Wausau, Wisconsin Travel Guide

Discover Wausau, Wisconsin: A hidden gem offering outdoor adventures, rich history, vibrant arts, and a welcoming community in the heart of America's Midwest.

Wausau, nestled in the scenic landscapes of central Wisconsin, is a hidden gem for tourists looking to explore the heartland of America. This charming city is surrounded by natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a history buff, Wausau has something to offer for everyone. Wausau is renowned for its outdoor activities, with Rib Mountain State Park being a major highlight. The park is home to Granite Peak Ski Area, one of the oldest ski resorts in the United States, where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. The Wisconsin River flows through the city, providing ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic river walks. The city's vibrant downtown area is rich with history and culture. Stroll through the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, known for its world-class collection of bird-themed art. Don't miss the annual Birds in Art exhibition, which attracts artists and visitors from around the globe. For a taste of local history, visit the Marathon County Historical Museum, housed in a beautiful Victorian mansion. Wausau also boasts a lively food scene, with a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes. From farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes, you'll find plenty of places to enjoy a delicious meal. Be sure to visit in summer when the city hosts numerous festivals and farmers' markets, offering local produce and handmade crafts. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, delving into the local culture, or simply enjoying the friendly atmosphere, Wausau is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wausau.

Visit Rib Mountain State Park early in the morning for the best hiking and stunning sunrise views.
Check the schedule for the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum to catch special exhibitions and events.
Explore the local farmers' markets during summer for fresh produce and unique local crafts.
If visiting in winter, book your tickets for Granite Peak Ski Area in advance to avoid long lines.
Take a leisurely walk along the Wisconsin River for a peaceful escape and picturesque views.

Explore Wausau: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Wausau

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Rib Mountain State Park

Explore the scenic trails, stunning views, and diverse wildlife at Rib Mountain State Park, a true gem in Wisconsin's outdoor paradise.

4.8

Granite Peak Ski Area

Granite Peak Ski Area: Unleash your winter adventure in Wisconsin's premier ski resort with thrilling runs and family-friendly activities.

4.5

Marathon County Park

Explore the natural beauty and historical richness of Marathon County Park in Wausau, Wisconsin - a perfect outdoor retreat for every traveler.

4.5

Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum

Explore the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, a tranquil haven showcasing nature-inspired art and beautiful gardens in Wausau, Wisconsin.

4.9

Best landmarks in Wausau

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Milwaukee Burger Company - Wausau

Indulge in mouthwatering burgers and a vibrant atmosphere at Milwaukee Burger Company in Wausau, where every bite is a delicious adventure.

4.3

Wausau Mine Company

Experience the unique flavors and inviting atmosphere of Wausau Mine Company, a must-visit restaurant and bar in Wausau, Wisconsin.

4.4

Rib Mountain State Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Rib Mountain State Park, a must-visit destination in Wisconsin for nature enthusiasts.

4.8

Granite Peak Ski Area

Experience the thrill of skiing at Granite Peak Ski Area, where stunning slopes and winter activities await every adventurer in Wisconsin.

4.5

Best restaurants in Wausau

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Milwaukee Burger Company - Wausau

Discover mouthwatering burgers and a vibrant sports atmosphere at Milwaukee Burger Company - Wausau, where every bite is an adventure.

4.3

Wausau Mine Company

Discover the vibrant flavors of Wausau at the Wausau Mine Company - where great food meets rich local history.

4.4

Olive Garden Italian Restaurant

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Olive Garden in Wausau – perfect for families and food enthusiasts seeking delicious meals.

4.3

Red Eye Brewing Company

Discover the best craft beer and delicious locally sourced cuisine at Red Eye Brewing Company in Wausau, Wisconsin.

4.6

Best bars in Wausau

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Malarkey's Pub & Townies Grill

Discover vibrant dining and live music at Malarkey's Pub & Townies Grill in Wausau, a unique spot combining Armenian flavors with pub culture.

4.5

Bob & Randy's Bar

Discover Bob & Randy's Bar in Wausau: Enjoy delicious meals, refreshing drinks, and a friendly atmosphere perfect for tourists seeking local experiences.

4.6

Whiskey River Bar And Grill

Discover the vibrant taste of Wausau at Whiskey River Bar And Grill, where delicious food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.

4.3

Chatterbox Bar

Experience Wausau's vibrant nightlife at Chatterbox Bar, where unique drinks, local vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere await.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Wausau

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Intermission

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Wausau at Intermission, where great drinks meet live entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.3

LT Club

Discover the lively ambiance, karaoke nights, and diverse entertainment at LT Club in Wausau, Wisconsin, where great times await.

4.0

The Glass Hat

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Wausau at The Glass Hat, a lively bar offering an eclectic atmosphere and diverse drink selections.

4.3

Burks Bar

Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings at Burks Bar, a top Wausau destination for drinks, food, and fun trivia nights.

4.6

Best shops in Wausau

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Kohl's

Shop at Kohl's in Wausau for unbeatable deals on clothing, home goods, and accessories, all while enjoying the beauty of Wisconsin.

4.2

Janke Book Store

Explore the unique selections of books and gifts at Janke Book Store, a local treasure in Wausau, Wisconsin.

4.8

Eastbay Retail Store

Explore a vast collection of athletic gear and stylish apparel at Eastbay Retail Store in Wausau, Wisconsin, your go-to destination for sporting goods.

3.9

Blazin Gifts

Discover unique treasures at Blazin Gifts, Wausau's charming gift shop, showcasing local artisans and a variety of delightful souvenirs.

4.7

Explore Wausau on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Wausau, mapped for you.

Wausau Essentials

Wausau, Wisconsin, is accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest major airport is Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA), located approximately 20 minutes south of Wausau in Mosinee. The airport offers flights from major airlines such as Delta and American Airlines. For those driving, Wausau is conveniently located at the intersection of Interstate 39 and U.S. Highway 51. Bus services like Greyhound and Lamers also connect Wausau to other cities in Wisconsin and neighboring states.
Wausau offers several transportation options. The Metro Ride bus system operates throughout the city and offers a convenient and cost-effective way to get around. For more flexibility, car rentals are available at the Central Wisconsin Airport and various locations within the city. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For those who prefer biking, Wausau has several bike-friendly trails and lanes.
The official currency in Wausau, like the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. ATMs are readily available throughout the city. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets or smaller shops.
Wausau is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The areas around the downtown have a low crime rate, but it's always a good idea to stay vigilant. If you're in doubt, consult local sources or your accommodation for advice on safe areas.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The Aspirus Wausau Hospital provides comprehensive medical care and emergency services. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the city where over-the-counter medications can be purchased. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies during your visit.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as Wisconsin weather can be unpredictable. Casual wear is generally acceptable, but consider dressing up slightly when dining at nicer restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if you visit places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous to bus drivers and fellow passengers. Don't play loud music or talk loudly on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A firm handshake is customary in professional settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like cheese curds and bratwurst. Don't forget to tip your servers, as it is customary in the U.S.
To experience Wausau like a local, visit the local farmers' market for fresh produce and handmade goods. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking at Rib Mountain State Park or kayaking on the Wisconsin River. Engage with locals at community events and festivals, such as the Wausau Balloon & Rib Fest. For a unique experience, visit the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, which offers free admission and hosts the annual 'Birds in Art' exhibition.

When is the best time to visit Wausau?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Wausau

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Wausau. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [hau-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yah lay-ter]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You betcha
  [pleez/you bet-chah]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [thanks uh lot]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun mee/my bad]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [hows it go-in?]
- Fine. And you?Good. How about you?
  [good. how uh-bout yuh?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yuh speak ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI'm lost
  [ahm lawst]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [kan eye chek out the men-yoo?]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [ahm lawst doh meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheerz!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up?
  [kan eye set-l up?]
- Help!Help!
  [help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lawst!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahm lawst]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [ahm sik]
- I'd like to buy...I'm interested in...
  [ahm inn-ter-es-ted in]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brow-zing]
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-ij?]
- That's too expensiveThat's spendy
  [thats spend-ee]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better on the price?
  [kan yuh do bet-ter on the prahs?]
- What time is it?What time you got?
  [whut time yuh got?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
- MorningMorning
  [morn-ing]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [sev-in]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the...?]
- What's the address?What's the location?
  [whuts the loh-kay-shun?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [kan yuh point it out?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh tick-it (to ....)]

History of Wausau

Long before European settlers arrived, the region that is now Wausau was inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Ojibwe and the Menominee. These indigenous peoples lived off the land, fishing in the Wisconsin River, hunting in the dense forests, and cultivating maize and other crops.
In the mid-19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the Wausau area. The first permanent European settler was George Stevens, who arrived in 1839 and established a trading post. The fertile land and abundant natural resources, particularly timber, attracted more settlers to the area.
During the late 19th century, Wausau became a hub for the lumber industry. The Wisconsin River provided a means to transport logs to mills, leading to the establishment of numerous sawmills in the area. Lumber barons such as Cyrus Yawkey and Leigh Yawkey Woodson played significant roles in developing the industry and the city's infrastructure.
Wausau was officially founded in 1845 and incorporated as a city in 1872. The name 'Wausau' is derived from a Chippewa word meaning 'a faraway place' or 'a place which can be seen from far away.' The city quickly grew as a commercial and cultural center in central Wisconsin.
By the early 20th century, Wausau's economy began to diversify beyond lumber. The city saw the establishment of paper mills, insurance companies, and manufacturing plants. This economic diversification helped Wausau weather the decline of the lumber industry and positioned it as a stable economic center.
Wausau has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its numerous historic buildings and institutions. The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, established in 1976, is renowned for its annual 'Birds in Art' exhibition. The Grand Theater, originally an opera house built in 1927, continues to serve as a cultural landmark, hosting performances and events.
Founded in 1952, the Marathon County Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Wausau area. The society operates the Woodson History Center, which houses extensive archives and exhibits on local history, and the Yawkey House Museum, a restored historic mansion.
Today, Wausau is a vibrant city known for its blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The downtown area features a mix of historic buildings and contemporary developments, reflecting the city's ongoing evolution. Annual events such as the Wausau Balloon & Rib Fest and the Wausau Winter Fest highlight the community's spirit and cultural vitality.