Exciting winter events

All winter long, Marshfield (and the rest of Wood County and Marathon County) are home to a full calendar of fun events, from holiday craft shows to concerts. One of the area’s signature events is Rotary Winter Wonderland, which runs from the Friday after Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve and dazzles visitors to Wildwood Park with a stunning display of more than a million LED lights, as well as special events like visits from Santa and live music from local artists.

• See Marshfield’s event calendar

Delicious dining

Marshfield is home to delectable dishes across a wide variety of restaurants, from cafes and coffee shops to brewpubs and pizzerias. Diners will find great options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including several local spots that annually take top honors in the Best of Marshfield survey.

• Grab a bite at these best of Marshfield restaurants
• Find the best restaurants for every meal in Marshfield
• Coffee hotspots in Marshfield

Outdoor fun

Want to get outside and play in the snow? Marshfield offers plenty of places for outdoor adventures, including Wildwood Park, which is home to several miles of nature trails open to hikers, snowshoers, and fat-tire bikers. Another popular winter sports destination is Powers Bluff County Park, a park operated by Wood County that’s located 14 miles southeast of Marshfield and home to three downhill skiing and snowboarding runs and four tube runs, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.

• Where to find fun winter recreation in Marshfield

Holiday shopping hotspots

Make your list and check it twice—you’re sure to find great holiday gifts for everyone when you head to Marshfield this winter. Marshfield’s retailers offer everything from home décor and antiques to specialty foods and hard-to-find books.

• Your Marshfield holiday shopping guide
• Shop downtown for great gifts

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Nutz Deep II

Consistently voted as Marshfield’s best burger in the annual Best of Marshfield awards, Nutz Deep II is a popular spot for locals and visitors, offering up burgers like the Nutz Deep Burger (with caramelized onions and garlic, Swiss and American cheese, bacon, and special sauce) and the Primetime Burger (a seasoned patty topped with shaved prime rib, caramelized onions, mushrooms, Swiss cheese, and au jus).

Chips Hamburgers

This classic hamburger stand on Central Avenue in downtown Marshfield is open for drive through or indoor dining and  serves classic charbroiled burgers—choose from regular burgers, quarter-pound “Biggees”, or half-pound “Double Biggees.” And don’t forget crispy fries on the side and a soft-serve cone for dessert!

Five-0-One Sports Bar & Grill

Located east of downtown Marshfield on Washington Street, Five-0-One Sports Bar & Grill opened its doors in 2009 is a great place to catch a bite while watching football, basketball, or baseball on one of the bar’s big-screen TVs. Burger lovers can choose from offerings like the Green Olive Burger, the Pizza Burger, or the Dilly Burger (topped with deep-fried pickle chips, of course).

Lumberyard Bar & Grill

Conveniently located at the Woodfield Inn & Suites along Central Avenue in Marshfield, the Lumberyard has nearly a dozen beers on tap and a wide-ranging menu that includes pasta, specialty sandwiches, and (of course) burgers. Try the Curd Burger—yes, it’s topped with fried cheese curds—or the Big Texan Burger, which features a heaping helping of smoked beef brisket.

Libby McNeill’s Food & Drink

Another restaurant that can be found in one of Marshfield’s welcoming lodging properties—it’s part of Hotel Marshfield—Libby McNeill’s offers a wide array of delicious dishes. If you’re in the mood for something different, try the Walnut Burger, which is made from a mix of walnuts and veggies.

The Rivers

This friendly restaurant inside the Holiday Inn & Conference Center features locally sourced ingredients from across Wisconsin. Don’t miss out on their stack burgers, including the Jacked Up Burger, which comes with pepper jack cheese, bacon, onion tanglers, and a whiskey BBQ sauce.

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The zoo, which was established in 1937, is free to the public. Visitors can see many species common to North America, including twin Kodiak bears Munsey and Boda, cougars, owls, a bald eagle, gray and arctic foxes, and wolves.

The zoo also features a Large Animal Drive, where motorists can view American bison, elk, and white-tailed deer. The zoo’s Welcome Center features an interactive water table and electricity model, live species including snakes and lizards, a behind-the-scenes look at the cougar enclosure, and a honeybee exhibit.

The zoo opens at 7:30am daily; closing hours depend on season. The Large Animal Drive is open from 7am to 10:30pm daily.

Wildwood Park has several miles of trails and is a popular spot among hikers, runners, and bikers all year long. The park is open from 6am to 10:30pm every day.

Find more unique attractions and fun activities in Marshfield, Wood County, and Marathon County in central Wisconsin.

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Parks & other natural areas

Take a short drive southeast of Marshfield (about 13 miles or so, via State Highways 73 and 80) to find the 172-acre North Wood County Park on the banks of the Yellow River in Arpin. Visitors can enjoy the fall colors along scenic walking trails that follow the river—don’t miss the park’s key feature, a 225-foot-long suspension bridge that spans the Yellow River. Anglers and paddlers can find good recreational options on the river or the two small lakes in the park: Lake Kaunewinne (5 acres) and Lake Manakiki (11 acres).

The George W. Mead State Wildlife Area covers more than 33,000 acres in Marathon County, Wood County, and Portage County in central Wisconsin and has more than 70 miles of maintained hiking trails that are a perfect place to take in the fall color show. Located 20 miles east of downtown Marshfield, the wildlife area is overseen by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and protects several different ecosystems, including grasslands, hardwood forests, and wetlands. It’s a popular spot for birding, too: 270 different species have been documented here over the years.

The McMillan Marsh Wildlife Area is also operated by the Wisconsin DNR as part of the Mead Wildlife Area. This 6,500-acre site is located just north of Marshfield near the headwaters of the Eau Plaine River and offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing (including birdwatching in the fall), hiking, and nature photography.

Located 10 miles southeast of Marshfield, Richfield 360 Recreation Area covers 360 acres and is a nice spot to catch fall color in Wood County. The recreation area features 8 miles of nature trails that pass through forests and along Puff Creek.

Find more parks and trails in Marshfield, Wood County, and Marathon County here.

Fall color drives

The routes to get to some of the Marshfield area’s scenic fall spots can offer some impressive views themselves, too. County Highway S in Marathon County, which is the main entry road to the George W. Mead State Wildlife Area passes through scenic woodlands, and Frey Avenue and Karau Avenue pass through the western edge of the McMillan Marsh.

Events add to fall fun

Check out Marshfield’s events calendar to find farmers’ markets, popular celebrations like Maple Fall Fest, and more throughout Marshfield, Wood County, and Marathon County.

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Outdoor recreation

Fall is a great time to explore Marshfield’s parks and trails. The area is home to abundant options for walking, hiking, and biking—plus, it’s a great way to take in central Wisconsin’s stunning fall scenery. Walkers can find paved routes at Griese Park and Wildwood Park and along the Greenway Trail and the Veterans Parkway Trail. 

Visitors looking for trails that are a little wilder can take a short drive to visit places like North Wood County Park, Powers Bluff County Park, the George W. Mead Wildlife Area, and the McMillian Marsh Wildlife Area.

Learn more about parks, trails, and natural areas in Marshfield here.

Fall on the Farm at Seehafer Farm Creamery

Those looking to discover an ideal fall experience should visit Seehafer Farm Creamery, located on Highway 97 just 2 miles north of Marshfield. The annual Fall on the Farm celebration—held every Saturday and Sunday through the end of October—features a little bit of everything, including horse-drawn wagon rides, a corn maze, and a petting zoo. Admission is required for wagon rides and the corn maze, but the petting zoo is free. Follow Seehafer Farm Creamery on Facebook to learn more.

Farmers Markets

Enjoy the bounty of the season at downtown Marshfield’s two weekly farmers’ markets. Pick up fresh produce, bakery items, jams, jellies, cheeses, and much more at the Main Street Marshfield Farmers’ Market, which runs from 8am to 1pm on Tuesdays in the parking lot of Pick ’n Save, 641 S. Central Ave., and the Festival Foods Farmers’ Market, held from 7am to noon on Saturdays and Sundays at Festival Foods, 1613 N. Central Ave.

Looking for more specialty foods? Don’t miss the wide selection at Weber’s Farm Store—and get a picture on the tractor at the playground next door—or visit Nasonville Dairy in nearby Nasonville.

Clark County Harvest Moon Tour

Clark County, which sits directly west of Marathon and Wood counties (where Marshfield is located) highlights agricultural attractions throughout the region, including pumpkin patches, roadside produce stands, orchards, and more with their annual Harvest Moon Tour. This self-guided tour also touts Clark County’s specialty food retailers—including meat markets, cheese shops, and wineries—and encourages travelers to visit the area’s welcoming communities.

Learn more about the Harvest Moon Tour and see participating businesses here or visit clarkcountywi.org. 

Find more fall events in Marshfield, Wood County, and Marathon County here.

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Want hand-crafted beer, a diverse offering of burgers (branch out and try elk as your protein), and intriguing appetizers? Look no further than the Blue Heron Brewpub . Built on Historic Parkin Place, the brewpub offers a warm, comfortable ambiance and embodies the modern gastropub (ten hand-crafted beers are on tap, made on location – opt for the tried-and-true Tiger’s Eye or a seasonal flavor). Round out your meal with delicious stake filet bites, panko-almond breaded duck strips, pub chips loaded with mac sauce, bacon, cheddar jack, green onion, and sour cream, or go with classic cheese curds (made from local, award-winning cheesemakers, Nasonville Dairy).

At Nutz Deep II, (read about the origin behind the wacky name of this very popular hot spot), you’ll find the best burger in town – and you can take that straight from the locals. Nutz is the proud winner of Best Burger (Best of Marshfield Area poll) for over a decade. Enjoy burger toppings like prime rib, mac and cheese, pulled pork, mozzarella sticks, and more. Their flagship burger, the Nutz Deep Burger, is a can’t-go-wrong, but why not go big or go home? Take on The Pounder, two half-pound patties piled high with four cheeses, haystack onions, beef brisket, lettuce, tomato, sautéed jalapenos, a slab of Mexican cheese, and finished off with a chipotle cream sauce. Wash it all down with tapped beers (try an autumnal choice or their take on the Bloody Mary, the Nutty Bloody.

Pasta

Take a stroll downtown to Mojo’s and nom on a big bowl of  pasta noodles, made fresh to order, in-house. This fast-casual, family-owned eatery is a carb match made in heaven, with Italian and Cajun fusion food. The Pasta Jambalaya, served with tender chicken, andouille sausage and Gulf pan-seared shrimp, is a spice-filled delight. The menu also includes made Pasta Carbonara, Blackened Shrimp & Cheesy Grits, Shrimp & Bacon Po’ Boys. Want to try a hearty stew? Dip some fresh ciabatta bread into the Cajun Etouffee stew or Gumbo over red beans and rice. It’ll warm you right up on a cool, crisp fall afternoon.

Pizza

Home of the Bacon, Broccoli, and Cheese Pizza, and voted Best Pizza in Marshfield 2021 and for several years running (Best of Marshfield Survey), Scotty’s Pizza & Chicken is family-friendly place to indulge your pizza curiosity. With an eclectic selection of sauces and toppings, you’re sure to find a pie to enjoy. You can also order their fantastic fried chicken and fish, sandwiches, subs, salads, and more. And don’t forget the Crazy Crusts (trust us). Specials and deals change daily, so be sure to visit their website to keep in the know. 

Feeling like a flatbread type pizza? Check out the Lumberyard Bar & Grill, conveniently attached to the Woodfield Inn & Suites. If you like it hot, try the Stingin’ Honey Garlic Chicken flatbread pizza. Or try the tangy Chaparral Chicken (named after our local amateur baseball team). The Lumberyard Bar & Grill has great food, friendly service, plenty of flat screen TVs to watch the game (with a good view, no matter where you sit), and a fully stocked bar with a large selection of tap beers and Wisconsin craft beers.

Mexican & Margaritas

Casa Amigos Mexican Restaurant 2, a fresh and delicious new choice for Mexican opened February 7, 2022 in Marshfield’s downtown. The locations retains the charming brick exterior, while welcoming you into vivid, bright, and welcoming atmosphere inside a spacious remodeled building. You won’t have to wait long or search again for a great night out with your amigos and amigos – just come on in! There’s a great variety of takes on traditional Mexican staples as well as exciting new flavors. Complimentary chips and salsa, a margarita challenge, and fast and friendly service. Available for dine in and carry out.

Spice things up with a trip to El Mezcal. This Mexican restaurant delivers south-of-the-border classics with flair, winning both Best Ethnic Restaurant and Best Outdoor Dining in 2021 (Best of Marshfield Area poll). Speedy service ensures that you’ll receive your coveted chimichanga, taco, enchilada, or burrito in record time. Dive into the complimentary chips and salsa (and get some queso blanco) while you review the full menu.

On the south side, feast your eyes on the colorful décor and tasty cuisine offered at Taqueria El Sol. Fresh salsa, guacamole and green and red chile sauces served with tortilla chips are a must. Choose from burritos, tacos, and fajitas featuring fresh salsa and sauces, such as the chicken el sol burrito which is smothered in green chile sauce, melted cheese and sour cream. Beyond authentic Mexican food, you can also enjoy Indian and Puerto Rican flavors. Don’t forget to add a strawberry margarita!

Desserts

Our philosophy: any time is a good time for cupcakes, especially those freshly baked at 2½ Cups – Cupcakery & Bakeshop, located in the historic Downtown Historic District. Gourmet cupcakes, custom cakes, pies, cheesecakes, home made chocolates, cake pops, dipped cookies, and other sweet treats are yours to indulge in at your leisure. Duck in from the cold and take advantage of their free Wi-Fi or take your favorite treats to go. Seasonal flavors are often featured daily, and nothing says fall like fall like salted caramel.

The post Eat Your Fill of Marshfield’s Best Fall Comfort Foods appeared first on Marshfield Made New.

Events

One of Marshfield’s signature summer events celebrates local farmers and central Wisconsin’s agriculture industry. Dairyfest takes place every year the weekend after Memorial Day and features lots of fun events and activities, including the annual Dairyfest Breakfast, a parade, and a Picnic in the Park. Learn more about this year’s Dairyfest here.

In August, the Central Wisconsin State Fair comes to Marshfield, and visitors can explore 4-H and open class exhibits, grandstand entertainment, midway rides, and—let’s not forget—plenty of fair food. Learn more about the Central Wisconsin State Fair here. (When you’re on the fairgrounds, don’t miss out on a chance to visit the World’s Largest Round Barn—an iconic attraction in the Marshfield area.)

September means the return of Maple Fall Fest—an annual festival held at Wildwood Zoo & Park that features more than 150 vendors and celebrates all things maple. Highlights include Amish specialties, a Maple Village, more than a dozen food vendors, and a traditional potato pancake breakfast. Learn more about this year’s Maple Fall Fest here.

Food

Lovers of ice cream, cheese, and other farm-made treats have a lot of reasons to be excited about visiting Marshfield. Seehafer Farm Creamery on State Hwy. 97 carries an impressive variety of Wisconsin cheeses, ice cream, meats, eggs, and lots of other local products. Located just outside of Marshfield, Nasonville Dairy has been producing delicious cheeses on the same site for more than 125 years—stop by their store to browse their selection. Weber’s Farm Store on Lincoln Avenue and West 14^th Street has a wide selection of locally sourced meats and dairy products (with a convenient drive-up window for easy access).

Looking for brats, jerky, snack sticks or other meats? Hewitt’s Meats on Downwind Drive offers a full line of products, as well as cheese, beer, wine, and more.

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If you ask Clyde, he’ll tell you the dragons, dinosaurs, lizards, and other creatures that populate his woodland sculpture garden are replicas of the beasts that roamed the area during the “Iron Age”. But really, these works—which range from flying pigs to roaring dragons—are all Clyde’s creations, made from scrap metal in his workshop.

Jurustic Park is a great place for all ages, and visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour on most days in the spring, summer, and fall. (If you’re lucky, Clyde himself might even give you a tour.)

Clyde’s wife Nancy is also an artist, and her hand-blown glass, fiber art, jewelry, and more, can be found at The Hobbit House, an on-site studio and shop.

Want to see more of Clyde’s work? Explore the Downtown Jurustic Trail, a 1.5-mile route through downtown Marshfield featuring seven sculptures that’s also a great way to explore downtown Marshfield’s shops and restaurants.

Find more unique attractions and fun activities in Marshfield, Wood County, and Marathon County in central Wisconsin.

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Dairyfest

Celebrate the agricultural bounty of Marathon County and Wood County at Dairyfest, an annual weekend-long celebration that kicks off festival season in Marshfield in late May or early June, depending on the year. On Friday morning, the Dairyfest Breakfast is held at Marshfield Fairgrounds Park, and the rest of the weekend features a full schedule of events, including a parade, kids’ activities, a picnic in the park, an outdoor movie, and more.

Hub City Days

Historic downtown Marshfield hosts this exciting event organized by Main Street Marshfield every July. The three-day celebration kicks off with a Thursday night movie at Wenzel Family Plaza, Friday sees special deals at downtown stores and restaurants and live music at the Hub City Concert Series (also at Wenzel Family Plaza). Saturday sees a massive car show that covers 10 city blocks and features more than 500 vehicles and the Hub City Brew Fest (a ticketed event).

Central Wisconsin State Fair

This annual event attracts people from Marathon County, Wood County, and throughout central Wisconsin for six days of fun every August at the Marshfield Fairgrounds Park along East 17^th Street. The fair includes 4-H exhibits and events for farming and livestock, grandstand entertainment, a midway with carnival rides and fair food, beer gardens, and much more.

Find more details and other exciting events in Marshfield, Marathon County, and Wood County here.

The post Check out some of central Wisconsin’s best festivals & summer events appeared first on Marshfield Made New.

Family Fun

Looking for something the whole family can enjoy on your next trip to Marshfield? Bring the kids to Wildwood Park & Zoo, which is home to twin Kodiak bears Boda and Munsey, as well as cougars, bison, wolves, turtles, snakes, lizards, and more. Plus, the zoo is home to great walking trails if you want to take a stroll. Wenzel Family Plaza in downtown Marshfield has a splash pad where you can cool down on those hot summer days and hosts fun events and live music throughout the summer. You can also cool off inside and have some fun at local businesses like Melody Gardens Restaurant & Skateland, Board & Brush Marshfield, and Escape Room Marshfield.

History & Architecture

Take a trip through the past as you explore Marshfield’s museums and historical attractions. Upham Mansion (formally known as the Governor William H. Upham House), was the home of Wisconsin’s third governor and an important figure in the establishment of Marshfield, and the Roddis House on 4th Street (now a private residence) was the city’s first Dutch Colonial Revival-style home. Another unique historical attraction is the World’s Largest Round Barn at the Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds. Visitors can also learn more about the city’s history at the Marshfield Heritage Museum and see historical military items at the War Room Museum.

Outdoor Recreation

Get out and play in Marshfield this summer! Take a dip at Vandehey Waters Outdoor Aquatic Center, which boasts multiple waterslides, diving boards, a current channel, and more. Hit the tees at RiverEdge Golf Course or walk the trails at Wildwood Park. Take a short drive to find walking paths and beautiful floral gardens at the Rudolph Grotto Gardens and Wonder Cave.

Arts & Theater

Arts aficionados will find charming galleries, unique folk art, live music venues, and more throughout Marshfield. Free art galleries like Gallery 450 on the campus of UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield and the New Visions Gallery at the Marshfield Clinic Health System are home to engaging exhibits by local, regional, and international artists. Jurustic Park and the Downtown Jurustic Trail feature playful metal sculptures by local artist Clyde Wynia, and the Chestnut Center for the Arts in downtown Marshfield and the LuCille Tack Center for the Arts (in nearby Spencer) are important venues for visual and performing arts.

Find more Marshfield attractions here.

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