Your Getaway Guide
Whether it’s a day trip, a weekend away or an international trek, find your next vacation destination here.
Wausau
There’s a lot to pack into a weekend in Wausau – beverage crafters like RedEye Brewing, The Milk Merchant and Timekeeper Distillery; five classic Wisconsin supper clubs, including Belvedere and Pinewood; and a downtown filled with boutique shops. You can relax at Northern Lights Sauna, which just opened this autumn. Wausau also offers a plethora of seasonal outdoor activities, including hiking, snowmobiling, snow tubing and skiing. The city kicks off its holiday season on Dec. 6, with a parade packed with floats, twinkling lights and a free party in Washington Square. visitwausau.com
Stevens Point Area
This central Wisconsin hotspot is ripe with activities for a family-friendly weekend. Get outside for a hike along the Green Circle Trail, where you can enjoy views of the forests, parks, and Wisconsin and Plover rivers. Stop at the Stevens Point Sculpture Park, where installations from local and international artists are on display over 20 acres. Consider a visit to the Food + Farm Exploration Center, which provides handson experiences to showcase the journey of your food from farm to fork, or the Blocher Planetarium at UW-Stevens Point, where public programming shows off the wonders of the night sky. stevenspointarea.com
Greater Richland Area
Richland Center’s small-town charm is amplified during the holiday season, when the Driftless Area hosts multiple events. On Nov. 10, live reindeer will make an appearance on Main Street, alongside Santa & Mrs. Claus. Starting on Thanksgiving, the town’s synchronized holiday lights will be live in Kroskoup Park, where visitors can enjoy a nighttime walk or drive through the dazzling display. Plus, you can check a few family or friends off the gift list with a shopping trip to one of three separate Holiday Makers Markets on Nov. 23 at the Richland Center Community Center, Richland Center High School and Richland Center Middle School. greaterrichlandtourism.com
Whitewater
On Dec. 6, Whitewater hosts its annual Parade of Lights. Guests can expect a tree lighting ceremony, holiday market, activities for the kids, a parade and a visit from Santa. Whitewater is also home to beautiful parks like Whitewater Nature Preserve and the Kettle Moraine State Forest’s Southern Unit where, weather permitting, visitors can go sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Fuel up at one of Whitewater’s many restaurants, such as 841 Brewhouse and Fanatico Ristorante Italiano. discoverwhitewater.org
Scenic Views
MAKE A CARIBBEAN ESCAPE
Take the stress out of travel planning this winter – and get away from the snow and the frigid temperatures! Dare to Dream is a complimentary travel planning service that works exclusively with Sandals and Beaches resorts in the Caribbean, including The Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, St. Lucia, Antigua, Barbados and others. After speaking with clients, owner Megan Potter will prepare a personalized trip for them. She ensures her clients are getting the best rates – with no additional fees – to kick off a relaxing vacation, honeymoon or destination wedding. daretodreamtravelwi.com
A GAMING GETAWAY
Potawatomi Casino Hotel boasts thousands of slot machines, plus table games, live entertainment and multiple dining destinations just a short drive away. You can easily spend an afternoon gaming or make it a weekend getaway. Consider a dinner at the upscale Dream Dance Steakhouse or the year-old Rock & Brews, a classic American restaurant by KISS bandmates, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. paysbig.com
