New Glarus, Wisconsin: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Wisconsin, make sure to include a visit to the charming town of New Glarus. Located in Green County, this small community is known for its Swiss heritage, breathtaking natural scenery, and vibrant cultural scene. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, and outdoor adventures that make New Glarus a must-visit destination.
Top Attractions
One of the most popular attractions in New Glarus is the Swiss Historical Village, a living museum that showcases the town’s Swiss heritage. Visitors can explore the various buildings, including a cheese factory, a blacksmith shop, and a one-room schoolhouse. Another must-visit attraction is the New Glarus Brewing Company, which offers tours and tastings of its award-winning beers.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for a unique experience, make sure to visit the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum. This quirky museum features a collection of carved wooden figures and dioramas that depict scenes from Swiss folklore and history. Another hidden gem is the New Glarus Woods State Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Food Scene
New Glarus is known for its delicious Swiss cuisine, including cheese fondue, raclette, and sausages. Make sure to visit the Glarner Stube, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Swiss dishes in a rustic setting. For a sweet treat, stop by the New Glarus Bakery for a Swiss pastry or a slice of homemade pie.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of affordable activities in New Glarus. Take a stroll through the town’s charming streets and admire the Swiss-inspired architecture. Visit the New Glarus Public Library, which offers free Wi-Fi and a cozy reading room. And don’t miss the Swiss Center of North America, a museum and cultural center that celebrates Swiss heritage.
Outdoor Adventures
New Glarus is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities. Take a hike through the Monticello Millpond State Park, which features scenic trails and a peaceful lake. Rent a bike and explore the Sugar River State Trail, a scenic path that winds through the countryside. And don’t forget to pack your fishing gear and try your luck at the local streams and lakes.
Historical Landmarks
New Glarus is home to several fascinating historical landmarks, including the New Glarus City Hall, which was built in 1917 and features beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate woodwork. Visit the Swiss Church, a stunning Gothic Revival building that was built in 1901 and is still in use today. And don’t miss the Swiss United Church of Christ, a historic church that was founded by Swiss immigrants in 1845.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of fun activities in New Glarus. Take a tour of the Swiss Historical Village and learn about Swiss culture and history. Visit the New Glarus Public Library, which offers a children’s section and regular storytime events. And don’t miss the Village Park, which features a playground, picnic areas, and a splash pad for hot summer days.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique experience, make sure to visit the New Glarus Alp and Dell Cheese Store. This family-owned business offers a wide variety of Wisconsin cheeses, as well as Swiss chocolates and souvenirs. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the New Glarus Primrose Winery, a charming winery that produces small-batch wines using locally-grown grapes.
Natural Wonders
New Glarus is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling lakes. Take a drive through the countryside and admire the colorful fall foliage or the blooming wildflowers in the spring. Visit the New Glarus Woods State Park and hike through the scenic trails. And don’t miss the Sugar River, a peaceful river that winds through the town and offers plenty of fishing and kayaking opportunities.
Vibrant Nightlife
New Glarus may be a small town, but it still offers plenty of vibrant nightlife options. Visit the New Glarus Hotel and Tavern for a pint of local beer and some live music. Stop by the Sugar River Pizza Company for delicious pizza and a wide selection of craft beers. And don’t miss the annual Wilhelm Tell Festival, a celebration of Swiss culture that features music, food, and traditional Swiss games.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for fresh produce and handmade crafts, make sure to visit the New Glarus Farmers Market. This weekly market features a wide variety of local vendors, including farmers, bakers, and artisans. Visit the New Glarus Brewing Company and browse their gift shop, which offers a variety of beer-related souvenirs and gifts.
Beaches and Mountains
New Glarus may not be located on the coast, but it still offers plenty of opportunities for beach lovers. Visit the New Glarus Beach and enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. If you’re looking for mountain scenery, take a drive through the nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest and admire the rolling hills and rugged terrain.
Cultural Immersion
New Glarus is a melting pot of cultures, with Swiss, German, and American influences. Take a tour of the Swiss Historical Village and learn about the town’s Swiss heritage. Visit the New Glarus Heritage Center and explore the various exhibits that showcase the town’s unique history. And don’t miss the Wilhelm Tell Festival, a celebration of Swiss culture that features music, food, and traditional Swiss games.
Art and Music Scene
New Glarus is home to several talented artists and musicians. Visit the Trollway Gallery and admire the work of local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and pottery. Attend a concert at the New Glarus Music Fest, a popular event that showcases a variety of musical genres. And don’t miss the annual Wilhelm Tell Festival, which features music, dance, and traditional Swiss performances.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking to explore New Glarus on foot, there are plenty of walking tours available. Take a self-guided tour of the town’s historic district and admire the charming Swiss-inspired architecture. Visit the New Glarus Woods State Park and hike through the scenic trails. And don’t miss the Sugar River State Trail, a scenic path that winds through the countryside.
Architectural Marvels
New Glarus is known for its stunning Swiss-inspired architecture, with buildings that feature intricate woodwork, colorful murals, and beautiful stained-glass windows. Visit the Swiss Historical Village and explore the various buildings, including a cheese factory, a blacksmith shop, and a one-room schoolhouse. Visit the New Glarus City Hall and admire the stunning stained-glass windows and intricate woodwork. And don’t miss the Swiss Church, a stunning Gothic Revival building that was built in 1901.
Historical Sites
New Glarus has a rich history, with several important historical sites that are worth a visit. Visit the Swiss United Church of Christ, a historic church that was founded by Swiss immigrants in 1845. Visit the New Glarus City Hall and admire the beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate woodwork. And don’t miss the New Glarus Cemetery, which features graves of some of the town’s earliest settlers.
Biking Routes
If you’re a biking enthusiast, New Glarus offers plenty of scenic routes to explore. Rent a bike and explore the Sugar River State Trail, a scenic path that winds through the countryside. Take a ride through the Monticello Millpond State Park, which features rolling hills and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. And don’t miss the Badger State Trail, a 40-mile trail that connects New Glarus to Madison and other nearby towns.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, New Glarus offers plenty of wellness retreats and spa services. Visit the New Glarus Hotel and Tavern and book a massage or a facial at the on-site spa. Take a yoga class at the New Glarus Yoga Studio and connect with your inner self. And don’t miss the annual Wilhelm Tell Festival, which features a variety of wellness activities, including meditation, mindfulness, and yoga.
Adventure Sports
New Glarus is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and more. Take a hike through the Monticello Millpond State Park, which features scenic trails and a peaceful lake. Rent a bike and explore the Sugar River State Trail, a scenic path that winds through the countryside. And don’t forget to pack your fishing gear and try your luck at the local streams and lakes.