Though this year is positively flying by and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed this summer here in Wausau, we are looking forward to the upcoming fall season. From getting outside to enjoy the vast network of Wisconsin scenic drives to hitting the trails and savoring the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the season, there’s plenty to love about fall in Wisconsin.
One of our favorite ways to take in the splendor of fall is by driving, and there’s no shortage of Wisconsin scenic drives near Wausau. To make the most of your adventure this fall, we recommend you start planning early – and of course, include accommodations at our luxury Wausau hotel in your plans. After a day of exploring the incredible beauty of fall in Wausau, the Stewart Inn Boutique Hotel is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Book your room today!
The Best Wisconsin Scenic Drives Near Wausau
It’s easy to see why fall is such a popular season to get out and explore Wisconsin. Everywhere you turn, vibrant displays of fall colors transform already beautiful landscapes. When it comes to how best to see Wisconsin’s fall colors, there’s no singular answer. However, one of our favorite things to do is to take any number of Wisconsin scenic drives.
One of the best Wisconsin scenic drives in the Wausau area is along Highway 107, between Merrill and Tomahawk. The trip is approximately 30 miles long and meanders alongside the Wisconsin River, allowing for breathtaking views as you go. Another great drive to consider is along Highway 29. Start north of the city heading east on Hwy 8 before heading south on Hwy 51. Then take 29 west of the city, where you’ll encounter a range of country roads to explore. You really can’t go wrong.
Don’t discount the Wisconsin scenic drives you can take while on your way to Wausau, either! Depending on where you’re coming from, odds are you can travel along at least one of Wisconsin’s Rustic Roads. These incredible roads are beautiful drives to take at any time of year, but especially so during fall foliage season.
8 More Things to do in Wausau This Fall
Wisconsin fall colors are nothing short of spectacular as they move gently from north to south across the state. Leaf-peeping, of course, ranks pretty high on our list of things to do in Wausau each fall. The colors typically reach their peak around mid-October, though they start in September and continue at least until the end of October. Keep an eye on the Wisconsin Fall Color Report for more up-to-date information.
However, taking Wisconsin scenic drives and enjoying fall colors aren’t the only things to do in Wausau this fall. Here are a few more ideas to help you enjoy your getaway.
- Taking a scenic chairlift ride up to the peak of Granite Mountain is one of the best things to do in Wausau each fall. The view from the top will take your breath away!
- For another rewarding look at the views, hike to the top of Rib Mountain State Park. It’s the same view as you’ll get on the chairlift, but you’ll get to enjoy the journey, which has plenty of lookout points along the way up. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy the views from the 60-foot observation tower at the top.
- Paddle around the lake Bluegill Bay Park, taking in the quiet serenity of Wisconsin’s rural countryside as you go.
- There are more great hiking areas in Wausau, including The Big Eau Pleine Park or the Dells of the Eau Claire County Park, both exceptionally beautiful during fall. Another great place is the Nine-Mile Country Forest Recreation Area.
- Enjoy fall in Wausau’s beautiful downtown, which is walkable from our boutique hotel. Browse our local shops, stroll the River Walk in downtown Wausau, and enjoy the many charms of this bustling town.
- Bring or rent a bike, and enjoy the miles of trails along the Mountain-Bay State Trail, where you’ll be surrounded by the colors of fall.
- Enjoy some of the incredible art on display at the Woodson Museum of Art, home to the sensational Birds in Art Exhibit, starting in September.
- Enjoy some fall birdwatching in the Wausau area. Great places to visit include the Bitzke Waterfowl Refuge, the Bern Wetland, or the George W. Mead Wildlife Area.
The Best Wausau Hotel for Your Fall Getaways
Whether you try all of these Wisconsin scenic drives or just one, we know you’ll become an instant fan of this beautiful part of the state. In fact, we’re so confident you’ll love it here that we imagine you’ll discover a new favorite part of the state worth visiting. Not only will you find it fun and beautiful here, but you’ll also surely fall in love with the comfortable and luxurious accommodations at our boutique hotel in Wausau.
The Stewart Inn boutique hotel, designed by architect George Maher, a contemporary of Frank Lloyd Wright, offers an unparalleled lodging experience. We offer exceptional service and unbeatable hospitality. Each morning, you’ll be greeted by the delicious aromas wafting from our kitchen as we prepare a delicious and multi-course breakfast.
We’ll happily help you plan a busy itinerary, or leave you alone to rest to your heart’s content. Whatever it is you want, you’ll find it in Wausau this fall. Book your room at our Wausau hotel today!