Horicon WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Horicon, Wisconsin.
1. Horicon Marsh
LARGEST FRESHWATER CATTAIL MARSH
Horicon Marsh is a stunning 33,000-acre wetland that boasts one of the widest arrays of plants, animals, and birds in the Midwest. Visitors can explore this natural wonder through kayaking, canoeing, guided boat tours, hiking trails, or by walking along the 1,400-foot floating boardwalk. The marsh was designated a 'Wetland of International Importance' in the 1990s after decades of restoration work pioneered by local conservationists.
2. Horicon Marsh Explorium
INTERACTIVE WILDLIFE EDUCATION
The Horicon Marsh Explorium is an engaging interactive theater that highlights the story of the Horicon Marsh and the wildlife that call it home. Visitors can climb on a life-size mammoth or take a ride on the airboat simulator while learning fascinating facts about the marsh. The Explorium offers an educational experience about the marsh's storied past through its interactive displays at the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center.
3. Ledge County Park
SCENIC NATURAL ESCARPMENT
Ledge County Park offers visitors breathtaking views from the Niagara Escarpment, a significant geological feature in the region. The park provides excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and nature photography throughout all four seasons. Visitors can enjoy peaceful trails that showcase the natural beauty of Wisconsin's landscape.
4. Horicon Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Horicon Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich heritage and history of Horicon and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the settlement history, industrial development, and cultural evolution of this Wisconsin community. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, including information about how settlers initially dammed, dredged, and later drained the marsh for farming before conservation efforts began.
5. River Bend Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
River Bend Park is a scenic recreational area located along the picturesque banks of the Rock River in Horicon. The park offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing in a tranquil setting. Its strategic riverside location makes it an ideal spot for observing waterfowl and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
6. Kiwanis Park
COMMUNITY OUTDOOR SPACE
Kiwanis Park serves as a beloved community gathering space in Horicon where visitors can enjoy various recreational activities. The park features playground equipment, picnic areas, and open spaces perfect for family outings and community events. Its convenient location within Horicon makes it an accessible destination for both residents and tourists looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
7. Horicon Hills Golf Club
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Horicon Hills Golf Club offers golfers a picturesque course nestled among the rolling landscapes of Wisconsin. The course provides challenges for players of all skill levels while offering beautiful views of the surrounding natural scenery. Visitors can enjoy a complete golfing experience with well-maintained fairways and greens throughout the golf season.
8. Flyway Gift Shop
MARSH-THEMED SOUVENIRS
The Flyway Gift Shop is operated by the Friends of Horicon Marsh Education & Visitor Center, offering a wide variety of educational and souvenir items for all ages. Visitors can browse through a thoughtfully curated selection of marsh-themed merchandise, books, and locally crafted items. The shop provides perfect mementos of a Horicon Marsh visit while supporting the educational and conservation efforts of the center.
9. Rock River Tap Bar & Grill
RIVERSIDE DINING EXPERIENCE
Rock River Tap Bar & Grill offers visitors a friendly dining experience in Horicon with views of the Rock River. Patrons can enjoy a variety of food and beverages served with a pleasant smile in a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. The establishment serves as both a local gathering place and a refreshment stop for tourists exploring Horicon's natural attractions.
10. Marsh Haven Nature Center
WILDLIFE EDUCATION CENTER
Marsh Haven Nature Center is an educational facility located on Highway 49 that focuses on the wildlife and ecology of Horicon Marsh. Visitors can explore exhibits about local flora and fauna while learning about conservation efforts and the importance of wetland preservation. The center offers programming that helps guests of all ages connect with and appreciate the natural environment of the marsh.
11. Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
FEDERAL CONSERVATION HEADQUARTERS
The Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, located on Highway Z, serves as the headquarters for the federally managed portion of the marsh. Visitors can gather information about wildlife viewing opportunities, seasonal bird migrations, and conservation efforts managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The center provides educational resources about the refuge's unique ecosystems and the diverse wildlife that depends on this critical habitat.
12. Horicon Marsh Boat Tours
GUIDED MARSH EXPLORATION
Horicon Marsh Boat Tours offer visitors a unique perspective of this magnificent wetland from the water. Knowledgeable guides lead excursions that highlight the marsh's ecology, wildlife, and fascinating history while navigating through the waterways. These tours provide excellent opportunities for bird watching, photography, and gaining a deeper appreciation for one of North America's most important freshwater resources.
13. Horicon Marsh Floating Boardwalk
IMMERSIVE WETLAND EXPERIENCE
The Horicon Marsh Floating Boardwalk extends 1,400 feet through the heart of the marsh, allowing visitors to experience the wetland environment up close. This accessible pathway offers excellent opportunities for bird watching, wildlife observation, and photography while minimizing impact on the delicate ecosystem. The boardwalk provides informational signage that educates visitors about the plants, animals, and ecological processes that make the marsh such a vital natural resource.
14. Dodge County Fair
ANNUAL REGIONAL CELEBRATION
The Dodge County Fair is an annual celebration held in nearby Beaver Dam that attracts visitors from throughout the region, including Horicon. This traditional county fair features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, musical entertainment, and a variety of food vendors representing Wisconsin's farming heritage. The fair offers a glimpse into rural Wisconsin culture while providing family-friendly entertainment for visitors of all ages.
15. Wild Goose State Trail
MULTI-USE RECREATIONAL PATH
The Wild Goose State Trail is a 34-mile converted rail-trail that passes near Horicon Marsh, offering scenic views for hikers, cyclists, and seasonal snowmobilers. The trail traverses through beautiful Dodge County landscapes, connecting several communities while providing access to natural areas and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy this well-maintained pathway year-round, with different seasonal activities making it a versatile recreational resource for the region.