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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Baraboo to Dubuque?
The direct drive from Baraboo to Dubuque is 104 mi (167 km), and should have a drive time of 2 hrs 7 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Baraboo to Dubuque, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Wisconsin Dells, Madison, and Galena, as well as top places to visit like Timbavati Wildlife Park and Rick Wilcox Magic Theater, or the ever-popular Chula Vista Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham.
The top cities between Baraboo and Dubuque are Wisconsin Dells, Madison, and Galena. Wisconsin Dells is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Baraboo and 2 hours from Dubuque.
Located in the southern part of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Dells is a city known for its sandstone formations that were created by glaciers. The area boasts several amusement parks and entertainment centers, such as Noah's Ark Water Park and Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park. Mirror Lake State Park is a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor activities like camping or hiking on nature trails amidst forested reserves surrounding the lake itself.
Most popular city on this route
16 minutes off the main route, 12% of way to Dubuque
Madison, the capital of Wisconsin, is situated west of Milwaukee. The area boasts the iconic Wisconsin State Capitol with its dome structure, located on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. The region also offers a glimpse into Wisconsin's immigrant history and farming heritage through the Wisconsin Historical Museum. Visitors can explore Capital City State Trail, a paved pathway that runs past Monona Terrace - Frank Lloyd Wright's lakefront convention center in downtown Madison.
65% as popular as Wisconsin Dells
19 minutes off the main route, 37% of way to Dubuque
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Galena, a charming town in northwest Illinois, is famous for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings such as the historic Dowling House and the Italianate Ulysses S. Grant Home. Visitors can explore Horseshoe Mound for stunning views of three states and discover ancient ceremonial sites at Casper Bluff.
28% as popular as Wisconsin Dells
18 minutes off the main route, 86% of way to Dubuque
Best stops along Baraboo to Dubuque drive
The top stops along the way from Baraboo to Dubuque (with short detours) are Noah's Ark Waterpark, Wisconsin State Capitol, and National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. Other popular stops include Blaum Bros. Distilling Co., Devil's Lake State Park, and Henry Vilas Zoo.
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Chula Vista Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Chula Vista Resort is a family-friendly resort hotel in Wisconsin Dells that offers an indoor water park, outdoor wave pool, miniature golf course, lazy rivers and kids play. Every room features a refrigerator and balcony.
Had the best time with all our kids and great family!!! Only thing is that the condos are all in 1 big building not separate units to enter from own entrance and no balconies unless you got a 3 bedroom not 2 bedroom so that was disappointing compared to the wilderness and there should be free breakfast coupons for breakfast buffet or offer discounts for breakfast buffet...you pay enough just to stay for 2 nights was over 1200 just for the condo which was on the second floor like a hotel so not sure if we will ever do a 2 bedroom again I most likely will do a 3 bedroom and request 1st floor with a patio and at the end of the building so getting stuff in the room is easier and we have a patio door to go outside when we want!!!! Don't know though if we will ever go here again since we now know how it is and knowing that that we can stay at other places that have your own private entry and a patio or balcony.
Melissa ?Missy? Cunningham — Google review
Avoid this resort (specifically Condo 2321), our stay was full of bed bugs, a filthy room, and a staff that was unwilling to help until things got bad.
Our stay at Chula Vista involved bed bugs, a dirty room, and a staff that was reluctant to help.
Be aware that the condo side of Chula Vista is partially privately owned and the staff is reluctant or unwilling to help you if your specific condo isn't technically owned by the resort.
When we arrived at our room it was clear it hadn't been cleaned in some time (we later found out that private owners are allowed to opt out of cleaning services). It was late, so we accepted that we'd have to stay here for the night, but we went down to the lobby to request new sheets because we found a bug on one of them. The lobby was closed, which I've never seen before at any resort or hotel, and when we went to the hotel lobby they told us they couldn't help us because that was the condo side, not their responsibility.
The next morning, I woke up to a large bed bug crawling on my arm. We jumped out of bed and pulled the sheets up... and I've never seen more bed bugs in my life. There were huge ones down to tiny ones, meaning they'd been there for some time.
We tried to call the condo owner, between all of us it must've been around 50 times, they never answered. We then went to the hotel lobby (the condo lobby was still closed) and tried to get help from the staff. They were, again, unwilling to help, telling us they couldn't do anything because the condo was privately owned. My father in law started yelling at them, telling them they needed to help us. I don't agree with yelling at any staff, but he was understandably frustrated. Then, the Director of Operations came over to help us. He quickly got our room cost refunded and moved us to another room that he inspected with my mother in law. He was very helpful and we were grateful for the new, clean room. I do feel it's important to note that we still paid for the new room. But, he at least helped us. He asked us not to write a review since the condo was privately owned, but I don't want anyone else to have to experience what we went through here.
Five days later I have bites all over my hands, elbows, and neck. And on top of that, we had limited time in the Dells and half of that time was spent dealing with the resort. We really didn't get to have the vacation we had planned and needed, because the owner couldn't clean the room.
Katie Gallamore — Google review
We stayed in a condo so I can’t speak to the other types of rooms, but the condo was in need of updating. The carpet was disturbingly stained and dirty. The room itself seemed otherwise decently clean, but the building was not - dirty floors and elevators. The check-in process took at least 45 minutes, after which we were sent to another attendant for “parking validation,” which was actually a sales pitch for future bookings— felt a bit sneaky as no parking validation was even needed. The location was good, water park was decent with short lines, but we would not stay here again.
Renae S — Google review
I reserved the room and breakfast on the phone for my family vacation.
As soon as we get there the receptionist told me that there is no breakfast included in my reservation. I told her that the guy on the phone told me everything is included and our conversation is recorded. Finally the manager traced our conversation and confirmed that I was right and she offered me breakfast for free. And the issue is resolved.
Thanks managers!!!!
Besides that our stay at Chula Vista was great.
See you next time.
Esayase Delelew — Google review
This was our second visit here. Nice place. Had all we needed for entertainment for the kids. Plus it isn't so huge that you lose your kids. Our room was clean. Only wished that we had known about the buffet breakfast. Probably would have eaten that. Probably would return
Greg Pufahl — Google review
Hotel is old and it shows. As much as like to give positive reviews this won't happen. Had a golf villa room reserved it was must and asked to be moved to the tower, not much better, moved into a 1,000 sq ft condo for two people but at least it didn't smell. Resort and park are fine. Steakhouse was a pleasant surprise. Staff are friendly and did their best to help the situation. Needs a 25 million dollar remodel
Steven Erchul — Google review
Our stay at Chula Vista was from 11/3-11/5 and our party checked out at around 8:00am on 11/5. I was very disappointed in my stay here. This was my first and last time unfortunately. When we first checked in, Carol was very wonderful! She was very pleasant and friendly, she checked us in and answered all of our questions with respect and kindness. When we made it to our room, to say I was disgusted is an understatement. We had multiple issues when we walked in to the room initially. There were multiple places with some significant damage. I’m attaching all of the pictures for reference. There was a hole on the door to the semi-private room, the mini fridge had multiple places were it was cracked, chipped, or just broken. After taking the pictures and going down to the front desk and reporting the damage I went back to the hotel room to meet up with my group, we found more damage and many dead bugs. There were so many dead bugs I couldn’t even stay in the room for very long. We also then started finding live bugs. So I went back to the front desk and politely requested to move rooms and explained my concerns about the current one. The nice lady who started helping me was very apologetic and empathetic towards us and our situation. The manager or supervisor that came over to help us was not. I want to say her name was Nadia, or something similar, and she was not apologetic or empathetic. In fact she seemed annoyed and upset about the request, and the fact our first receptionist called her over. She did not offer any upgrades or even just saying “that sucks” she just seemed annoyed by our request. Our original room was 4421 and we were moved to 4221. When switching the rooms the supervisor did have our room checked over by another employee before letting us enter. I had arrived to the room when the staff member was still inspecting the room, and when he exited the room he left to grab a vacuum cleaner (he did not inform me what or where he was going but returned with the vacuum) and left me in the hallway. After he conducted the room check we still found multiple points of damage. Our new room was smaller, not by much, but enough where it was noticeable to our party. We also continued to find multiple bugs in our room. The final count was 5-6 after moving to the new room. This was overall a very terrible experience and I don’t know if there is anything you can offer us, but I still want to let you know so your staff can be better equipped in the future. Thank you for your time.
David Stoica — Google review
I feel mixed about the Chula Vista. This was my first time staying here. I've stayed at just about every other resort in the Wisconsin Dells, but wanted to try somewhere different. First, and as many others have stated, the Chula Vista is outside of the dells and not in the main strip area, which may be appealing if you're not looking to spend time in the downtown area. That's about 15-20 minutes away from here. We thought the service was good. Staff was very friendly and helpful. The bartenders were great and made an excellent margarita. We did not try any of the food on-side, as the reviews were terrible. We stayed in a two bedroom condo. The rooms were very MEH. I have a 10 month old who is climbing on and chewing everything in sight, so I quickly wiped things off to see how clean the room was and I wish I didn't look at the rag... it was black. The floors, counters, remotes, appliances, EVERYTHING had to be cleaned. The beds were very hard and did not have fitted sheets, which grossed me out. I didn't like that there was just a plain sheet between me and the mattress. One plus was that the rooms and living space were huge! We didn't expect that. The waterpark was average. Definitely smaller than the Wilderness, Great Wolf Lodge, Kalahari, etc., so go into it with that in mind. As others have stated, maybe the Chula Vista is better for smaller kids. The big kids slides were still pretty fun and lines weren't bad when we went in February. The pool area, like the rest of the resort, is quite run down. I tried not to look at things too closely. Overall, I'm disappointed given the cost (1k/night) and wished we wouldn't stayed at the tried-and-true Wilderness or Kalahari.
Lauren Burchill — Google review
My total experience seemed average during my stay. Nothing special really. They were renovating the Starbucks area by the front desk during my stay in April, so maybe that would give the place some lift up later this year. I was there for a conference and honestly, the staff did a good job accommodating overall.
I would have giving the service top marks but because of the mixed messages, I have decided to not do that. When I arrived, I asked a front desk staff if they could clean my room and she said they only clean the room upon request during a stay but that the staff work from 8am-4pm so, she could not send cleaning crew up because they were done for the day. But, she claimed to schedule cleaning for 1:30pm the next day. That time came and went. Eventually, I went to follow up at the front desk and a staff basically said there was nothing booked but she called a supervisor who said the same thing. But then he permitted the room to be cleaned. The cleaning was clearly rushed as only the beds were made and trash taken out. But the bed cover was taken and not replaced. The top sheet was taken and not replaced… I felt they just weren’t happy with my request, which is not an uncommon request to have one’s room cleaned during a stay. I know Covid changed a lot of things but I have stayed in resorts and regular hotels since then with no problem. I rarely have my room cleaned during my stay but a child visited and dropped crumbs on the bed and floor, so I needed help. Anyway, that’s my only complaint.
Victoria Olubiyi — Google review
It’s been several years since we’ve stayed at Chula Vista but I can say they’ve definitely improved the place. Friendly staff, good food, very good price. During the off season I would highly recommend the VIP package. The only thing I would suggest as an improvement is it would be nice to have an area for adults staying without kids. There was a lot of loud kids running through halls. Not the resorts fault but just an idea. Great place to stay for a weekend!
Chris Elsing — Google review
Unfortunately not a great experience at this resort. I stayed for a weekend to attend a wedding. From the moment I entered registration, every employee made is very clear that they did not like their job or the guests. I get there may be one or two employees that are not friendly but during my stay, not a one smiled, replied when I said hello or even answered questions. I asked a few questions at the front desk and only got a grunt and a "I don't no" answer.
The hotel room I was given was not clean. The carpet had not been vacuumed, the furniture was older and worn out. Bed was too firm for me and the bedding had rips in it. Room had a weird smell to it. The refrigerator didn't work very well and the freezer compartment was completely frosted over and unusable. I asked about housekeeping at check in and I was told by the front desk that there was no housekeeping for my stay. I tried calling Guest Services from the room but there was no answer.
I felt bad for the couple getting married. Nothing seemed to go right at the reception. The bathroom facilities were horrible and hadn't been attended for some time. No toilet paper in the women's room. Appetizers ran out and many guest did not get anything to eat until the dinner was served. The buffet was setup 30 minutes early and the staff would not let anyone touch it since the bridal couple should go first. That's normal except the couple was off getting photos. By the time people could eat, the food was cold and not very appetizing. When the issue was bought up to the resort staff they just said they don't have enough employees to handle the wedding.
The resort is on the river and there is a nice walk long the back of the facility. It is also now pet friendly so that is why I gave it a 1 star. It is also north of the Dells and you don't have to go near the crazy busy downtown area which is nice.
JD Smith — Google review
We booked this spring break trip last minute. We took our 4 kids, ages 3, 6, 6 and 12. They had a blast at the indoor water park! It is perfect for kids their ages. We had a 2 bedroom condo room. It fit us perfectly. The room was nice and clean. We definitely plan on visiting again.
Rick Jr Hendrickson — Google review
Conveniently located, on site water park, with really helpful and attentive lifeguards. On site coffee shop, which is cash or room charge only. That's all for pros. Front desk never answers phone, and most of the time when I walked down to reception, there would be 2 people on their phones. Generally unhelpful front desk, dated rooms. Had various issues during the stay (toilets, check in system down, A.C., etc). Maintenance would come but say they couldn't do anything until the morning. Despite the issues, management did not offer to move us to a different room, or offer alternative solutions. Bottom line: for the price we paid, expected better service. I've had better service at a Super 8 motel. Would not stay here again.
Tammy K — Google review
Loved the location of the resort. However, the landscaping is taken way better care of than the actual resort rooms. Our villa was definitely a disappointment. Dirty, smelly, and the A/C was horribly loud. The strong smell of urine coming from the bathroom when we first walked into the room was overwhelming. Clearly the bathroom wasn’t cleaned at all. At check-in, they charged my card an extra $40 for the cleaning service they provide once we leave. That’s a joke because the cleaning job is terrible. The bedding is stained. The bathroom had 4 towels in it for a villa that held 8 adults for 4 days. When we requested more towels, they said they didn’t have any. When trying to call the front desk or guest services, we were either put on hold for long periods of time and then hung up on, or there was never an answer. Our family saved up money for a vacation that was several years overdue and unfortunately we wished we hadn’t wasted our money here. We will definitely go with a hotel that values cleanliness and customer services next time.
jen indre — Google review
We went with friends for the day to enjoy the indoor/outdoor pool and water park. We enjoyed the accessibility to be able to go inside or outside as we pleased.
There are numerous water slides and activities inside and outside, including a water coaster, raft, body and mat slides, and a lazy River. There are plenty of places to sit both inside and outside and places to be in the sun and protected from it as well.
My only complaint was that when we were ordering drinks the worker was talking on his phone while guests were waiting to be served. A manager did come over and address the situation, which was good. Other than that, it was a great place to spend a day!
Travis Stauffer — Google review
We love Chula Vista and look forward to frequent stays. The rooms are beautiful and clean and we enjoy the many outstanding amenities. On our most recent visit, paid more than $600 for 2 days in a 2 queen golf villa just to check in and find broken curtains, room reeking of smoke, patio door with no handle and nailed shut. Guest services offered a different room of the same style in better condition, then rescinded because it was for "wedding guests." (Aren't ALL your guests important?) Was then offered choice of a room with only murphy beds, or a hotel room in the far tower. I selected the tower room, and that was acceptable until I discovered no parking spaces available. Realization dawns - staying at the resort is not possible if there is nowhere to park. I return to registration / check in desk for a third time and request a refund. Drove 2 hours to visit our favorite Chula Vista for a stellar and relaxing getaway. This time left us stressed, frustrated and without a room in a city full of Labor Day travelers. Beware, this place is unreliable and the parking available is insufficient for the number of guests they accommodate. Check in takes forever.
Nancy Karl — Google review
I just recently attended a convention here.
This place is cozy, unique, and has a lot of charm. Things are a bit dated, and this place could use some work, but overall this was a good experience. Staff were extremely friendly and helpful. The rooms needed some work, for example the beds could have been more comfortable, and the bathroom could have been cleaned a bit more. I also was disappointed to see that the waterpark was closed on Thursdays which is when I arrived and had time to use it. However I did like how there is good food on the property. Didn't have to leave! Overall this is a good affordable place to stay.
BlueHusky2154 — Google review
Here for a conference. Firstly, parking is a nightmare. Trying to find a parking spot is next to impossible. Our room was dated, furniture has seen its better day, smelled of stale cigarette smoke, could use a deep cleaning, especially the carpeting. Sticking to the floor while brushing my teeth was disturbing!! The institutional soap and shampoo dispensers were far from impressive, especially for a resort. Toilet should be ADA compliant. Not able to control the temperature of the room made for an uncomfortable experience as it was too warm. No room service stopped to empty garbage, refill coffee, etc. For the price point to stay and eat here, one would expect better accommodations and services.
I am always looking for family fun vacation spots with the grandkids and I would not consider this resort.
Lisa Witynski — Google review
While this place is undoubtedly beautiful, we expected more for the price. The rooms fell short, with couches showing wear, a crumb-filled pull-out, and outdated features. Despite spacious rooms, the lack of updates was noticeable. The road leading to the location was intriguing, adding to the overall appeal. It's a decent place to stay, but we may hold off on returning until improvements are made. The on-site Starbucks opens at 7, but the understaffing leads to lines forming around 6:30, with a 30-minute wait if you're not there early. Overall, a good experience with some areas needing attention.
Christina Barnes — Google review
Registration staff were friendly and welcoming. Oddly, when we asked to have our room made up we were told COVID protocols were still in place - so no house keeping service during our stay. Upon request fresh towels and linens can be brought to the room. A bit of cost cutting here?!
Todd Holtz — Google review
Took a weekend getaway and did the VIP experience. Han (bartender) made the whole trip enjoyable. My fiance and I enjoyed everything. Only thing we could wish for is a separate pool area for adults or the outside jacuzzi for adults only. Besides that everything was great.
Dakota Filipiak — Google review
We met our son, his partner and our 3 year old granddaughter for a weekend at the water park. Chula Vista has grown a lot since we were last here. The condo we stayed in was close to the food and the water park. It provided plenty of room for five. The buffets were much more budget friendly than ordering from the menu. Service was quick and friendly. We will definitely plan to return.
Michael Grebner — Google review
We are only sharing this review to help others planning their vacations and to help the resort managers know what they could do to improve.
We paid over 400 dollars for our family of 8 to stay in the villa condo. There were horrible stains all over the carpet. We found gross things on the walls in the bathroom. The shower curtain didn’t fit and so water got out on both sides of the curtain and there was gross things in the bottom of the tub. The body soap dispenser in the shower was all empty. There was no bedding for the pull out bed so when we got back late at night to get ready for bed, we had to call someone for bedding and it took them 30 minutes to bring it to us. The worst part was the stains we found on the sheets in the queen bed. They looked like blood stains. The water park is lovely and the kids had a wonderful time but our stay was definitely dampened because of our accommodations.
Whitney Allen — Google review
I was very unimpressed with Chula Vista for how expensive it is! Check in was horrible. First staff we talked to told us that we had over booked people in rooms, but according to our reservation we did not. They wanted us to pay an extra $200 for the “additional people” that we supposedly overbooked but that was incorrect. The second staff we tried to check in with said nothing about us having too many people booked in our rooms but charged me an extra $40 for a “cleaning fee”. That wasn’t disclosed through booking and would’ve been nice to know ahead of time.
Next, the rooms. We booked two rooms. One in the main hotel & another “Villa” almost like a condo room. The main hotel rooms had lights that did not turn on and that was the biggest complaint especially because we were there when there were sever thunderstorms and tornado warning. So light was needed but not working in the room.
The villa room was spacious but so outdated and falling apart. The sheets had stains on them. We also had 2/5 lights that did not turn on. The oven was falling apart. If you leaned against it it would turn on like there was a fuse issue. The burner on the bottom fell off when attempting to pull it out to use. The chairs at the countertop table top had no cushions and were the most uncomfortable chairs to sit in. So everyone reverted to the floor instead. The patio screen door was broken and wouldn’t close all the way so you couldn’t leave the door open for fresh air without bugs getting in. The bathroom was out of “shower gel” that I doubt was shower gel in the first place. The ice machines were also not working on every other floor so we had to go find a working one a floor down from us which is so inconvenient when we are trying to fill water bottles and coolers. Out of all the places we have stayed as a family of 12 this was a horrible experience for how expensive it is. We would have been better off staying in a separate hotel & getting tickets to their water park which was the only thing that was worth it.
Hailey Bell — Google review
I will start with the good. The location was nice enough, just off the beaten path of the Dells main busy area. The water park was also good and the kids enjoyed it. They also had a nice variety of food options, but very high priced.
The bad, however, far outweighed any of this. First, we paid for an upgraded suite over by the golf course and it was absolutely filthy. The hallways were filled with trash bags and wet towels. I wonder if housekeeping was even present. The room itself had black soot all over the floor and tile. I called guest services the next day to request that they come and at least vacuum to try to keep our feet from turning black and despite saying they'd come, no one ever showed up. I think it is funny that they relentlessly call and pester you about taking a timeshare tour, but act annoyed when you tell them a legit problem, then don't even address it. In addition to the disgusting floor, there was mold all over the bathroom ceiling as well as holes in the walls. I took pictures of all of this, but no one during check out even asked me how my stay was, so I didn't even both showing them.
Also, the neighbors next door sat out on their balcony smoking marijuana the entire trip and made it so our kids could not go out on our own balcony. I would have reported this to the front desk, but they didn't even care that the room was filthy, why would they care about anything else? Additionally, the toaster was broken, only toasting one side and the beds didn't even have fitted sheets or comforters. Don't even get me started on all the bugs and spiders crawling all over the place. With all of the water park resorts in the Dells, I can't ever imagine that we'd return and would suggest you give this place a pass as well.
Chris A — Google review
Would rate ZERO if I could. Dated, gross, and unfriendly... to put it nicely. Oh, and did I mention we spent $3400 to stay for a week in June, only to be charged AGAIN ($3600 this time) for a stay in August?! Except...we weren't there in August. Shady to say the least. Thank God for fraud protection. Careful with your credit cards, people. AVOID at all *literal* cost.
Shannon Detlefsen — Google review
The Chula Vista was very nice for our convention. Would of liked having better sense of directions finding a closer door from parking to room. Having better directions finding hot tub and pool. Would appreciate longer hot tub and pool hours for adults. I wanted info in our room for services or: massage. Need ed TV guide.
Lynn Sheldon — Google review
We went for a wedding and had to pay for water park passes that we couldn't use. We stayed in a 2 bedroom suite with our family of 5. Room was clean but when we woke in the morning, none of the main lights would work except bathroom light. We were woken to a clicking sound but not sure where it came from. Beds are too hard for our liking. Room Temperature was perfect. One of the fireplaces did not work and several light switches did not work. Was expensive for the amount of time we used it, but room was very spacious and nicely decorated.
Check in took quite a bit longer than expected. Others in our family took 4 hours to check in due to system being down and then still did not get keys. We got 5 key cards and were told we would get a text message when our room was ready as we checked in early, but never got one. Only 2 of the 5 key cards would work and took several attempts to get them to work. A bit frustrating.
Did not use the Waterpark. Would have been nice if we could have skipped paying for it, but oh well.
Heidi Fischer — Google review
Don't purchase their gift cards online. I purchased a gift card on Dec 26,2023 when they had the bonus deals back in December. $100 gift card included with $20 bonus card. I waited and waited and waited for weeks for it to be shipped. It was never shipped. I spoke with Ariel from Chula Vista and she was going to ship a new card since I didn't receive it. So I waited another week and it turns out it still wasn't shipped. I called after a week after she told me she was going to ship a new card. Turns out it wasn't shipped yet either. At this point it's been almost a month. Precisely 2 days before a whole month. I called them and told them I would personally pick it up since it seems like it was an issue to ship out my gift card that I even paid shipping for. Ariel was nice and even said she will add another bonus $20 card. I finally picked it up on Jan 26, 2024. I only received the $100 gift card and only one bonus card. I informed the front desk people that Ariel had told me that they gave me another extra bonus card for all the inconvenience. The gentleman was rude and gave me attitude and said, " NO. JUST ONE! " Okay, w.e. I didn't want to deal with it anymore so I just left. Rude employee and they could of at least offered a refund on the shipping fee. Oh well, I'll just never do business with them again.
Pang Chang — Google review
While my family of 14 had a fantastic time (Christmas gift to my family), we were miss in formed of the all inclusive. When we booked we told a different day that our all inclusive started, during check in we were also told a different day it started. I questioned his reply and he quickly changed the day. Went down to dinner and the waiter said: no, no you are all inclusive. So much confusion! On our way home my daughter go a 614.00 charge on her credit card. So much confusion.
Cheryl Meier — Google review
We almost ran out of toilet paper the first night, I called the front desk, but no one came. Good thing another person in our party had a room as well, they brought us a roll of toilet paper. My son’s bunk bed had brown spots on the sheets. The dish soap smelled like a locker room.
I went down to the office with the dish soap and pictures of my son’s bed. The gentleman helping me shower the manager the photos and had him smell the dish soap. The manager asked if we minded if housekeeping cleaned the room while we were out. I said they could. When we came back from the indoor waterpark our room was clean. The sheets were clean and they left us a new bottle of dish soap.
They have a notice hanging in one of the cupboards that you should always wash the dishes and utensils before using them. They should really hang it on the outside of the cupboard. It’s hard to read the paper hanging inside the cupboard because it is in plastic. Every dish that I pulled out of the cupboard was gross. They hadn’t been washed at all, just placed in the cupboard.
The other complaint that I have is that the furniture is run down and paint was peeling in the bathroom. I get that families stay there and kids are rough on things, but a little updating goes a long way. I just felt that we paid too much for our room.
The staff that we interacted with were great! They were very polite and welcoming. We had to call the front office twice. Once when we ran out of toilet paper, but housekeeping never came. The other time we needed more towels and they came within an hour.
Jennifer Baker — Google review
During my first night of my stay someone was able to access my room because the hotel double booked my room. They had the same room number and key cards that were able to fully open my door. This was very shocking and disturbing and could’ve been a very dangerous situation. When I called the hotel about this they barely apologized and even ignored me when I brought it up again. Other than that I think the hotel was overall okay and good for the price.
Maggie Bub — Google review
Nice indoor water park for family, perfect for a weekend or day trip. The staff were friendly and room was clean, I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the room. Bathroom small but clean and nice looking. No damage or bugs found. Plenty of sheets included and extra blanket for pull out sofa bed. We had the 6th floor and it was quiet! Gift shop was cute bathing suits about $45 for women's and Kids $25. They have a very fun coaster, lazy river is nice and tube slides. Plenty of body slides and family rides. Great area to check out. Bella goose cafe 6 minutes down the road perfect for breakfast 😍
They have a good sized arcade for the kiddos too.
Holly Hutson — Google review
Having recently visited Chula Vista, I must commend the staff for their exceptional hospitality. They were incredibly friendly and accommodating throughout our stay, making us feel welcomed and valued guests.
However, it's undeniable that the building is beginning to show its age. While the facilities were clean and adequately maintained, there were noticeable signs of wear and tear that detracted from the overall aesthetic appeal. Some areas could benefit from renovation or refurbishment to restore their former charm and functionality.
Despite this, Chula Vista offered us a quieter alternative for our spring break getaway, which was a welcomed change of pace. The serene atmosphere provided a relaxing environment for unwinding and enjoying some much-needed downtime.
Heather Caid — Google review
We were in town for a convention at the Chula Vista this past weekend and felt it necessary to write this review. We stayed in the HH Bennett Guest rooms. We had just travelled in from Australia and was looking for a good nights sleep close to the convention hall. On their website they advertise, "Boasting new beds and bedding packages, custom furniture and lighting, granite bathrooms with new-earth tone colors, and located just steps from our Convention Center and Restaurants. Enjoy these indoor-access, upgraded hotel guest rooms and suites with views of either our new Bennett Gardens or “The Dells” of the Wisconsin River from your room." The rooms however were NOT newly upgraded... we had DOGS on our floor (a howling husky). If this was newly renovated,,, why are pets allowed on our floor? The sofa was in poor condition and the beds didn't even have a bottom sheet! Two top sheet and a light cover. You have to ask for blankets. All I'm saying.... is after spending $700+ for two nights? We would have hoped for a little bit more friendly service from the front desk and a better room for that kind of price.
Shauna Pasanen — Google review
This is our 3rd visit to Chula Vista. Our first 2 experiences brought us back, sadly this time maybe our last. First of all the room was very clean, well stocked kitchenette, roomy, nice views. We love Kaminski's chop house, they make the best cosmos I have ever had, and the food and service are wonderful. We had a double queen villa (my reservation and booking agent said 1 queen bed) over looking the golf course and my complaints are illustrated in the photos. The bathroom door would not stay open so I wedged a washcloth underneath, that solved the problem. The sheets were stained and the only thing between the mattress and the bottom sheet was a thin, felt pad. The couch/pull-out bed could not be sat on or used (see photos). Lastly, the water park, which factored into the decision for our stay was only open from 4-9 pm the day we were there, and with our pre-planned dinner reservations we were not able to use that either. It is unfortunate that this place we loved to visit is now a hard pass.
Kristyn Graf — Google review
3.7
(7153)
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3.5
(869)
1000 Chula Vista Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
The Timbavati Wildlife Park is a zoo featuring giraffes, monkeys, tigers, and other animals from all over the world. The park also has exhibits with shows and interactive activities for children.
So many animals! Lions tigers camels monkeys sloths bats ect. The price for adults and children are about the same 21 for kids 2-12 and adults are 25. Well worth the price of admission. This doesn't include a train ride, that's a bit extra but the train takes you all around, they also offer feed boxes for $10, among other items to feed the animals. Very interactive kept my kids busy and happy for hours.
Cassie Sherd — Google review
We almost didn't go after reading some of the reviews but decided to and I am so glad we did. I do not understand the bad reviews because I am picky and it was a little pricey but it was worth every penny. You get to touch and feed most of the animals, the pony and camel rides were great and so was the guy running it. We got to pet a kangaroo and there is a bird area you get to go into and they land on you. The train ride was also nice and the place was very clean. We will definitely be going every year. We had a great experience there! It isn't huge but it is good size, I was happy with the size and what we saw. We were there about 3 hours. It was a weekday so wasn't super busy which was great. Was a great experience overall to be able to be that hands on with the animals.
Jessica Wiebler — Google review
Such a great place. The staff is super friendly and always educating us on the animals. Definitely a go to with the family. The animal encounters are a must if you get a chance.
Melody Thammavong — Google review
We got a personal tour and did the red panda experience. The tour guide we got was amazing! She answered all our questions and didn't seem bothered by us wanting to ask so much stuff. She was great with my girls in the panda experience and was wonderful while we fed the giraffes for so long. Highly recommended!!!
Samantha Barton — Google review
Always have a great time here with the family. Seem to get a new experience every time. They also seem to have some additions in the works which is exciting. I’m honestly mixed on the train ride considering price and that I feel like most of what you can see on the train you can see from the park. However, there is more than enough to keep you occupied in the park, especially if you are an animal lover. This is a great family stop.
Matt Schlapa — Google review
this was a very fun experience!
it's not a HUGE zoo. but it's just the perfect size.
I had an absolute blast here with my family. all the animals were active and out. and it was overall amazing and I 100% recommend going here!
my favorite was feeding the birds.
but I loved feeding the giraffe and the goats 😊
Kyla Reeves — Google review
Love how clean the park was ! Animals look healthy and place was awesome. I wish the birds have a big enclosure so they can fly freely. We also saw one of the worker at the cafeteria flash her other coworkers which she quickly turned around when she saw us.
Kent Dinoso — Google review
It was an excellent experience. I wish we would have a little more time with the Camel and Giraffe, but I am sure they limit it for the animals. The Kangaroos were awesome, and you can pet them. The guy who cares for them told us so much about them. He is excellent. The parakeet experience is just that. Had a ton of birds, and I love all birds. It's definitely worth going.
Stefanie Jones — Google review
What a wonderful place to take the family . My daughter loved every minute we were here. The staff is super nice and friendly . The facility is well kept and the animals look really happy. We have been coming to the dells for years but just recently visited Timbavati and we have been missing out! This will be a new family tradition for sure !! Will return A+
Jim Whitaker — Google review
This zoo is absolutely wonderful! The animals were happy and friendly, great staff, and you get some wonderful interaction with the animals. The place is large and it doesn't feel crowded one bit. One thing I noted right away and really appreciated was how clean and well taken care of you can tell the animals were. I didn't see even the smallest piece of trash anywhere! Some zoos I've been to are dirty and the animals even look unhappy. Not here! I also loved their gardens throughout the zoo! I didn't have to wait to go in and I did buy tickets online as well because I thought there would be a wait. I came on a weekend so I was surprised to see how quickly we came in.
Christal Irelan — Google review
I didn't realize how amazing this place was going to be! I enjoyed feeding the giraffe and especially loved the parakeet experience- I didn't know there could be so many parakeets in one place. They also had baby emus and fennick foxes! There are so many unique experiences here.
Caitlin Hanley — Google review
LOVED IT
Animals looked super healthy
I will say, please give the lions and Tigers more room
Mo A — Google review
There were 4 of us & we did the VIP tour & were totally happy we did. I suggest doing the VIP tour, it’s well worth the behind the scenes & hands on as far as feeding some of the animals & petting them. Sarah was our tour guide & she was AMAZING, thanks Sarah.
Rachel Jenkins — Google review
Great experience. Beautiful weather. Facility was clean. Took about 3 hours total with train ride. Was able to feed giraffe up close. Saw a few new animals we hadnt seen in major city zoos.
Heather Dutton — Google review
A great place to spend time with friends and family. Expect a more interactive experience than you'll find at most zoos. We had fun feeding the animals and the photo ops are unbeatable! You get up close to the animals. The park is clean and the animals appear to be well taken care of. I recommend the train ride but be sure to have some food for the lamas. I got some amazing pictures of a lama train heist that will be a treasure forever.
Corena Ricks — Google review
This place was so cool! We got our passes w our room at the Kalahari. My kids loved feeding and petting the goats, giraffe, camels snd especially the kangaroos! They place was clean, staff was nice. Very enjoyable experience
Amanda Carwyle — Google review
This zoo completely exceeded my expectations! It's a great size, a wide variety of animals, the animal encounters are what really excited me though, we got to feed a giraffe, hold a baby kangaroo, pet adult kangaroos, feed parakeets, llamas, goats and I'm sure I'm forgetting a few! They also offer a sloth encounter, you have the opportunity to go into the sloth enclosure with a keeper. There is also a very nice park for the kids to stop and play at in the zoo and lots of shade and seating areas/benches. I'm 6'2 and was very uncomfortable of the train ride, but the kids enjoyed it! I definitely recommend this zoo to anyone visiting the Dells! I cannot wait to go again 😀
melissa schumann — Google review
Timbavati was a really fun trip! Staff was generally friendly and helpful, the variety of animals was really impressive, and I've never gotten so close to so many animals in one place. It was really fun to feed and pet the animals. The costs were frequent and high, but I understand the price of running a high quality wildlife park with happy and healthy animals.
April Netz — Google review
Best part of going here was the mama kangaroos and their Joey's. U can pet the mama's but not the Joey's witch is OK. We took pics and I even got a picture of the mama and the baby camel in the cage next to the kangaroos kiss each other it was so cute and I was so shocked they did this. I will definitely be going back with my kids, my boyfriend and I got to go for work. Other best part is feeding the sloths and giraffe they really love carrots.
Danielle Stevens — Google review
4.3
(3416)
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4.0
(1119)
2220 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
Rick Wilcox Magic Theater is a theater that specializes in live comedic entertainment with souvenirs available. It offers a mix of magic, comedy, and splendid performances by Rick Wilcox and Suzan Wilcox. The family friendly dinner show combines tricks of illusion with tricks of laughter by Rick & Suzan Wilcox which is enjoyed by visitors from across the city and state.
Fantastic magic show! I had heard Rick’s show is on par with Vegas magic shows. He was AMAZING! My analytical engineer husband who likes to figure out how illusions work was thoroughly impressed and had no idea how he did what he did. Kudos to his wife assistant as well because she is so sweet and clearly a master herself at helping make the magic. My sibling who has seen Rick 3 times already heard I was going and immediately bought tickets for her family to join us. They love the show and say they go anytime they’re in the Dells. My ten year old daughter was amazed and had to get his magic kit! The staff is so kid friendly and welcoming. They even gave my daughter a wand with a bunny when we got there. Awesome high quality family entertainment for all ages. You will NOT regret attending.
Cara Mattson — Google review
This was such and awesome and entertaining experience. I smiled just as much as my kids and was equally as mind blown by the illusions. The tickets aren't cheap, but the experience is well worth it. Our whole family had a great time.
Sandpit Sales — Google review
We took our grandson Micah on a vacation to Kalahari Resort in June. The Rick Wilcox show was on our agenda for a Wed. night and were delighted to find we had front row tickets. Every magic trick was truly amazing and left us wondering, how did he do that?!? A real professional, very personable, and the show is interactive. Micah made it up on stage to assist with levitating a table. That will stick with him and with us for a long time to come. Great entertainment, would definitely recommend! Thanks for making our evening so special!
Pam Ripley — Google review
A must see In Wisconsin Dells! They were unpredictable, funny, kind.
You always got a WOW moment in every magic they perform. You can hear laughters throughout the whole show and people leave with big smile on their face! We just can’t stop talking about how good it was.
Haven’t seen a show with so much love before. Tributes to his dad, encourage imagination and go for your dream. They even stay after the show to answer any questions that audiences might have.
We had a blast and left with a heart filled with love. Please keep doing YOU! And we definitely will return!
🥰🥰🥰
M Chang — Google review
Wow, this was the highlight of our 2024 spring break family vacation. The magic show itself is spectacular. We were very impressed with the magic and illusions. The venue is very clean, and staff are friendly and professional. The stage is a very good size, complimented with it's modern sound and light effects. Rick and his wife Suzanne are gracious and professional. A terrific family experience. We will come back again. Highly recommended. Order your tickets online and show up half-hour early. Plenty of parking.
Gamerrr72 — Google review
Rick and his wife Susan are AWESOME, I love magic and they delerivered. I am so happy that I got to see them.
If you are thinking, wondering if you should go, STOP JUST DO IT. You will have a good time.
great for young kids, Rick picks children to come on stage. that is AWESOME!!!!!!!!
Again Rick and Susan put on a Fantastic show.
Neal McPhillips III — Google review
My family had a great time. This show was fantastic with magic and a little comedy. They made a helicopter appear on stage! I definitely recommend it!
Aliess Bedford — Google review
The Wilcox show was a good time, a little expensive, but a good time. For the three adults and one child it ran just over $200 which is a bit much for a 70 minute show in my opinion. Once the show started it moved along very well and kept you very entertained. We purchased our tickets a few months ago so we were seated front row in the center. Seating is assigned ant the time you purchase tickets, first purchased first seated. There is snacks, soda and water for purchase, no alcohol. VERY family friendly with no inappropriate content. He does ask for volunteers from the audience but not to pick on more just to sit on stage as a prop. All of the volunteers seemed to be rewarded with things like magic props and gift certificates. Overall a good time for the family.
Luke Omodt — Google review
Was a excellent top notch show! Definitely one of the highlights of our Dells trip! Rick and his wife are such a fun magic duo to watch. Great family fun, kids enjoyed it as much as we did. Show was completely sold out so I'd suggest buying tickets in advance like we did.
Zeedub — Google review
We saw the show for the first time on a whim last night while searching for something to do while our teenagers had plans. We were in awe at the illusions and magic tricks. We have been coming to the Dells for years to vacation and wish we would have experienced this sooner! We are definitely planning to return this Summer and take the entire family. The staff were so friendly. Front counter, ticket checker and loved the enthusiasm of the concession guy. Rick and Suzan are extremely talented and they get the crowd involved, It was an added bonus to learn about the history and transformation of the theatre and show. There was a trick Rick shared he worked on but never got to share with his Dad, he dedicated that trick to him and I know his dad is so proud! I can not recommend this show enough. A family run show for everyone.. Just do it!
Karie Kelly — Google review
This show is great for the whole family. I had never seen the show before but I will tell you this will not be the last time I go to see this show. Rick and Suzan are truly gifted and you can tell they love what they do, their passion for their art really shines making the show very enjoyable to watch! I highly recommend this show! 👍👍
M SeGall — Google review
A show for the whole family with humorous jokes and amazing props!
A whole theater experience including popcorn, bubbles, live birds and cards perfectly presented with the backstory of Rick Wilcox and the family theater. A show my family enjoys year after year.
A must see highly recommended evening or rainy day attraction that will entertain any age!
Christy Anderson — Google review
It was me and my lady’s 11 year anniversary and this was the first time we had went to the magic 🪄 show and there wasn’t a time that we weren’t ahhhhhd . Always in our seats 💺 on how the trick was done and was just amazed at every trick we would definitely recommend it to anyone to bring there family to check out Rick and his wife on one of the greatest live performances We have ever seen . We loved it so much we bought the magic kit with the tricks and a movie to watch later at home . We will definitely be back if we come back to the dells .
Tommy2x262 G — Google review
Rick is an absolute professional magician. Most of his tricks were very advanced, but he makes them look easy. Everyone in the audience was stunned and didn't know how he pulled them off. His wife adds to the show and they complement each other very well. They sprinkle in some jokes throughout the show and call volunteers to the stage. They are both very kind, funny, and professional. They even did a Q&A at the end of the show. Very family friendly for all ages. All jokes were acceptable for all ages as well. We paid $50 per adult ticket and the show was roughly 90 minutes long. Definitely check it out if you visit Wisconsin Dells!
Steven Snavely — Google review
Fabulous!
We went to this show 17 years ago for a date night and returned tonight with our kids age 15, 12, and 9. Everyone had a wonderful time and it was fun to see how the show changed over time. Appropriate for all ages and very entertaining. Really great illusions. Rick and Suzan are very engaging. Highly recommend buying tickets ahead of time but I doubt there is a bad seat in the house.
What a treasure to have a long running professional magic show like this in Wisconsin!
Sarah D — Google review
I’ll be completely honest, I do not usually enjoy magic shows. We go to them often for the kids because they do see the magic in so much. However, this magic show truly was spectacular. It was entertaining and funny. The crowd interaction was great. And my 9yr old has been singing Sweet Caroline repeatedly for two days. My teen was able to ask a question about whether or not any tricks had ever failed or almost failed. My 9yr old really wanted to ask if the power had ever gone out during a performance. If you do reply to these, I’d love to be able to answer that for her.
Thanks so much for leaving us all asking “how did they do that”.
Definitely recommend buying tickets with your concessions included. It was more than worth it. You get to pick 3 items. The kids chose candy, popcorn, and souvenirs.
Amylynn Michelle — Google review
As a family Christmas gift I purchased tickets to the Rick Wilcox show for my husband, boys, and father. I've been before but wanted the rest of my family to experience the magic. This Wisconsin Dells show is truly Vegas quality (and Rick and Suzan have the awards to prove they are the real deal!). Comedy, stories, BIG illusions, it's all there. And you can tell they truly love what they do. If you haven't been yet (or even if you have!) this show should absolutely be part of your Dells family trip.
Shana Verstegen — Google review
Absolutely amazing, entertaining, and wonderful! I used to take my daughter, 20 years ago, and now I just took my granddaughter. What a fantastic time we had, and to see her excitement, from start to finish, made the evening even more wonderful! She hasn’t stopped talking about it! Rick and Suzan are so professional, engaging, and fun. I highly recommend their show to everyone, of any age!!
Carolyn Griese — Google review
Highly recommend show. DONT MISS IT. Starting from rope magic till snow magic, every magic done by Rick and his wife was mind-blowing. Don't want to list the magic, it will be a spoiler, You should visit to see the unbelievable. Magic, along with comedy, was a treat to watch. Along with my family, we enjoyed this show thoroughly. Thank you Rick Wilcox and family for entertaining us... Book in advance to get the best seat.
Sasidharan Vijayakumar — Google review
I wasn't overly excited about a magic show when my husband bought tickets but it ended up being one of the most fun things we did while here. The show is very well done, entertaining for all ages and their theater was in great shape - which for the majority of the original/older dells attractions, sadly doesn't seem to be the case.
You can tell they still love what they do, and came out and answered questions after the show. It was an easy and enjoyable way to spend the evening and I would definitely recommend going.
Melanie McCalley — Google review
We went to the Rick Wilcox show last night and it was awesome! It is not your standard “magic” show. This is a big time Vegas show in the Dells. Rick and team were also awesome and courteous in every way, and wonderful for our family. Thanks again to the entire crew the Wilcox Theatre for the awesome experience, we will definitely be back!
Robert Martin — Google review
Great Show! A great way to spend the evening! The magic and illusions were amazing and the show was very funny. Great show for kids but also adults looking for something to do for an evening. The reason I gave 4 stars is the tickets are a little pricy for only an hour and 15 min show.
Megan Melzer — Google review
I enjoy great magic but admittedly had minimal expectations for what quality of show I might encounter in the Dells and yet, my 11 yr old daughter and I were absolutely delighted by the entire performance! Rick and Susan are genuine, kind, funny and their expertise is stellar! I, along with many in audience, had frequent “WHOA” moments and sometimes were even too stunned to clap or cheer 😂. From close up magic and sleight of hand to grand illusions, they keep you guessing as to how it’s done. I want to bring some of my extended family to this show for sure. Comfortable intimate theatre, they also stay after the show to answer questions. Rick told me he is always creating new tricks and illusions. they have a loving and welcoming atmosphere. Seats are assigned, which helped, and concessions are simple and nice offerings. For those saying it’s too pricey, I wholeheartedly disagree. Some illusions take two years to prepare, he is internationally known, they continue to engage and entertain throughout the show and by comparison for the price of an adult ticket you can barely get a decent one hour professional massage for that amount, so to me this is excellent entertainment family friendly that is incredibly reasonable. Parking is extremely easy and the staff were great. Highly recommend!
Brienne Hennessy — Google review
4.9
(800)
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5.0
(1564)
1670 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
Noah's Ark Waterpark is the largest water park in Wisconsin Dells and America, with 47 to 51 water slides and over a dozen of other attractions. It is family-friendly and suitable for all age groups, making it a must-visit destination on your vacation to the Wisconsin Dells.
We LOVE Noah's Ark ~ there are so many pools and rides to go on. My kids and I had a blast there! The weather was most gorgeous which was helpful of course. The facility is cashless but you are able to convert cash into a card to use there. Otherwise bring your credit or debit card. The food and drinks are pricey but this is expected at touristy attractions unfortunately. Parking was 20 dollars for general parking and 30 dollars for preferred parking. We used general parking. We got into Noah's Ark with wrist bands from a hotel we stayed at. Plenty of bathrooms and shower and changing areas ~ bathrooms were mainly cleaned aside from wet floors. There are lockers to rent as well as free life jackets to use. Plenty of lifeguards. You can rent tubes for the wave pool ~ costs 5 dollars. We didn't do this though as the wave pool is fun regardless. Friendly staff. No carry ins beside water bottles. They do check bags. You can get a hand stamp and come back in though. Lots of seating and picnic tables. Smoking areas as well. Has gift shops and plenty of food and beverages (adult beverages too). I definitely recommend going here. It's worth the money. Lots of memories to be made!
Melissa Rose — Google review
We spent the whole day here. There are so many attractions to entertain anyone. It was disappointing that some of them were either closed or not operating at their full capacity. After discussing later, I'm sure they were not able to staff everything due to the employment shortage. We rented a Cabana and thought it was worth every penny. It gave us a place, guaranteed, to go back to and rest for a bit. We kept dry towels and sunscreen there.
We will definitely come back, if the opportunity presents itself.
Clint Smith — Google review
Noah's Ark was right off the main strip, easy to access parking lot. Good variety of food, however this place is HUGE! We were only able to get to half the park because the other activities were so far away that we were too tired from doing all the slides and rides by the entrance. You almost need a 2 day pass to get through it all. Highly recommend going on a week day because place looked packed on the weekend. Weekday the lines were a little long but most worth the wait or went fairly quickly. I only gave it 4 stars though because there were lots of bees (I mean lots of bees, everywhere) and there wasn't an easy way to get from one side of the park to the other so it was hard to get to everything on the backside. Overall a great experience and we will be back. Also the Raja ride was awesome but you definitely get airtime! Not for the faint of heart!
Tonya Frank — Google review
It’s a great place with amazing water rides, half the park is closed so that sucked and of course fatties like me have issues with rides and of course I was too big for several of them unfortunately including the raja witch was a huge disappointment considering it was the one ride I wanted to go on while I was there but that’s what I get for enjoyed those cheeseburgers 🍔 😂😂 otherwise it was great, staff and lifeguards were so friendly and helpful. Only thing I will say is it could use a little more for the younger water goers lol but they have the tadpole bay witch my kids loved and they have an amazing wave pool like one of the best I’ve been in!
Phillip Hilleshiem — Google review
Noah’s Ark Waterpark was a fun place to visit. Today was our first time at the park and it was a great experience. The staff was very nice. The park was super clean. It wasn’t overly crowded. We will definitely be back. We would recommend.
The Adventures of Laurie and Robin — Google review
Our experience at Noah's Ark, the largest water park in the US, was absolutely fantastic. The park offered a wide range of thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that kept us entertained throughout the day. The variety of attractions catered to all ages, ensuring that everyone from our family had a memorable time. The cleanliness and well-maintained facilities added to the overall pleasant experience, making Noah's Ark a must-visit destination for water park enthusiasts. During our visit to Noah's Ark, the lines for most of the rides averaged around 20-30 minutes of wait time. This was expected as it was the Fourth of July weekend, and the park was understandably busy. However, we were fortunate to have three days to explore the park and ride the attractions multiple times, which made the wait times more manageable. One tip we discovered was that after 5 pm, the crowds began to disperse, and the lines significantly reduced, allowing us to enjoy the rides with minimal wait times before the park closed at 7 pm.
Gene Ivanov — Google review
Great place for the whole family. Very clean ,staff was professional and fun. Lines were a little long at peak time but there is plenty to do.
Kelly Ambrose — Google review
My family went to the Dells. The main thing we went for was Noahs Ark. We had fun, but we had to make the most of it. We only found 1 location with heated pool. It was the section for small kids. The water was so cold it made it hard to ride anything. One recommendation is to bring empty water bottles. They have water fountains you can fill them. We bought 2 waters for almost 8 bucks.
K D — Google review
We loved all the waterslides. My kids had a blast. Some things weren't open or were short staffed, making the lines longer than they needed to be, and we wished it were open a couple hours later, but overall it was a great experience.
Kari Layland — Google review
We had a blast. Some rides have strict rules like the scorpion. My daughter couldn't take her swim shorts off so they refused to let her ride. I found a manager and she said that was a mistake. She walked her right up to the top and talked with the lifeguard about how her shorts were her bottoms and not an issue. There were no grommets and they were not loose or cotton shorts. It was a simple mistake and they made it right. I commend them for listening and resolving an error promptly. We had a wonderful time!
Meagan Haupt — Google review
Positive first-class water park that was fun for the whole family. Really enjoyed that several rides had no minimum height requirements so our family of five could go on raft rides. Lines were fast with little wait times and the wave pull was a blast. Ended the day in the lazy river, time went by too fast.
Kenneth Knudson — Google review
Visiting America's largest waterpark was an absolute thrill! From the moment I stepped in, the excitement was non-stop. With a vast array of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, there was never a dull moment.
What impressed me the most was the park's commitment to safety and cleanliness. Lifeguards were attentive, and the facilities were well-maintained, ensuring a worry-free day of fun.
For families, it's a paradise of aquatic adventures, and for thrill-seekers, there were adrenaline-pumping rides that didn't disappoint. The variety of activities and attractions catered to all ages and preferences.
It's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a splashy, entertaining day out. Whether you're young or young at heart, this waterpark guarantees an unforgettable, watery adventure!
Caglar Ozdemir — Google review
We went when we were kids, on family vacation years ago. We had a blast taking our kids. It brought back great memories and my sister and my kids all had a blast. Kids are ages 16 to 7. Highly recommend if you are at the dells.
Samantha Craft — Google review
So much fun even though the weather changed we made the best of it. Consider adding weight requirements to brochure my kids were tall enough for everything but didn't weigh enough and if I hadn't been paying attention we would have wasted an hour in line just to get turned around at the top as some people found out as well. Also parking is either $30 or $20 depending on which lot you want to be in.
Ashli Kacalek — Google review
We have come here many times over the years and love it!! We stayed at a hotel that gave us free passes. We were able to walk to the water park so we saved on parking fees as well. It's $20 and $30 for parking. Lockers are $15 ( I think) Cabanas are available for rentals as well.
Sarah Sievers — Google review
4.4
(6616)
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4.0
(2919)
1410 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area is a stunning location in Wisconsin with a sandstone gorge featuring mossy walls, a creek leading to a waterfall, and shaded hiking trails. It is known as Wisconsin's first State Natural Area due to its remarkable beauty. The natural surroundings are breathtaking with frogs hopping over rocks and logs along the creek and various layers of lush moss on the stone walls. It offers peace and tranquility which makes it an absolute must-visit destination for nature lovers.
A nice hike with a beautiful canyon. Wear shoes that grip well and be prepared to hop rocks across a shallow 1 foot deep stream. If you miss step you will have wet feet. The first part of the walk is easy but when you get to the short canyon you will have to climb up and down rocks. It is well worth it. The ice age trail also passes through here, so you can hike the trail if you don't want to hike the Glen.
Tom Parker — Google review
A nice walk along the creek leads to the Glen that's just awesome. Pictures can't describe it. There's a small waterfall at the end. The 200 or so feet of Glen leading to the falls is stunning. The trek involves criss crossing the creek and some rocks to maneuver around. We did it in sneakers, but water proof boots wouldn't be a bad idea.
Rex Kern — Google review
Beautiful natural area, lots of stream shoreline to walk along, waterfalls, huge fallen rocks, smaller layers of rock embedded in stone, and more! Worth visiting, probably spent about two hours exploring. P.S. Keep going past the sign about "designated trail ends" to reach the largest waterfall there.
Corbach Toolis — Google review
This place is amazing. Very nice trail. The water was very cool and refreshing on a hot day.
Shawn Knock — Google review
The Parfrey’s Glen Wisconsin State Natural Area is a rugged, but beautiful area to hike through. The winding stream with slippery boulders to climb over and the numerous downed trees awaits you to eventually see the rapids and small in nature waterfall. Getting to the end does not include an official trail through the deep gorge. Caution advised, however once you make it, stay for a while to experience tranquility in the presence of the beautiful formations, green ferns, moss and sounds of the stream rushing by you.
Keith Katers — Google review
Its so hard to put into words how beautiful this place is. This is Wisconsin's first State Natural Area. It is just absolutely beautiful. My daughter and I started on the trail then ended up walking the creek to the waterfall. It was such a fun experience. The beauty you're surrounded by is no other. Frogs in the creek walking over rocks and logs and the moss on the stone. The layers. It's so peaceful there. A definite must.
Chelsea Kaminski — Google review
Was a wonderful day trip for us on Father's Day. Small parking lot which floods onto the highway, where about 30 vehicles were already parked. Hiking was intermediate level at times, but good for the kids (ages 8-11) to advance their skills. Beautiful scenery. And the 10-15° drop by the cliffs is welcomed.
Ryan Schubert — Google review
Another fun experience that's is free. If you like to hike and climb this is the fun for you and your kids. Make sure you bring an extra pair of socks and shoes. There is water because at the end is a beautiful waterfall!!
Danielle Lueck — Google review
Wonderful short hike into a scenic canyon near devil's lake state park. Starts out as a hike on a slight incline in a forest alongside a creek. Gradually, the canyon walls rise up on either side, until you are climbing over and around boulders as you cross back and forth over the creek. At the end of the trail there is a beautiful waterfall. Highly recommended. You will need a state park sticker.
Michael Campo — Google review
What an awesome trail, our kids had such a blast hiking in the deep gorge and walking through the stream. It took us around 3 hours to finish this hike, with the kids spending most of the time having fun in the stream and waterfall. It's a good idea to do this hike in waterproof footwear, coz' the stream is just so welcoming, why walk along the stream, when you can walk in the stream in some places. After you hike closer to the waterfall, the trail is blocked by a huge boulder, which looked like a dead-end and we almost decided to return, but then just climbed this boulder out of curiosity and, lo and behold, the waterfall was right there immediately after the boulder. We felt climbing and crossing the boulder, with our kids, was the only difficult part of this hike. It’s muddy and slippery in some places, so please watch your step, and as always on any hike, carry a backpack with plenty of water and snacks.
Keertu Anil — Google review
Deep in the gorge is an absolute peace for those who seek it. My time of visit was 6:30 am which allowed me to be the only person present. Being alone here maximizes the beauty and tranquility of such an incredible place.
There is an automated pay station on site, and a private lot across the street that residents sectioned off at $5 per car. I had an annual state park pass and hoped that sufficed because the billboard literature was unclear on passes.
Hiker be wary - though the trail that immediately begins off the parking area is paved and wide, it gradually degrades in quality, turning to crushed rock, then dirt, and finally rock, dirt and tree roots - all the while narrowing. You’ll also find yourself crossing the creek a few times, on flat constructed bridges at first and then on wet and slippery rocks. Exercise caution but be rewarded at the trail’s end!
Joshua A — Google review
A beautiful place to go hiking. The scenery is breathtaking and the sound of rushing water is soothing.
Kevin Mikulaj — Google review
A hidden gem in Baraboo.
Easy, Moderate and Advanced hiking.
Wear waterproof hikers or boots.
Approx. 1 hour round trip.
Mid-Sept visit, mid-morning. It was high 70s to low 80s, so the temp was tolerable since most of the hike is well shaded. We visited on a Sunday, which we find is best since the parking lot here is very small and there's less visitors that day. If you sleep in too late you'll end up parking along the ditch outside the park.
We were fortunate to make this visit the day after a solid rain came through. There was good water flow down the creeks and small waterfalls could be spotted throughout the hike.
It's about 20-25 minutes to hike all the way back to the largest fall. To get there you'll need to cross the creek several times by stepping on large stones and fallen tree limbs. To see the largest fall you'll need to climb several large boulders.
I would recommend wearing tall hiking boots or something waterproof in case you slip a couple times.
Corey Mitchell — Google review
Great place for a relatively easy hike. The route is well maintained to a point which is clearly marked. From there you get to use your hiking skills combined with balance and route exploration to make it thru huge rocks, across the creek bed and around the bend thru the gorge to a beautifully serene waterfall. We saw squirrels, chipmunks, deer, caterpillars, grasshoppers, poison ivy and various types of fungi.
We love this place and so do many others, so go early to enjoy cooler temps before the crowds arrive.
The Olbrich Botanical Gardens is located on Madison's scenic waterfront and features a wide variety of themed gardens with plants from all over the world. Highlights include the glass-enclosed Bolz Conservatory and an elaborate Thai pavilion called a sala which is the only one of its kind in the continental United States.
Beautiful Gardens and their Conservatory is also really nice! Loved seeing tropical plants, water ponds and quails! The Gardens are free which is very nice, they do accept donations. The Conservatory is not free, but the ticket entrance is not expensive at all. Parking is also free which is nice. Will definitely be back once everything has bloomed.
Jen Romero-Stentella — Google review
This is a great botanical garden - my family has had a membership for years. We love walking around the outside areas when it's warm, and the indoor conservatory it's great in the winter.
Additionally, there are a few times a year when we always stop by:
- in the spring/summer they have a butterfly event where they raise butterflies and release them into the conservatory. You can walk around the area full of butterflies, if you're lucky one may land on you!
- in December they have their holiday express event, where they put together displays and incorporate model trains from enthusiasts in the area. It's always a ton of fun, and they generally have a search and find page for the kids.
This year's holiday express was carnival themed, which was a ton of fun.
John K — Google review
Was beautiful. The walk through of the orchids took about 1 hour. Was hot and humid inside because that's the natural habitat for the orchids, so dress in layers that you can remove.
The flowers were awesome! There was also some orange trees, trees, berry trees, cocoa trees and other little surprises. We'll worth the price of admission!
Check out the many photos!
Rusty Shelby — Google review
This botanical gardens is the best!! On Saturday mornings from 10am-12pm the garden is FREE! When you enter the dome, be prepared for your jaw to drop! It is amazing! Tropical trees yielding fruit, birds flying around, quail running around, flowers I've never seen before, koi fish pond, a waterfall and so very much more! We were there in winter, but we're told that in May-ish the outdoor garden walk is stunning!This place will not disappoint!! Definitely a must experience when visiting Madison!
Sarah Dennis — Google review
I wish I could give more than 5 stars. These gardens are BEAUTIFUL! Very nice environment outside to walk around, plenty of plants to see as well as wildlife. There are some areas that may be inaccessible for visitors in wheelchairs, but the paths in general are very well kept! Stopping by the Thai gardens is a MUST - stunning architecture and design. Gift shop has fun items as well!
Victoria Schwutke — Google review
Great place to visit on a pleasant day. The outdoor gardens are free and great for a slow stroll through when the weather is nice. The indoor conservatory is worth the $6 as there are unique and rare plants to observe. You can spend as much or as little time here as you please.
Ryan Kuchenmeister — Google review
The Thai garden was definitely our favorite part. The black ponds are really cool. Could visualize many spots for wedding of family pictures. The main building has bathrooms, gift shop, water, and vending. The staff is friendly and helpful. Unbelievable this place is no charge , except for the dome, but please donate to keep this good thing going
Jered Koslowski — Google review
Given the time of the year I visited it, there wasn’t much to see outside, but it was still nice and peaceful (I would definitely visit again during spring or summer).
The bright side was the indoor tropical exhibit, where there are different plants and birds. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop! Free parking.
Ana I. Romero — Google review
This place is wonderful! It's well setup walkthrough of trees, flowers and plants. Most have identification on them, it's very educational and pretty. We also saw a baby owl!! Highly recommend a visit👍👍
Michael Kangas — Google review
We had a great time listening to music, walking around, and exploring the gardens both inside & out. It was a special fundraiser that was relaxing and fun. The music was just the right, you could hear each other talking, not to loud. There were little pockets to sit in, with just a few others. They also had a cash bar for drinks. All in all, fun, friends, and helping raise money for a worthy cause.
Partly Cloudy — Google review
Went here to a rare second bloom. It just so happens I was in town. It only blooms 4 to 5 times in its 40-year life span. The Garden itself is free to get into. Beautiful day to enjoy some nice flora. Nice little gift shop that is worth checking out to grab something to remember the trip.
Drew Tj — Google review
Flowers are in full bloom and the Blooming Butterfly located inside the Blotz Conservatory was a big hit with visitors, young and old. Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a 16 acre outdoor botanical garden and 10,000-square-foot conservatory in Madison, Wisconsin. Founded in 1952 and named for its founder, Michael Olbrich, the gardens are owned and operated jointly by the City of Madison Parks and the non-profit Olbrich Botanical Society.
David Hesterly — Google review
The information desk representative was an exceptional gentleman and very informative/helpful. Great place for family’s and tourists to see a beautiful garden. I was able to get a lot of amazing photos of the plants and they put a lot of love and effort into their establishment. I would say be warned as one of the younger female staff looked tired/bored and seemed to have a tiny bit of an attitude when I asked her a question. Beyond that, some people I had the displeasure of crossing paths with seemed to be bothered with people taking photos, when the website actually encourages you to bring your camera for memorable photos. It seems like some of the visitors here think they are above other people and incredibly snobby. No fault of the staff but would just recommend to watch out for the rude pretentious people that visit this establishment.
If you can ignore people acting a little weird/rude, this place is an absolute gem. Outside garden are free, the conservatory was $6/person. Great value and great memories!
Amanda (Venom) — Google review
We only had time for a quick visit in January so we spent about 30 minutes in the conservatory and did not get to walk outside. They conservatory was great! It's such a peaceful atmosphere. It's very relaxing to look at plants, hear the birds and waterfalls, and feel the tropical climate. A little smaller than other similar places we've visited, but still enough to see. The birds were a great touch. We got to see a quail poke around and the canaries were quite vocal. You can also see a few koi in the water. Many orchids and bromeliads and other interesting plants with great color.
Paul and Lillian Bruns — Google review
A scheduled stop on a road trip with my son back in 2022. First, this place was a lot bigger than I had expected! We visited in early June and unfortunately, it was too early for the flowers. There were some but not many in bloom yet. That was a bummer. However, the weather was beautiful and we wanted to see the Thai Pavilion and Conservatory. Well, we got handed our second strike and the Conservatory was booked for a wedding and closed to the public. On a positive note, it saved us the cost of entry because the grounds were free to enter. So, we walked the park grounds and took pics of the few flowers we did see and made our way to the Thai Pavilion. Wow! The pavilion is spectacular! It shines in the sun like a palace! We got some great photos of it. We walked through some of the trails in the park but came to the realization that the flowers just aren't going to bloom for us and decided to go. The park is beautiful and I'm sure the Conservatory is great. I bet July & August are the best times to visit. All the flowers would be in bloom by then. I highly recommend this place!
D-Rock T — Google review
I enjoyed coming here with my family even during the fall time. it was our first time coming here. We loved the tropical green house and walking around. I give this a 5 star for the sweet ladies who helped my father who was hard time walking. they were so helpful and accommodating. I would love to come back during the summer time!
Millie TV — Google review
The Orchid Escape exhibition is the best! I love the tropical setting and dinosaur theme, the gorgeous flowers and plants, and the friendly animals. 10/10 best experience for friends, family, and lovers 🦕🌴
Aosai Liu — Google review
The Gardens had a beautiful orchid show when we visited in the Conservatory. The outside gardens were still a nice walk even in February.
R. M. Zita Feist — Google review
The gardens were a breath of fresh air to walk through and get to learn about some of the plants and flowers. A great activity to do with family. The light displays are always so pretty too.
Amanda Seefeldt — Google review
Is it possible to give more than 5 stars? This place is drop dead gorgeous and the entrance fee is paltry. I came well past the prime season and they still had great things for me to see. I spent 2.5 hours here.
Devil's Lake State Park is a vast recreational area that features a 360-acre lake, sandy beaches, campgrounds, and food stands. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes around the lake on rocky paths or climb up for breathtaking views of the stunning blue-green waters. The park is also pet-friendly but requires dogs to be leashed at all times. In addition to outdoor activities, visitors can challenge their minds with riddle-solving in escape rooms located nearby.
A beautiful hike around the lake. One can hike low and follow the path through the rocks or you can climb up. We climbed up both sides and it was worth it. Fantastic views, gorgeous blue green water. Turkey vultures soaring overhead with a slight breeze. Had a picnic on a rock ledge over looking the lake. Dog friendly but you need to keep them on a leash
Marilyn Kolander — Google review
I was delighted to find a last minute tent site, actually there were multiple options on the day off to reserve. I got a late recommendation to explore this park while on a road trip and I fell in love. As a local said on the trails “best place in WI” and from what I was able to experience on my travels, I agree! What a gorgeous park. The campground was quiet and well maintained. Bathrooms were clean. Lake water was warm (mid August). I will be recommending this to anyone I know heading to WI. I am grateful to have been able to explore the trails and camp here.
Kai Cimmino — Google review
My wife and I stopped in during our honeymoon for a hike. We also stopped in the gift shop to pick up a map and stickers. The employees were very friendly, the bathrooms were clean, and the hike was just absolutely gorgeous.
It was pretty busy, but during the time we were there, everyone was respectful and in good spirits.
Rebecca Lynn Stewart — Google review
Devil's Lake is the most popular State Park in Wisconsin for good reasons.
Want to circumnavigate a beautiful lake, you've got it. Climbing rocks on the West side, walk a railroad track on the East side, and the North and South side have beaches.
Want to swim? Two beaches, clear water, and motored boats allowed.
Hike on a National Scenic Trail? Part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through the Park. And the Ice Age Trail has no usage fee.
And make sure to set aside time to make use of the rest of the Park's other activities.
A great park in a great state!
Karl Wise — Google review
Came here early Saturday morning and we found a great spot under a tree that had great shade. We BBQ and then went for a dip in the lake. The water was super clear that you could see small fish. We made the way to the trail to go up and see the balanced rock. We only made it half way because it is a difficult trail to do with smaller children. Next time I’ll make the trek with just my husband and I because the views are amazing!
Steph Gore — Google review
Great place to recreate! Highly recommend showing up early. The Balanced Rock trail is a fantastic hike for the adventurous. Wear something with good traction, the rock/boulder terrain is slippery at times when its completely dry. Elevation gain is roughly 400-500ft over half mile. Take the time to stop and enjoy the views!
Gary Dornbush — Google review
Devils lake is so beautiful! The trails are amazing! Some are easy some are really difficult the trail maps are marked as to which ones more challenging. The ones up the bluff will make you sweat quite a bit but the view is so worth it! Each trail has a something unique and special to be found along it. It’s so exciting! The photos you can take and the time you can spend at this park is extensive! It would take a whole weekend to experience it all. So if you’re going up for a day pick and choose what you most want to do, because time goes by quick when you’re handling this much fun! By the lake there’s kayak rental, canoe rental, paddle boat rental, swimming, a beautiful gift shop, ice cream, snacks, a bath house. Plus you can’t forget about the fact that they have a campground. That’s the best way to go if you’re gonna go all out is to come here and camp for a whole weekend or longer! I can’t wait to go back!
Nikki Weber — Google review
Very geologically unique state park! We greatly enjoyed hiking up the rock pile hill and walking around the beautiful blue lake. Quite busy on a summer Sunday, but park officials have a good system. Follow the signs for directions. So many things to enjoy here. Neat to see so many people enjoying all of them.
K UU — Google review
Beautiful park! I would recommend to be there no later that 9:00-10:00am since it gets packed! At least during holidays. It has a north and a south area for parking. I liked more the north area since we were with our dogs, and I found the south more hiking with heights!
Geraldine Campos — Google review
It is possible to hike around the lake in a single day. It took us about 4 hours at a leisurely pace. Highly recommend starting from the south park area and taking the Grotto's Trail to the East Bluff Trail, walk across the North Shore Beach and take the Tumbled Rocks Trail and then back to the south park area. It was well worth the trip from the Chicago suburbs! Also, I recommend the Tumbled Rock Brewery and Kitchen afterwards. It's just north of the north park entrance.
Todd Lohenry — Google review
Such a fun place to go! The beach is very nice, sandy, not a lot of rocks on the beach or in the water close to the shore. They have plenty of activities for a family to do, paddle boats, other rentals. Water is friendly warm and you can go out a good distance in the lake before you are fairly deep. Would definitely recommend if you want a lake experience!
Robert Brown II — Google review
My timing for this trip could not have been more perfect. The fall colors were in all their splendor. This is a short drive from Madison and has beautiful views, walking paths and yes a dog park as well. Worth the effort and highly recommend.
Chris Domenico — Google review
Wisconsin provides a lot of hidden gems that many outsiders wouldn't know of & Devil's Lake State Park is one of them. Devil's Lake is a perfect spot to spend your summer day. You have the options to relax by the water or hike up the mountain that overviews the lake. The trails themselves are well kept & the hike isn't too difficult even for those who are casual hikers. Once you get to the top, there are beautiful panoramic views of the lake in each direction. Devil's Lake is in a remote area so parking & traffic are challenges when visiting so I recommend arriving earlier rather than later. There is a large picnic area to dine which is well kept for the most part. If you're looking for a great way to spend at a park, I highly recommend considering Devil's Lake State Park!
Stephen Bazzano — Google review
Devil's Lake is a pretty amazing state park to have in the back yard of Madison. That being said I don't think I'd ever want to go there in the middle of peak season or on a weekend. Early April on a Monday was an amazing time to go. The trails were not too crowded and my wife and I easily managed to do a loop around the lake. The views were gorgeous and most of the trails were rather pleasant. That being said the southeast has some vertical rock step trails that are a bit more technical and would make me rather nervous with our small children and potentially our pre-teens (depending on their awareness-levels that day). However, as an adult I really enjoyed it, but am glad my wife and I went when we did, as we got to see everything without having to manage crowded trails. Definitely worth a visit, this gem of a park will not disappoint and offers some great hiking.
Matthew Kuikman — Google review
A beautiful park, which offers a variety of activities for all ages.
We hiked around the east trail, starting uphills from the east bluffs wood trail. The walk was really pleasant, on a comfortable path. We then passed through the devils hole and balanced rock and went down on the east bluffs trail, which was more challenging, but definitely worth the effort. The views from the mountain peaks were stunning, displaying a wild scenery of the huge rocks, woods and shiny lake. It is highly recommended!
G BN — Google review
My happy place.... I have been here an average of twice a year every year for over ten years. The lake is beautiful, the hiking is amazing and unique, the campsites are great if you know which to get.
The place is dog friendly but only kind of. There is only one beach that allows dogs and that beach is all rocks so make sure you have some water shoes.
Unfortunately over the years I've noticed more and more people leaving garbage everywhere... what is with this. There are garbage cans and dumpsters... use them! Oh and clean up after your dogs! I like laying on the grass!!
eddie gramma — Google review
It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature alone or with family, friends & pets. The trails offer breathtaking views. You can bring your kayak, paddleboard, canoe, inflatable boat or other floatation devise and enjoy the crystal clear lake. There are plenty of picnic tables and charcoal grills throughout the picnic area. Get there early to secure a spot and parking because this a popular place and it fills up quickly. It's just a beautiful place.
NaturEli — Google review
The scenery of the park is very beautiful. If you go to the park in the morning, it will be better to go up the mountain from the east, because the sun rises from the east, and it will be better to take pictures like this. There are many parking lots in the park, and parking is very convenient, but the downside is that the parking lot is charged, but I didn't see an obvious notice of the fee, and there is no self-service payment machine in the parking lot. When I came down from the mountain, I found a payment slip posted on my car, but the payment cannot be settled immediately, and I need to go to a specific place to pay the fee. This is a very troublesome thing. It is hoped that the managers of the park can improve the charging problem, and it is best to install self-service payment machines in the parking lot.
陈中贤 — Google review
Love hiking here! Many steps to view Balanced Rock and Devils Doorway from the South beach! You can hike from the North beach to view these but it will take longer! Recommend taking East Bluff trail there and East Bluff Woods trail back from the North beach! Get there early if you don't like crowds! 8am!
Lisa Zurbey — Google review
10 out of 10! Stopped here during a road trip with my son in 2022. Place was absolutely gorgeous! However, my son and I were not prepared for the climb ahead of us and worse...the climb down! Ok, not trying to spook anyone here! It's not a sheer cliff we were climbing. The trails are very easy to follow and clearly marked. However, we wanted to see the Balancing Rock and Devil's Doorway. Well, that trail is all up hill...literally! Not only is it all uphill but incorporates many, many stairs! The good news is, once you make it to the top, the trail levels out into a nice dirt road. Then, you walk that for a ways and you've made it! Oops, not quite! Now, you must descend the mountain down to the Balancing Rock. My knees were shot by this point but I was determined to make it there. We did and the view was incredible! We took our pictures and on to the Devil's Doorway. Another good distance away and unfortunately, we were running out of time on our schedule and had to turn back. Only way back is the way we came or the treacherous decent down the side of the mountain on make shift stairs created out of the rock shelf itself. The rock shelf was the quickest way down. It took about 35 minutes to the bottom, legs almost gave out dozens of times and we hustled the mile long walk back to the car! I'll say this, its a must for visiting but if you aren't an avid hiker or climber, you WILL be exhausted taking on this mountain! Be sure to pack a jug of water cause you will need it! However, there are other trails that go around the lake that are very easy to venture. A beautiful beach to swim or catch some rays. All kinds of picnic areas. Both public or private. A great big pavilion, if you prefer tables and the indoors. Plenty of bathroom access all over the park and plenty of parking. Keep in mind, this is a state park. So prices are higher if you're out of state. I picked up a WI park pass for the year. So we only had to pay to park. Come to Devil's Lake, its definitely worth it!
D-Rock T — Google review
Easily my top favorite of Wisconsin State Parks. Love the length of trails and the elevation. Beautiful place with great views. We travel almost 3 hours here just for day trips. With stops to take in the view and getting ice cream at the North Shore in the summer, it takes us about 3-4 hours to complete a loop on various trails.
Haley B — Google review
First time visiting with family! Trails and views were amazing, especially now that it's starting to warm up. Parked in the south lot, took the route up to devils doorway and balanced rock, then headed through the east bluff trail and tumbled rocks (got too tired for the west bluffs). Wish they had signs showing which bathrooms are open and more accessible water in the off-season.
Eva Muller — Google review
Amazing hike! Fall is the perfect time to visit to see the vibrant colors of the turning leafs. We got really lucky with that, considering we visited second half of October.
The climb was a bit steep, but with a few rest breaks I made it up. Took me about 25-30 minutes.
The view was really beautiful, the skies were gray and the lighting for photos was just right.
The lake itself looked too manicured, that is too say, the edges drawn in a smooth line, which took away a bit from experiencing nature, but still a pleasure to look at.
Lots of big rocks at the top, where you could sit and snack, while looking down on the water.
There were many people when we were climbing up at about 11:30 am, and it got even busier when we were making our way back.
Lots of dogs and all seemed very friendly.
Masha Kalmanovich — Google review
There are so many amazing hiking trails! Definitely the place to go for aesthetic camping pictures. The restroom are fairly nice and the beach is great.
Hannah Shore — Google review
Spent the day at Devil's Lake with my boyfriend and our family yesterday, and it was a wonderful trip. We hiked to the top, and the view was absolutely breathtaking!
The park was very clean and well maintained. The restrooms were also clean. We used the picnic area by the south beach to eat and swim. The water was clean and cool but there were a lot of rocks so you have to be careful when getting in the water because it's a bit rough on your feet. Swim shoes recommended.
The Wisconsin State Capitol is an imposing and elegant Beaux-Arts building that dominates the central skyline of Madison. Completed in 1917, its marble and mahogany-clad interior is full of magnificent murals and mosaics. The dome atop the building is bested by Daniel Chester Frenchs exquisite overlaid bronze statue, Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin State Capitol is simply a stunning building. Everyone that is able should take a half hour to walk through this incredible structure. Photos don't do the majesty justice, and you really need to see it for yourself. I highly recommend a visit if you are in the area or passing nearby.
Nick Chill — Google review
Today, we had a tour of the Capitol Building in Madison, Wisconsin. The tour was awesome, and the tour guide was awesome! It was very interesting, and I learned so much. Street parking was available, and the tour group was small. I highly recommend a visit to this place.
Mary Ehr — Google review
This building is so beautiful. They offer free guided tours and I definitely recommend going on one. Our guide was able to take us to places we didn't know about, told us all kinds of interesting facts, and was really friendly. I had no idea we could go up to the observation tower, or that there was a small museum up there! So much fun for free!
Ziva Gunther — Google review
This is an absolutely gorgeous building, I haven't had a single moment I walked into the Capitol Building and it hasn't felt like the first time. The details are all absolutely perfect and if you're able to pet the nose of the Badger outside the Governor's office, please do! They also offer FREE tours during the weekdays along with being able to go up to the observation deck!
Cassandra Wilcox (Cass) — Google review
We had a lovely afternoon visiting the Capitol building for one of the free tours! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and we saw a ton of badgers along the way! The building is magnificent, especially with the Christmas tree and holiday decorations up! The holiday choir was performing as an added plus. Don’t miss the observation deck under the rotunda for even cooler views!
Pallavi Aggarwal — Google review
This place is as gorgeous and interesting to explore as it is important to our state. Marble from floor to ceiling, some imported and not without stories! Take the guided tour and they'll tell you all about it! The capital is extremely impressive, every detail is meticulous. It is a state treasure! Coming in at $7.2 million dollars back in the early 1900s. This is a must see if you are visiting Madison, WI.
Sarah Dennis — Google review
I love that you can come in and look around for free. I highly recommend going to the top and taking a look outside. There are stairs leading to the very top after you take an elevator to the 4th floor. Public restrooms available inside as well. During the holiday season they have a beautiful tree lit up with children’s ornaments. It’s beautiful. Definitely worth checking out!
Faith — Google review
The Capitol building was the most beautiful building that I have seen it was very big and wide, ayo. And the inside of the Capitol was very nice and had lots of pictures of religious images.
ItzScorpy — Google review
Capitol building of Wisconsin state is open from 8 am till evening. Open for public . No entry fee. Architectural work is amazing. Grandeur is visible once you enter inside.Very well maintained and clean interior as well as exterior.
seema prakash — Google review
The architecture is beautiful with breathtaking interior design. It is also open to public for free.
Ayaz N — Google review
Breathtaking views!!! Madison offers a variety of things to do and I’m so grateful I got to see this beautiful sunset stretching above the capitol building.
Sunny P — Google review
The architecture of this state capitol building is nothing short of impressive! The design of both the exterior and interior was stunning, and the view from the observation deck is excellent! The best place inside the capitol building to stand and take pictures is at the very center right underneath the dome. This is a must see when you’re visiting Madison!
N Duncan — Google review
What a unique place! I discovered quite a bit of United States history here. And the paintings are beautifully painted. Lots of architecture to take a look at. And plenty of bathrooms on every floor. If you're looking for a place to sit down, there are leather chairs outside the supreme court courtroom on the second floor, in addition to benches outside the Capitol itself
Golden Monkey Farm Farm — Google review
Free and open to the public. During December there is a big Christmas tree with ornaments from school children throughout the state that is fun to see! The architecture is fantastic.
Isaac Teuscher — Google review
Just gorgeous! Free to visit, guided tours are also offered. Full of history and architectural details
Ana I. Romero — Google review
Insanely beautiful building, gorgeous stone throughout. My family decided to go on the free tour. Our tour guide was absolutely wonderful. My husband uses a wheelchair frequently when going out, and this gentlemen let us know where to go to meet and always made sure we were at the right elevator to rejoin the group. He was very very knowledgeable and informative. The observation deck was outstanding as well, definitely recommended going up there
Taylor Haile — Google review
Several times I've wanted to stop here but just didn't have a lot of time. Finally had a chance to take a stroll around the perimeter. It's an interesting capitol building where you're not quite sure where the front is (maybe there is none). There was some renovation going on but nothing too bad. We were able to find street pay parking immediately but one with a very short time limit.
Patrick Villacorta — Google review
The state capital building is phenomenal.
I enjoyed the magnificent views with an amazing architecture. The ceiling, interior design with huge pillars and with vintage ceiling equipment can't make our eyes even to give a blink
Come to 107 State for a cozy atmosphere and Wisconsin made dishes. They have a great selection of pasta dishes, craft cocktails and Italian influences. The Syndicate is the perfect place to raise a glass with friends, or enjoy some delicious Italian food.
We had one issue with our food that was remedied immediately - super service and awesome food- been there twice and will continue to go
JAIME ALBRECHT — Google review
I like this downtown restaurant. On State St, about a block from the Capitol Square. I loved the dark atmosphere. Cool jazz music playing. Besides not being very loud in there, the booths help make it easy to have a conversation. The rough brick wall also helps to break up any noise.
Our server was very friendly and the timing of her check-ins was good.
First off, I liked the bread. Besides being complementary, each piece was crunchy on one side and warm & buttery on the other. The roasted mushroom crostini was a great way to start the meals. It was crunchy chewy, with the expected sweetness from the cheese and glaze.
My salmon crunchy outside and soft moist inside. The garlic lemon sauce was a great added flavor. The shrimp scampi also tasted great, although a bit too heavy on the garlic. The Bliss Burger was a tasty burger dripping with juicy goodness. The accompanying fries tasted just McDonald's fries, but a little less salty. The meat in the Ziti with Ragu was a nice combo of hearty meat with soft tender tasty ziti.
The waitress passed by with plates of desserts that looked real good, but we were just too full. ....Next time.
Overall, I really liked this upscale city tavern.
Anthony Villare — Google review
Good spot if you're too drunk to care what you eat and your favorite cocktail ingredient is simple syrup. We kept it simple and ordered burgers. His came under cooked and mine came without the $3.50 bacon addition and any toppings whatsoever. Once the bacon came, it was two inches long seared on one side and completely raw on the other. The manager seemed intoxicated, but was nice enough. He offered to comp the burger, which is why I offered three stars. My friends all had similar stories, so I felt the need to write a review.
Lea Zeise — Google review
Stopped in after a show at the Overture Center on a Friday night. We got there just after the kitchen was closed so can't speak to the food. The drinks we ordered were both mediocre for the price. One was flavorless the other was basically just dominated by the shake of spice put on top. We sat at the bar where you'd expect good service in a fairly empty restaurant, but instead I would describe it as subpar. I sat with an empty drink for more than enough time that I might have ordered a second drink that might have redeemed the place, but instead gave up and just got the check. With a location so close to the square and Overture Center this place really seems to miss the opportunity as a late night stop. Definitely better options close by.
Efrem Lirtzman — Google review
While visiting from out of town, I decided to take my wife here for her birthday. Man! This was some of the most delicious, tastiest, visually pleasant food I've had in Madison. The salmon alone is now in my top 3 all-time. The lamb chops were grilled tender to perfection. But the highlight of the night was the mushroom crostini appetizer. We have never tasted a mushroom dish with such unbelievable blends of flavor at any restaurant in life! Take a look at my photos, and you be the judge.
Al Haywood — Google review
We went to 107 State for dinner before Overture event(5:30p.m.). Staff was great. Appetizer was good. Burgers were awful. My cheeseburger was ordered medium rare-it was a well done hockey puck . Both burgers were. This was burger week!!! I was offered a remake. I said no as we did have an event to attend. We were given $ off. Thank you. Please clean and deodorize your bathrooms. There seems to be some sort of sewage issue.
Doreen Jensen — Google review
I like the troll vibe of the restaurant. I ordered the grandpa root beer, salt and pepper chicken wings and the sirloin “frites” the wings are good and my steak could have been a little more cook but it was good too and the service was good.
Shalonda Money — Google review
Went in here once on a whim. While looking at the menu outside, someone walking in said "it's great, try it." So we did, and now have gone 3 times and will continue to do so. Excellent food, tasty cocktails, and friendly service!
Matt Ungaro — Google review
Don't make a mistake, make a reservation instead. We're so glad we did with the event at the overture we were not aware of. Our experience was amazing.
Cocktails:
-Espresso Martini - perfect compliment of bitter coffee and sweet
-Glass of recommended Red - wife enjoyed 2 glasses
-House Signature Manhattan - always a fan of big rock + presentation
Appetizer:
-Roasted Mushroom Crostini - loved every bite
-Caesar Salad - healthy portion with hint of anchovy
Main:
-Fettuccini ala Scampi: I scouted this item out ahead of time, and was the perfect marriage of lemon, garlic, and butter. Shrimp cooked perfectly.
-Mushroom Ragu: This was another recommendation from our server, Jen. A combination of shiitake, baby bella, and oyster. My wife loves mushrooms so this was an absolute hit.
-Grilled Lamb Chops: We were craving pasta but could not pass up this dish. Super tender bone-in lamb complimented with Green Beans with a garlic butter finish. You cannot go wrong!
Overall, we finished our cocktails at the bar and held a friendly conversation with the staff before we took off. Everything was great, loved the intimate setting. Compliments to Nate, Jen, Kitchen + Bar Staff!
Tim Schmock — Google review
A nice place with good cocktails and very good food. The service could have been a bit better but wasn't bad.
Would go again and recommend for sure.
Anisha Patel (Anisha Guru Patel) — Google review
I LOVE this place! The last restaurant iterations in this space have been truly lacking, so I was very dubious about the new joint. However, my fears were QUICKLY assuaged. This place ROCKS! The burgers and steak are delicious. (I haven't had the pasta, but it looks great too!). And don't miss the cheesecake! It took me several visits to give in, and I was mad at myself for not eating it before! The staff are all really great and friendly and make this place feel very, very welcoming!
Update: I have ordered several pastas, and they are as delicious as I hoped. Every one! Recommend everything from this place!
Angela Janis — Google review
If i could give more stars, I would. I arrived in a wheelchair. My friend was having trouble pushing me through the door. One of the employees rushed to the door to help me. With her help, the door was easy. They seated us immediately. We ordered drinks and an appetizer, mushroom crustini. The toast had crunch, the topping was creamy, and the mushrooms were plentiful. We ordered dinner; Steak Frites and Shrimp Scampi. The shrimp was cooked perfectly and the fries were amazing! Everything was seasoned to perfection; spice but not overpowering. Delicious! I'll be back soon!
Danielle Tourdot — Google review
It would only take a blink to miss 107 State, but recommend keeping your eyes open to try this cozy little spot on State Street. Reservations are highly recommended if you want a table (we ended up sitting at the bar).
My wife had tonight's special, Fusilli Brisket (on the regular menu with lamb) which was a delicious and tender combination. I had The Old Fashioned burger which was cooked to perfection and also delicious! I also added the bacon to mine, which calling it bacon is such and statement, it is really a burger sized slab of pork belly (which was amazing! )
The staff was friendly and attentive, and overall a welcoming little spot almost hidden on State.
Tim Maier — Google review
Discovered this place just walking down the street looking for a place to eat. Signage is horrible but everything else is A++. Great food, cozy atmosphere and fantastic service! Will definitely be going back.
Greg Meyers — Google review
Service was terrible, and it took our server ages between visits to our table. Appetizers were brought out concurrently with entrees—just what everyone wants, to let their food get cold while eating their salad. Spaghetti was mediocre, with way too much cheese, but others at our table did enjoy their entrees, so I’ll bump the food bit of the rating a smidge. The wings were quite good though, even if the sauce left something to be desired. The night ended with a large bill that the server awkwardly danced around trying to figure out who to give it to, which is definitely on us for not asking for separate checks upfront, but as it becomes more the norm to ask how to handle the check in a larger, varied group, it just was a tad disappointing—and this, like everything else, took the server way too long both to bring and take payment. And then there’s the credit card surcharge. I get it, the fees are high from the card processors. But it’s part of doing business. In a world that is increasingly more “touchless”, expecting normal people to just have $300+ in cash is a bit unrealistic, and it’s not safe to let one’s debit card leave their sight. Everything should always be purchased on credit.
The Memorial Union at the University of Wisconsin Madison is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The Terrace offers stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a happy hour with friends. With reasonable prices on excellent Wisconsin beers, including local options, it's a great place to unwind and take in the beautiful sunset. The food options are reminiscent of stadium fare, adding to the laid-back vibe.
The Union is part of my morning exercise routine, when I can walk outdoors. Always a welcoming place with a great view.
The Henry Vilas Zoo is a great place to visit with kids if you're in Madison, Wisconsin. It has animals from all over the world, plus a variety of gifts and food options for visitors.
What A Amazing Free Zoo, That’s Correct It’s 2022 And There Is Still Something That’s Fun To Do And Free🤘You Can Do The Right Thing And Donate Anything You Can Afford To Give - They Still Enjoy Giving Extra Care To Their Animals!! So Many Different Animals In Such A Beautiful Layout!! Keep Up The Great Carr And The Great Work Of Running Such A Beautiful Zoo!! I Went Multiple Times As A Kid And Now I’ve Taken My Kids To This Zoo!! Great Place To Spend The Day Or Days!! There Is A Lake Near By You Can Enjoy As Well!! Give Those Donations To Them Please And Thank You, This Is What Keeps Them Going!!
T (Frank Dukes) — Google review
I love this little zoo!! It's on the smaller side, but there are plenty of animals to visit. The updates and expansions they've done over the past few years to the enclosures have been great to see. It's a free zoo, but always still plan to bring a donation, because of course taking care of all these beautiful creatures is not free!
melody — Google review
We visited in May before the season started. The zoo wasn't very crowded. Some of the animals were not visible, but it was a nice day for a walk anyway. Depending on the time of year, time of day, feeding schedule, and sleeping times, it's not always possible to see all the animals in most zoos. The Henry Vilas Zoo could perhaps be considered a mid-size zoo, and that is an advantage, making the zoo easy to navigate, and not exhausting to explore. There seem to be plenty of friendly staff assisting visitors and caring for the animals. Visiting the zoo is free, but donations are welcome.
Greg Johnson — Google review
It’s the perfect size zoo. I wish there were more animals but what we did see looked to be enjoying themselves. Grizzlies foraging for bugs. The polar bear was swimming and then rolling in mud. The tiger was taking a nap in the sun. The lions were roaming. The river otter was swimming. I didn’t like seeing that the orangutan was all by itself though. I think some of these animals need company.
The carousel is lovely. The gift shop is extremely expensive now but, inflation. All in all this is a nice zoo and it’s free. Parking is free as well. We had fun.
A — Google review
It is amazing how the zoo has changed over the years. No more giraffes, camels, penguins. But they still have a lot of other critters to see. A bottle of water was $5.26. Yikes. Kids still love the zoo but I suggest a nice picnic before going in.
Barry Dean — Google review
We love coming to this zoo. It's the perfect size for little kids to be able to walk and not get too worn out. It's nice in the winter too, if you bundle up and it's not too cold you can still have a great experience. The lions are often active and roaring. The polar bear is very active and likes to swim. There is a family of 5 otters to see too. We miss being able to go into the monkey and reptile area that has been closed to the public since COVID started. In the summer time the playground is open and is a great place to run around and play.
J Hyttsten — Google review
I was glad to see that they have more animals now, there's more places to eat/snack inside the zoo. Last time we were here(6 yrs) they were doing some construction and they didn't have a lot of animals. We all had a great time. My personal favorite was the tiger. There is no fee to enter the zoo, they just ask for a donation. The parking lot is small so I would recommend going early. You can also park on the street around the park.
Maria Fernandez — Google review
Henry Villas Zoo is definitely one of the best zoos in Wisconsin. First of all, it's FREE. Yes, you read that correctly. There's no cover charge. The exhibits are well laid out and there are some pretty unique and amazing creatures here. Our favorites are the orangutan family (and a baby orangutan, she's so adorable!!), Tiger, lions, rhinoceros, giraffe, polar bear, otters, anaconda, and MORE! The park isn't excessively large & is well laid out. There's an amazing kids plaza area (seriously, it's incredible). The store is a must see and definitely purchase some stuff to help them keep up the park and superb animal care.
Lex Lynne — Google review
We always have an absolutely great time at this zoo. There us a wide array of animals, as well as a few buildings with other animals. Wonderful playground and children's zoo. There were lots of baby animals when we went today. Also Joe near the exit at guest services was THE NICEST person ever. My kids loved interacting with him and getting a stamp
Taylor Haile — Google review
Really nice zoo. We went on a weekday and it wasn't too crowded. If recommend going early in order to find parking. The animals seemed well cared for and appeared to have appropriate enrichment and good conditions, as well as places to escape the crowds. I would definitely visit again and enjoyed this zoo significantly more than many of the highly recommended commercialized zoos in the country. The zoo staff were friendly and knowledgeable as well.
Liz Thompson — Google review
Great place to take our animal loving children on vacation! A 4 yr old and a 6 yr old found a lot of things to be joyful about even in the cold of March and the rainy/snowy weather! Great playground, cool art/sculptures, and great animal views!
Sally Riccardi — Google review
Nice place to visit during weekend. Lots of animals. Kids will enjoy for sure. There is no entry fee. But you can donate at the entrance for your visit. Rhino, giraffe, tiger and lion were very active during our visit.
kabil jacob — Google review
If you want to have a nice little walk around a beautiful park with the family and see some animals while doing so this is a great place to go. It's small but quaint with a nice variety of animals and plenty of fun things for your little ones to do. Entrance is free which is another plus. Only issue was parking which is why I gave it a 4 star rating.
Cynthia Melendez — Google review
This Zoo has a surprisingly good selection of animals and exhibits for a free to public zoo. The weather was a little cool that day, but it seemed to have been favorable to most of the animals, too. I wanted to give it 5 stars because for a free zoo (they do take donations), they do a good job overall with the animals and exhibits. The only thing that seemed it could be better was some basic maintenance here and there, especially with cleaning up the glass on some of the exotic animal exhibits. This is a great little getaway for half a day or so with the family or just anyone who appreciates the animals and nature. I'd love to see what they could do with this place should the city pump some money into the zoo. You'd think with all those taxes in the Madison area, they could put some of it to use for the public by investing in public spaces like the zoo. Overall, I definitely recommend this place, and they have some land and picnic tables out by the parking lots as well, so pack a lunch or snacks it's a great little half day or so getaway.
Austin Waddick — Google review
This zoo is just the right size for a day trip. Very manageable to navigate and see a wide variety of animals. The only place it gets crowded is inside the reptiles exhibit. The primates building is probably the highlight especially if you are able to catch the monkeys playing.
I would recommend coming through the back entrance that is on Vilas Park Drive. Much more available parking back there.
Sydni Foley — Google review
large variety of animals, well-kept and clean grounds, free entry, variety of food spots (including a chocolate shoppe ice cream). I have such great memories of coming here when I was a little toddler and it’s nice to see that the quality of this zoo has stayed consistent. I love how close you can see all of the animals, especially the giraffe. We ate at mickies dairy bar then spent the afternoon here. What a great day!
Mira — Google review
Very nice layout and decent amount of animals that we saw for the zoo's size. Wished the avian flu outbreak wasn't around which quarantined all their birds but we did get a glimpse of the Flamingos.
Recommend for all ages.
Walter Fritz — Google review
Our family has gone here for years. Very clean and so much to do and see. I love the fact that it’s free (we usually like to donate anyways) worth coming and checking it out. It’s one of our favorite Madison spots
DeeAnna Straub — Google review
I am impressed that this zoo is free. They have cool animals. Both adults going on a date or for kids with family, this is a must visit!
Apple H — Google review
Always good animals here. Less to see in winter but so happy it's a free zoo. Sad that Eddie the giraffe got moved elsewhere. Highly recommend!
Belle Bunny — Google review
My family and I travel quite a bit and have been to many zoo's, with that being said I didn't have high expectations for this zoo - especially since it's free. I was seriously so impressed, it is one of the cleanest zoos I have been to! It's not huge, but it's a perfect size for my kiddos to manage without being exhausted. There's a good variety of animals and all enclosures are well maintained and clean. We had a wonderful time and I would highly recommend it!
M W — Google review
Having traveled all over the USA, coming back to Madison has showed me how great this zoo really is. Not only is it free, but it is clean, friendly, and fun for the family. The animals all look happy, healthy, and taken care of with clean enclosures. For a free zoo… this zoo is a must see when you come to Madison!
Jake Pelaez — Google review
This zoo is free. Is a smaller zoo. We had fun although not too many active animals. Would be a better option in summer when more activities are open.
Melissa Rose — Google review
KIDS LOVE THIS ZOO!
It’s a nice place to look at wild animals in the wilderness. Lots of animals and fun for the little ones. They have carousel, playground and train as part of many other activities. We had a wonderful time here.
Akila Iyer — Google review
Very nice zoo with active, happy animals! It has lots of exhibits, bathrooms, eating areas, and a huge playground area, I also love the goats.
Went on Friday in February👍 Smaller crowd. Took the tour, our guide was very good and personable. Ate at their Bistro, was also very good. A soup and sandwich menu with options for wine and spirits. Also stopped by their distillery for a mixed drink. All in all was a great road trip ☺️
Chuck Fell — Google review
Had a wonderful tour (1 hour long) and then enjoyed a delicious meal at the Bistro. This is a hidden gem in Wisconsin! A beautiful vineyard with wonderful history! The distillery also had great cocktails! A must see if you are in the area.
Kathy N — Google review
What an absolutely beautiful winery and distillery tucked away in Wisconsin. The facility was much larger than we expected and it was truly gorgeous. Well maintained and picture perfect. The wine tasting was wonderful, even the The tasting bar was a bit too crowded, our server Stacie was amazing and we truly enjoyed our time with her. The wines were superb and I truly enjoyed the variety. We purchased several bottles to go and enjoyed a glass on the upper patio. Staff were very friendly and kind. We walked into the distillery, but did not have time for a drink, but that is on our next visit as we look forward to returning. I highly recommend putting Wollersheim on your bucket lists when visiting Wisconsin.
Kevin Dean — Google review
This place is amazing! The food at the Bistro and the wine are not that expensive either! The parking spot is a little walk to the Bistro and Winery so you would need flats to walk on, specially if you are used to wearing high heels like me. When you order your food at the Bistro, they let you choose where to sit; we chose to sit outside by the "hobbit" house looking cave where they used to store wine back in the old days. If you decide to come here, your experience will be worth it!
Jen Yerington — Google review
Really loved our time there. Great glass of wine in a beautiful setting. I had never been there and had heard a lot about it. Open noon to 5 daily. Found aome potential gifts like Old Fashioned kit and lots of wine and brandy options. Will be back for sure.
Paul Quella (PQ5876) — Google review
We totally enjoyed our afternoon at Wollersheim. We started with a lovely lunch from the Bistro and a glass of wine. We then went to the distillery for delicious Old Fashions. The grounds are landscaped so lovely with a very relaxing atmosphere.
Mary Henry — Google review
I would give 5 stars, except the wine tasting experience was so underwhelming. $10 for four 1oz pours in tiny glasses. You barely have a chance to experience the wine, and the tasting fee is not even comped when you buy something from the shop. It's definitely a better idea to buy a bottle and enjoy it outside. The grounds are beautiful. We had a wonderful experience at the Bistro. We got the pigs in a blanket for the kids, the Roma flatbread (which was more like a pizza), and the Frenchy sandwich. The food was good, and the service was fantastic! My son accidentally dropped the tray when carrying it back to our seat, and the sandwich hit the ground. They remade the sandwich and even brought a cookie! The Distillery was the last stop on our tour. All the drinks on the drink menu looked delicious, and it was really relaxing to grab a drink and sit on the patio. While this is no California wine tasting, the overall experience is very nice, and for those visiting Madison, it's a scenic 30 minute drive.
Andrea Bartosh — Google review
The winery is beautiful and continues to grow with an ever expanding selection wines and liquors at the distillery. The wine that we were able to taste is still wonderful. The selection of Brandy, Rye, and Absinthe were excellent.
Unfortunately they were not doing tours or showing their video of the history of the winery. My wife and I had been there many times but we brought a friend who had never been there before. After all we told her about the winery she had expected a little more. She did leave a little disappointed.
Rick Noll — Google review
Very nice winery. Our family enjoyed our visit. There was one rude cashier. She scolded our 14 year old for walking upstairs, even though the sign said it was open to the public. We purchased 2 wine tastings and four bottles of wine. Very pretty flowers and nice grounds to walk and visit.
Cool Tank — Google review
Great stop, beautiful grounds with super friendly and knowledgeable staff. Wine and brandy in hand. We're good!
Michelle Marchant — Google review
This visit to the winery was a failure on my behalf. Their hours are from 12:00 to 5:00 daily and we were just running behind on our trip. We did not get to have a tasting because it was 4:45 by the time we got there and the last tasting was at 4:30 however their landscaping and overall atmosphere was spectacular. We are definitely going to come back here another time but this time we will make sure we get here plenty early.
Dan Nelson — Google review
The views here are worth the visit. The wines are very good, especially the Prairie Fumé! The new distillery is already producing some really good whiskey, especially the Round Top Straight Rye! We also loved the sandwiches, chili, and soup at the Bistro. Everything was very good.
Creig Zook — Google review
I recently visited Wollersheim Winery & Distillery and was thoroughly impressed. Tucked away in the scenic landscape, the winery exudes rustic charm and tranquility, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Madison.
The picturesque setting of rolling hills and lush vineyards immediately captivated me. The winery's commitment to maintaining a beautiful and natural environment is evident in every aspect of the property. The spirit room was our first stop, and it did not disappoint. While they offer a selection of spirits including brandy, gin, and rye, the standout for me was the bourbon. It offered a complexity and depth of flavor that was truly remarkable, with intricate notes that lingered delightfully on the palate.
After the spirit tasting, we headed to the terraced patio for a leisurely lunch. The patio offers a breathtaking view of the vineyards, creating a serene backdrop for our meal. The winery's commitment to farm-to-table cuisine was evident in every dish. Fresh, local ingredients were the stars, elevating simple dishes to culinary delights. Each bite was a celebration of the region's produce, perfectly complementing the selection of wines we tasted.
The wine tasting itself was an experience to cherish. The knowledgeable staff guided us through a selection of wines, each with its unique character and story.
Wollersheim Winery & Distillery is not just about the spirits and the food; it's about the experience as a whole. The staff are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, eager to share their passion for winemaking and distilling. The grounds are meticulously cared for, inviting guests to stroll and explore.
In addition to the tastings, the winery offers tours, providing an insightful glimpse into the winemaking and distilling process. This added a layer of appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Wollersheim is certainly worth a stop for anyone in the Madison area seeking a serene and sensory retreat. Whether you're a connoisseur of fine spirits and wines or simply looking for a picturesque spot to unwind, this winery offers an exceptional experience.
Mike Shubic (Mike's Road Trip) — Google review
I went with some friends who love the wine here. There were so many nice places to sit and enjoy the views, especially on a bright sunny day!
Alyssa L — Google review
Wollersheim winery and distillery is an excellent destinations for an afternoon or an evening. I have never been to the site before until today but greatly enjoyed the beautiful grounds and tasting rooms. We spent a good amount of time in the distillery tasting room, trying several of the bourbon and Brandies as well as a Sazerac cocktail! … the environment and the beverages were all very impressive!
The grounds are very pleasant for picnicking and just walking and enjoying the foliage. Many lovely place to sit.
The staff inside the tasting room was super welcoming and courteous and attentive.
A lot of good comfortable, seating indoors with nice views out the plentiful windows.
This was a very fun afternoon. I’m sure will be back.
Aj Sue — Google review
Beautiful setting! The bistro has a nice variety of food you can order and take outside if the weather is nice. There are so many wine flavors to choose from and the distillery has many drinks to choose from as well!
Morgan Lee — Google review
What a fantastic learning and wine tasting experience, I recommend the wine tour to understand more the process of wine making. My wife and I spent 2 1/2 hours drinking and eating the delicious cheese and snacks and spirits they had to offer. The staff couldn't have been more kind and helpful. The scenery is as beautiful as you can get.
1-hour guided tours are offered of this cave with stalactites & stalagmites, plus a souvenir shop.
An exceptional cave, displaying the earthly wonder world and teaching us the geological and evolution history.
It’s thrilling to walk in a relatively large cave. Display boards and the stationed staff provide more educational insights !
Don’t forget to see the colorful display of the “time machine and transformation of various minerals” while in the dark.
An educational exhibit, no the geological history, for the entire family.
Good approach roads and plenty of car parking at the facility.
T RS — Google review
It was a beautiful setting. A few different hiking trails with beautiful scenery as well. They make it fun with little scavenger hunts you can do and all of it is self-paced. You may have to get creative in entertaining yourself if you're trying to stay there for more than an hour to hour and a half as there is not much to do other than the cave and the gift shop. Still worth the trip because the cave was beautiful! I love that they had workers stationed throughout the cave and giving the guests little tidbits of information. Especially the freedom to walk past if you were not interested or to stay and get more insight.
Hannah Jost — Google review
This really is a fun inexpensive place to visit. It was my first time here. So much to learn and do. Staff is really knowledgeable and friendly. Facility was clean and well kept. The cave itself is pretty incredible and the story on how it was discovered. A definite must see in Wisconsin. Ticket prices are very reasonable and the all year pass is $6.99 for unlimited visits!!! Highly recommend!
Court Hutsen — Google review
This was undoubtedly the best cave I’ve visited in recent years! I was especially impressed with the amount of stalagmites, stalactites, and underground ponds of water that were prevalent throughout the cave. Also, occasionally keep an eye out for a couple fossils embedded on the roof of the cave!
N Duncan — Google review
Excellent experience, very fun and instructive. You will learn or recall your knowledge about different kinds of rocks, minerals, and more. My favorite part... experiencing almost absolute darkness and then the fluorescent minerals. Don't forget to bring or rent an UV flashing.... for sure you will be one of the coolest in the excursion and everyone will try to stay close to you.... 70 feet under ground temperature is very stable.... bring a light jacket, or you will be sweating.... If you have a young kid (my son is 2)... there are tons of stairs and wet, so it will be slippery. The entire tour is around 30 minutes.
Carmen Morales Rico — Google review
Excellent experience, very fun and instructive. You will learn or recall your knowledge about different kinds of rocks, minerals, and more. My favorite part... experiencing almost absolute darkness and then the fluorescent minerals. Don't forget to bring or rent an UV flashing.... for sure you will be one of the coolest in the excursion and everyone will try to stay close to you.... 70 feet under ground temperature is very stable.... bring a light jacket, or you will be sweating.... If you have a young kid (my son is 2)... there are tons of stairs and wet, so it will be slippery. The entire tour is around 30 minutes.
carmen Morales — Google review
My first cave, was a very pretty cave. I highly recommend getting a black light and a bag, worth it in my opinion. Not very claustrophobic place, there was only one spot we needed to turn sideways to get through but most of it is very open and the whole thing has a walkway. Staff was very friendly. Our guide was knowledgeable.
Brittany Traeger — Google review
Went on double date here on a Saturday at 3. It was a really cool experience and wasn't packed. The guides along the tour were very knowledgeable and clearly enjoyed their work! Great place to check out as an adult or especially with the kids!
Alexandra Ferguson — Google review
Such a great place to visit. Of you haven't been there before, I would recommend it! There are a lot of fun things to do for the kids as well. Just make sure to dress accordingly unless you like cooler temperatures!
Thomas H — Google review
This is the teeny-tiny version of Carlsbad Caverns. If you've never, ever seen a cave, then go here. The guide we had was informative, but couldn't answer all my questions, one of which was do you go permanently blind if you come out of a cave after getting cave-blindness. Which you supposedly get after being in a pitch-black cave for an extended period of time. Does that last forever? He didn't know, but I hope he finds out so the next person who asks will get an answer. The tour is pretty short, less than an hour. You do get interrupted by other groups going past, and you do hear other guides talking when you're trying to listen to your guide, but again, this is a teeny-tiny version of a huge cave, so I guess it's to be expected. The grounds are beautiful, the hillside garden is pretty, and the beer garden is very pleasant. If you have seen a huge cave, skip this. If you have kids under 15 that you need to entertain, go here.
Marilyn Besasie — Google review
We were the only ones on the tour, probably because it was in the 20s today and the Monday after Thanksgiving. Plan your visit on a day when it's not busy. That's the best! So cool! And the stories and history are really interesting. Definitely worth the visit!
Suzy Keidel — Google review
We went on a day when lots of families were there on spring break, but the staged entry times kept it from getting crowded in the cave. The new visitor center was nice, although it seems as though they have yet to move most of their operations there.
I have been in some spectacular caves, so this was not as impressive as I have seen, but it was very well lit and developed. It was both intimate and spacious.
Tom Wanamaker — Google review
This was a fun experience that is worth a day trip for! We went on a cold and rainy day, which prevented us from having a picnic and hiking around the park like we originally planned, but the cave was tons of fun and still made the trip worth it. We spent about an hour in the cave on the self guided tour.
Taylor Beck — Google review
This place is super cool. Literally! There's so much to do one could plan a day trip. Parents can sit in the beer garden as the kids go sift rocks or play in the gardens. The bathrooms were nice and clean and the line to get tickets wasn't very long at all. Highly recommend! It's a beautiful experience.
Caasi Heckman — Google review
Well-managed, clean, and educational. The guides are polite and knowledgeable and the bathrooms easily accessible.
The tours are spaced apart and self-paced. The cave is quite cool (we visited in summer) and a sweatshirt was pleasant. The cave is well-lit and the paved path is even and easy to traverse.
There are some narrow points and places where taller folks might need to tilt their heads down. I had a few brushes with anxiety, and I would not bring anyone with more than mild claustrophobia down. There are some large areas at the beginning of the tour that should be fine for those who don't love enclosed spaces, and it is very easy to turn back if you start feeling overwhelmed.
Wear shoes you're comfortable traversing wet concrete in. The cave gets pretty wet as you go deeper.
If underground isn't for you, there are some nice above ground trails for easy walks and some lovely gardens planted around the buildings. Botany nerds will rejoice in the variety and the rock-inclined will have a variety of geode displays and the standard rock shop to poke through.
Elizabeth Phillippi — Google review
First ever experience visting a cave and this cave didn't disappoint. We visited as a family with young kids and everyone loved it. The staff members are present at various points inside the cave to answer any questions or share cool facts. All staff was very friendly and the gift shop is also great. Parking was not a problem at all.
Maninder Kumar — Google review
Fun and educational half day experience right here in Wisconsin! Go down 70 feet and back in time 100 million years to see some earth level history up close and personal. Please be aware there are a few tight spots and a lot of stairs as you navigate the cave's twists and turns. Fantastic and affordable gift shop with all kinds of cool geological stuff too.
Nate London — Google review
Very cool place to take the whole family! They have black lights available and you can see some areas in the cave glowing. The scenery is just beautiful. There's a cute gift shop and relaxing beer garden. We bought one of the treasure buckets and you are able to sift through the sand to find your own treasures. My kids are 4 and 5 and they had so much fun exploring the cave and then finding goodies afterward.
Tatiana Lang — Google review
I took my 5 year old nephew here today and we had SO MUCH FUN. Our tour guide, Chris, was fantastic. He was super knowledgeable, friendly and great with the kiddos. Renting the UV Flashlight was the best investment, my nephew loved that.
My nephew loved the little “mining station” they have out front. I got him a $15 bag of sand with gems and he had a blast sifting through it to get all of the gems. He could have done that all day.
Mandi Clemmons — Google review
Last time I visited the cave was in the sixties. It's changed since. It's an easy self guided tour or with a tour. Excellent gift shop too. I'm knocking one star due that the entry fee is a tad steep for a roughly 45 minute tour of the cave, that really not that huge compared to other caves I've visited. But for a Wisconsin cave, it's worth the visit.
Jim Groat — Google review
This is one of the smaller caves I’ve been in. Tour is short but I did enjoy seeing everything. This is a short drive if you want to get away from Wisconsin Dells for a bit. I took off a star because $22 is kind of pricey for such a short experience. I’m sure people know this but it’s actually warmer in the caves than it is outside especially when it’s winter. They have a small souvenir shop if you want to pick up something. Tour guide was informative and knowledgeable.
Nicholas P — Google review
I love these caves. Great tour and excellent guides that answer questions and have fun. The new visitor center is looking great. The beer garden and surrounding activities are fun. The Christmas lights are on display and look cool. When you take the tour rent the the blacklight it adds to the fun of the tour.
Paul Sahy — Google review
Very amazing . Bought a large dirt bucket for my son to pan for gems . 50 dollars but hey my son loves looking for this stuff he had fun . Bucket is probably your best buy if you have several kids. They have smaller bags too.
David McClernon — Google review
Fantastic cave tour. Informative and friendly guide (Abe) on our tour. We had a great time with the family going through here. Would definitely recommend, well worth the price of admission in my opinion! Thank you for the excellent tour Abe!
Josh Caine — Google review
When we got there we were moved to a different time 30 minutes away because of our large group.
It was a very fun experience and I enjoyed looking at all of the different types of stones and different other materials, I got a lot of different photos without being rushed.
Got a container of rocks, strawberry soda, a large stuffed bat, a star crystal, and a medium bat I got earlier before we went in and the guy at the cashier was really nice. He taped up the container of rocks for us and he told us about people who said the strawberry soda tasted like strawberriy or cherry pie. We named the medium bat Larry after the cashier we had.
Roxy Raspberry — Google review
4.7
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4.5
(589)
2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517, USA
Nice staff. Great place to learn about the history of the people of New Glaris area and their struggles in a new country. Pretty cool. Handicapped parking, building access and rest rooms. Plenty to see as you walk about. Took about and hour and a bit more. Very clean and well kept. Fee was 10 per adult. I think children are cheaper.
Anthony Smith — Google review
If you're looking for a glimpse into Switzerland's history and culture without leaving the Midwest, the Swiss Historical Village Museum in New Glarus, Wisconsin is a must-visit. This charming features over 20 historic buildings that have been relocated and restored. From the moment you arrive, you feel transported back in time. Highlights include the 1890 Swiss Reformed Church, an original log cabin from 1845, and the 1910 Heitzig Bed and Breakfast where you can see what a period lodging house was like.
Wander along the cobblestone paths past artifacts like an 1890s telegraph machine and 19th century printing press. There are so many fascinating details around every corner. The Kundert Cheese Factory is especially interesting to see the antique cheesemaking equipment. You can also explore the 1890 one-room schoolhouse. The on-site Heritage Shop is also great for finding unique Swiss-inspired gifts and souvenirs. The guides are available for those who want to learn more about the history of the Swiss immigrants in the Midwest, and they are extremely knowledgeable and personable. Whether you have an hour or a whole afternoon, I'd highly recommend adding the museum to your New Glarus itinerary!
Arkady Khazin — Google review
It is a wonderful depiction of what life was like in the early days of New Glarus. Also the museum has photos, costumes & many items from the past. It's very well put together & interesting!
Mary Soddy — Google review
There is much to see, easy walking from exhibit to exhibit. We engaged a tour guide and she helped us understand and explain things. Though the museum can be self guided also.
Ruth Bos — Google review
What a great historical site to visit! This museum provides a self-paced walking tour to see life of Swiss settlers. My Dad and I enjoyed a few hours of exploring the different houses, showcasing different historical pieces. Of course my favorite was the old cheese house. Take your out of town guests to this charming museum.
Kalee Richards — Google review
Absolutely LOVED this place. We cannot wait to go back with the kids. It was definitely worth it, there are many buildings to look at and so much to see. They have a cute gift shop at the end as well!! The woman at the front desk was so kind and helpful!
Brittney Hunt — Google review
Very interesting place, informative, very complete, we liked it a lot! The lady who attends the museum is very kind. An older lady with a lot of energy and very nice...
Vinita Mohan — Google review
My husband and I attended Harvest Fest this past Sunday. It was so much fun. We saw cheese being made, rope being made and also sauerkraut. The singers were awesome as were the Alphorns. We listened to knowledgeable people talking about the Swiss coming to American and finally Wisconsin. Also, a bee keeper with lots of tidbits about bees was interesting. We highly recommend this event.
Linda McKegney — Google review
I really enjoyed walking around and seeing the history from when the people first arrived from Switzerland and throughout the years. The history is informative. They are closed for the winter but open again in the spring. I added some photos I took while visiting.
Lyle B — Google review
The Swiss Historical Village is a unique opportunity to learn about the settlers in New Glarus, WI through a self-guided walking tour.
New Glarus or the Swiss Colony was established in 1885 by the people emigrating from Canton Glarus, Switzerland 🇨🇭.
This village has both original and replica buildings. The tools, buggies, fire trucks and cheese kettle are original to the area. In fact the cheese factory will be making cheese again in October as part of Octoberfest.
Craft brewery featuring a tasting room, gifts, self-guided tours & reservation-only hard hat tours.
This is one of the best breweries we have ever visited. The buildings are so beautiful with the Swiss theme. The outside tasting area is so relaxing, & beautiful! You good stay there all day and enjoy the great tasting beer while relaxing & enjoying nature. Clean & beautiful. Looking forward when they can be fully open on the weekends for more people to enjoy. The gift shop has something for everyone. Love the home of the Spotted cow! Thank you to all the staff who make it a great place to visit.
Maggie81 — Google review
For years I have been giving people money if the get to visit here. Well now it's my turn! I loved it here! The self tour was fun as it allowed us to see everything at our own pace. The tap room and beer room were fun too! So many great flavors and old standards. I will always be a supporter of New Glarus Brewing.
Marc Gregory — Google review
Had a day off so I went to the New Glarus Brewing Company, I wanted to come here before I left Wisconsin, really kool place. Unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to take the tour but I bought some really nice souvenirs to take back with me, which I thought were reasonably priced, also taking a case of spotted cow back with me. 👍🏽
Dagoberto J Rodriguez — Google review
One of my favorite breweries of all time. I’ve been drinking their beer for 2 decades. We finally made a trip to visit the brewery and were not disappointed. The tour and tastings were great. I wish I could have bought more souvenirs to bring home. We had a great visit and will come back any time we return to the area.
Lane Milde — Google review
It's one of my favorite breweries ever. Have been here twice in my life, and both have been the capstone of amazing road trips to get here. The tour is fun, people are friendly, and the beer is downright amazing. Amazing enough, I accidently told my coworkers where I was going, and well, the cases ordered almost didn't fit in the car.
Jakob Barker — Google review
So glad we FINALLY made it down to New Glarus to see the brewery and have some fresh and tasty brews! So cool to be able to walk the grounds at our own pace. We did not do the guided tour but I'm sure it would be amazing! Had some snow falling when we were there which made for awesome pictures of the exterior of the building as well! Highly highly recommend! Note: brewery only open during the weekday
Anthony Harrington — Google review
Been wanting to come here for a long time. Bulk ordering area is nice. Self guided tour is cool. All the cool places to walk and sit is awesome. The beer serving area could be better… I’m sure they were transitioning to another area. Love it. Excited to mule 3 cases of spotted cow home to Texas!
Jonathan Oetken — Google review
Took the self guided tour of complete processing amazing set up very clean and well planned set up. staff quite courteous.
Bear testing is very exciting though changeable one must go for tasting. we spend about 2 hours enjoying everything.
Sunil Thaker — Google review
Enjoyed the self guided tour and the beer tasting. As a hard core fan of spotted cow beer, this was an informative tour that was on our list for the last 3years.
Tours allow you to see the brewing process, fermentation tanks, bottling, labeling and packaging.
Self guided tours are offered on weekdays up until 5pm. Hard hat tours are limited to Friday for a max of 20people.
The beer depot offers all their beer ranges to take home.
Pruthvi Ks — Google review
Old-world charm .... good place to tour to see how beer is produced.
On weekends, the alphorns play.
Beer tasting & buying along with a gift shop & small museum about the history of beer. It was a very nice experience... like being in Europe!
Mary Soddy — Google review
New Glarus Brewing Company offers amazing beers of highest quality and taste. Spotted Cow is the flagship beer, and probably the best beer available. The hard hat tour is pretty amazing, for the pride and passion that goes into every bottle, keg, and can is inspiring.
Clinton Stumpf — Google review
Fun brewery to tour and a great gift shop. Unfortunately they are currently not open on the weekends. The beer garden is really nice. You have to buy tickets for beers. They have some common stuff on tap but also some you don't see often. With your first beer you get a souvenir glass and a drink token for one of the fun local bars so if you plan on stopping in town it's a great deal.
M D — Google review
Amazing Brewery, with an Amazing story!
Gorgeous property, with a great experience!
Self guided tour was really great with plenty of information to make it a great experience. There’s a video about the entire history of the brewery, the family, and how “Spotted Cow” came to be. ADA accessible. Plenty of restrooms so you can take your time and be casual on your time here. There’s a sampling area, where you can buy a 3 drink sampler, or your favorite pint. You get to keep your glass, and a free drink token to enjoy a beer at participating locations. Gift shop with a great selection of local items, including Bobs B*tchin BBQ sauce! Absolutely love this brewery!!
Daily Driver — Google review
The brewery is great with a great story along with it. They let you walk around in a self-guided tour, and the grounds are great too! It's a cool town, too... check out downtown New Glarus, they call it 'little Switzerland'
David Renard — Google review
This is a quaint brewery to tour. It looks like a German village. The success story of the owners is wonderful. We were not able to get tickets for the hard hat tour since they were sold out. We enjoyed the self guided tour and a sample
Adele — Google review
Really like the grounds, location and the tour and take home beers. Tasting room could be improved. Just 3 standing tables. Add some seating and tables to make it more welcoming.
Baumgartner's Cheese Store & Tavern is a historic establishment that has been serving customers since 1931. It offers a delightful combination of a cheese and specialty food shop along with a charming tavern where visitors can enjoy local beers and pub-style meals. The cozy interior features wooden booths, while the outdoor patio provides an ideal setting for enjoying cold beer during the summer months. The tavern is renowned for its wide selection of gourmet cheeses, which are featured in their popular rye bread sandwiches.
Stopped in to try their new menu item of burgers which we've heard so many positive things about. Delicious! Hand formed patties, served with Mrs Mike's potato chips, and several selections of what I call uniquely named beers to go with your meal! Definitely a win! Great service as always!
DeB Marshall — Google review
A portal back to 1940 depression era Midwest. Similar to the "No Fuss" sandwiches that your grandma would be serving up any weekday lunch. Scratches an itch that I didn't know I had. If you are anywhere in the area, make a point to stop.
Rachel Gall — Google review
Nice and cozy tavern known for their wide selection of cheese. The place is known for rye bread sandwiches pack with gourmet cheese and deli of choice. Which pair perfectly with their award winning chilies! Also don’t miss out on the mustard honey that they have in a squeeze bottle on the table, a true game changer!
The atmosphere indoors interior is cozy with wooden booths, while the outdoor patio is perfect for cold beer in the summer.
Additionally you can also just walk up to the counter and buy the locally made cheeses as well. The staff was super friendly when I asked her to cut the limburger log, rewrap them and pack it separately for me!
A*T — Google review
Love this place. Cool atmosphere, Great service. Good food at very reasonable prices. Get your taste of Wisconsin here. Newer additions here include more beers on tap and a grill for more hot sandwich choices. Chili is darn good.
Chris Campbell — Google review
Baumgartner's Cheese Store & Tavern is Wisconsin’s oldest cheese store, opened in 1931. They serve excellent food and have a great selection of beers, including locally brewed. They claim to have the best cheese sandwiches in the world. I can’t vouch for that but the pastrami sandwich was top notch! The staff was great, very knowledgeable about the beer and food especially the various cheeses and pairings.
Adam C. — Google review
Wow!! Go out of your way to get here. Great atmosphere, unbelievable food, and great scenery Nd history. This palce has German written all over it. The pastrami sandwich was to die for and be careful with the horseradish mustard! It'll getcha! I bought two jars
D Wade — Google review
What a quaint place on the town square. The Gouda soup with rye croutons was fabulous. Never having eatemlimburgwr cheese, I tried the limburger burger and was not disappointed. Will definitely go ago.
Janice Roush — Google review
Glad you are back open! The tomato basil bisque soup was amazing and of course the original Baumies Style sandwich of: Braunschweiger/Brick cheese/raw onion and that amazing mustard, on soft dark rye bread. Yum!!!! Great service as well!
Kristine Nelson — Google review
Best burger I've had in a long time! The people are very friendly!
We will definitely be going back.
Christina Williams — Google review
Fantastic and memorable place to have a meal. Everything about this place is awesome. Burgers were amazing and curry chicken sandwich the same. Great staff, food, beer and Landjaegers!
Matt Z3 — Google review
Loved this place. Excellent cheese sandwiches. Very reasonable priced. Feels like you are stepping back in time
Robert Umans — Google review
Best Reuben I’ve ever had. Service was fast and friendly. I was there for a quick lunch break, self seated, server was at the table almost immediately, ordered a Reuben and a Coke, server was right back with the coke, by the time I poured it out of the can and took the first few sips my sandwich was at the table. The sandwich itself was superb, topped with the excellent service, I’d definitely recommend checking this place out. I live more than an hour away and will be coming back just to visit this gem.
Ben Tennier — Google review
Fun little spot for a quick bite or a drink with friends. The Reuben is great! Really nice service and friendly staff. Wisconsin's oldest cheese store with a lot to look at in a cool atmosphere.
Tracy Graham — Google review
I had this saved on my bucket list to try because the Limburger sandwich, I want sure if I ever would make it until I traveled for work and realized I was only 2 hours away. I had to go, I did and it was fantastic! I was early in the day so way before the lunch rush but that sandwich was something I wish we had in North Carolina! I will for sure be back when I’m in the area or even driving distance. Next time I will try some other things.
Raphael Tehandon — Google review
An amazing cheese experience ..
Visiting from Texas! We know Wisconsin has legendary cheese and was on a mission to find some .. we found it in Baumgartner's
A friend recommended this place and we were not disappointed. The service was good but the food was great.
I can't say enough about our food .. good cheese is so satisfying. It was a cold day in January 2023 we had the tomatoes basil bisque warm thick and tasty. Tuna melt topped with slice of tomatoes and cheddar, pastrami and Swiss on rye served with extra cheese and a pickle 😋
Its an awesome atmosphere serving awesome food . We highly recommend 👌
Genie — Google review
A kitschy Wisconsin institution! Truthfully this is a glorified bar but it’s certainly a unique institution. The beer selection is good, featuring about 20 rotating taps, featuring Wisconsin breweries. They also had a decent selection of non-alcoholic beers (although that may have been supplemented for dry January). The menu is simple, featuring “room-temperature sandwiches” (their words!) with Wisconsin cheeses and meats. They also have several daily soups. The real selling-point is the ambiance. The walls are covered in interesting artwork, the chairs are handmade and the environment is cozy. If you want a great Wisconsin experience, this is a top destination and won’t disappoint!
Paul Levine — Google review
Excellent food and service. Ample street parking on the square. Very good selection of cheeses for sale.
10/10 experience. The staff is so kind and attentive. The drinks are great and the tasting menu provides a nice mix of different drinks to try.
Amanda Dawn — Google review
Lunch at the Minhaus kitchen was delicious. Service was fantastic. They get 5 stars.
We then headed to the distillery 3 drink tickets $18. The young man who waited on us was engaging and friendly. After using only 2 tickets for each person in our group of 8 we left to fo the 3 pm tour across the street only to find it was canceled for a private event. We made several purchases and headed back to use our other 8 drink tickets for our party of 8 , it was 4:20 pm we were told they were closed and we couldn't use them by the " manager".
We said we drove quite a ways for tour but it canceled. She said " what do you want me to do reimburse your gas money?" She had a few more rude comments, so we left. Certainly not the way to treat people. Especially if you want repeat customers. We each should have been reimbursed for our extra tickets. We had 40 minutes to drink one small drink!
Kim Gowman — Google review
A fun place to stop to try a little bit of everything! We were recommended by friends and we're not disappointed. We got there late but still enjoyed a tasting at the distillery. They do tasting by choosing a flight of drinks. You can choose one from each menu, etc. Three drinks in all for a great price. Love the atmosphere and decor. Great merch selection too. If you're looking for high end whiskey this isn't it but it's good and perfect for drinks. My husband tried the absinthe too which is super cool!
Sue Shinbori — Google review
This is specifically about the distillery. Basically all information about “tours” here is a lie with the exception that they give you samples, although the samples are in cocktails off their menu which makes it impossible to know what the spirits actually taste like. Also we signed up and paid for a tour but then they said tours were not available because of safety reasons so it was really just the tasting. Then they kick you out after they’ve expected you to down three cocktails in less than an hour. Doesn’t seem like they are ACTUALLY concerned about safety. Then there’s the issue of how they claim they give you a glass and a spirit as a “thank you gift” but we all left empty handed. If your policies have changed, fine but maybe update your website and Facebook pages plus all of the other places I had read about these “tours” because they are all lies.
Carla Grzybowski — Google review
We were stopping at the brewery across the street and after unloading our purchases, we stepped in to what might be our new favorite day drinking destination. Interesting video tour played while we enjoyed our cocktails from the sampler menu. We are used to sipping shots of straight spirits during a distillery stop and you have that option at Minhas as well. Getting full size cocktails was the right choice for us. $12 per person got us each three cocktails, a traveler of their vodka and a mini Mason jar souvenir. The spirits on the shelves were reasonably priced and we found some sale items that made me feel like I was doing something illegal the prices were so good. We were stopping on the way from St. Louis to the Dells so this would be a once a year visit for us. We did meet a couple who made the trip from Rockford for a day trip to enjoy Monroe and the distillery.
Bob Lee — Google review
Awesome place. They only do tastings but their selections do not disappoint. My favorite was the Irish coffee. Be sure to check out the absinthe!!
Sarah Phenia — Google review
Wonderful experience at the Distillery & Brewery! Great atmosphere & staff. Loved the beverages we were served. Wish we had planned better & could have done the Winery too, but time would not allow. We will definitely be back to do the Trifecta! Highly recommend!
Sally Becher — Google review
They give an excellent tour. The samples make choosing from all their beers easy. The gift shop has something for everyone.
Jaci Czerwinski — Google review
Amazing food. Amazing drinks. Awesome staff. Truly, a hidden gem within the woods of Southern Wisconsin.
We WILL be back...for the Christmas Vacation drink menu...😉
Thanks for the Dill Pickle Pizza...soooo good...🤤
...hey everyone reading this...try this place! Now. Or...now. Try it now.
letswinealot.com
😘 yum
Tina Maria — Google review
Love it! We always have a good time and get to try new drinks every time! It's a hidden gem!
Just spent only a couple of hours in this park, on the way back home, so we were just able to check out Stephens' Falls, which is a 5 minute walk from parking lot to the falls. Nice little waterfall. Will visit again in the summer to check out the beach and hike some of the interesting trails.
Keertu Anil — Google review
My favorite state park! I've been camping here since I was a little one and we continue to visit annually with our family and friends in summer and fall. It is a beautiful park with superb hiking spots, a large family-friendly beach, and has many private wooded campsites. I've been to other state parks to camp and I always compare the sites to this park...I've been spoiled! There are a variety of hiking trails ranging from an easy walk to see the waterfall, and more challenging loops to see views from the cliffs. My only negative comment is the restroom facilities/showers have gone downhill in terms of cleanliness, but I understand limited staffing and resources have impacted this. We will still return because we love the park!
Nicole Braun-Cripe — Google review
First time camping at this park. Twin Valley campground is very nice no full hookup for campers, that should never be a deterrent, ever. Flushable toilets that were spotless and heated (early spring camping). Wood for campfire is 6$ cash and is decent wood actually. Had a double site that had plenty of space. The beach was clean and the water was clear enough to see the fish and turtles swimming by. The trails lead to amazing views of the lake or rock bluffs and outcroppings, caves and nature views. A weekend is not nearly enough time to spend on these trails.
Kenneth Barkulis — Google review
Love all that this park has to offer! Great location, camping, 2 lakes, fishing, beaches, lots of trails, waterfalls, and more. Great lake for kayaking since it's electric motors only for boats. One of my favorite places to fish since it's local! I've caught quite a few nice fish here over the years! Twin Valley Lake is a popular musky lake.
On nice weather days, it tends to get quite busy.
If ya ever see Reel 'Em Angling Co. out here fishing, feel free to say hi! That's me and the company I own! 🙂🎣🐟
Em, The Reel Em Angler — Google review
Cox Hollow Beach is always a great place for a day trip. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day the beach is well taken care of. Rent a paddle boat or different boat at the concession stand and take it around the lake. Head down to Stephen's falls for a fun view of the water fall and a fun hike in the woods.
Katie Liek — Google review
We love Governor Dodge State Park!
Camping is great at both Cox Hollow and Twin Valley Campgrounds. Cox Hollow is limited with electric sites, so there are many more tent camping options, while Twin Valley has an abundance of electric sites. That being said, we've learned to book early (11 months out), or we may not get a spot.
If you're not a camper, the park has many other opportunities to enjoy.
There are two beaches, one (Cox Hollow), offers concessions. If you're feeling like an ice cream cone, stop at Cox Hollow for a very generous scoop of your favorite flavor!
For people with dogs, there is also a dog beach for your furry friend to enjoy.
There is hiking galore.... Make sure to pick up a park map that outlines all the hiking trails and interesting points of interest, including Stephens Falls and horse riding trails.
Vicki Bentley — Google review
Our local go-to for summer swimming in the spring fed lake, or is there river running through it? Regardless, it is clean, though sometimes a bit heavy with algae. Though there are no farms with drainage into the lake, no cattle grazing... so that is so nice! It is never crowded at the beach we use, and there are toilets, and a shower. Additionally, there is another lake, with two beaches, and a place to get some food. Both lakes have plenty of parking, the park has good signage, and your State of Wisconsin parks sticker has you covered. There are at least two places for horseback riding, though I think it is all BYOH. There is at least one campground for horse folks, built with all that means in mind. Trailers, horse tie-outs, etc?
On the way to the park are several places to buy bait, and one beach has some boats, though not motor boats. There are birds a plenty, for a day trip, or lots of camping for your pleasure. The entry has a pay window, and I believe there is an interpretive center, possibly with bits and bobs to buy? Plenty of wood is available once you are in the park, so Do Not Bring Your Own Wood. I've learned that bringing wood from other locations can wreak havoc in a beautiful wooden place like this, by bringing in invasive pests. It may seem petty, because to your eye, you cannot see anything amiss, but believe me, some of the worst destruction happens from bacteria, fungi, viruses, and insects. You'll be doing your children and grandchildren an incalculable favor. So, a great park, well worth the visit!
M L — Google review
A great state park that offers up quite a bit of variety - two lakes, hiking trails of various difficulty, campsites and picnic areas, an interesting cave, a small waterfall…the list goes on!
I’m a fan of how much less busy this park is than devils lake, albeit less challenging hikes and slightly less breathtaking viewpoints. Still worth checking out, and it’s enormous!
Joshua A — Google review
Great park! Huge! Great facilities and very nice campsites. Lots of trails but many have quite steep hills and this can be exhausting.
Stephens Falls is a big attraction. Make sure to check out the Spring House. It was very crowded this weekend but it’s the height of the season so you can’t complain about the numbers. The large groups of families who may or may not live in manufactured homes are a shock but everyone gets to enjoy the parks and I’ll just be nice.
Close enough to all kinds of attractions that you can visit on rainy days. House on the Rock is just 4 minutes up the road. Lots of good produce along the roads
I’ll be back but definitely during the week and maybe earlier or later in the season.
Scott H — Google review
Beautiful scenery and well kept campground in Wisconsin. Lots of trails and places to ride bikes; awesome for bird watching, also. Playgrounds and picnic areas with two lakes, concessions, and boat rentals. We rented a canoe for 2 plus the dog for 2 hours $28 bucks!
Kerry Burns — Google review
This is fun place to camp. Our campsite (campsite B) had toilets near our site and a shower/toilet facility about a 5 minute walk away. Beaches and other points of interest (may be too far to walk to depending on campsite and campers)
Pros
- Roomy site to camp
- Conveniently located restrooms
- 2 beaches
- Waterfall, trails, and some historical sites
Cons
- Campsite wasn't very level
- Points of interest were kind of far to walk to
Matt Coates — Google review
I’ve been coming to this state park my whole life and I always have an amazing time. There’s so much to do! We stayed in the Cox Hollow campground and it was great. We stayed on a Thursday and there was not very many people! One thing I thought there would be but there wasn’t was a grate on the fire pit to put pots on.
Emily Roman — Google review
Great place to camp in all seasons. The park is pretty empty in the winter. But it's trails are .beautiful
Sueanne Hagemann — Google review
Great park, very clean and there are a lot of hiking trails. They are shared with horse trails so you'll see a lot of horses if you go hiking. It was mushroom season, and they were everywhere! We were lucky it rained recently so the ground was damp and the sand on the trails were easy to walk through.
We stayed at the twin lakes campground and it is very shady and dog friendly. First camp ground I went to with shared twin sites connected next to each other for bigger parties. Great for both RVs and tents.
Kimberly Kwan — Google review
LOVE this state park!! I’d say it’s probably one of the best in all of Wisconsin! Plenty of hiking trails, 2 small lakes with rental options for kayaks, canoe, rowboat, paddle boards, etc. prices are very reasonable! Beaches are great, and kid friendly with food options at the concession stands. They also sell bait if you plan to fish! Camping sites are great, and well kept. Shower rooms are great, warm water for us was hit or miss, and the park was only about 10% full. None the less, I’ll absolutely be back. There’s so much gorgeous scenery and wildlife here, you’ll certainly stay busy!
Daily Driver — Google review
Incredible State Park. The waterfall is definitely the main attraction here. Given the dry spell this summer the waterfall was not as full as in previous years, but still worth a look.
There are a multitude of trails of varying degrees of milege and landscape types. The "Lost Canyon" trail has to be one of my favorites as you get to walk between some incredible rock formations and then climb to a higher elevation. If you walk one of the trails that horses can use, look out for horse poop.
There are a great variety of horse trails (with plenty of horse trailer parking), beach, campground, and plenty of parking throughout the park.
This park is also dog friendly- I loved getting to say hi to everyone's adorable pooches.
Incredible views of the fall colors as well. Will definitely come back to explore some more trails.
Grace Marchello — Google review
My favorite state park in the area. Not as busy as Devil's Lake but still a lot of activities to do. The Stephens Falls / Lost Canyon loop is great year round and not too bad of a hike for pets or kids.
Kyle H — Google review
Despite camping in this region for a while it was my first time visiting here. It feels a lot like a mini devils lake. There are plenty of good hikes. Lots of cool history to check out. There is a little dog beach too. Once you arrive, you basically don’t need to leave the park as everything can be purchased there. One of the best things were the large and very private campgrounds in the Cox Hollow section. If you’re from Chicago, this is a great short trip and a great way to get avoid devils lake crowds.
Lovely Wisconsin Historical Society site. It's a Cornish mining settlement from the 1800s (one of the mines is across the street and you can walk the trails). In the 1930s two men bought and preserved many of the buildings. Admission price gets you a guided tour..ours lasted about 45 minutes. There are a couple buildings you can visit on your own. Nice little gift shop as well. Bottled water is available to purchase and there is a drinking fountain by the restrooms too. Parking area is in a lot kitty corner to the site. The whole Mineral Point area is rich with history and there are so many beautiful historic buildings.
Jennifer W — Google review
Well worth the $10 admission. Our guide told us wonderful stories of the area and historical buildings for an hour while going in and out of several historic buildings.
Karen Tracy — Google review
The small museum includes several small buildings centered around a former restaurant open ed by a couple of guys partially to save old buildings from mining times. We went for a tour, and the story about how a "startup" restaurant survived in the middle of nowhere is interesting, though there are no very special artifacts. There was a knowledgeable person in the group who asked questions and sometimes was giving answers more interesting than the guide, and it was a very big plus.
Alexander Shemyakin — Google review
We visited on a Saturday in Sept 2022. The buildings are amazing! Made by the miners and masons in the area, and later restored by two visionary men, they are now open for visitors. The stonework is beautiful, and the upper buildings are rustic and historic. We were the only two folks on our tour, which was led by a friendly, personable, and knowledgeable young man -- he loved history and it really showed thru! Mineral Point has lot of other stuff to do, but this was the highlight for us. We are members of the Wisconsin State Historical Society, so admission was free. Recommended!
Matthew Eash — Google review
Visit to learn the very interesting, unique Cornish mining history in the driftless area and Mineral Point. Also learn about the couple who restored the property. Highly recommended!
Shahla Werner — Google review
Unique history on how the place was saved and restored. Nice hike with history of mining across the street.
Tim Zinkgraf — Google review
A beautiful and amazing place! Remember to practice Leave No Trace! It's not a trail, but it is a historical site that is proudly cared for by volunteers and employees alike. So, it's important to use the appropriate receptacles for your garbage rather than leaving them on the ground for someone else to deal with.
Cap_N_ Munch — Google review
We are members of the Wisconsin Historical Society and love visiting all of the sites, but Pendarvis and Villa Louie are absolutely great every time!
Hilly riverside area on 1,907 acres for outdoor sports, wildlife-spotting, picnics & camping.
Small but a very scenic park with nice hiking trails and winding bluffs, will definitely camp there when we get a chance.
Keertu Anil — Google review
Loved this peaceful little place!
So many of the negative reviews give it one or two stars because there isn't enough to do here or the trails are too short, or the campground is too small etc. But I think that's the charm! You can camp here and not be on top of hundreds of other people like at most other state campgrounds you come across (here in Illinois or across the border in Wisconsin). It doesn't draw crowds because of its size, so you get to have the hiking trails and view points mostly, if not fully, to yourself.
I solo camped two nights and spent one day hiking the trails, taking pics, hanging out at the campfire, and reading down by the water. It was so very relaxing and quiet. I then used it as a base the next day and drove out to Mississippi Palisades. Glad I didn't camp there, it was crowded and passed lots of people on the trails! But a good distance for a drive from Apple River in the morning, with beautiful countryside in between.
Some other reviews mentioned that the trails were not marked and hard to find and to follow. Not true. Every trail has a big sign right at the entrance and very clear, paths. They can be a bit muddy and aren't covered in gravel or anything. But they are clear to follow and line right up with the maps they have at the office and that the camp host handed out.
All in all, 5 stars from me!
Christine Noelle — Google review
First trip here. Scouting potential fishing spots. The river is crystal clear but very shallow in most places. The landscapes are beautiful. I didn't walk the trails, but they look very inviting.
Roger Terhune — Google review
The park is beautiful and it wasn't very busy. There were a few trails that were nice in the woods but I preferred to walk near the water. The Tower Rock trail was my favorite and a moderate hike.
Nena Starks — Google review
An amazing place. Great trails with tall bluffs along the crystal clear Apple river. Smallmouth can be found in deep pools. Towering pines and mature oaks, secluded campsites. A hidden gem.
Steve P — Google review
Absolutely amazing first time here with my wife we walked all over enjoyed the beautiful day in the one the most beautiful state parks in our area
0l blue c10 — Google review
Caught my first trout there. Beautiful water to wade throughout and up and down, explored it all. Beautiful 😍 water and environment. Few dead fish from people probably leaving it out or throwing em back in after a while but Beautiful. Must fish and see
Jazzmyn Eden — Google review
Beautiful park. We were there a couple days after it snowed so there was a lot of snow on the trails & my little chihuahua didn’t like that, so we mostly walked on the roads between the trails & in the campgrounds. It was gorgeous. Can’t wait to go back when it’s not covered in so much snow.
Billy S — Google review
Anemoia is the feeling of nostalgia for a time you’ve never known. I don’t remember if I came here as a kid but it has incredible views. Some of the trails are quite grueling with elevation changes.
N8 C — Google review
Apple River Canyon State Park is a beautiful park located in northwest Illinois, near the town of Stockton. The park is known for its scenic limestone bluffs and the clear waters of the Apple River. The park is an outstanding recreational area for hiking, fishing, camping, picnicking, and nature photography. There are several miles of hiking trails that offer scenic views of the river, waterfalls, and bluffs. Options for camping and lodging at or near the park. This is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to explore the beauty of Illinois.
Liz DeHaan — Google review
Nice little spot to car camp. There are some really nice wooded sites that offer lots of privacy, but most of the sites are not too close to the point that you’re right next to anyone. Beautiful area especially in the fall.
alienfelines — Google review
Great campsite! Sites were very private and somewhat secluded. There was a winding path between our campsite and that of our friends, so we had access but also privacy. The trails are steep in areas, so hiking is definitely "rugged." We'll visit again.
Philene Harston — Google review
We did the Primrose trail, the River Route, and the Tower hill trail at the park. Each trail is about 1-1.5 miles where you turn around and backtrack the trail. The River Route was our favorite because of the view of the River, however each of the trails provided views of the river and had appealing walks through the forest and on high lookout spots. Trails are dog friendly, but rugged terrain in certain spots. Plenty of parking and beautiful views of the canyon and river.
Bailey Felter — Google review
Excellent to enjoy the stream at the river. Good place to fish. Very calm, quiet and peaceful. Good for picnic. Didn’t find any nicely maintained playground though.
Incredible! I actually got to see my car rolling uphill. Not as dramatic as some other reviewers were expecting, but cool nevertheless. Stop by if you are in the area.
Alex de la Torre — Google review
Feel like I missed something here! I didn't notice anything interesting! Thought maybe I was on the wrong hill or trying it facing the wrong direction so I ended up moving my car around at least 6 times to try it before giving up. There's nothing special about this hill vs the hundreds of other country roads that look exactly the same 🤷♀️
Christine Noelle — Google review
After we did it wrong, we asked someone how to do it properly. She said it would be subtle, around 5 mph, but we were able to hit 20 mph or so backwards. It's awesome.
Takashi Hedger — Google review
This was very fascinating! If you are near the area, I would recommend this phenomenon. Look for the sign. It gives you directions on how it works.
Sheila Ipsen — Google review
It was so unreal. I would never have believed it if i had not seen it for myself. Definitely worth the drive
Robyn Flowers — Google review
It’s a quick stop but don’t drive too far out of your way for it.
Chad S — Google review
This was a really cool side attraction while traveling through! We got to see some Wisconsin and Illinois back country which was beautiful. The hill itself was awesome to experience in the vehicle and out.
On a side note: the hill made me feel almost intoxicated. The optical illusion messed with my equilibrium im guessing. I would recommend swinging by here if your in the area!
Please use caution though!!! Its on a public roadway and not a "safe" location. Be sure to watch for traffic!!!!!
Eric Doering — Google review
I'm glad this was our second experience with a gravity hill because this one was not very exciting.
The landscape as we experienced it didn't seem to give the full effect.
It's still a fun stop if you happen to be traveling nearby and have a bit of extra time on your hands.
Giving it a 3/5 because we are fans of quirky roadside experiences. If that isn't your thing you may not get much out of this at all.
Wanderfish — Google review
This was so cool! Really fun to experience with family. Just pull up and put the car and neutral and up you go!
Michael BULLDOG Behles — Google review
Very cool spot, highly recommended to visit as an oddity along your travels. Best illusion is starting at the signs facing towards the hill and rolling backwards.
William Stocker — Google review
I wouldn't drive an hour out of the way, but if you happen to be in the area with 5 minutes to spare, it's certainly worth the stop (and roll). Facing South and rolling backwards is the best way to experience it. Had three younger teens in the car that just couldn't comprehend what was happening!
Brian Sullivan — Google review
4.4
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4.5
(35)
3999 Co Rd U, Shullsburg, WI 53586, USA
22
The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums
Museum
Local history museum
Museum with tours of the Bevans Lead Mine as it was in 1845, with rides in a 1931 mine train.
We stopped in on our way to another destination. The exhibit is very nicely put together. There are many stairs DOWN and obviously back UP from the mine. You will be required to wear hard hat. The tour was nice. The guide was very knowledgeable the only issue is she has a naturally quiet voice so it was hard to hear stuff with the size of our group. There are restrooms in main lobby. Some snacks and drinks in gift center.
Jamie Hamrick — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Everyone was so friendly and informative, from the young man who signed us in, to our guide, who was exceptional. He was very knowledgeable and informative. He was exceptionally patient and kind to our grandson. He even let him ring the bell on the train, which is a very big deal for an 8 year old!
Christine Brettingen — Google review
Very informative tour, with friendly, knowledgable guide Great value tickets as well.
Mark Pearce — Google review
We stopped in on our way to another destination. The exhibit is very nicely put together. There are many stairs DOWN and obviously back UP from the mine. You will be required to wear hard hat. The tour was nice. The guide was very knowledgeable the only issue is she has a naturally quiet voice so it was hard to hear stuff with the size of our group. There are restrooms in main lobby. Some snacks and drinks in gift center.
Jamie Hamrick — Google review
We went for a 4th grade field trip. It fit well with the fourth grade social studies and science standards. If you are going on a museum tour with a guide it would be good to let them know what you are focusing on. They may be able to focus more on your curriculum.
Annalyce Strohfeldt — Google review
I really enjoyed The Haunted Mine tour. It was full of ghost stories from around the area. The keepsake "protection" bag was a lovely touch and a great souvenir.
The staff was friendly and it was very apparent that they had a love for the mine and it's history.
jenninowak — Google review
Very nice mine. I was supposed to get a light but I think the tour guide forgot. His flashlight did shine in my eyes several times He knew plenty of things. Gave us a decent tour.
John Lattimore — Google review
Our tour guide Maria was great. She was well versed on the history of the mine, the area & very engaging with those of us on the tour. The tour was fantastic. The train ride is fun & gives a nice view of the grounds.The displays in this museum as well as the Rollo jamison portion of it will keep you busy for hours.
MajikMan747 — Google review
Local tourist highlight. History of the region, antique collection stretching back 150 years, tin and lead mibextid tour and operational lead mine railway repurposed for passengers. Annual heritage day is July 4th.
Scott Adams — Google review
Nice museum with easy access to a former mine of lead. The access to zinc mine (lower) has been lost, or at least not accessible to general public. Well organized, lit. Plenty of artifacts and manikins dressed as miners. The guide, a retired mine engineer, was very knowledgeable.
Aurelian I — Google review
Very informative tour, with friendly, knowledgable guide Great value tickets as well.
Mark Pearce — Google review
This is the second time we have visited the museum and took the tour. It's very interesting and informative. When you go down into the mine you get to walk down into it and walk around which is very amazing.
Sarah Jurgensen — Google review
Nice little museum. The mine tour was a big hit with the whole family. Interesting and informative.
Nathan Fleming — Google review
Great museum. Full of local history. So many things to see. They also give a mine tour that is so cool. Highly recommend stopping.
Great tour, Bar, and social area. Their Whisky, Gin, Vodka, and Rum are all excellent. Definitely a must stop if you’re coming to Galena!
Tim W. — Google review
Fantastic place. We went about 2 hours before close. Not a lot of people in there but enough to have fun. We sat at the bar and were promptly greeted by Lexy. We perused the menu and I ordered a smoked old fashioned. My wife didn’t know what to have and Lexy suggested a cocktail that she liked. Both drinks were amazing. It was definitely the best old fashioned I’ve ever had. I then wanted to try their gin, and Lexy suggested 50 shades of your mom. Lexy wins again. Smelled EXACTLY like a lemon shake-up. Tasted so good I limited myself to one because I think I could have tried to drink 30 of them. The .5 oz flights of spirits are great for sampling without committing to one you may not like (but they’re all great so that won’t happen) We had an awesome time chatting at the bar with Lexy and I absolutely would come back here again!
Patrick Supan — Google review
We enjoyed the tour of the distillery with Richard. He is knowledgeable and approachable. The bar keep were friendly and offered suggestions. The seating area was comfortable but the majority of the tables are too high for an individual using a wheelchair; everything else was accessible.
Dina Perkins — Google review
So many delicious cocktails to try and the bartenders are super friendly! Did the tour a couple years ago and it was very interesting/informative
Taylor Loewen — Google review
This is my second time at Blaum Bros. The staff is always friendly and there is just a good vibe there. They added a lot of new games and decor. Wish I lived closer because this would be my go-to place!
Busted Classic Garage — Google review
Stopped in here with a group of friends on my wife's birthday weekend. To say the least this place didn't disappoint. Delicious drinks served by both knowledgeable and attentive bartenders for an affordable price. Everyone we dealt with was friendly and quick to answer any question we may had. Our battender explained the drinks in question and offered advice in regards wo which ones we'd probably like based on our normal drinking habits. We all tried several different drinks and even came up with a few of our own. My absolute favorite though was one that was made with their very own Hellfyre Vodka and blood orange... We all had such a good time and we're already planning a return trip in the near future.
Bradley Hull — Google review
It's really nice, comfortable seating in an upscale vibe establishment. The drinks were a decent pour. Try it!
Katherine — Google review
Gary was a wonderful guide and we enjoyed the tour. We had a couple drinks and they were good. My husband enjoyed watching them smoke his old fashioned drink. The bartenders are knowledgeable and gave me good recommendations.
Katydid Bug — Google review
Blaum Bros. has amazing beverages. Each one I tried was very good. I was pleasantly surprised by the Hellfyre vodka- it wasn’t one I would have tried if I had been given it on the tour and I ended up loving it. Dennis the tour guide was great! He was informative and friendly. I appreciate that kids are welcome. Mark the cat was a hit on the tour. The signature drinks at the bar were delicious. The facility is clean and very nice.
Cadence Giddings — Google review
We went to Galena for a quick weekend getaway and signed up for a tour at Blaum Bros. Fun atmosphere and very cool bar area! Gary, our tour guide was so friendly and made it so much fun! Very fascinating process to see! And we had some really good drinks! Highly recommend stopping here if ever in Galena!
Chana Evans — Google review
We went to the location on Main Street in Galena. The place has a great atmosphere. We got You Too, Brutas drink and it was like an orange dreamscicle. We also got to see someone get a smoked Old Fashioned which was fun! Would be interested to go to the other location for a tour and tasting
Bailey Felter — Google review
Fantastic cocktails and a tour to boot! The tour guide is incredibly knowledgeable about spirits, and history of spirits which added a nice touch to our experience. Samples at the end!
We enjoyed a couple rounds from the cocktail menu, and nothing disappointed. Highly recommend just about everything in the menu. One in our party stated it was the "best damn chocolate martini she's ever had ".
Ya'll, the bourbon and the hellfire vodka are worth the visit!
Brandy Jay — Google review
The tour was great. Gary did a wonderful job of explaining the history of the business and the process. He made it a fun tour.
Sonia S. — Google review
Wow what a place! I had never been to a distillery before so I’m glad my husband suggested a tour of this gem while visiting Galena. All of the staff were extremely friendly and kind and helpful. Our tour guide was great and gave information and a very fun way. I had zero idea going in how any booze was distilled and when I left I understood the process of the things that they distilled!
Needless to say the things that we tasted at the end are not my cup of tea so I cannot say whether or not their alcohol is great from a personal standpoint, but so many of the people were commenting how excellent things were and my husband told me his drinks were smooth and flavorful. I love the story of how the distillery came to be. I definitely think that you should check this place out if you are ever in the area!
The Ulysses S. Grant Home is a historic mansion built in 1859 which was given to President Ulysses S. Grant. The home features original furnishings, including chairs and tables that were used by the General and his family, making the history of the home come alive. Visitors can take guided tours led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the history of the Grant family and their home.
It really helps to understand more about Grant as a person. One gets the impression that he was a homebody. The house is very well kept. The guide was well informed and answered all the questions.
A Crowd of One — Google review
The tour is free but donations are recommended. Tours run about every 10 to 15 mins. You wait on the porch for a guide to get you. You can take all the photos you want. About 90 percent of the items in the home are original to the Grant family. Plenty of parking.
When you are done here head downtown to see an amazing Main street that looks like a movie set from the old days and then head to the Grant/Galena museum. There is a charge as it is separate from the Grant home but very much worth visiting.
Ashley Howerton — Google review
Our tour guide was awesome, very informative, was a nice step back in time. So glad Galena appreciates it's history and preserves it so well, and teaches the generations of now the glorious history of then. Thank you for having us and educating us on your rich history! All of Galena was a pleasant experience, Grant House was our favorite stop of all. Check it out and see for yourself! You won't regret it, just kind the back stairs of the Grant House, I feel for whoever had to frequent those stairs they're a dandy.
No One — Google review
It's so rare that a historic home still has the original furnishings, but that's what you find in the Grant Home. Yes, the General sat in those chairs. Yes, the family gathered at that table. It makes history so real.
Our very knowledgeable tour guide, Katherine, displayed a real passion for the home, the Grant family, and their history. I highly recommend this stop on your next visit to Galena.
Peggy E. Graves — Google review
If you're a history buff. This is a must see. There's a lot of great history here. All of the tour guides are great. You can tell that they're really passionate about the history of this home. It's just a really nice place to visit. Make sure to bring cash, because they have some cool things you can purchase.
markus russell — Google review
Great history this house is in the middle of a neighborhood that you would never expect that a US president lived there. Guide was very knowledgeable and learned a great deal. Need less than 30 minutes to see the entire thing. Great way to stretch your legs out on a ling trip. You don't need to buy a ticket but a $5 donation is suggested money goes towards the up keep.
Doug Ainsworth — Google review
This was a place that I had seen mentioned for years but had never visited. I am glad that I waited as they have added air conditioning to the property! The entry cost is by donation and the suggested amount is $5 for adults and $3 for children. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable about everything Grant! I learned so much more about our 18th president during this visit. It is truly amazing how people were able to operate without the amenities that we enjoy today and I truly respect the Grant's even more for foregoing slaves!
Brooke Trail — Google review
I had an absolutely awesome time here the other day while there was all the snow blowing in. The tour guide was beyond informative and had just the amount of dry historian humor I always look for and can appreciate. It was a pleasure being able to tour the Grant home, and I recommend it to anyone visiting Galena to stop by and look at everything in the house. I especially loved being able to see it all decked out for Christmas.
Hoosieronthemove — Google review
Beautifully preserved and well maintained with an informative staff. Tours are at top and bottom of the hour (from my memory) so be sure to get in line at the front porch on time. :)
Andy Chandler — Google review
Learned so much from this tour, which was partially guided and partially self-guided. Our tour guide was friendly and very knowledgable!
The home was relatively small, but ornate, and featured over 90% original items. The grounds are lovely and also offer a great view of the historic downtown.
The house is up on a hill so walking/going up a few flights of steps may be needed.
Elizabeth Fehring — Google review
A cool (as in, both interesting and air conditioned!) visit on a hot summer day. The tour is informative but doesn't overload you with too much information. It's a well maintained and carefully preserved historical gem of the area. There are steep stairs, so be aware if you have mobility issues. Free entry but remember to donate!
Katy Pine — Google review
The pride and joy of Galena, Illinois! This location is definitely worth a visit. I’d recommend taking the tour of the home. The tour takes you around the inside of the entire house and you can see important items/rooms of the ex-president. The tour guides are incredible at their job and invite curiosity. The tour is free, but they do expect a donation. You can wait at the front door and up to 15 minutes for the tour to start. Afterwards, you can walk around the grounds and see other artifacts and buildings.
Ryan Sutter — Google review
We visited Thursday afternoon. It was a beautiful day. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable. He led us through the Grant home with stories and facts for each area. It was amazing! I highly recommend a visit!
Michele Kempfer — Google review
Excellent tour ! Only takes about 20-30 minutes and is really cool to peek into the past and learn the History of the 18th President and family. Its free but there is a suggested donation box… however they do not accept cards so if you want to donate or buy any souvenirs bring cash 💰
Melba Lee — Google review
Great stop in historical Galena. The tour is free, but they have a donation box for facility upkeep. The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and work on a volunteer basis. The tour takes 30 minutes and it is well worth the stop!
Kelly — Google review
Spur of the moment stop ended up being in my top three favorite things we did! Our tour guide Chuck was phenomenal, and answered my many questions, and made history feel fun and tangible.
Grace Nied — Google review
To be honest, I didn't know much about President Grant, but this home was so nice and the tour guide was amazing. I would absolutely recommend this tour to anyone coming to the town.
Douglas Cole — Google review
Excellent stop while in Galena. The history told by the tour guides is great and only takes about 15 minutes. Our kids loved it too seeing all the antique furniture and way houses were furnished back then. Grant was a fascinating person and anyone who likes history should make this a stop. Runs completely on donations.
James O'Shea — Google review
A very interesting historical stop. The Grant Home grounds have several buildings to see, including a general store that you can peek inside. The Grant Home has a beautiful view. Our tour guide was very kind and knowledgeable and patient with questions from children. He shared so much information. The house is fascinating. The grounds are clean and in good repair.
Quaint museum in a stately Italianate mansion with exhibits on Ulysses S. Grant & the Civil War.
Great museum, this is also part of the Grant museum. For sure a must see if you are in town and visiting Gelena and the Grant home. They have a book you can buy that highlights parts of its past and shows its current photo and location.
Dock Dynasty — Google review
There is a ton to see here!! The most famous painting of when the Civil War ended is here and it's massive!!! There is a neat holographic movie before you get to wander around the museum!!! The gift store is full of really cool stuff!! A fair warning though-- to get to certain parts, there's flights of stairs and they're a bit steep (that's just how the houses from that time period were made though). The staff is wonderful and if you can do the stairs, the paintings are all up there!! Worth the price of admission!!!
L ONeill — Google review
Senior citizen discount.
Fun well informed staff.
Plenty to see and learn.
Gift shop reasonably priced.
Just a very nice museum, a real jewel. If you haven't been you should!
outdoor guy — Google review
If you enjoy museums, this is a must-see museum located in Galena, Illinois and it is very kindly staffed by volunteers from the Historical Society. We were able to visit the museum during the 85th anniversary celebration of the museum opening which was a special weekend where attendees were able to explore the secrets of the museum with some very cool behind-the-scenes tours. The volunteers that run this museum are top-notch and we found that they were very knowledgeable and so open to sharing their knowledge with visitors. Although the museum is packed with many treasures, we were thrilled to be able to see the 9'x12' "Peace in Union" painting which depicts Lee's surrender to General Grant. Thank you to the volunteers for all they do to maintain this museum, document, add new items, prepare exhibits, etc. In the future, the museum will move to a new, modern building in Galena.
Kris Escalante — Google review
The gentleman working the gift shop was a wealth of knowledge making our visit and absolute pleasure. Thank you!
Kevin Hacker — Google review
Absolutely loved this place! This is a small museum in downtown on Bench street which stores Galena's history, some civil war history and President Grant and his wife's memories. The house itself is old, has fine Italian marble fireplace and framework. Museum stores President Grant's world tour and Civil war memories as a General. Additionally it has a separate room dedicated to baseball history and a miniature mine open for the public to see. In the front room which used to be Grant's living room, has a really old map of Galena printed in 1854 on the wall. The view of Bench street from the window is relaxing.
Tanuka Banerjee — Google review
Beautiful museum that has a lot of information about president Grant. Was well kept and had some unique aspects that are just not available anywhere else. The mine shaft while not as interactive as expected was really cool to see regardless. The small little gift shop is also pretty cool with unique little objects. Nice staff there. They offer some really cool technologically advanced exhibits. The small radio controlled steamboat, the ghost introduction the video pieces on the first and second floor. Really cool, a must see museum.
Eduardo Alvarez — Google review
Visited the museum today and thought all the exhibits were very nice! Trina gave a short presentation at the beginning that I thought was really informative.
Michele Barry — Google review
This is General U.S. Grants homestead in Galena, IL. It is a nice museum with period furniture and furnished with items from the period when he lived in Galena after the Civil War.
Charles Woodard — Google review
If you are a history buff, this is a must! I spent HOURS here. There is so much to see and learn. Very informative and interesting. I hope this wealth of information is available for generations to come! They have my support!
For$5 you can tour the entire 3 floors of the museum. Plus you get a free beer at the bar, which would cost you$4.50 otherwise. They have lots of different displays which change about every 8 months. Very cool, well worth a visit.
Curtis Manthei — Google review
Amazing. Every beer person's dream. Tons of history and memorabilia. Beautiful signs, great neon lights, just fantastic! Spend an hour plus easily here going through each room and case.
Bikes Boats Boots WI — Google review
Great place to reminisce over all the old breweries who have kept Americans happy for ages. Perhaps my family will donate my Goebel beer sign when I don't need it any longer...
Scott Goebel — Google review
What a wonderful museum for beer enthusiasts. The place as many artifacts from breweries all over Wisconsin and the United States some which are not in existence anymore. Great facility
Michael Boroczk — Google review
Well Worth Seeing!
I have taken a few brewery tours, but the museum is different. Although not exceptionally large, there is an excellent collection of advertising, marketing items (foam scrapers), and historical photos. The museum showcases more than just the Potosi Brewery.
Sufficient parking.
Family friendly.
Handicap friendly.
Clean restrooms.
Grant Strzelczyk — Google review
Well Worth Seeing!
I have taken a few brewery tours, but the museum is different. Although not exceptionally large, there is an excellent collection of advertising, marketing items (foam scrapers), and historical photos. The museum showcases more than just the Potosi Brewery.
Sufficient parking.
Family friendly.
Handicap friendly.
Clean restrooms.
Grant Strzelczyk — Google review
Great place to reminisce over all the old breweries who have kept Americans happy for ages. Perhaps my family will donate my Goebel beer sign when I don't need it any longer...
Scott Goebel — Google review
Enjoyed every minute of this visit with our family. The museum has an awesome collection for history and beer enthusiasts.
Bethany — Google review
For$5 you can tour the entire 3 floors of the museum. Plus you get a free beer at the bar, which would cost you$4.50 otherwise. They have lots of different displays which change about every 8 months. Very cool, well worth a visit.
Curtis Manthei — Google review
My family and a group of close friends all traveled about an hour and half to Potosi on Labor Day. The place was packed with people at the front door and the hostess told us an hour wait before we would be seated. Even though they had open seats in the bar area and outside. We waited outside for about 40 minutes only to find out they where not seating anyone. The hostess kept telling us it would be another 20-30 minutes. Finally, my wife got an answer from the hostess explaining she was told to not seat anyone due to the kitchen being backed up with orders.
In other words they had zero help and no control of the restaurant. They could of been honest and turned us away at the door instead of wasting our time.
It is really sad, I live about an hour and half away and am always willing to travel to the Potosi brewery for the food, beer, and the museum.
After this experience I will not be returning.
Andrew Machacek — Google review
Fun experience learned a lot about the Brewing process. The tour guide was a little misinformed. You said that the brewery closed in 1972 to send the corn in the wheat overseas for the war effort. I don't remember Vietnam receiving any corn or wheat from Wisconsin. The brewery was awesome they showed us every aspect of the Brewing process from the cooking of the mall the Hops to the brewing and the shipping
This 164-acre park features tri-state & Mississippi River views, plus playgrounds & a band shell.
Beautiful park, well worth the $1 entrance fee. Got to see a raft of barges go thru Lock 11. Clean restrooms. A fine place place for a picnic with great views. Playgrounds, tennis courts, party pavilions. Award winning landscaping.
Betsy Bond — Google review
One of the best parks along the Mississippi. One great feature is the park keeps the bluff clear of brush and trees so the views a superb.
Paul Sikkema — Google review
We had a great time walking around all the different areas at Eagle point Park and Dubuque Iowa. You have a great view of the river and there are a lot of nice walking trails. Definitely worth the $1 that you have to spend to get into the park!
Raychel Ronnei — Google review
We spent the whole day here. There's so many different spots to get out of the car an to explore. So many different parks the views are just amazing. Lots of spots you could rent and have parties there. We enjoyed the fish pond.
Cindy wheeler — Google review
Magnificent park with mature trees. The view to the Mississippi river is terrific! I will be back to explore more.
Olga Rohner — Google review
Beautiful park with something for everybody. Playgrounds, picnic areas, koi pond, trails, scenic overlooks...and the list goes on.
The Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque Iowa is a sprawling complex with a buffet and upscale dining, bowling alley, live music and comedy shows. It's popular with locals and tourists alike for its fun atmosphere and variety of activities. While some people think that it can be smoky because of the smoking policy, it's still a great place to spend an evening.
Great Place To Get Away!! Are You Feeling Lucky? 🍀 The Wife And I Always Head Here To Try Our Luck!! Our Top Rated Casino To Go Stay The Night And Have Some Fun!! They Have Table Games, Slots, Dog Racing And Much More!! Hopefully Some Day Soon We Will Get A Suite Instead Of The Basic Room!! The Rooms Are Clean And Look Good All The Way Throughout The Building!! We Can’t Wait To Get The Chance To Head Back Again🤘Great Food!! Great Entertainment!! Great Time!! Stop In And Stay The Night And Try Them Out - If Your In The Area!!
T (Frank Dukes) — Google review
I love the Jo. Great vibe and atmosphere. I feel like I’m gonna win every time I walk thru the doors. I won once tho. It was great. Good drinks and I think they’re employees upper echelon for this town.
Matthew Oberman — Google review
So much fun! Lots of room to move. Super busy but not crowded. The comedian we seen was hilarious. The waitress was incredibly nice. Only downfall is that people can smoke in there, but it's not a deal breaker for me.
Amy K — Google review
This is a very enjoyable casino to attend, especially for those that are with their partners & don’t gamble. Personally, the bathrooms alone make it above and beyond!
Jen Benningfield — Google review
Seems kinda worn out. But is well maintained. Bar area seems to be kinda messy. Bartender wasn't unfriendly, but it seemed like we were a bother. I would return
Chris Bierman — Google review
Nice reward system for new players card. Love getting the mailed monthly specials, too many emails to actually look. I like it in writing. Easy parking. Friendly staff. Self serve pop and coffee. I didn't see very many cocktail servers, but I wasn't there very long. A couple different options for food. As long as you can get past the smoke, it's a decent casino.
Danielle Tiegen — Google review
Overally pretty good! The biggest drawback was the smoking which you can smell basically everywhere (except the tiny non-smoking area).
They had a lot of machines, table games, and free soda/water. They also had an area for sports betting. Would love to come back if only I could leave without smelling like an ashtray.
Future Scientist — Google review
I love this place. They have bowling here also on the third floor. They are kind of slow when trying to order food and drinks, dew to them being under staff. But you will love this place. If you're here, please check out their sky deck it's a beautiful site during the spring and summer months.
Keenon Morris — Google review
It says no smoking on the doors, but there is definitely smoking inside. It is a casino. I recommend it...I'd had given Diamond Jo a better review if I won any money- kidding, the smoke give it a 4 vs 5. There are a variety of games, both machines and tables- penny slots to high rollers area! It is an easy and safe walk from Hotel Julien and the immediate surrounding area.
Kari Cihlar — Google review
We were looking forward to two evenings at this casino. We couldn't stand another minute due to the smoke. It was so disappointing that the no smoking section was like a closet. We need a shower! Not only will We not be coming back tomorrow...we'll never be coming back. Hoping to get home without lung cancer.
Sharon Deboth — Google review
We love Cherry lanes. Great activity & usually no wait time for a lane.
Heather Hansel — Google review
Staff and service were great! Very enjoyable time at the Ally Cat. Rented for a small Birthday party. Perfect venue especially for kids.
Matt Rawson — Google review
Rented the alley cat area of cherry lanes for our daughter and everyone had a great time. Pizza was expensive for what you got, but the cosmic bowling was fun.
Samantha Barton — Google review
Boyd Rewards staff was excellent, very friendly, and helpful. One even put off taking a break so my wife and I could both get signed up quickly. Casino is clean and very well maintained. My only complaint is that the cocktail waitress went by the blackjack table so fast I didn't even have time to blurt out an order.
Brad Blanke — Google review
Overall, a regrettable experience. This place will lure you in and suck you dry with no remorse or about you or your family.
Pattrick L. Ferguson — Google review
Had a blast. The employees were nice and there's complimentary sodas and coffee. My partner won on the big wheel of fortune game.
You can smoke here and there's tons of ventilation so it doesn't smell bad.
Lots of parking and some of my favorite 25 cent games. Real old spinner slot machine. Triple diamond etc!!!
James Jordan — Google review
We came for a comedy show. The only complaint I had was the chairs were put together side by side so we had no arm room. Good thing comedy shows aren't too long or would have been extremely uncomfortable. They really pack you in there.
Courtney Kuhagen — Google review
Had a great time. Took my daughter bowling upstairs. Their food is great as well. Especially the pizza from the bar upstairs
Robert Squibb — Google review
Being a local girl, I may be considered a regular, since I visit "the Jo" for a variety of reasons.
We saw the Mavericks in the Moon Bar on my birthday, among other big name bands and local favorites as well, over the years.
The Filament restaurant is the only venue open late enough for the cast and crew of our theater company to grab a bite to eat after a show.
I've played my fair share of slots while visiting the Jo, as well, and can reasonably estimate that I've won more cash than I've spent here in total.
I once had a medical emergency that required quick response and I'm grateful to be able to say the staff and attending employees performed far and above what anyone could expect, in the prompt care I was given. Thank you again for prioritizing your guests and attending to their needs in such a kind yet professional manner.
I would be inclined to agree with anyone who says the Diamond Jo never disappoints when it comes to premier entertainment event centers.
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is an attraction located on the waterfront in Dubuque, Iowa that combines a history museum, science center and state-of-the-art aquarium. The aquarium has a variety of habitats which allows guests to experience different aspects of ocean and freshwater life. The location is perfect for weddings since it offers a fun atmosphere combined with everything the museum and aquarium have to offer.
Fun for the whole family great place buy the year pass saves money for Multiple trips. There's another larger building where you can feed the stingrays. New exhibit featuring otters! Huge aquariums great hands activities & educational fun. They have a huge metal workshop that was used to build boat engines over a 100 years old that still works. They have a craft room featuring 3-D printers
Dustin Bair — Google review
INCREDIBLE PLACE!!! We (two people in their mid-20s) spent almost 4 hours there. With kids you could easily spend more. MANY hands-on science activities, animals to see, and PLENTY to learn about. Staff INCREDIBLY knowledgeable with questions. A FANTASTIC place to spend a morning :)
Abbie Chronister — Google review
Great museum. Two buildings, both two floors and both have aquariums. Loved the touch pools for sting rays and one for starfish, and sea cucumbers. There was also an outdoor section for a wet land exhibit and birds. They also had a large boat that you could explore. Lots of information and interactive exhibits it's. All staff we meet was very friendly and helpful. I would recommend bringing quarters outdoor pond to feed the fish.
Stephanie Vollmer — Google review
We loved it! We enjoy walking through the museum, petting the stray fish, learning of the Mississippi River history, it’s beginning and the development of the area around it. Really great experience for me and family
Jenn James — Google review
Great place for the family! So much to see and do. The museum and aquarium is very interesting. It’s two separate buildings and an outside part. My daughter really enjoyed coming here. Our favorite part was the aquarium/seeing the fish.
Martinez — Google review
Lots to see, inside and out. I personally loved the historical, natural history, environmental displays. My kids really had fun with the interactive displays, and of course the stingrays. Be prepared to have your kids get wet!
Most of saltwater area was closed when we were there, unfortunately, so I can't comment on that.
From their website, and view from the parking lot I actually thought it would have even more to see and do. But there is plenty the way it is.
Cost is fairly high in my opinion, but I'm a cheapskate. No worse than going to a movie, or out to eat for a family. They need to pay the bills too, and you're supporting an educational gem in the process.
They periodically have traveling displays that visit to add to the amount you can see and do.
We would definitely go again!
Rich Krueger — Google review
Amazing science, natural history, and history museum. Excellent. I've had the privilege to visit the big museums in DC, New York, Chicago and elsewhere, and the Mississippi River Museum punches well above its weight for an establishment located in a small out-of-the-way city. The quality, variety, depth, and curation of all parts of the museum and its grounds are excellent. Well worth the trip!
Joshua Clements — Google review
Great way to spend the day! Our group all had fun (kids aged 3, 6 & 15 + adults) with plenty to explore in each area. The aquarium tanks in both buildings were the favorite of all. The STEM labs had truly engaging & fun activities and the water table was a nice play break.
The space is beautifully designed and easy indoor outdoor transition- seemed very wheelchair/stroller friendly.
Don’t miss checking out what’s on board the William M. Black 🛳️ we had fun talking about what life on a boat would be like
Pleasantly surprised at cafe offering and gift shop 🛍️ The entire staff was kind and welcoming and the space was clean. Despite going on a Summer Saturday and it was busy, it didn’t feel crowded.
We will be back again!
Emily Wirth — Google review
Will definitely not get tired of visiting aquariums! Staffs are very approachable and knowledgeable! One of the best aquarium I’ve been too, great service! Their stingrays are very social as well and we definitely enjoy it! They have a large area as well and another building so there’s really too much to see!
Pam Rama — Google review
Great museum and aquarium. There were a lot of interactive visits for my 2 and 4 yo I clouding two different water tables. There was a free makers space with basic art supplies and a bunch of interesting 3-d printers which were not available for use but neat to see and an informative employee was there to answer questions. Lots of cool animals to see including otters, alligators, snakes, an eel, fish, and raptors. We were there for 2 hours and there was still more to see. We skipped over most of the more adult stuff but there was planeta to read and learn for a more mature audience.
Jamie Rogalla Lyons — Google review
We loved our experience! So much to see and do for all ages. Our kids (5 and 3) had a blast. A lot of educational, interactive and live animals to enjoy. Highly recommend. We can't wait to visit again and check out the 4D theater and pet the sting rays.
Sarah Pittner — Google review
Buy tickets in advance and save a couple of dollars to use in their cafe. So much to do and see and touch. This is a real hands-on educational gem. We've been here many times and every time there is something new to explore, and older to re-explore The stingray touch and see tank is always a delight. Be gentle and the stingrays will come back for more touches. The cozy IMax like film theater allows everyone a phenomenal seat. The (at least 3D) films are worth the slight extra cost... Especially film #2 when purchased together with film #1. Marvelously they can both be 4D!! Films change frequently and they're always interesting and educational. Visit both indoor sides and it's outdoor middle. History and the future come alive behind every door and the information might be presented by a person, video, computer, well designed display or some other way. Additionally we met Tom and Becky there. They are wonderful to watch; however, you have to go to know how well they are doing what they otter.
Charles Morrison — Google review
Great place for all ages!! Very large complex, and you have the opportunity to see it over 2 days included in the price of admission. Pet the rays, see the fish, tour the riverboats, see a short 4D film, and explore some science themed exhibits.
Jason Ellis — Google review
The River Museum was not only very educational but all very interactive. As soon as you walk in you’re greeted by the nice attendants in the front. They inform you where certain exhibits are located and what’s located in the other building (as this place is HUGE) . For any pressed penny collectors out there , there is one machine in the main building and one in the second. The second building contains all the salt water fish along with the child play area. My favorite was the otter and the sting rays. On their website they have a live camera to view the otter from 8am- 5 pm along
with a live camera to view the Mississippi River. Definitely recommend for all to visit.
Marisol Munoz — Google review
A smaller aquarium but still very enjoyable. I loved the otter, the octopus, and the raptures! The boat museum was an added bonus. Even though we went on the day there were many little kids dressed for Halloween, we still enjoyed ourselves. We were able to see everything. The added Halloween decor and band playing made it extra fun!
Jean Bringgold — Google review
Great place to go. My kids LOVE petting the sting rays and the sea anemones. There used to be another play area upstairs I thought but I don’t know what happened to it. Your ticket is a 2 day pass, my kids only spent about 2 hours there before they were ready to leave. I have a 6 year old and 8 year old. The boat was put away for the season so that usually takes about 30 minutes and they were too cold to go to the marsh area. But they had a lot of fun. We went the next day to pet the stingrays again and play in the kid area. We were also members with out zoo so we were able to get a discount!
Brittany I — Google review
My kiddos love it! Been there 3 times every time I find something different I haven’t seen on my previous visit! Must go! A lot of history! Fun activities for the kids !
Nick Webster — Google review
Great place to visit grand kids loved it, indoor and outdoor bits to visit. Outdoor you can wander round the dock and explore the old dredging paddle steamer. Indoors there's the aquarium with fish, alligators touch pools, displays on the Mississippi and it's flood plains. There's a kids discovery area with pools too play in, with an activity room.
There's a old line shaft driven machine shop with lathes, planner, grinding and polishing wheels radial drill. In the second building there's more of the story of the Mississippi it's captain's and the natives.
There a restaurant with a good clean bathroom.
A good gift shop with a good range of bits and bobs.
There's offers on the entry prices depending on the mix of the group visiting we got two seniors, two adults and one child in for 109.75 adults are 23.95 seniors 21.95 youth 17.95 under 3 are free
nicholas Titley — Google review
Really well curated museum, fun aquarium. Can easily spend half a day here. Especially if the weather is good--get outdoors!
Mark Ells — Google review
So much fun! We took our kids for a day adventure and got to see a lot of cool aquatic life we spent about three hours here and there was so much to see!
Megan Neeley — Google review
This was a marvelous family adventure. Everyone learned a lot about engineering, tools, pioneers of innovation, conservation, Native Americans, trades, floods, stingrays, & a lot more!! I encourage everyone to make this visit, so worth it!!
We were even able to touch sting rays, starfish, & sea anemones😆😆😆 totally Fantastic experience!!
Merry Trotter — Google review
We had an amazing experience - even as 3 adults with no children in our group. We were very pleasantly surprised by the amount of things to see and do here. Our favorite part was walking around the boat. Highly recommend for families and adults alike
The Fenelon Place Elevator Company operates a funicular railway connecting 4th Street & Fenelon Place in downtown Dubuque. The railway is a popular tourist attraction, with views of the cityscape from its upper station. It was built in 1893 and is powered by counterbalance.
Such a fun little experience when visiting Dubuque! The view from the top is beautiful! They accept cash only, so come prepared.
Kelly Greer — Google review
Really enjoyed going and checking out this place. It said it is the world's shortest and steepest, so when I found this, I had to go and ride it. It was worth the 4 dollar round trip. I rode it from the top down and checked out the shops at the bottom.
CBU — Google review
Fun little tourist stop, worth the time if you like the views of Dubuque. Would probably be even more beautiful when the leaves change. Check the dates of operation, and they only accept cash.
Chris Myers — Google review
The funicular is a fun way to get from top to bottom of the hill. The ice cream shop at the bottom of the hill is also worth the stop for good treats and cute decorations.
Scenic view from the top and the old time feel of the elevator make this a notable stop while visiting Dubuque
BourbonJohnson — Google review
Such a neat experience in Dubuque with wonderful views at the top!
The trolley is open air, so if it is rainy or cold, or potentially if you have really small children, it may make sense to wait.
Really neat to see it in action and ride to the top. And the fares are extremely reasonable (fyi - pay booth is at the top)!
Elizabeth Fehring — Google review
Very beautiful views and a wonderful experience! Do yourself a favor and start at the bottom. Look for Sweet Memories Ice cream shop. There is no public restroom at the lookout point. Be aware they only accept cash. No cards.
Sofia Simcox — Google review
Looking for something different to do on a Sunday afternoon, we packed up the “Twenty-Paws” in the PupBus and headed to Dubuque. A somewhat scenic, hilly drive from Cedar Rapids and only about an hour away and we were there. The Fenelon Elevator Company. I had never heard of it, but my husband had been there many times as a child. (About 50 years ago). Since it was so late in the season, (we went the Sunday in November) we were able to park on the street right next to the station and there was no waiting to get on board. The round trip fare was $4, and you can board from the top or bottom of the hill. The ride is not long, but quite steep. The videos are not shot in slow motion. Since the staff was not too busy, she shared a little history with us before we left. Very friendly! Fun little adventure. Something you could do with the family. Open April to November.
Laura Zeadow — Google review
They trolly ride is a historic site. The project started in 1882. If you arrive at the trolly station on the top of the hill which is the south gate, you will have a very good view of the Mississippi River and Illinois and Wisconsin in addition to the two bridges that connect Iowa to those two states.
The trolley itself is two dollars For one-way ride and four dollars for round-trip. The trolly car has limited seats— 4 to 6 people can fit comfortably inside it. It travels slow. There’s some wildflowers on the path down the hill but it is mostly grass and trees.
It would have been nice if there were more flowers on the path down the hill.
Sara Kahn — Google review
Very cool experience. Would give five stars, but we used the address listed on Google and it gave us the address to the top. Lots of searching and searching we never did find the address to start below, which is what we wanted to do. Another couple there experienced the same thing. Overall, would definitely go again.
Synnova Olson — Google review
Great views! We parked at the bottom of the hill and took a round trip. It's cash only. The little cabins are very cute. It was a nice, slow ride.
Wendy Hedrick — Google review
Great experience. We loved learning about the history of the elevator. Parking was fairly easy, and the shops around it were fun, too.
Deborah Everson — Google review
I love this elevator! It’s cash only but only $8 for 1 adult and 2 kids. It’s a pretty short ride but is super fun.
Brittany I — Google review
It was so cool. I am so glad I did it it was kind of scary when you leave to go down the hill. Even got a picture of the elf. 4.00 dollars round trip we'll worth it.
CBU — Google review
A cool little cable car. The view from the top is very pretty. It was a nice stop on our way through the area.
Jen Zaets — Google review
We drove to the top station parked up and took the elevator for a round trip just so we could say we had been on it.
From the top there's some good views over the city with a platform for photo shoots.
We then went and got some shots of the elevator from down the street.
The ride only takes a couple of minutes but it's a good novelty ride grand kids loved it.
The step into the car at the top may bother some people and due to the angle of the car the steps to the seat are quite high.
The fare is cheap so just go and do it.
nicholas Titley — Google review
SUPER cool experience! I didn't know this was here but GLAD we found it! This one-of-a-kind ride up the hill was absolutely worth the wait in line! We got a GREAT view of the city and had fun meeting some new people in the process! I definitely recommended doing this if ever in the Dubuque area!
MJ — Google review
Very unique experience! Great views of Dubuque and the Mississippi River. Had lots of fun
Casee Richards — Google review
$4 round trip ride on this historic funicular, located in Dubuque. The attraction holds significance for my family and we’ve been visiting regularly for over 30 years. Hope the 4th Street elevator is around for many years to come.
Mr Krueger — Google review
Unique rail elevator. $2.00 one way or &4.00 round trip. Uses 2 elevators that run in tandem. As one goes down, the other goes up. The middle rail is shared except where it's critical that the cars collide. Very steep. The view at the top is amazing.
There may be a line but the wait isn't too long. You can start the rail from top or bottom. Payment is made at the top.
Henry Eicher — Google review
The lady who has worked on both of my visits is super nice! The view is beautiful. The ride itself is smooth. Having gone both ways (starting at the top vs. base), I would recommend riding top to base and then walking around the little shops and even the downtown shops a couple blocks away. Even if just for a ride, do it! $4 round trip can't be beat!
Kari Cihlar — Google review
Had a wonderful time!
We were traveling through Dubuque, and discovered the Funicular on a painting. A quick Google search helped us find it's location.
The trip takes 3 minutes up and another 3 minutes down the hill. Slow, pleasant, no stress, and the views from the top are fantastic!
There is a wonderful shopping area surrounding the lower end of the Funicular. Unfortunately, we were on a time schedule, so did not have time to enjoy that area.
There is an interesting story about its history, and past owners. Be sure to ask for info!