Whimsical Wisconsin Winter Activities

When the flurries start flying and temperatures drop, Wisconsin comes alive with uniquely wonderful events and activities. Sparkling ice caves, exciting dog races, grumpy trolls and more await you and your crew at these winter destinations throughout the state.

*These wondrous, winter attractions are weather-dependent and may not be available each year. Check out their individual websites prior to planning your trip.

Celebrate the Lake Superior Ice Festival - Superior

Gather your group and head up north at the end of January for the Lake Superior Ice Festival. 

Kids will love going down the snow slide and getting their photos taken with Ice Princesses. Watch ice sculptors in action and get your own picture taken on the famous and fantastic ice throne. 

When you need to warm up, browse the many art and craft booths inside or toast s’mores over the giant bonfire. With dozens of quirky activities like snowy mini golf, a spinning ice carousel and a Canine King and Queen contest, this is one winter fest you won’t want to miss.

Travel Tip: Stick around for fireworks both Friday and Saturday night!

Explore Ice Caves - Bayfield

Thunderous waves crash into the shore every summer along Lake Superior, but winter weather conjures stillness and—if you’re lucky—spectacular ice caves. Accessible only when Lake Superior is frozen to form a bridge from land to caves, these Wisconsin ice caves look like the work of a snow queen. Thousands of gigantic icicles jut down from rock ceilings, and frozen glass floors reveal the lake below. Be sure to check the status of the ice before adventuring out. 

If conditions aren’t right, the water reliably freezes in nearby Red Cliff Bay, a sheltered cove carved into the Bayfield Peninsula. This means that your group can access the glittering ice caves and formations that decorate the bay's sandstone cliffs.

Travel Tip: Try dog sledding and zoom through northern Wisconsin’s winter wonderland. Or, simply watch the dogs bound through the snow at the Northern Pines Sled Dog Race each February in Iron River, about an hour southwest of Bayfield.

Climb the Ice - Dodgeville

Ice climbing in Wisconsin has become a popular pastime for many winter adventurers. Frozen waterfalls and Great Lakes shorelines make for prime climbing spots throughout the state, especially at Governor Dodge and Wyalusing State Parks. Not sure where to start? Plan a trip with guides from Vertical Illusions or Vertical Adventure Guides for a one-of-a-kind bonding experience with friends and family.

Travel Tip: After scaling the ice at Governor Dodge, head to Red Rooster Cafe in Mineral Point to warm up with some figgyhobbin (a raisin-filled pastry) or Cornish pasties (savory pie).

Spot the Troll - Mount Horeb

Rooted in Scandinavian folklore, trolls are small, stout rock-dwellers with prophetic powers and a trick up their sleeve. As the Troll Capital of the World, Mount Horeb features over 35 hand-carved trolls throughout the village. Many stand guard to Mount Horeb’s classic storefronts, like Open House Imports, which sells beautiful Norwegian clothing and troll trinkets. 

Kids will love scouting out each funny troll face and posing for pictures on the main “Trollway.” Most are friendly, but don’t miss the grouchy troll at the award-winning Grumpy Troll Brewpub. With a “Grumpy Hour” special and brewery tours, it’s a must-visit.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit to coincide with the Scandihoovian Winter Festival to take part in troll making out of snow and Koob, an old Viking game.

Searching for more whimsical winter fun? Try out these five unique winter sports popular in Wisconsin.