, many resorts, and four golf courses offer fantastic views.

An excellent place to stay is the Greenway House Bed and Breakfast.

It’s a romantic, Eastlake-style Victorian inn with luxe accommodations and beautiful grounds to explore. Did I mention a delicious and nutritious breakfast to start your day of adventuring? Truly a win!

3. Juneau County

No matter what kind of Central Wisconsin trip you want, chances are you’ll find everything you’re looking for in Juneau County.

Home to the iconic Wisconsin Dells, you’ll find a bustling, vibrant city and hands-down the best waterparks.

The area is literally called the “Waterpark Capital of the World!”

If you’re planning to visit one of the waterparks, this packing list for Wisconsin Dells will help you ensure you have everything you need.

Or, if you’re hoping for a more low-key activity, check out a local winery like Edwin Brie Vineyard right outside of Juneau.

All the wines offered are 100% single estate, and there’s even a strawberry wine to try (yum).

Necedah National Wildlife Refuge is another must-do. See historic oak savannah, the Great Wisconsin Swamp, and various wildlife.

Silverbow Inn & Suites is located in a walkable area of the charming town of Juneau.

A shared lounge, a lovely terrace, and a delicious breakfast are available every morning. The only thing it doesn’t have is an elevator!

4. Marathon County

Marathon, Central Wisconsin, has a lot going for it. There’s a variety of popular attractions.

While the entire state of Wisconsin has so much to offer, Rib Mountain State Park is unique.

This 4-mile-long ridge is one of the oldest geological features on Earth! The state park is perfect for anyone craving an outdoor excursion. The park’s top has spectacular views of the area and the Wisconsin River. There are 13 miles of trails, 8 of which are accessible to people with disabilities.

Check out the Granite Peak Ski area on the mountain’s north face. They have an extensive snowmaking system and are open well into April. Spring break ski trip, anyone?

They also have lots of fun events at Granite Peak. Think of fireworks, scavenger hunts, and cardboard sled racing events.

This makes it the perfect one-stop shop for the whole family.

Jefferson Street Inn is a great place to stay, with free transfer services to the Granite Peak ski area, and it is right in downtown Wausau.

It’s super convenient and in an excellent location.

5. Marquette County

Marquette is a quaint little county in Central Wisconsin with charming hills, rivers, and lakes.

It’s considered Wisconsin’s waterfall capital, with a dozen falls along the Pike, Thunder, Peshtigo, and Menominee rivers.

One of the best (and an easy stop) is Dave’s Falls, just a mile south of Amberg. It’s got a picnic area, restrooms, and even a playground. The Upper Falls flows into the perfect swimming hole, and the Lower Falls are a bit taller and narrower.

If you’re in Montello, check out the old granite quarry downtown. Four waterfalls now spill over into the quarry over granite outcroppings.

Technically man-made, they’re still well worth a visit. Take a picnic and enjoy the peaceful interlude in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Another fun, family-friendly outing is the John Muir County Park. Home to the breathtaking Ennis Lake, you can paddle the gorgeous waters or take the 1.7-mile loop around the lake (which is actually a part of the Ice Age Trail!).

The Hideaway is a perfectly cozy cabin which to enjoy the Montello area. It has direct Puckaway Lake access and an outdoor fireplace.

It’s a 3-bedroom vacation home and is incredibly comfortable. As an added bonus it includes kayaks, so you can hit the water as soon as you check in!

6. Portage County

Home to the well-known Stevens Point Area, Portage County is conveniently located in the state’s center.

The area features a bunch of rivers and lakes. During the winter, they freeze over, making it a perfect ice-fishing location.

Looking for something a bit more active? Go downhill skiing at Standing Rocks, or bike and hike through the Green Circle Trail.

Golf at SentryWorld, paddle in the backwaters, and shop at one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the state.

During the winter, find Christmas Light displays to get you in the holiday spirit, and visit the local breweries, wineries, and distilleries for a warm beverage.

Local art and culture are on display at the Stevens Point Sculpture Park, and plenty of colorful murals to enjoy.

Check out my other article for a complete list of all the fantastic things to do in Stevens Point.

If you’re hoping for a modern and relaxing retreat, this Lakefront Villa is the perfect place! Big windows, modern design, and surrounding Northwoods make it peaceful.

It’s right in the heart of Steven Point and close to plenty of shops and restaurants. Ten guests can sleep comfortably, making it great for family excursions or big parties.

7. Shawano County

Shawano County is considered a pastoral paradise and Wisconsin’s barn quilt capital.

As you drive through the idyllic countryside, you’ll see over 300 of them mounted on the county’s barns— with more being made daily.

A barn quilt is a square, quilt-style design painted on plywood.

In the past, barn quilts were used to bring good fortune to the farm. Now, they’re fun spots of color that you can see as you drive around.

For fun outdoor recreation, Wolf River is the perfect place for a tubing or kayaking adventure. Still, trying to figure out where to start? Use Great Wolf Tubing Co. as your outfitter and take advantage of the shuttle pick-ups.

Tour antique shops, check out the three casinos in the area, or even go snowmobiling in the winter!

This Captain’s Quarters two-bedroom home is a lovely spot for a stay by the idyllic Shawano Lake.

It’s close to many attractions and is a comfortable home away from home. If you’re a fan of the Green Bay Packers, this is only 35 minutes away from their home stadium.

8. Waupaca County

Named after the Waupaca River, this county has 22 connected spring-fed lakes.

Perfect for a trip all year long, you’ll find Waupaca perfect for boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and more.

The Crystal River, for instance, is perfect for a fun, day-long paddle. Or, you can always do a smaller section of the river for a more relaxed day.

What makes this 12-mile stretch so notable is the variety of the landscapes.

You’ll paddle through lakes, a cute town with manicured landscapes, under a covered bridge, and more.

Start at Marl Lake and finish at Little Hope for a fun paddle.

This quiet county has a tranquil landscape with wooded areas and agricultural lands. It’s the perfect quiet escape.

Comfort Suites at Par 4 Resort is close to Clear Water Harbor and Dings Dock (a tubing/kayaking outfitter). It’s also located on the Foxfire Golf Club.

Plus, the rooms are comfortable, and the staff is amiable. Sounds like a win to me!

9. Waushura County

If you thought 22 lakes was a big deal, Waushura County will not disappoint.

This county has close to 100 lakes and offers the quintessential “up north” experience in Central Wisconsin.

If you like any water activity, there are many places in Waushara County where you can spend a weekend relaxing by the water.

There’s also plenty to do on land as well. Check out the Wild Rose State Fish Hatchery to learn all about the native fish populations in Wisconsin.

There are two fantastic golf courses — Two Oaks North Golf Club and Waushara Country Club — with challenging courses open to the public.

In the fall, bike one of the three official Rustic Roads (R48, R102, and R117) to see the fall colors.

There are a few hills, but it’s a chill and scenic ride for the most part.

The Ice Age trail has 23 miles in Waushara County Chapter and is perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

For a comfortable and luxurious place to stay, this 4 Seasons Lakehouse is gorgeous.

It’s a 4-bedroom home that comes fully equipped, with a fire pit and small dock to get right out on the water. It’s a comfortable place to stay; you won’t regret it.

10. Wood County

Wood County has something going on no matter what time of year you go.

In the spring and summer, go birdwatching at the Sandhill Wildlife Area and the George W. Mead Wildlife Area.

Drive through the country to see Amish settlements and shop for handmade foods, quilts, and furniture.

Check out the 20-mile Ahdwagam Trail System around Lake Wazeecha or golf at one of the 7 beautiful golf courses in the area.

In June, check out the Cranberry Blossom Festival, and in the fall, drive along the Cranberry Highway to see spectacular fall colors.

This self-guided drive goes for 40+ miles along cranberry beds. The red “sea of cranberries” makes the autumn colors even more vibrant.

Wisconsin is the number one producer of cranberries in the United States!

Sleep Inn & Suites will do the trick for a no-frills but comfortable place to stay. It’s clean, spacious, and close to many fun things to see and do.

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Things To Do In Central Wisconsin

Whether you want to check out historic lighthouses, swim in a lake, paddle down a river, experience Amish culture, or more, there’s plenty to do in Central Wisconsin. If you want more structured activities, I have a few suggestions.

Hearthstone Historic House Museum

It’s hard to remember that electricity is a relatively new invention. When you visit the Hearthstone Historic House Museum, you’ll walk through the first home lit by a Thomas Edison Central hydroelectric power station.

In fact, Appleton, Wisconsin, was one of the first three cities in the world to be lit by an Edison Central Power Station! The other two were London and New York City.

This is thanks to Henry J. Rogers, who invested in the power station to light two paper mills and his home. There are original fixtures such as electroliers and light switches in the house.

It became a museum in 1987. You’ll get a guided tour by a trained docent when you visit. They’ll share the house’s history, place in history, architecture, and even the families living there.

It’s a super cool way to step back in time.

City and History Trolley Tour

If you’re visiting the Wisconsin Dells, this trolley tour is an excellent way to get a lay of the land.

You’ll go all over— start in the downtown Dells and then venture further out to see natural wonders like Mirror Lake and the Wisconsin River.

Other travelers said the guide was incredibly entertaining and knowledgeable about the area. It’s a great activity at the beginning of a trip to the Dells.

Soak in the scenery, learn about the hidden history in the stops, and get an idea of what things you’d want to revisit before your trip is over.

The same company also offers a wine tour, perfect for a bachelorette or anniversary celebration. Depending on traffic, it lasts approximately an hour to 30 minutes and is offered all year long.

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FAQs

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Final Thoughts: Central Wisconsin Travel

Central Wisconsin has something for everyone. It’s full of charm, history, and unique things to do outside— no matter the time of year. It’s got everything from cranberry farms, festivals, snow activities, and so many rivers and lakes to play in.

If you’re in the area, check out the best hikes in the Wisconsin Dells.

What are you most excited to see first?

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