Chill Out with These Wisconsin Winter Activities
Wisconsin’s winters can be pretty cold, but we sure know how to make the most of this magical season. Whether you’re sipping wine at a winter festival or tubing down a mountain, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Wisconsin when things have chilled over. Here are the best winter activities to do in the state.
High Cliff State Park, Sherwood, WI
Located near Sherwood is High Cliff State Park—one of Wisconsin’s most favored snowshoeing areas. With over 1,000 acres of snowy bluff, snowshoeing is a great activity to stay active and check out the beautiful scenery. Snowshoes are available for rent at their park office.
Wolfsong Adventure in Mushing, Bayfield, WI
If watching “Balto” as a child wasn’t enough to spike your interest in dog sledding, maybe the Wolfsong Adventures in Mushing will change your mind. Learn to navigate a team of Siberian huskies on a dog sled or right along with a trained employee. Sledding events are open for all ages and experience levels.
Edgewater Ice Rink, Madison, WI
The Edgewater in Madison is a hot commodity during the winter months in Wisconsin. Their ice rink is a beautiful addition to their already prosperous business. While the rink itself is just a small oval rink, they offer convenient skate rental and a cozy coffee and snack café.
Cedarburg’s Winter Festival, Cedarburg, WI
The annual Cedarburg Winter Festival is a can’t-miss event. From chili contests to ice-carving contests there is so much fun to be had. A pancake breakfast for the family, cool brews, and wine tastings for mom and dad, and finally tractor-led hayrides and camel rides for the kids.
Polar Plunge, WI
The Polar Plunge is held in 14 different locations throughout the state. The Polar Plunge has been partnering and supporting the Special Olympics since 1999. Participants pay a fee to plunge into cold water, to support over 10,000 Special Olympic athletes in Wisconsin. Local fire volunteers and law enforcement are close by in case of an emergency.
Fish Creek WinterFest, Fish Creek, WI
Behold the annual winter festival at Fish Creek and their appetizing Chili Cook-Off. Participants bring their crock pots no later than 11 a.m. then promptly at noon is when the real fun starts. Winner take home bragging rights for the next years to come.
Battle on Bago, Oshkosh, WI
In hopes of helping local youth sign offline and get involved in the community, members of Oshkosh Southwest Rotary created Battle on the Bago in 2007. Join in the fun by participating in their ice fishing contests on Lake Winnebago, food drink, and music. Every year the Fox Valley rallies together to support the seasonal events hosted by Battle on Bago.
Conger Collection Cabin Rentals, Eagle River, WI
If you’re not so much the outdoorsy type but want to immerse yourself in beautiful scenery, rent a cabin through the Conger Collection in Eagle River. Their cozy cabins come equipped with authentic wood structures, charming furnishings, a convenient fire place—basically everything you’d need to vacation comfortably. If you aren’t too keen on the harsh Wisconsin winters try an up north getaway.
Wilmot Mountain, Wilmot, WI
Tubing down Wilmot Mountain is a popular event in the Wilmot area. No training required and the tubes are provided for you. Get your snow gear, grab a couple friends, and slide down the 1,000-foot-long hill.
Tyrol Basin, Mt. Horeb, WI
Tyrol Basin is great ski and snowboard area for all experience levels. They even offer on-site lessons for those just beginning. Rent or bring your own gear and shred the slopes of Tyrol Basin.
Green Lake Ice Yacht Club, Green Lake, WI
Ever heard of iceboating? Neither has majority of the population. The Green Lake Ice Yacht Club has been ice boating for the past 100 years in the Green Lake area. Iceboats are similar in structure to a normal sailboat, but instead glide swift across the ice. Club members participate in the activity throughout the year. Check out their website for more member information!
Country Springs Christmas Lights, Waukesha, WI
Located in Waukesha, the Country Spring Christmas Lights are adored by area residents tenfold. The lights are truly a sight to behold. The best part is the 200-foot drive through tunnel that features a captivating 30,000 computerized Christmas lights.
Chula Vista Resort, Wisconsin Dells, WI
While the outdoors may be chilly in Wisconsin, reminisce on summer by booking a getaway weekend at the Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells. Hot tubs, warm pools, cozy rooms, and cabin rentals allows you to escape the winter and take a break from life.
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