Hot Drinks and Cozy Sips in Wausau

Winter in Wisconsin brings plenty to love, including the chance to savor warm drinks and craft cocktails, ideally while tucked beside a crackling fireplace. Wausau is an idyllic destination for savoring such drinks, whether you’re snuggled up in a local cocktail bar, a wine bar, a lounge or even a ski chalet.

After hitting the slopes at Granite Peak Ski Area (the snowy 225 acres contain 55 trails, four terrain parks and seven glade areas, geared toward an array of abilities), be sure to warm up at the Historic Chalet & Deck. It has that old-school, après-ski feel and provides two roaring fireplaces that fill the air with a cedar scent, promising deep relaxation, alongside unbeatable views of the hill. If you’d rather soak up that crisp winter air, make your way to the outdoor deck that’s readied with six fire pits and eight overhead heaters, so you’ll stay warm and toasty as you sip a bloody mary or one of their 16 craft beers.

For a beverage that’s on the sweet side, look no further than The Chocolate Café, located downtown near The Grand Theater. This is the place in town to indulge in drinking hot chocolate, the richer cousin of hot cocoa that’s crafted using real-deal Belgian chocolate and steamed milk (with vegan options available upon request). Then there are Cappuccinos, Tea Lattes and Flat Whites, which all pair perfectly with sumptuous gelato or chocolate fondue for two. The modern café atmosphere will beckon you to stay for at least an hour…or two.

For a winter warm-up in a space that’s equal parts rustic and stylish, spend an evening at Juliett. Found downtown, it features visuals like an exposed brick wall and inviting fireplace, sure to set the vibe, and here, you can enjoy libations like the Banana Bread Old Fashioned, along with beers, wines and zero-proof offerings.

Year-round rooftop bar and restaurant The Velveteen Plum resides less than 10 minutes from the ski hill and boasts some of the finest wintry views in the entire region. The rooftop features three lounge areas, all outfitted with fire features. Bask in the orange glow with a warming Spanish Coffee or a glass of vino. Or head indoors for ambiance that’s chic, current and cool.

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Granite Peak lies Van Acre, where a wood-fired oven warms up the restaurant. Vintage-meets-modern interiors punctuate the experience, made complete with the Maple Old Fashioned, the Apple Spice Sazerac and the Pumpkin Espresso Martini. To immerse yourself fully into the winter landscape, Van Acre also offers outdoor igloos, which is sure to make cocktail hour a lot more magical.

Whether you’ve been a snow bunny all day on the slopes, or if you’ve spent your time perusing charming local boutiques, or perhaps you’ve been holed up in a lovely cabin, a wintry evening in Wausau calls for drinks in cozy locales that are sure to take the chill off.