The local farms are home to the cutest signs of spring… baby animals! And lucky for us, many are open for visitors.
Let your kids experience the joy of holding a newly-hatched chick. Ooh and aah at the sweet baby goats, lambs, and piglets. Visiting baby animals is a memorable time for the whole family, with picture ops you will treasure forever.
Where the locals go:
The ice is off the water and the fish are biting!
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler, the Fishing Opener on May 2 kicks off a season of fun on the many lakes and rivers of the Northwoods.
There are an impressive 449 lakes, 24 trout streams, and over 40 public boat landings in Chippewa County! You’ll be relaxed for weeks to come after spending a spring weekend breathing in the fresh air and taking in the beauty of the Northwoods scenery.
Bring your pole, pick up your fishing license, and enjoy a day on the water with the fishermen in your family.
Where the locals go fishing:
Stop and smell the roses.
The winters can feel looong, and there’s nothing better to mark the changing of seasons than taking in the sights and smells of spring flowers at one of the unique Chippewa Valley garden centers. Wander the greenhouse and soak in the warmth, or grab a coffee to keep cozy while you check out the outdoor blooms.
Local favorites:
- Christensen Florist & Greenhouse
- Green Oasis
- Irvine Park
- Klinger Farm Market
- Down to Earth Garden Center
Hike, bike, or 4-wheel your way through the Northwoods!
The birds are back and the trees are blooming! It’s easy to become an outdoor enthusiast with views only found in the Northwoods. Whether you love the adrenaline rush of speeding down an ATV trail, or a family hike through a state or county park is more your speed, there’s a scenic trail for you! Mark your calendars for the kick-off of ATV season on May 1.
Find a trail:
Plan a unique day in the outdoors hunting for Morel mushrooms.
Foragers are in their glory! Wisconsin is the Morel Mushroom capital of America and the hunt for these delicious mushrooms is fun and rewarding. Create a contest with a group of friends or family and see who can find the most! Join the hunt in the Chippewa Valley and use these ideas to test your skills in the kitchen.
- Parks & Trails
- A Beginner’s Guide to Hunting Morel Mushrooms
- Midwest Magazine’s Sauteed Morel Mushroom Recipe
When in Wisconsin… Yep, you guessed it, cheese tasting!
You can’t visit the Northwoods without visiting one (or a few!) of the area’s cheese shops. There’s nothing like a fresh cheese curd, so if you haven’t tried them, add it to your to-do list while visiting!
Many local shops offer tours that are the perfect mix of fun and education for the whole family. There’s a reason we’re known for our cheese, come find out for yourself!
Chippewa Valley Favorites:
Spring is the sweetest time of year in the Northwoods and you don’t want to miss it!
Maple syrup production will be in full swing! Where, if you look closely, you’ll see the trees tapped as you hike, bike, or drive through the area. Bring some maple syrup home for sweet memories of your Northwoods getaway all year long.
Where to go:
Finish the day with a Supper Club Fish Fry.
You can’t visit the Northwoods without trying out a Supper Club. And you certainly can’t visit the Northwoods in the Springtime without trying out a Fish Fry! The Friday Fish Fry season is in full swing and tops the list of dinner recommendations. Choose from a variety of local restaurants serving up a delicious traditional fish fry. You can’t go wrong!
The strong Arts culture in the Northwoods will complete your weekend itinerary.
A trip to Chippewa County isn’t complete without a visit to the impressive Heyde Center for the Arts, an unexpected gem you’ll be thrilled you discovered. Choose from a variety of exhibits, classes, and concerts to make a memorable date night or family-friendly afternoon. Or spend your afternoon browsing a unique local gallery! You can’t go wrong with the Chippewa Valley arts culture.