Share the article
Last updated
As we close the final chapter of 2024, most travelers are looking for sunny destinations such as Florida, Mexico and even as far as Europe’s sunniest region, the Algarve.
On the other hand, some of us embrace the coldest season of the year for epic winter wonderlands like Colorado and Alaska, as well as endless Christmas destinations across Europe.
But Wisconsin probably hasn’t crossed your mind, right?
A local report from the ‘Badger State’ indicates that the Midwest’s new tourist hotspot is the lesser-known winter wonderland of Wisconsin, and it’s certainly not a household name.
Nestled between Madison, Milwaukee and beautiful Lake Superior lies a hidden gem with visitor numbers on the rise – and no, it’s not the land of cheese and football either.
An enchanting region dotted with thrilling winter sports experiences, timeless towns and vast postcard-worthy landscapes, among other surprising delights, is none other than Chippewa Valley.
Ever heard of it?
Small town charm and popular breweries
A visit to Chippewa Valley will take you to a Quality mark film. Imagine winding country roads lined with snow-capped pine trees and small towns that exude a rustic charm with simple diners and quaint shops.
If there’s one city you may have heard of – keyword: power – it’s the beautiful city Eau Claireconsidered the ‘North Star’ of Chippewa Valley.
This artsy student town turns into a quintessential white Christmas holiday and offers a wide range of historic inns trendy boutique hotels with live jazz.
The next one on the Chippewa Valley wheel has the same name Chippewa Fallsan idyllic winter retreat with a picturesque city center, Bed & Breakfasts from around 1900, and popular Leinenkugel Breweryof which you have probably seen their products on the shelves of your local supermarket.
What makes this brewery extra special are the Leinie Lodgewhere you can enjoy insightful tours of the brewery grounds and enjoy a $5 beverage during regular business hours. $2.50 beer for ‘Happy Hour’.
Be sure to check out their seasonal beers such as fan favorites Snowdrift Vanilla Porter or my personal favorite, Summer Shandy.
These are their winter hours through March:
Sunday – Wednesday
12:00 – 18:00
Thursday – Saturday
10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Travel Tip: Visit Chippewa Falls’ events page for fun winter activities like Irvine Park’s Christmas Village.
Rustic cabins and snow-capped pines: Lake Wissota is the locals’ favorite escape
It is quiet next to Chippewa Falls Lake Wissota State Parkperfect for those willing to brave the cold and enjoy all the fun activities that snow brings.
A unique attraction is the opportunity to ice fischbut keep that in mind The ice thickness is not controlled.
For the more adventurous, circle January 15, 2025 on your calendar for an evening candlelight meeting for skiers, snowboarders and hikers for winter sensations after sunset.
The park had approximately eight miles of groomed trails for skiers, 10 miles for snowshoeing and another three miles equipped for snowmobiles that lead deeper into Chippewa County’s extensive trail system.
There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the magical landscape surrounding Lake Wissota.
There are numerous cozy cabins along the lake and in the woods listed on Airbnb and HomeAway.
If it were me, it would all be over Inn on Lake Wissota.
Highly rated, conveniently located and with fire pit seating with up close lake views. It’s easy to see why a recent guest bragged, ‘One of the best places we’ve ever stayed! You will love it here and won’t want to leave!’.
The revival of tourism in Wisconsin
Also noted in WQOM’s report is the overall uptick in tourism in Wisconsin.
Often overlooked as a destination, Milwaukee, Madison and Wisconsin’s slice of the Great Lakes are all too often overlooked.
However, the outdoor recreation sector grew by 9.4%, demonstrating the appeal of Chippewa Valley.
While the official statistics for 2024 aren’t quite right yet, Chippewa Valley is expected to see an even bigger spike, and locals are happy to see the economy thriving.
With overtourism and even gentrification being a major problem these days, there can never be enough hospitable destinations.
Wisconsin is full of delights even beyond the Chippewa Valley, so if you come to visit, don’t let this be your final destination.
For example, did you know that Wisconsin is home to 21 islands? It’s true.
That said, Chippewa Valley is undoubtedly the state’s most underrated winter resort, and as more visitors come here, it’s inevitable that even more attractions will pop up, especially since Chippewa Valley is talking a big game as a “year-round destination.” .
✈️Join our Travel Off Path community forum: Where travelers come together, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel companions!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to the latest Travel Off Path breaking travel news, delivered straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
