Years ago, people came to Chippewa Falls for its pure spring water, but today they come for so much more. While this riverside city is rich with history, small town charm and a family-friendly atmosphere, it also boasts big-city entertainment that draws visitors from all over the Midwest. Here are just a few things to check out during your visit to Chippewa Falls:
1. Olson's Ice Cream
Since 1944 Olson's has been a mainstay in downtown Chippewa Falls, serving up more than 100 flavors of homemade ice cream on a rotation. We recommend trying the Cotton Candy Ice Cream - a customer favorite and DW crew-approved.
2. Sokup's Market
Sokup's is another must-stop shop in downtown Chippewa Falls that has been around for more than 100 years. Stop by this family-run meat market for some quality meats and other fresh food products.
3. Oktoberfest Chippewa Falls
Oktoberfest Chippewa Falls kicks off at Leinenkugel's Brewery with a parade up to the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds. Dust off your dirndls and enjoy the festivities at this authentic and family-friendly German festival.
4. Leinie Lodge and Leinenkugel's Brewery
Practically synonymous with the city of Chippewa Falls, your trip isn't complete without a visit to Leinenkugel's Brewery. Start with a tasting at the Leinie Lodge and then take a tour of the historic, family-run brewery.
5. Loopy's Grill and Saloon
Rent a tube or kayak at Loopy's Backyard Rentals and head down the Chippewa River. When you get back, enjoy some food and an ice-cold beer at the riverfront tiki bar. Loopy's also offers year-round beach volleyball with the world's only sand volleyball dome.
6. Heyde Center for the Arts
The Heyde offers residents and visitors a wide variety of cultural experiences, including music, theater, visual arts and more. Take in a show or check out one of many community events and exhibits at this one-of-a-kind venue.
7. River Bend Vineyard and Winery
River Bend Vineyard and Winery is a little slice of Napa Valley, right here in Wisconsin. Enjoy a tour, tastings and a variety of fun events at this relaxing and beautiful winery.
8. Northern Wisconsin State Fair
Summer isn't summer without a trip to the Northern Wisconsin State Fair. Enjoy top-notch entertainment, classic fair foods and a wide variety of exhibits that can be fun for the whole family.
9. Irvine Park and Zoo
Irvine Park in Chippewa Falls is truly a gem in Western Wisconsin. Explore over 300 acres of beauty and recreational fun at Irvine Park, including a free zoo.
10. Christmas Village in Irvine Park
From Thanksgiving to New Years, walk or drive through more than 100,000 twinkle lights at the Christmas Village in Irvine Park. Life-size Christmas scenes replicate the Victorian era and the city's early history.
- Jessica Murphy is a crew member of the nation's longest-running tourism TV show, "Discover Wisconsin." The column is published Tuesday on the Life page in the Times.
1. Olson's Ice Cream
Since 1944 Olson's has been a mainstay in downtown Chippewa Falls, serving up more than 100 flavors of homemade ice cream on a rotation. We recommend trying the Cotton Candy Ice Cream - a customer favorite and DW crew-approved.
2. Sokup's Market
Sokup's is another must-stop shop in downtown Chippewa Falls that has been around for more than 100 years. Stop by this family-run meat market for some quality meats and other fresh food products.
3. Oktoberfest Chippewa Falls
Oktoberfest Chippewa Falls kicks off at Leinenkugel's Brewery with a parade up to the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds. Dust off your dirndls and enjoy the festivities at this authentic and family-friendly German festival.
4. Leinie Lodge and Leinenkugel's Brewery
Practically synonymous with the city of Chippewa Falls, your trip isn't complete without a visit to Leinenkugel's Brewery. Start with a tasting at the Leinie Lodge and then take a tour of the historic, family-run brewery.
5. Loopy's Grill and Saloon
Rent a tube or kayak at Loopy's Backyard Rentals and head down the Chippewa River. When you get back, enjoy some food and an ice-cold beer at the riverfront tiki bar. Loopy's also offers year-round beach volleyball with the world's only sand volleyball dome.
6. Heyde Center for the Arts
The Heyde offers residents and visitors a wide variety of cultural experiences, including music, theater, visual arts and more. Take in a show or check out one of many community events and exhibits at this one-of-a-kind venue.
7. River Bend Vineyard and Winery
River Bend Vineyard and Winery is a little slice of Napa Valley, right here in Wisconsin. Enjoy a tour, tastings and a variety of fun events at this relaxing and beautiful winery.
8. Northern Wisconsin State Fair
Summer isn't summer without a trip to the Northern Wisconsin State Fair. Enjoy top-notch entertainment, classic fair foods and a wide variety of exhibits that can be fun for the whole family.
9. Irvine Park and Zoo
Irvine Park in Chippewa Falls is truly a gem in Western Wisconsin. Explore over 300 acres of beauty and recreational fun at Irvine Park, including a free zoo.
10. Christmas Village in Irvine Park
From Thanksgiving to New Years, walk or drive through more than 100,000 twinkle lights at the Christmas Village in Irvine Park. Life-size Christmas scenes replicate the Victorian era and the city's early history.
- Jessica Murphy is a crew member of the nation's longest-running tourism TV show, "Discover Wisconsin." The column is published Tuesday on the Life page in the Times.