52 Reasons to Love Where You Live
We often take for granted the things closest to us, and home is no exception. Here we are, right in the center of our state in a place blessed with natural beauty, rich heritage, and a unique blend of opportunities and experiences!
We invite you to be intentional about joining with family and friends to explore this place we call "home." Below are some ideas to get you started - one for each week this year!
1. Beat the Berries
An afternoon on a local cranberry marsh reveals the tasty story behind one of North America's native fruits. This fall, take a tour with one of the area's growers or students from Pittsville High School.
2. Unleash your Inner Lumberjack
Lumber and paper are integral parts of what makes central Wisconsin special! Take a free tour of the state's largest tree nursery.
3. Take a Class
It's never too late to learn! Enroll in a lifetime enrichment class at:
4. Eat Popcorn and Dots
Let the stars entertain you during a relaxing night at the local movie theatre, or join with friends to check out the summer classics under the stars (coming soon).
5. Hit the Open Road
Start a love affair with the open road, and the unexpected is bound to run wild. A variety of scenery is just outside your doorstep.
6. Take a Hike
Walk. Relax. Repeat. An afternoon hike along the river or at a wildlife area is just what the doctor ordered. Click on the trail name to download a convenient map!
7. Pick Your Own Fruit
Apples, pumpkins and berries abound! Take your pick at one of our many local orchards or berry patches.
| Altenburg's Country Gardens | | 7020 Plover Rd., Wisconsin Rapids
| | 715-421-2943 |
| Berryland Farms | | 6702 W. Hwy. 10, Auburndale | | 715-652-6171 |
| Grandma & Grandpa's Pumpkin Patch | | 4361 County Rd. C, Vesper | | 715-435-4324 |
| Hagen's Orchard | | 6165 County Rd. HH, Vesper | | 715-569-4224 |
| Hayseed Acres | | 4213 Finup Lane, Wisconsin Rapids | | 715-569-4707 |
8. Pedal a Bike
Slow down your hectic pace by using your bike to run an errand. Or, take a few hours to follow our fabulous trails over the river and through the woods. Click on a trail name below to download a map!
9. Share a Few S'mores
Take a mini vacation; gather your family under a blanket of stars at one of the area's many campgrounds.
10. Skate, Rock & Roll
Grab your helmet, dust off your skateboard, and head to the skateboard park
to test your skills! And check out our indoor roller rink
or ice skating rinks.
11. Get Tee'd Off
Tee off right at home, where there's a golf course to fit both your budget and your playing level.
| Homestead Golf Course | 3372 Hwy. 13 North, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-423-7577 |
| Lake Arrowhead | 1195 Apache Ln., Rome | 715-325-2929 |
| Ridges Golf Course | 2311 Griffith Ave., Wisconsin Rapids | 715-424-3204 |
| Tri-City Golf Course | 3000 Golf Course Rd., Wisconsin Rapids | 715-423-1380 |
12. Rev up Your Engine
Feel the need for speed? Looking for a little excitement? Try Friday night races at the local speedway!
13. Float on Cloud Nine
Fly through the sky with a local hot air balloonist, ultralight pilot or sight-seeing pilot from Alexander Field. Or take those flight lessons you've always dreamed about!
| Skyscraperballoons LLC | PO Box 271, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-570-9637 |
| Wings Air Charter LLC | 3620 1st Street South, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-424-3737 |
14. Feed the Animals
Kids of all ages love to feed and pet the animals at the zoo! And don't forget to feed the ducks by the river.
| Rapids Municipal Zoo | | 1911 Gaynor Ave., Wisconsin Rapids | | 715-421-8240 |
15. Read a Good Book
Curl up in a cozy spot with your favorite book. Try your local library or favorite coffee shop for a latte fun!
16. Pack a Picnic
Whether you plan to enjoy family fun or romance, plan to picnic at a park or playground - or join your friends for Lunch by the River!
17. Beat the Heat
Take a cool, relaxing dip at a local pool or one of South Wood County's beautiful beaches. If you're up for more action, hook up the boat or jet-ski and head for the lake!
18. Ride a Slide
Take your family to a local playground for an afternoon of swings, slides and fun!
19. Explore Your Heritage
A visit to yesterday is sure to reveal secrets from our past! Venture to a local museum for a time of exploration.
20. Eat Your Veggies
It's not just Mom reminding you, it's our local farmers! Visit one of the area's markets for your fresh produce and other homemade treats!
21. Travel Back in Time
Walk in yesterday's footsteps on one of three Heritage River Walks downtown.
22. Spot a New Species
Pack the binoculars and guidebook - you just might see a rare bird at one of our many wildlife areas.
23. Paint a Picture
Venture outside on your own, or learn from an expert at the Cultural Center or a local gallery. No matter which option you choose, you're sure to create something beautiful!
24. Tap Your Toes
Take in a concert at our local performing arts center or one of the area's many events and festivals. Your toes will thank you!
25. Hit a Homer
There's nothing like baseball! Take in a game at Witter Field or join a local league.
26. Knock a Few Pins
Strike! Spare! The sound of pins falling is always a good sign - knock a few pins of your own at a local bowling alley.
| Bowlmor Recreation | | 3141 8th St. South, Wisconsin Rapids | | 715-423-4350 |
| Evergreen Lanes, Inc.
| | 493 State Hwy. 73 South, Nekoosa | | 715-886-3023 |
| Ricky's Bar & Bowl | | 1667 Main St., Rudolph | | 715-435-4100
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27. Find a Hidden Treasure
From quaint antique shops to inviting specialty shops, you're bound to find that special treasure.
28. Give it a Gamble
Feeling lucky? Test your talents at our local casino - perhaps you'll be the next big winner!
29. Enjoy Some Peace
Sit in the serenity of acres of flowers, rock gardens and shrubbery at Rudolph's Grotto, the largest in the state.
30. Say Cheese
Tour a local cheese-making factory for a taste of Wisconsin's finest product. We guarantee everyone will say "Cheese!"
| Dairy State Cheese | | Hwy. 34 and C, Rudolph | | 715-435-3144 |
31. Dine on a Dime
Local caf�s offer daily specials for a steal. Treat yourself and your family to a new restaurant each month!
32. Hit the Hay
Summer, spring, winter or fall - celebrate the season with an old-fashioned hayride. It's sure to delight the whole family! Tip: Call ahead, as most farms are open seasonally!
| Altenburg's Country Gardens | 7020 Plover Rd., Wisconsin Rapids
| 715-421-2943 |
| Down on the Farm | 1011 48th St. South, Kellner | 715-423-5678 |
| Grandma & Grandpa's Pumpkin Patch | 4361 County Rd. C, Vesper | 715-435-4324 |
33. Form a Pyramid
Check out our local waterski teams for championship viewing or take to the water yourself!
AquaSkiers
Shermaot Ski Team
34. Reel in a Catch
Fishing opportunities abound in every season - rivers, lakes and streams are calling your name and luring you in for some fun!
35. Make Some Tracks
Grab your skis, snowshoes, tube or sled and head out to enjoy some winter fun. Complete the day by building a snowman; then slow down to sip a steamy hot chocolate by the fire.
36. Quench Your Inner Thirst
Check out a neighborhood church to connect with others exploring their faith. Whatever your stage in life, you're sure to find opportunities and events to spark your interest and suit your needs!
37. Be in Control
Like control? Check out the radio-controlled airplane flyers' club. Use the winter months to check out swap-meets and build your plane - spring, summer and fall are for flying!
38. Root for the Home Team
Take the whole family to one of our schools' big events. From football to hockey, baseball, track, wrestling, swimming or tennis, you'll have fun cheering on the home team!
39. Stay in Shape
Walk, skate or job along beautiful trails or check out our health clubs, dance studios, hospital, or YMCA for special programs and classes. Then sign up for a triathalon!
| Academie de la Danse Inc. | 1120 6th Street South, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-424-5585 | | Curves for Women | Shopko Plaza II, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-424-2044 |
| Dance With Pam | 141 11th Avenue South, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-423-4428 |
| Jazzercise | 555 West Grand Avenue, By appointment only | 715-423-2177 |
| One on One Fitness Private Gym
| By appointment only | 715-424-2400 |
| Park Institute of Tae Kwon Do | 4233 8th Street South, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-421-5900 |
| Rapids Health & Fitness | 1421 Pepper Avenue, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-424-4900 |
| Riverview Hospital Association | 410 Dewey Street, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-423-6060 |
| South Wood County YMCA | 211 Wisconsin River Drive, Port Edwards | 715-887-3240 |
40. Hit the Bull's Eye
Try your luck both indoors or out - practice with video archery or head to the shooting range. You'll be ready for the real thing when hunting season comes along!
Wisconsin Rapids Area archery outfitters and shooting ranges:
| Downtown Video-Archery
| 267 W. Grand Avenue,
Wisconsin Rapids | 715-341-2825 |
| Fox's Archery |
6231 Court 4 Trunk C, Vesper | 715-569-4730 |
| Heart of Wis. Sportsman Club | 969 Ranger Road,
Wisconsin Rapids | 715-325-5163 |
| Stringworks | Wisconsin Rapids | 715-421-9277 |
| Sunset Archery | 3896 Hwy. 54 West, Port Edwards | 715-887-2596 |
| Timberline Archery Bait & Tackle | 8131 Hwy. 13 South, Nekoosa | 715-325-7662 |
41. Show Us Your Business
Get invoved with community theatre or take in a traveling performance - and don't forget about Family Fun Night at the library!
42. Take in the Arts
Stop in at local art galleries to view examples of drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture...and be sure to watch for special receptions with the artists!
Wisconsin Rapids Area art galleries:
| Alexander House | 1131 Wisconsin River Dr., Port Edwards | 715-887-3442 |
| Central Wisconsin Cultural Center
| 240 Johnson St., Wisconsin Rapids | 715-421-4598 |
| Stoney Birch Studio | 521 8th St. South, Wisconsin Rapids | 715-424-0120 |
| Studio of Good Earth | 12410 52nd St. South, Nekoosa | 715-325-2152 |
43. Stay Alert
Be sure to keep your eyes open for upcoming special events like the rodeo and all of our sensational seasonal "fests."
44. Kayak There and Back
Launch your canoe or kayak on the river and spend some time exploring the area from a different perspective.
45. Head Out on Two Wheels
Join a local motorcycle club for some summer fun or to check out the fall color along country roads.
46. Try an Alternate
Take the family mini-golfing, try your hand at disc golfing, or head out to the driving range and batting cage.
| Clancy's Driving Range & Mini Golf | | 9331 Hwy. 13 South, Saratoga | | 715-325-2000 |
| Newman's 1st St. Miniature Golf
| | 2811 First St. South, Wisconsin Rapids | | 715-421-1180
|
| South Wood County Park Disc Golf
| | 2811 County Hwy. W, Kellner | | 715-421-8422 |
47. Hug a Tree
Be inspired as you check out the Master Gardeners' special events, or visit the gardens they design and maintain. And be sure to bring the whole family to one of our tree farms where you can choose and cut your own family Christmas Tree.
| Arndt's Christmas Trees | | 9410 80th St. South, Kellner | | 715-325-5212 |
| Freeman Christmas Trees | | 346 Wood Ave., Nekoosa | | 715-886-5766 |
| Freeman Christmas Trees | | 2507 8th St. South, Wisconsin Rapids | | 715-886-5766 |
| Gary's Tree Farm | | 6411 Whitrock Ave., Wisconsin Rapids | | 715-424-4272 |
| Happy Holiday Tree Farm | | 2631 95th St. South, Kellner | | 715-423-8017 |
| Tis The Season Christmas Trees | | 4011 Brookhaven Ter., Wisconsin Rapids
| | 715-423-6657 |
48. Join a League
From bowling to volleyball and everything in between, you're sure to find a league that's right up your alley!
| Bowlmor Recreation | | 3141 8th St. South, Wisconsin Rapids | | 715-423-4350 |
| Evergreen Lanes, Inc.
| | 493 State Hwy. 73 South, Nekoosa | | 715-886-3023 |
| Ricky's Bar & Bowl | | 1667 Main St., Rudolph | | 715-435-4100
|
49. Shop 'Til You Drop
Invest your money at home! Check out local shops and support your neighbors. You can't beat friendly home-town service!
50. Go Out After Dark
Check out the nightlife! Visit the clubs and home-town pubs to meet up with old friends and make new ones.
51. Sweep a Stone
Join the curling club and try your hand at sweeping the stone, or just go over to watch a game.
52. Practice Your Serve
Volunteer opportunities abound! There are many places to use your gifts and talents to serve right here in our area!
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| Photo by Jack Bartholmai |
Bird Watching In Wisconsin Fortuitously located along the Wisconsin River and blessed with both woodlands, and wetlands, and grasslands, the Wisconsin Rapids Area is one of the nation's hot spots for bird watching. Located in an ecological landscape known as the Central Sand Plains-a vast, sandy plain that was once Glacial Lake Wisconsin, a great lake bed formed by glacial runoff covering 1,800 square miles-the Wisconsin Rapids area offers opportunities for the birder to see up to 200 bird species. Our unique location at the center of several wildlife areas allows bird watchers to travel between different habitats and viewing areas with ease. See our Viewing Areas page for more information. And contact the Wisconsin DNR for a copy of their Wisconsin Land Legacy Report to learn more about the Central Sand Plains and other ecological landscapes in Wisconsin.
There are 408 species of birds known to inhabit Wisconsin, including 400 native species. Among these are 3 that are Federally Endangered, 12 State Endangered, 13 State Threatened, and 76 Special Concern species.
The Wisconsin Rapids Area (Wood County/northern Adams and Juneau Counties, eastern Jackson County, northeastern Monroe County, southeastern Clark County, and western Portage County) is home to several rare, uncommon, or priority bird species, including whooping crane, trumpeter swan, osprey, sharp-tailed grouse, American woodcock, greater prairie-chicken, red shouldered hawk, northern harrier, short-eared owl, red-headed woodpecker, golden-winged warbler, prothonotary warbler, cerulean warbler (rarely), hooded warbler (rarely), acadian flycatcher (rarely), Henslow's sparrow, grasshopper sparrow, eastern meadowlark, and upland sandpiper. There are also some bird species that are more "northern" in occurrence, which can be seen in the area such as pine warbler, blackburnian warbler, hermit thrush, and white-throated sparrow. And waterfowl is abundant, including wood duck and hooded merganser.
Neo-tropical migrating birds, particularly many of our songbirds and shorebirds, are best spotted in the spring during their journey north, and late summer/early fall before they fly to southern Mexico and Central and South America. For an inside line on migratory and resident birds, wetland and woodland tours at Glacial Lake Cranberries are available during the year to see trumpeter swans, black terns, sandhill cranes, loons and other resident species. Give them a call to arrange a private tour or, stay on site at The Stone Cottage and watch the action from your own front porch.
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