Things To Do
in Wausau
Wausau, Wisconsin, is a charming city nestled along the banks of the Wisconsin River, known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city features scenic landscapes, including the beautiful Rib Mountain State Park, which provides stunning views of the surrounding area. Wausau is also home to diverse cultural events, such as the annual Wausau Festival of Arts.
With a friendly community and rich history, Wausau offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at The Brick, a local favorite known for its delicious pancakes and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through downtown Wausau to admire the murals and public art installations.
Visit the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum to explore its impressive collection of wildlife art. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the nearby Red Eye Brewing Company, where you can sample local craft beers.
Dinner at the historic The Plaza Hotel's restaurant will treat you to a taste of upscale dining. End the night with a walk along the Riverwalk, enjoying the serene views of the water and city lights.
Begin with breakfast at The Coffee Studio, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and specialty coffee. Afterwards, head to Rib Mountain State Park for hiking or taking the scenic chairlift ride for breathtaking views.
Have a picnic lunch in the park or grab a bite at a local food truck. Spend the afternoon exploring the hiking trails or visiting the nearby Granite Peak Ski Area if in the winter.
Wrap up your visit with dinner at The Bull Falls Brewery, which offers a casual atmosphere and a variety of house-brewed beers. Enjoy live music if available, before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15 |
| ☕Coffee | $4 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $100 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $2 |
| 🍻Craft beer | $6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful outdoor scenery and recreational opportunities
- Rich cultural and artistic community
- Family-friendly atmosphere with various activities
- Limited public transport options
- Harsh winters may deter some visitors
- Smaller city may lack some urban amenities
Places to Visit in Wausau
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning location for capturing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, especially during sunset.
A picturesque pathway along the Wisconsin River, ideal for photos of the water and city skyline.
Artistic murals throughout the downtown area provide colorful backdrops for creative photography.
Food in Wausau
Wausau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried or fresh, these squeaky cheese bites are a beloved local snack.
Must-Try!
Grilled sausages often served with sauerkraut and mustard, perfect for a summer BBQ.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open seasonally on Saturdays, this market features local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's customary to greet locals with a smile and a friendly 'hello' or 'how are you?'
Always follow Leave No Trace principles when enjoying outdoor spaces to preserve the environment.
Being on time for appointments and meetings is appreciated, reflecting respect for others' time.
Safety
Tipping in Wausau
Ensure a smooth experience
A standard tip in restaurants is 15-20% of the total bill, while rounding up is common for taxi drivers.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect mild temperatures and blooming flora, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and festivals.
Warm weather is perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying local events like the Wausau Farmers Market.
Beautiful fall colors attract visitors for scenic drives and outdoor photography opportunities.
Cold and snowy, ideal for skiing and snowboarding at Granite Peak, as well as enjoying cozy indoor activities.
Wausau at Night
Hiking in Wausau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A well-maintained trail offering stunning views from the summit, suitable for all skill levels.
This trail system offers a variety of paths for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing, surrounded by beautiful wooded areas.
Airports
How to reach Wausau by plane.
Located about 20 miles from Wausau, this airport offers domestic flights and is the primary airport serving the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Wausau is home to many families, with community events and activities geared towards children and family-friendly attractions.
An emerging group interested in the arts, food scene, and recreational opportunities, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school and college football games are popular in the region, with strong community support for local teams.
Ice hockey has a rich history in Wausau, with local teams drawing enthusiastic crowds during the winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wausau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Wausau offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it easy for those with dietary restrictions to find suitable meals.