Local Area

Snowy street with string lights and blue-lit trees.

Wausau

Mid-America’s Great Ski Town

Nestled along the Wisconsin River and at the foot of Rib Mountain, Wausau has earned its reputation as Mid-America’s Great Ski Town. Downtown’s historic streets blend culture, culinary creativity, and a warm Wisconsin welcome. Whether you’re here for a weekend on the slopes or an extended mountain getaway, Wausau offers endless ways to play, relax, and explore beyond Granite Peak.

Dimly lit bar with blue stools and wooden decor.

Dining & Après Ski

After a day on the slopes, indulge in Wausau’s diverse dining scene from classic Wisconsin comfort food to globally inspired cuisine. Then, wind down with a local craft cocktail, live music, or a nightcap.

Explore Dining & Nightlife

Restaurants

  • Back When Café – Fresh, seasonal fine dining in a cozy downtown setting.
  • Ciao – Authentic Italian with an extensive wine list.
  • Lemon Grass Asian Fusion – Modern Thai and sushi favorites.
  • Van Acre – Locally sourced dishes and wood-fired fare inside the Hilton Garden Inn.
  • Zaika – Elevated Indian cuisine with warm hospitality.
  • Char Grill House – Steakhouse classics and craft cocktails in an elegant atmosphere.

Après Ski & Nightlife

  • Juliette Cocktail Bar – Artful cocktails in an intimate setting.
  • Garage – Live music and lively vibes.
  • Malarkey’s Pub & Townies Grill – Great food and nightly entertainment.
  • Timekeeper Distillery – Craft spirits in a restored historic building.
Brick building with sculptures and green gardens in sunny weather.

Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Wausau’s arts scene thrives year-round, from live performances to renowned galleries.

  • The Grand Theater – Historic stage hosting concerts, plays, and national tours.
  • Wausau Community Theatre – Local productions showcasing regional talent.
  • Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum – Internationally acclaimed “Birds in Art” collection and rotating exhibits.
  • The Children's Imaginarium - Newly opened in 2023, the imaginarium is a place for kids to learn through interactive play.

Experience the Arts

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Shopping & Local Finds

Downtown Wausau and nearby Rib Mountain feature a thoughtfully curated mix of boutiques, outfitters, and specialty stores.

  • Shepherd & Schaller Goods – A Wausau icon for outdoor gear and apparel.
  • Central Board Shop – Local hub for ski, snowboard, and skate gear.
  • The Local – Trendy boutique featuring regional makers.
  • Evolutions in Design – Beautiful floral arrangements, gifts, and décor.
  • The Norwegian Wood – Scandinavian-inspired home goods and gifts.

Discover Shopping

Observation tower surrounded by autumn trees at sunset.

Family Fun & Outdoor Adventures

Whether you’re skiing, tubing, skating, or exploring the arts, Wausau offers fun for every season and every age.

  • Sylvan Hill Park – The region’s best snowtubing hill.
  • Nine Mile Forest – 30 km of beautifully groomed cross-country ski and snowshoe trails.
  • 400 Block Ice Skating Pavilion – Outdoor skating in the heart of downtown.
  • Sawmill Adventure Park – Indoor trampoline park and mini golf for kids and teens.
  • Marcus Cedar Creek Cinema – Catch a movie after a day on the slopes.
  • Local Bowling Alleys – Family-friendly fun at Wausau’s modern lanes.

Plan Your Off-Mountain Adventure

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Skiers glide through snowy forest trail in winter setting.