Ripon

Day Trips

Arrive in Ripon and settle into your cozy accommodations. Take a gentle stroll around the quaint downtown area, soaking up the local atmosphere and admiring the charming architecture. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at a local cafe, sampling homemade pastries and fresh coffee.

Explore the historical sites of Ripon, including the famed Ripon College and the beautiful St. John's Lutheran Church. Spend some time at the Ripon Historical Society Museum to delve into the rich history of this small but vibrant community. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local diner, known for its hearty portions and friendly service.

As the sun sets, visit one of Ripon’s local breweries for a tasting experience of their craft beers. Enjoy dinner at a family-owned restaurant, where farm-to-table ingredients create mouthwatering dishes. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the Ripon River, enjoying the serenity of the night.

Start your day with breakfast at a local favorite, famous for its eggs benedict. Afterward, head to the nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest for a morning hike, where you can enjoy the stunning fall foliage. Take in the sights and sounds of nature as you traverse the well-marked trails.

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the picturesque spots in the forest before continuing your exploration. Consider renting a kayak or canoe to paddle on one of the serene lakes in the area, allowing you to connect with the peaceful surroundings. The afternoon is perfect for wildlife spotting—keep an eye out for deer, eagles, and other local fauna.

Return to Ripon and freshen up, then head out for dinner at a local steakhouse. Afterward, indulge in a sweet treat at a local ice cream shop, sampling unique flavors made from local ingredients. Consider attending a community event or simply relaxing at your hotel, reflecting on a fulfilling day spent in nature.

Wake up early and head to a local bakery for fresh pastries and coffee. Visit the Ripon Public Library, where you can discover local literature and the history of the area. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Ripon's historical district to learn more about the town's heritage.

After exploring the local history, make your way to a local art gallery to appreciate the work of regional artists showcasing diverse mediums. For lunch, enjoy a meal at a quaint cafe that specializes in seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Spend some time shopping in local boutiques for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.

As evening falls, attend a live performance at the Ripon Community Theatre, showcasing talented local actors and plays. After the show, dine at a nearby restaurant with a varied menu, enjoying a mix of modern and traditional dishes. Share stories and laughter with fellow travelers or locals as you unwind at a cozy pub.

Begin your Saturday with a visit to the local farmers market, where the community comes together to showcase fresh produce, handmade goods, and artisanal products. Enjoy sampling seasonal fruits and homemade jams as you stroll through the vibrant stalls. Take part in some interactive workshops or talks that demonstrate local farming and sustainability practices.

After picking up some goodies from the market, head to a nearby park for a peaceful picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Rent a bike to explore nearby trails, or visit a nearby lavender farm to relax among the fragrant fields. Learn about the agricultural techniques of the region by engaging with local farmers.

Return to Ripon for a casual evening, dining at a farm-to-table restaurant that features menu items from the farmers market. Consider attending an outdoor movie night or a star-gazing event, where you can enjoy community company under the night sky. Wind down your day with a calming walk through Ripon’s neighborhoods.

Begin your day at a local studio where you can participate in a pottery or painting class, guided by talented local artists. Enjoy breakfast in the studio cafe, where art meets culinary delight with freshly baked goods. This hands-on experience will allow you to channel your creativity while learning new skills.

Visit the Ripon Arts and Crafts Festival, where local artisans display their work and offer workshops for visitors. Take the opportunity to purchase unique pieces of art or craft supplies to take home. Grab a light lunch from food vendors offering a variety of local dishes and treats.

After a day immersed in creativity, enjoy dinner at a bistro that hosts local artwork on its walls. Chat with artists at the festival and reflect on your day’s artistic endeavors. End the evening by attending a live music event, participating in the local cultural scene.

Drive to nearby Green Lake to start your day with a waterfront breakfast at a charming lakeside cafe. Stroll along the gorgeous lakefront, taking in the fresh morning air and checking out the picturesque views. Engage in some light morning recreation like paddleboarding or fishing before noon.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a popular lakeside restaurant known for its seafood and picturesque views. Spend your afternoon exploring the many outdoor activities available, such as hiking the trails or renting a boat for some fun on the water. Capture memories with photographs of the stunning landscapes and friends.

Return to Ripon in the evening, where you can dine at a local pizzeria for a laid-back dinner. Share highlights from your day trip with fellow travelers over delicious slices. Wind down with a walk through any nearby parks or simply relax back at your accommodation.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe before heading out for a wildlife tour in the surrounding area. Prepare for an exciting adventure as you learn about the indigenous species and habitats of Wisconsin. Make sure to bring your camera in case you spot some amazing local wildlife.

After your wildlife tour, return to Ripon for lunch at a local burger joint, known for using beef sourced from nearby farms. Spend your afternoon visiting the local sanctuary or park that focuses on conservation and education about local wildlife. Participate in an interactive workshop or presentation about native species.

Wrap up your wildlife-themed day with dinner at a popular restaurant that offers a menu inspired by locally sourced ingredients. Share your wildlife experiences over a delicious meal with fellow adventurers. If the weather allows, enjoy a campfire gathering in a local park or your accommodation.

Begin your final day in Ripon with a nourishing breakfast at a health-focused cafe. Following breakfast, treat yourself to a morning yoga class that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The connection with nature will provide a sense of tranquility to your day.

Indulge in a spa appointment, allowing yourself to unwind and rejuvenate with massages or wellness treatments. Afterward, enjoy a light lunch at a calm cafe, as you reflect on your incredible journey through Ripon. Spend the afternoon leisurely walking through local parks, taking time to appreciate the surroundings.

In the evening, savor a farewell dinner at a sophisticated restaurant, toasting to a wonderful trip filled with experiences. Share memories, laughter, and what you loved most about Ripon with your travel companions. Wrap up your journey with a peaceful evening stroll under the stars, appreciating the small-town charm of Ripon one last time.