Wausau, located in North Central Wisconsin, has a metropolitan population of around 80,000 but offers a big-city atmosphere that often makes visitors feel like they're in a larger urban area.
The city boasts a blend of impressive man-made and natural attractions, including Dudley Tower, the tallest commercial building in Wisconsin outside of Milwaukee, and Rib Mountain State Park.
Getting Around Wausau
By Bus
Public transportation in the Wausau area is limited. Metro Ride (formerly WATS or Wausau Area Transit System) operates eight bus routes in the city, running at 30-minute intervals, one route in the Village of Weston (30-minute intervals), and one route to Rothschild and Schofield (60-minute intervals). While buses are clean and rarely crowded, the limited schedule may make them less convenient for many.
By Car
Traveling by car is the easiest and most common way to get around Wausau. The roads are well-maintained and clearly marked. There is plenty of free parking available outside of downtown, with easy access to most areas. Downtown parking is also affordable and easy to find.
Things to Do and See!
Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum
The museum features a renowned collection focused on nature, particularly birds, with both historic and contemporary paintings, sculptures, and works on paper. The annual Birds in Art exhibition in September and October draws international artists and visitors. The museum’s impressive architecture and sculpture-filled gardens offer outdoor galleries for all to enjoy.
Marathon County Historical Museums
These museums include the Yawkey House, which was donated by Leigh Yawkey Woodson and her daughters in 1954. The house, built in 1900, showcases the Classical Revival and Prairie School architectural styles.
Rib Mountain State Park
Rib Mountain State Park features hiking trails, scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and a 60-foot observation tower offering sweeping views of Wausau and the surrounding countryside. In winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Granite Peak Ski Area.
The Wausau Depot
The building, which was constructed in 1977, is a faithful reproduction of the original Washington Street depot. The historical depot was donated to the Boy Scouts, and the Washington Street depot has been restored and repurposed as office space.
Granite Peak Ski Area
The resort offers night skiing, snowboarding, and extensive snowmaking equipment.
Wausau Cyclones
Enjoy a North American Tier III hockey game at Marathon Park. Prices vary by seat location. Check the website for current season details.
Wausau Woodchucks
Cheer on the minor league baseball team at Athletic Park. Prices vary by seat location. Visit the website for the current season schedule.
Best Place to Eat
Wausau offers a variety of great dining options, such as:
The Back When Cafe
This cafe serves dishes made with fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients. In 2003, the cafe expanded with a second dining room, an outdoor area, and a new kitchen.
WISH (Wisconsin)
Enjoy dishes like Bluegill Perch, Haddock, Scallops, Jumbo Shrimp, and more.
Best Place to Stay
The Wausau area offers a mix of chain motels and unique bed-and-breakfast inns. Accommodations range from typical roadside motels to charming inns located close to downtown. Weekend rates tend to be higher during the ski season and major summer and fall festivals. Here are some options:
AmericInn Lodge & Suites
A newer roadside motel with an indoor pool and a large water slide.
Hampton Inn
Features an indoor pool and whirlpool, conveniently located near restaurants.
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites
This hotel has 148 rooms, a full-service restaurant and bar, indoor pool, whirlpool, and small fitness room.
10 Best Things to Do in Wausau, Wisconsin
Video by Jillu Travel
