Wisconsin’s cities and towns, both big and small, have so much to offer all who visit. Sometimes it’s easy to overlook the beauty of our own backyards — but that’s where we come in. Whether you’re a Reedsburg local or looking for a unique place to visit, we’ve compiled ten of our favorite things to do in the town of Reedsburg:
1. Lazy Beaver Canoe & Kayak Race
Sponsored by the Reedsburg Kiwanis, the Lazy Beaver Canoe Race features different divisions and levels of paddlers, awards the “Best Decorated Boat” and hosts an awards ceremony and cookout! Paddle your way through this meandering race down the Baraboo River — the longest, free-flowing river in the country.
2. 400 State Trail
This former railroad track connects Reedsburg to Elroy. Bike, hike or even snowmobile along the trail and take in beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, rolling farmland and the Baraboo river valley.
3. Concerts in the Park
Enjoy performances by local musicians and bands at City Park every week in the summer, kicking off in June and continuing through August. The lineup features everything from jazz and swing to rock and country.
4. Reedsburg Rotary Fly-in/Drive-in Breakfast
Indulge in an all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausages, toast, scrambled eggs and coffee while marveling over classic cars, military aircraft, plane rides, a bounce house and face painting. It’s a kids’ (and adults’) dream.
5. Reedsburg Uncorked
Gather your friends, grab a glass and head to downtown Reedsburg’s shopping district on the last Friday in April for a little wine sampling, tasty hors d’oeuvres and to support some great local businesses.
6. Living Windows
There is no better place to ring in the holiday season than at Reedsburg’s Living Windows event. The little town’s shop windows literally come alive for the event, which also includes horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling, a visit from Santa and more!
7. Butterfest
Take in all the fun and tradition of Reedsburg’s annual summer festival, including a parade, tractor pulls, trivia night, a beer garden, craft fair, and the famous and iconic “Bossy Bingo.”
8. Demolition Derby
Even if you don’t take in all the sights and activities of the week-long festival, end Butterfest with a bang at the demolition derby.
9. Reedsburg Area Historical Society and Pioneer Village
Learn about the daily lives of Reedsburg’s original settlers while taking in an authentic settler experience. Buildings in the village include a library cabin, redstone cabin, farm machine shed, a log church, general store, and a county farm schoolhouse.
10. Barn Quilts
Who doesn’t love a good barn quilt? Drive the Reedsburg area’s rural roads and take in the beautiful countryside scenery while admiring the vibrant colors and artistry of the barn quilts on Reedsburg area farms.
From its holiday events and summer celebrations to its rich history and gorgeous farms, Reedsburg is bursting with places to see and things to learn. What’s your favorite thing about Reedsburg? Share with us on social media using #discoverwisconsin!
— Kristen Finstad is a crew member of the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, “Discover Wisconsin.” The column is published Wednesdays on the Life page in the Times.
