Address: Irvine Park

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Community: Chippewa Falls

Category: Arts + History / Play + Shop

Irvine Park Cave is a fascinating historic site tied to both early brewing history and the beginnings of Irvine Park. Once used by Schmitmayer Brewing Company to store beer in its naturally cool interior, the cave offers a unique glimpse into Chippewa Falls’ past.

• What you’ll see:
  A historic cave along Duncan Creek with a spring and remnants of its brewery-era use. The site reflects how the cave was enlarged and adapted for beer storage in the late 1800s.
• What it’s like:
  A quiet, interesting, and slightly hidden piece of local history that feels connected to the early days of industry in Chippewa Falls. It’s the kind of stop that rewards visitors who enjoy unusual historic landmarks.
• Good to know:
  The cave was purchased in 1871 by F. X. Schmitmayer and later became part of the land donated in 1906 that helped establish Irvine Park. That donation of 163 acres marked the beginning of the park’s creation.