Take A Winter Break (And Send One Too!)

Posted on January 17, 2012 by Travel Wisconsin

There’s no better way to spend a day than enjoying winter fun in Wisconsin. Now, whether there’s 3 feet of snow or 3 flakes, we’re giving you the power to declare a Winter Break for a friend. The best part is, it can be spent however, whenever they want!

Simply visit the Travel Wisconsin Facebook page and check out our Winter Break App. From there, we’ve got a whole list of fun Wisconsin indoor and outdoor winter events and activities to keep everyone busy: Festivals, Candlelight Skiing, the performing arts…you name it! So pick some deserving friends and send them their very own Winter Break Certificate.

NOTE: The Travel Wisconsin Winter Break Certificate does not obligate bosses, teachers, or other authority figures to formally excuse absences… But hey, it doesn’t hurt to try!

Preview: Wisconsin Hosts the 39th Annual American Birkebeiner

Posted on January 15, 2012 by Travel Wisconsin

If you haven’t heard of the American Birkebeiner, also known as the “Birkie,” you’re missing out on North America’s largest cross-country ski marathon.

Next month from February 23-25 in Hayward, Wisconsin, 8,000 skiers will come from all over to participate in the Birkie. Ambitious professionals and avid enthusiasts alike will try their luck at the 50K and 54K marathon races, or the faster and shorter Kortelopet 23K race.

Not into racing? Don’t worry! Birkie Week is filled with other events for non-skiers and amateur enthusiasts alike to enjoy. Check out some cross-country skiers with great canine friends as they race in a skijoring 5K. Test out some equipment at the various demos going on during the week. Get out in nature and slap on some snowshoes for the Family Snowshoe Nature Hike. Whatever you’re into, the Birkie has events designed for everyone.

Maybe it’s your first year and you’re not sure if you’re ready for the heavy competition that comes with The Birkie. Get your feet wet (or should we say cold?) with the 3rd annual BirkieTour, held on January 21. It’s perfect for people who have never raced the Birkie before, or are just not interested in racing but love to ski. If you’re planning on racing, it also serves as a great training day for the real deal.

For more information on the Birkie, check out our blog post from last year or visit the official Birkie website.

See you on the trail!

David Zucker Adds Fun to Wisconsin Winters

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Travel Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, we’re all about fun, and we couldn’t be more excited for what we have in store this week.

Today is the launch of our winter campaign spot directed by Wisconsin’s own David Zucker, the director/writer/producer of Airplane!, the Naked Gun series, Ruthless People and the last two “Scary Movie” films.

Born and raised in Shorewood, Zucker knows that Wisconsin is fun regardless of season, which is why he decided to join us on this project, his first in Wisconsin in over 40 years!

The spot features the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra in Milwaukee’s historic Riverside Theater. In keeping with the fun of the season, we added an ending that might “throw” you a bit! Check out our spot below and let us know what you think.

Hollywood or Not, Wisconsin Will Always Be Home

Posted on January 10, 2012 by Travel Wisconsin

David Zucker is a film director, producer and screenwriter.

My Wisconsin travel memories go back many years. One of the first is driving south on the old Highway 41 to the Illinois border to buy oleomargarine. In those days, the state outlawed the sale of colored margarine so that became one of our family’s regular Wisconsin trips. Now that I think of it, that probably classifies as an Illinois trip, so forget that, I’ll go on to the next big family outing: the Wisconsin Dells. This involved, as I remember, a big nighttime Indian powwow and cruising across the lake in a converted WWII amphibious landing craft. It made for a thrilling experience, and of course, a lot safer without having to face German machine gun fire.

But the trip that I made the most times was the one from Milwaukee to Madison, where I attended the University of Wisconsin. Even before that, while in high school, I used to travel there on weekends with my high school rock band, “The Chevelles,” (all the good cars were taken) to play at fraternity parties on Langdon Street. Aside from all the beer we could drink, I remember the fun of bunking in the frat bedrooms or the old Cardinal Hotel, one of the great flophouses on the Square. But my fondest memory is that morning-after stale beer aroma in the frat house basement bar. Nothing like it. Still can’t figure out why my parents ever let me go there.

In between gigs, we’d be content to stay in Milwaukee and tour the Schlitz Brewery, after which free beer was always served to the guests. I remember going on that tour a lot, and eventually, it came to occupy more of our time than going to Madison. Other great in-town excursions were to County Stadium for the Braves and later Packer games. My brother and I used to bring sleeping bags downtown and enjoy a pleasant summer night sleeping on cots on the sidewalk outside the Journal building, waiting for Packer season tickets to go on sale in the morning. This turned out to be a great preparation for the brief homeless period we went through before hitting it big in the movie business.

Even today, after many years away, I always look forward to returning to my home state for a welcome, fun and relaxing vacation, stale beer smell and all.

David Zucker is a film director, producer and screenwriter whose notable works include The Naked Gun trilogy, Airplane!, Scary Movie 3 and Scary Movie 4. A Shorewood native, David is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Learn to Ski Month – Learn the Basics

Posted on January 8, 2012 by Travel Wisconsin

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month. If you’ve never tried to ski or snowboard, take this month to get out of your comfort zone and onto Wisconsin’s snowy slopes. Here are a few tips, safety rules and deals to get you started:

Safety

When starting a new sport, safety is key. Here are a few basic tips to keep in mind, brought to you by the National Ski Patrol’s Safety Quiz:

• When you get off the chairlift, make sure to stand up and start skiing away from the chair.

• Listen to your body. If you feel tired, take a break, drink some water and rest a little.

• Use a helmet designed for snowsports when skiing or snowboarding. A bicycle or motorcycle helmet will not suffice.

• Stay within the designated areas when skiing or snowboarding. Areas outside of this could be unsafe.

Read more about skier safety by the National Ski Patrol before hitting the slopes, and if you’re planning to do any cross-country skiing, consult the Wisconsin DNR’s tricks of the trade.

Tips

Here are some of the tips provided by Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month:

• Before you begin to ski, take a lesson from a professional instructor. You can visit the Midwest Ski Areas Association’s website (MSAA) to find a ski resort and instructor near you.

• Reach out to friends and family who have experience in skiing and snowboarding before you go out. See what their favorite spots are to catch some powder and what they wish they knew on their first time out.

• Rent equipment before you decide to buy. Rent from the resort and get sized for skis, boots and boards. Then, if you decide that you want to ski or snowboard long-term, make the purchase that will lead to perennial recreation and healthy living.

Deals

Tyrol Basin – Mt. Horeb, WI
Three ski lessons are offered for beginners over a variety of dates, plus ticket, ski or snowboard rental, and a helmet provided. A season pass will be awarded after completing a third lesson. Cost is $129.

Cascade Mountain – Portage, WI
Cascade will be hosting their Learn a Lifetime Sport program in January and February. Participants will be enrolled in a four-session learn-to-ski or snowboard program meeting one day per week. The fourth week will be a make-up week or a free ski night. The price is $49 for grades 2-12 and $99 for adults, which includes four night lift tickets, four rental packages with a helmet and three lessons.

Many resorts around Wisconsin post ski deals to Liftopia, so check often to get the best bang for your buck. Check back often on the Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month website for any other deals during the course of the month.

Where are you planning on skiing or snowboarding this year? What advice would you give those new to the snow? Comment with your tips!

David Zucker Puts His Comedic Stamp On Wisconsin Commercial

Posted on January 7, 2012 by Travel Wisconsin

Dave Fantle is the Deputy Secretary of Wisconsin Tourism.

I’ve been on the job for almost a year, and they finally asked me to author a blog. First, thanks to the dozens of bloggers who have come before me, and those who will come after.

I want to bring you on the set of our 2012 winter TV commercial shoot. Wisconsin is all about fun, so who better then to bring his slapstick brand of mirth than Milwaukee native and “Master of Mirth,” David Zucker. David has had his name attached as producer, writer and director of some the most successful comedies of the past 30 years, “Airplane,” the “Naked Gun” series, “Ruthless People” and the last two installments of “Scary Movie.”

The commercial was shot at Milwaukee’s historic Riverside Theatre. I don’t want to give too much of the plot away, but give David the renowned Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, the perennial song “Winter Wonderland” and a little snow, and imagine the comedic possibilities. The commercial begins airing January 11, 2012, but you can also watch it on TravelWisconsin.com!

David was daft on directing the Orchestra and actors, including audience members, through a series of sight gags and comedy shtick. I observed the creative juices flowing during the entire 12-hour shoot and I now consider David to be a new friend. It was an honor to work with him and throughout our two days together I never called him Shirley!

Dave Fantle is the Deputy Secretary of Wisconsin Tourism.

Win Airplane! and The Naked Gun DVD’s Signed by David Zucker

Posted on January 6, 2012 by Travel Wisconsin

We’re eagerly awaiting the launch of our winter TV commercial directed by Wisconsin native, David Zucker. You might remember him as director of classics like Airplane! and The Naked Gun. Well, what better way to share our excitement than by giving away signed copies of his movies!

Yes, we’ve got a stack of laughs just waiting to be won, including: Three copies of Airplane!, three copies of The Naked Gun Trilogy and one copy of The Naked Gun. Entering to win these funny flicks couldn’t be easier. Simply “like” Travel Wisconsin on Facebook and fill out the entry form and then… Oh, wait, that’s all there is to it!

Entries will be accepted through January 15th, 2012. Winners will be contacted via email, so take a minute to enter and keep one eye on your inbox and the other on your TV for our new commercial. Of course, you can always catch it on TravelWisconsin.com as well.

Shirley, you don’t want to miss this fun giveaway, so enter here: http://on.fb.me/z19j37

Rules and exclusions apply. See Facebook for details. Good luck from your friends at Travel Wisconsin™!

A Beginner’s Guide to Ice Fishing in Wisconsin

Posted on January 5, 2012 by Travel Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a premier summer fishing destination, but when the temperatures drop it’s all about ice fishing. Combine our state’s natural beauty with sought-after species like walleye, panfish and northern pike and it’s no wonder people get hooked on this winter sport.

If you’ve never gone before, it’s time you get in on the fun! Here are a few tips to get you on your way:

Keep Warm
All right, it’s a given in winter, but a good reminder never hurts. Be sure to wear wool hats, mittens, waterproof boots and always dress in layers. Ice shanties keep the wind and snow at bay while you focus on landing that big catch…you can even buy heated ones!

Catch and Release
When you do land that prize fish, protect the future of fishing and practice catch and release. Cut the line if the fish swallows the hook and remember to handle the fish gently, quickly and carefully.

Tackle & Other Equipment
An ice auger to drill holes is a must. Keep the hole clear of ice and slush with a skimmer. Taking tackle, most Wisconsin fishers use lightly rigged jigging poles (2 to 4 pound tests for panfish, 6 to 8 pound for walleye), a few jigs, lures and live bait such as minnows or waxworms. Live shiners are popular with bobber-fishing for northern and walleye.

Safety First
ALWAYS check ice conditions before heading out. Ice should be at least 4 inches thick before walking onto it, 5 if you’re traveling by snowmobile, ATV or other vehicle. Never go out alone and always make sure someone knows where you are and when you’ll return.

Still looking for a little guidance? The Wisconsin DNR is a great resource for more information on safety tips, techniques, and regulations. Good luck out there anglers!

Cozy up to these Couples’ Destinations

Posted on January 2, 2012 by Travel Wisconsin

The frantic holiday season is behind us and we’re willing to bet you’re looking forward to some downtime. What better way to relax and unwind than a romantic winter getaway for you and someone special?

The Settlement Courtyard Inn and Lavender Spa in quiet Door County is an intimate destination. Settle into beautifully decorated rooms complete with inviting fireplaces and kitchenettes. The full-service spa offers a variety of massage treatments that’ll leave all that holiday stress far behind.

If you’re looking for a city escape, look no further than the County Clare Inn & Pub. Nestled on Milwaukee’s Lower East Side, it’s close enough to the action of the city, but far enough away for some R&R. Oh, and it was featured in the New York Times and the San Francisco Chronicle as a top place to stay in Milwaukee! Complete your stay with a bite at their highly acclaimed restaurant and pub celebrating the music, food and drink of the Emerald Isle.

Bundle up and cuddle close at the Old Rittenhouse Inn in Bayfield. Working fireplaces, whirlpool rooms and romantic gourmet meals make this Queen Anne-style mansion an ideal escape for couples. Enjoy a gourmet restaurant and a view of Lake Superior that can’t be beat.

We have plenty more ideas for romantic getaways where this came from, including a full directory of Wisconsin bed and breakfasts, resorts and more. Reserve your room, then relax!

Winter Break Activities for the Kids

Posted on December 26, 2011 by Travel Wisconsin

The kids are on winter break and suddenly you find yourself in need of some wholesome family fun. That’s where we swoop in and save the day!

Here are a few of our favorite kid-friendly attractions and activities guaranteed to make ‘em smile:

Museums
• Betty Brinn Children’s Museum – Milwaukee
• The Building for Kids – Appleton
• Madison Children’s Museum
• Children’s Museum of Eau Claire

Outdoor Fun
• Sledding and tubing at Cascade Mountain – Portage
• Ice skate at Traxler Park in Janesville
• Enjoy a bonfire, food, fireworks and music at the Boulder Junction Winter Celebration

Something Different
• Paint your own pottery at Art Trooper in Fox Point
• Catch a performance by the Central Wisconsin’s Children Theater based in Wausau
• Grab a hot dog aboard a 1965 caboose at the Rail Dog in Wisconsin Dells
• Take a tour of the Jelly Belly Distribution Center in Pleasant Prairie
• Spend the day at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center’s indoor waterpark
• Eat and play at the Stone Fire Pizza Company in New Berlin

Have some suggestions you’d like to share? Post them as a comment below!