Alma WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Alma, Wisconsin.
1. Buena Vista Park
SCENIC BLUFF OVERLOOK
Buena Vista Park stands atop Alma's towering bluffs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mississippi River and surrounding valleys. Visitors can enjoy a well-maintained drive or hike up to the overlook, where picnic areas and walking trails invite lingering amidst the scenery. The vista is especially popular in autumn when the fall colors create a stunning natural tapestry.
2. Danzinger Vineyards
ESTATE WINERY EXPERIENCE
Danzinger Vineyards is a family-owned estate winery known for its picturesque setting atop the bluffs overlooking Alma and the Mississippi. Guests can sample a variety of wines made from locally grown grapes, relax on the spacious outdoor patio, and enjoy regular live music events. The inviting tasting room and beautiful vistas make this a favorite stop for wine lovers and tourists alike.
3. Great Alma Fishing Float
MISSISSIPPI RIVER ANGLING
The Great Alma Fishing Float is a unique floating platform anchored below Lock and Dam #4, where anglers of all skill levels gather to fish for catfish, walleye, bass, and more. It offers all-day access with tackle and bait available for purchase, plus the chance to meet friendly locals. Spectacular river views and frequent eagle sightings add to the experience.
4. Castlerock Museum
ARMS AND ARMOR DISPLAYS
Castlerock Museum features an impressive collection of authentic arms, armor, and artifacts spanning centuries of European military history. Interactive exhibits and knowledgeable staff offer an engaging and educational outing for visitors of all ages. Its unique stone architecture and riverside setting make it a must-see for history buffs and curious travelers.
5. Lock and Dam No. 4
RIVER NAVIGATION LANDMARK
Lock and Dam No. 4 is a working Mississippi River lock, where visitors can watch massive towboats and barges navigate the waterway up close. The site includes viewing platforms and informative signage explaining the dam's history and function. Birdwatchers flock here in winter to spot bald eagles that often gather by the open water.
6. Rieck's Lake Park
WILDLIFE AND BIRDING HAVEN
Rieck's Lake Park is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, particularly during the migration of tundra swans and winter gathering of bald eagles. The park offers accessible trails, observation platforms, and interpretive signage, making it a favorite for nature lovers. Families and photographers often visit for picnicking and peaceful lakeside views.
7. Wings Over Alma Nature & Art Center
NATURE CENTER AND GALLERY
Wings Over Alma Nature & Art Center serves as both a visitor center and a platform for viewing local wildlife, especially the region's famous bald eagles. The center includes nature exhibits, spotting scopes, and a rotating display of artworks by regional artists. It's an excellent spot to learn about Alma's natural heritage and artistic community.
8. Alma Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE EXHIBITS
Alma Historical Museum showcases the town's rich history through artifacts, photographs, and interpretive displays. Housed in an early 20th-century building, the museum highlights the river's influence, local industry, and the lives of Alma's residents. It provides insight into the charm and development of this Mississippi River community.
9. Buena Vista Trail
BLUFFTOP HIKING ADVENTURE
The Buena Vista Trail winds up Alma's bluffs, rewarding hikers with scenic overlooks and glimpses of diverse flora and fauna. The well-marked path is popular for both casual walkers and those seeking a challenge. Along the way, benches and interpretive signs enhance the experience, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
10. Alma Bluff Siding
RAILROAD AND RIVER VIEWS
Alma Bluff Siding is a scenic railroad overlook where visitors can watch freight trains pass along the Mississippi River while overlooking the picturesque bluffs. Interpretive signage describes the area's railroad history and its impact on local development. It is a tranquil spot for train enthusiasts and photographers alike.
11. Main Street Historic District
CHARMING RIVERFRONT DOWNTOWN
Alma's Main Street Historic District preserves beautiful 19th-century architecture, quaint shops, galleries, and inviting cafes along the Mississippi River. Walking this vibrant corridor allows visitors to admire restored buildings and discover local craftsmanship. The district is a hub for special events and community gatherings year-round.
12. Tiffany Bottoms State Natural Area
PRAIRIE AND WETLAND REFUGE
Tiffany Bottoms State Natural Area is a sprawling preserve known for its rare ecosystems, including floodplain forest and tallgrass prairie. Visitors enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and seasonal nature tours on vintage railroad cars that traverse the wetlands. The area's tranquility and biodiversity make it a cherished escape for outdoor lovers.
13. Cochrane-Fountain City Park
RECREATION AND PLAY AREA
Cochrane-Fountain City Park offers open green spaces, sports facilities, playgrounds, and picnicking areas suitable for community gatherings and family outings. The park is a popular destination just east of Alma, providing recreational opportunities to Buffalo County visitors. Its well-maintained grounds and welcoming atmosphere appeal to all ages.
14. Merrick State Park
RIVERFRONT CAMPING AND TRAILS
Merrick State Park encompasses wooded islands and wetlands along the Mississippi River, offering riverfront campsites, hiking trails, and fishing access. The park is known for its peaceful setting, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for boating and canoeing. It attracts campers and day-trippers seeking a serene natural retreat.
15. Seven Hawks Vineyards
WINERY AND ORCHARD RETREAT
Seven Hawks Vineyards features a tasting room, vineyard tours, and scenic grounds nestled in the bluffs above Fountain City. Guests can sample locally crafted wines, stroll the orchards, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Mississippi Valley. The vineyard offers a relaxing atmosphere just a short drive from Alma.