Durand WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Durand, Wisconsin.
1. Chippewa River State Trail
SCENIC BIKING AND HIKING
The Chippewa River State Trail offers a picturesque 28-mile multi-use path stretching from Durand to Eau Claire, welcoming cyclists and hikers year-round. Trail visitors experience beautiful river views, lush countryside, and access to a variety of wildlife throughout the journey. Starting in Durand, this trail is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure or a tranquil escape in nature.
2. Rolling Greens Golf Course
CLASSIC COURSE EXPERIENCE
Rolling Greens Golf Course, formerly the Durand Golf Club, is a mature 18-hole course nestled among gently rolling hills just outside downtown Durand. Every hole here offers a unique challenge with well-maintained fairways and greens, making it suited for golfers of all skill levels. The course's setting provides a serene backdrop for a day spent golfing in Wisconsin's countryside.
3. Old Courthouse Museum
HISTORIC COUNTY LANDMARK
The Old Courthouse Museum stands as the only remaining wood-frame courthouse in Wisconsin and showcases distinctive Greek Revival architecture. Originally serving as the Pepin County Courthouse from 1874 to 1985, the building now displays artifacts and exhibits that bring local history to life. Visitors can tour preserved courtrooms and learn about the region's legal heritage in this unique historical venue.
4. Tiffany Wildlife Area
VAST NATURAL SANCTUARY
Tiffany Wildlife Area encompasses over 13,500 acres and is renowned for its extensive bottomland hardwood forests and diverse wildlife. Outdoor lovers visit to hike, bird-watch, hunt, and fish while enjoying sightings of bald eagles and red-shouldered hawks. The changing seasons bring vibrant scenery and a rich habitat for many species, making it a favorite for nature exploration.
5. Memorial Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPOT
Memorial Park is a central hub for family recreation, offering open green spaces, sports facilities, and playgrounds in the heart of Durand. The park is ideal for picnics, casual games, or leisurely strolls under mature shade trees. It often hosts community events and provides a relaxing environment for both locals and visitors.
6. Eau Galle Cheese
AWARD-WINNING CHEESE FACTORY
Eau Galle Cheese is famous for producing over nine million pounds of Parmesan, Asiago, and Romano cheese annually, earning state and national awards for quality. Visitors can explore the plant, sample fresh cheese, and learn about the area's rich dairy traditions. The shop is a beloved stop for cheese enthusiasts looking to experience authentic Wisconsin flavors.
7. Music in the Park
SUMMER LIVE PERFORMANCES
Music in the Park is a beloved seasonal event where local and regional musicians perform in Durand's park pavilion during summer evenings. Families and friends gather with lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere filled with live music and food vendors. This event fosters community spirit and showcases the town's vibrant cultural life.
8. Durand Funfest
ANNUAL FESTIVAL CELEBRATION
Durand Funfest is the town's signature multi-day festival featuring a parade, live entertainment, carnival rides, and a vibrant selection of local foods. Held annually in early June, it attracts visitors from across the region for its lively atmosphere and family-friendly activities. The event is the highlight of Durand's social calendar, celebrating community pride and small-town charm.
9. Arkansaw Park
RIVERSIDE LEISURE AREA
Arkansaw Park, situated just a few miles from Durand in the community of Arkansaw, offers a peaceful riverside setting with picnic facilities and open spaces. The park is ideal for outdoor gatherings, quiet reflection, or an afternoon by the water. Seasonal events like Park Creek Days add extra fun for those exploring beyond Durand's city limits.
10. Tour de Pepin
SCENIC BIKE TOUR
Tour de Pepin is a unique annual cycling event that begins in nearby Stockholm and draws cyclists through the glacial landscapes of Pepin County. Riders choose from multiple routes around Lake Pepin, each offering panoramic views, charming village stops, and community support stations. The event is a favorite for both casual and serious cyclists looking to experience western Wisconsin's natural beauty.
11. Trillium Festival
SPRING WILDFLOWER CELEBRATION
The Trillium Festival in Maiden Rock, just under 20 miles from Durand, celebrates the blooming of native trillium flowers each spring. Guests enjoy guided wildflower walks, art displays, and educational programs about regional flora. It's an ideal outing for plant enthusiasts and families eager to welcome the new season.
12. Fresh Art Tour
ARTIST STUDIO OPEN HOUSE
Fresh Art Tour is a biannual self-guided art tour that lets visitors explore the studios and galleries of working artists in Wien and nearby towns. The event features painting, sculpture, jewelry, and pottery, allowing travelers to meet artists and purchase original work. The scenic rural route adds to the charm, especially during peak fall foliage or spring blooms.
13. Prairie Moon Sculpture Garden
OUTDOOR FOLK ART GARDEN
Prairie Moon Sculpture Garden, located in the nearby community of Cochrane, showcases over 40 large-scale concrete and glass folk art sculptures. Created by artist Herman Rusch in the mid-20th century, the site is a quirky and inspiring destination for art and history lovers. The garden is open to the public and offers a unique look at Wisconsin's creative heritage.
14. Walnut Grove Golf Course
CHALLENGING LOCAL FAIRWAYS
Walnut Grove Golf Course, found in Eau Galle just outside Durand, presents golfers with a well-manicured 18-hole layout suitable for all skill levels. The course's rolling greens and countryside setting make it a favorite destination for both casual rounds and local tournaments. Friendly staff and a welcoming clubhouse complete the experience for visiting golfers.
15. Cell Block Lounge
HISTORIC BAR EXPERIENCE
Cell Block Lounge offers a unique atmosphere in downtown Durand, occupying a building with a storied past as part of the old county jail. The bar blends history and hospitality, featuring memorabilia and themed decor for a memorable night out. Locals and visitors alike enjoy signature drinks, live music events, and the chance to soak up some small-town character.