St. Patrick’s Day in Wisconsin

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Top o’ the mornin’! St. Patrick’s Day is coming up and there’s no better time to embrace the history and culture of the Irish right here in Wisconsin. The state is loaded with fun events and venues to celebrate, so throw on some green because this month, we’re all Irish!

Milwaukee is home to the Shamrock Club, the largest and longest-running Irish American organization in Wisconsin. On March 10th, their annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes over downtown Milwaukee. Awards are given out for the best float, best musical group, and best marching ensemble.

Starting on March 12th, the town of New London transforms into “New Dublin”. Events include Hooligan Day, where corned beef and cabbage is served at establishments throughout the city, including Pup’s Irish Pub and The Waters. The week culminates with the St. Patrick’s Day Grand Parade, the largest of its kind in Wisconsin! It features a huge lineup of bagpipe and marching bands, festive clowns, and floats. The party continues downtown at Irish Fest where you can show off your Irish dancing skills to Celtic bands.

Know of any other not-to-miss St. Patrick’s Day celebrations? Share them in a comment below!

Win a Photo Signed by Mason Crosby of the Green Bay Packers

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We’re excited to be at the 2012 Wisconsin Governor’s Conference on Tourism. To spread our excitement, we’re giving away five signed photos of Mason Crosby, kicker for the Green Bay Packers. Here are the details:

To be eligible, follow Travel Wisconsin on Twitter and retweet (RT) the following message:

    • RT @TravelWI to #win a picture signed by @crosbykicks2 of the Green Bay #Packers. Rules at:

http://bit.ly/yp3fyw

Five lucky winners will be chosen at random on Monday, March 5th 2012 at 6:00 PM (CST). Rules and exclusions apply. See below for details.

Good luck from your friends at Travel Wisconsin™!

 

ELIGIBILITY: The giveaway is open only to residents of the continental United States, who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. Employees, directors and officers the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, its affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising and promotion agencies and the immediate family members and/or those living in the same household of each are ineligible to enter and win.

The giveaway ends at 6:00 PM (CST) on March 5th, 2012. Winners will be selected at random. Contestants may only win one prize per household every thirty (30) days, unless specified otherwise. All winners are final and binding on all matters related to the sweepstakes. Upon notification, winners must claim their prize within 7 days of initial contact. If a winner does not respond within 48 hours of initial notification, an alternate winner will be selected from among the remaining eligible entries. In any dispute, the decisions of The Wisconsin Department of Tourism will be final and binding on all parties.

GENERAL CONDITIONS: The Wisconsin Department of Tourism and the persons and companies affiliated with this contest, their employees, representatives or agents will not be responsible for human, computer or equipment errors. Prizes are not transferable or redeemable in money or any other service. The Wisconsin Department of Tourism reserves the right to unilaterally disqualify entries. The Wisconsin Department of Tourism reserves the right to modify contest rules at any time. The Wisconsin Department of Tourism reserves the right to cancel the contest at any time, without liability.

By accepting a prize, the winner consents to the use of his/her name and likeness for promotional purposes related to this contest without additional compensation. Winners release The Wisconsin Department of Tourism and others involved, its advertisers, suppliers and other companies affiliated with these contests, from all liability for all damages or personal injuries in connection with the winner’s use of the prize goods and services. By entering the contest you acknowledge agreement of the contest rules. Chances of winning are dependent upon the total number of entries received.

Day Trip Idea: Menomonie

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Menomonie is a quaint town with a whole lot to offer: Historic and local art, delicious dining, and plenty of breathtaking scenery. It’s a short drive from many of Wisconsin’s major cities, making it the perfect place for a day or weekend trip. Here are a few recommended stops in the area:

Mabel Tainter Theater – Truly a hidden gem of Menomonie, this restored Victorian theater is a piece of art in itself. A designated Wisconsin Historical Marker Site, the building contains intricate hand-stenciling, hand carved white pine archways and gleaming brass fixtures. It’s open daily for self-guided tours, but you can also catch a matinee show or stop by the gift shop. Don’t miss the working Steere and Turner tracker pop organ with 1,597 pipes!

Red Cedar State Trail –This trail joins with the Chippewa River State Trail to form a route of 37 miles connecting Menomonie and Eau Claire. Perfect for skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, the trail offers beautiful views of forests, farmlands and unique rock formations. Be sure to read up on trail etiquette and get your State Trail Pass and then start exploring!

Das Bierhaus – If you’re hungry, stop by Das Bierhaus, an authentic Bavarian Brewery and Restaurant. Treat your taste buds to fine brews like Dunkel or Hefeweizen and get your fill of hearty sausages, spiced camembert cheese, pork schnitzel sandwiches and other delicious Bavarian cuisine.

Lucette Brewing Company – Stop by the brewery and sample Lucette’s hand-crafted beers. Tour times vary so be sure to check the schedule in advance and see how the tasty tappers are made!

Acoustic Café – Delicious hoagies, brag-worthy beer cheese soup, coffee, beer – you name it! Most weekends, you can enjoy live music while you cozy up by the fireplace and take in the great décor from local artists.

Legacy Chocolates – Who can resist delicious, and dare we say nutritious, handmade chocolates? Legacy Chocolates boasts chocolate delicacies made with local butter and cream – no preservatives here! The shop also features cup-at-a time coffee, fine teas, local food items, milks and meats. Stop in for a treat and take some home for later!

These are just a few of our favorites, but you can always find more Menomonie accommodations, attractions, dining and events on TravelWisconsin.com.

Approximate drive time from:
- Madison: 3.5 hours
- La Crosse: 2.2 hours
- Wausau: 2 hours
- Eau Claire: 30 min.

Cabin Fever Cures For Kids

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Problem: The kids have come down with a bad case of cabin fever and you’re tapped for ideas.
Solution: A fun and educational outing in Wisconsin!

If the kids are getting antsy and you’re running out of ways to keep them entertained at home, try some of these Wisconsin family outings:

Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary – Green Bay
Great for Ages: 8 and up

Bundle up, get outside and explore! The sanctuary has 6.5 miles of trails to hike or cross country ski, making it a great opportunity to exercise while you enjoy the natural beauty of Wisconsin’s winter. Stop at designated wildlife viewing areas or check out the schedule of programs, events and activities like the Great Backyard Bird Count and Yoga For Kids.

The Building for Kids – Appleton
Great for Ages: 2 – 10

Kids that love to get hands-on will feel right at home at The Building for Kids. Two floors and 30,000 square feet of interactive exhibits will keep them laughing and learning all day. Watch their imagination wander as they operate a realistic crane in “Construction Junction”, explore an oversized human heart at “The Amazing Heart” and climb around the 5 forts of “The Story Tree”.

Kaytee Avian Learning Center – Chilton
Great for Ages: 5 and up

Fun for all animal lovers, see more than 50 live birds and small animals. Check out the Rainforest Room, where you can observe exotic birds up close in a simulated natural environment. Have a little one that likes crafts? Kids can mimic their favorite feathered friend at the mask-making station or make a toy for the exotic birds to enjoy. The Center is open the first Friday and Saturday of each month (except in July) and admission is free!

Have any suggestions for other fun and educational outings to beat cabin fever? Share them as a comment below!

Exploring Bayfield in Winter

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In this post, we put the spotlight on Northern Wisconsin and the picturesque town of Bayfield. In summer, Bayfield is the gateway to renowned sea-kayaking and camping on the Apostle Islands, but the allure doesn’t stop in winter. Try one or both of these travel itineraries for a day or weekend full of winter fun:

Itinerary 1: The Lake Superior Ice Caves

Fuel up with a hearty and healthy breakfast at the Egg Toss Bakery Cafe, a Bayfield hotspot! Once you’re fully charged, grab your camera and head to the lakeshores for a breathtaking view. In winter, the waters of Lake Superior crash upon the lakeshore cliffs to form beautiful ice formations. Even better are the sea caves, which once frozen over, make for a dazzling sight. End your day with a stay at the Rittenhouse Inn, a Travel Green certified business. Known for its fabled wraparound veranda, it’s only a few blocks from the harbor. Accommodations include fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Be sure to check out their signature 5-course dinner!

Itinerary 2: Ski Slopes, Steak & Seafood

Gear up for a day of alpine and cross country skiing at Mt. Ashwabay Ski and Recreation Area. It offers 12 runs, 35 km of groomed cross-country ski trails, and tubing and terrain park for those looking to heat up the slopes. You’re sure to work up an appetite, so round out your day with dinner at the Northern Edge Sports Bar & Family Dining. Fill up on fresh fish, steaks, seafood, ribs, homemade pizza and more. Catch a game in the bar area on one of the eight televisions or play a game of pool or darts.

Hungry for more Bayfield travel ideas? Be sure to check out our website!

Snow, Skis & Sweat: The 39th Annual American Birkebeiner

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Each year, thousands of people flock to Hayward, Wisconsin for North America’s largest cross-country ski marathon, the American Birkebeiner (also known as the “Birkie”)! While racer registration is closed, Birkie Week offers tons of excitement for spectators looking to catch a piece of the action. Here are a few highlights you don’t want to miss:

The Barnebirkie – Thursday, 2/23/12 at 12:30pm – This one’s for the kids! Watch over 1,000 children ages 3 to 13 strap on their skis and participate in races ranging from 1K to 5K. These small super stars are just as impressive as the big Birkie racers!

Torchlighting and Fun Ski – Thursday, 2/23/12 at 5:30pm – Take part in the Welcome Ceremony on Hayward’s Main Street. Watch the Birkie torch lighting and then take part in the fun ski under the Main Street lights. All ages and experience levels are welcome!

Birkie Expo 2012 – Thursday, 2/23/12 from 1pm-9pm & Friday, 2/24/12 from 9am-9pm – Get geared up! Stop by the Birkie Expo at the Hayward Middle School to stock up on new ski gear, equipment, and more. BONUS: There will be plenty of samples, contests and giveaways!

Cable Natural History Museum Family Snowshoe Hike – Friday, 2/24/12 at 10am – Enjoy Wisconsin’s beautiful winter woods on this free, family snowshoe hike. It all takes place at Cable Natural History Museum’s beautiful facility. A museum naturalist guides the one-mile jaunt, while teaching about winter wildlife, tracking and the history of snowshoeing.

Barkie Birkie – Friday, 2/24/12 at 9am – This event is going to the dogs! The Barkie Birkie is a fun 5K skijoring race that starts and ends near Sophie’s Dog Bakery and makes a large loop around Hayward Golf Course. Watch as canines tow their skier companions in a race through the snow!

Birkie Celebration Tent – Saturday, 2/25/12 from 10am-5pm – Congratulate Birkie participants after they’ve crossed the finish line. Enjoy burgers, brats, beer, hotdogs and hot chocolate!

These are just some of the fun events that spectators and fans can enjoy during Birkie Week. You can find even more listed on the full schedule. Bundle up and we’ll see you there!

Wisconsin Snow Report Update: 2/17/12

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Despite Wisconsin’s mild winter, there’s still plenty of it snow to hit the slopes for some outdoor winter fun! Here’s an update on the snow cover across Wisconsin for snowmobiling, skiing and snowboarding, courtesy of our Snow Conditions Report.

Northern Wisconsin is your best bet for snowmobiling action this weekend. You’ll find an excellent base in Oneida County. Quality trail systems run all over the Three Lakes area stretching up into the upper peninsula. For a complete snowmobile trail map, email info@oneidacountywi.com for details.

Skiers and snowboarders can rejoice, because Central Wisconsin has plenty of local hills making their own snow to ensure you winter fun regardless of what Mother Nature has planned. You’ll find fresh white powder in Clark and Marathon counties, so hit up Bruce Mound and the always fun Granite Peak.

For the complete Wisconsin snow conditions report, check out TravelWisconsin.com. It’s updated continually, so you can easily find where the best snow all winter long. Simply pick your destination then check out nearby places to grab a bite to eat after a long day of winter play.

Wisconsin Cabins & Cottages

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IMAGINE: The snow gently falling outside, while the crackle of the fireplace keeps you warm inside.

Let’s face it, there’s something iconic about renting a cabin or cottage in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. It’s quiet, beautiful and chalk full of small-town hospitality. If you haven’t experienced it first-hand, winter is the time to make it happen!

The Hunt Hill Audubon Sanctuary in Sarona is truly a wilderness escape. It offers two rustic log cabins for rent. While both have road access, you’ll feel miles away from civilization. The surrounding grounds are exceptionally diverse, including prairieland, marshes, bogs, mystical old growth forest, and lake front views. You can even schedule a naturalist-guided hike on the 10+ miles of trails nearby.

The Amherst River Dance Cabin in, you guessed it, Amherst, is an eco-friendly escape. The building is largely made from recycled materials and uses solar water heat. The eclectic, yet Zen interior features stairs built around a tree trunk! A beautiful hand-carved canoe hangs from the ceiling adding to the sense of being close to nature. You don’t have to worry about keeping warm with fireplaces, a campsite, and even a Jacuzzi tub!

These are just a few of the hidden gems Wisconsin has to offer. You’ll find a full directory of Wisconsin cabins and cottages on our website. Enjoy!

Delicious Wisconsin Steakhouses

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A sizzling steak and a nice glass of wine… In Wisconsin, you really can’t go wrong when it comes to your pick of steakhouses. This winter, sink your teeth into one of these delicious chophouses.

Palmer’s Steakhouse at the Historic Cobblestone Inn was voted Milwaukee’s Best Steakhouse in 2010 and 2011 by WISN. It’s run by a couple that has been in the steakhouse business for over 2 decades…so you know they know their steaks! Palmer’s has also won several awards for their outstanding wine list; they have over 150 selections!

For Packers fans, Vince Lombardi’s Steakhouse in Appleton is simply a must. Dine among Coach Lombardi’s personal memorabilia and classic photos. This steakhouse lives up to its legendary name with an extensive menu and wine list that Wine Spectator has named “one of the most outstanding in the world.”

The Wonder Bar Steakhouse in Madison was founded by the brother of notorious 1920s gangster, Roger Touhy. Formerly a safe haven for Chicago’s most nefarious characters, it’s now a steak heaven! Stone fireplaces and a homey ambiance make this once devious hideaway a must-visit for all steak aficionados.

Last but certainly not least, La Crosse is home to the one-of-a-kind Freighthouse Restaurant. This National Historic Site was constructed in 1880 as the Milwaukee Road Freight House. Antique bars and fireplaces create a relaxing environment with a diverse menu ranging from slow roasted prime rib to vegetarian options. Browse yet another award-winning wine list (sense a theme here?) and catch live music on the weekends.

Have any Wisconsin steakhouses you’d recommend? Share them as a comment below!

Results: The Great Lakes Mitten Campaign

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Back in December, we teamed up with our friends at Pure Michigan to collect mittens for those in need. The response was truly overwhelming and thanks to your generosity, Wisconsin donated a total of 3,109 pairs of mittens, along with hats, scarves and even blankets to 50 local charities.

Donations were collected throughout the state, and many of the items received were handmade by local individuals or groups. We even received some donations from outside of the Midwest. One of our favorite stories from the collection involves a former Waukesha resident who now owns an ice cream shop in Virginia. The woman sent over 50 pairs of mittens to the Travel Wisconsin Welcome Centers in Superior and Platteville. One of the packages she sent included a hand-printed note that read:

Dear Superior,
Stay warm,
Go Pack Go!
The Dairy Godmother.

It’s hard not to smile at that one, huh? We also received donations from many local businesses and organizations including the Wisconsin Dells Lions Club, Wizard Quest, the Community Outreach Committee at Marinette Marine, and Gonzeo Research in Milwaukee.

To everyone who participated in The Great Lakes Mitten Campaign, thank you! Know that you helped to make this winter a little warmer for those in need.