Palmyra WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Palmyra, Wisconsin.
1. Rushing Waters Fisheries
TROUT FISHERY TOURS
Rushing Waters Fisheries offers visitors the chance to tour a working fishery nestled in a scenic valley. Guests can enjoy guided tours, learn about sustainable aquaculture, and even try trout fishing themselves. The on-site restaurant serves exceptionally fresh trout dishes, making for a memorable culinary and educational experience.
2. The Carlin House and Turner Museum
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Carlin House and Turner Museum preserves Palmyra's history in a charming 19th-century structure. Visitors can view vintage furnishings, artifacts, and rotating exhibits that showcase the village's heritage. The museum also features a unique gift shop and is open on Saturdays from April to December.
3. Palmyra Village Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION PARK
Palmyra Village Park is a vibrant gathering place offering modern playgrounds, sports fields, horseshoe pits, and picnic shelters. This twelve-acre park hosts local league games and community events throughout the year. With its spacious pavilions and family-friendly amenities, it is perfect for outdoor fun.
4. Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit
EXPANSIVE OUTDOOR TRAILS
Kettle Moraine State Forest's Southern Unit covers over 22,000 acres and is renowned for its rolling woodlands and kettle lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, bike, ski, or horseback ride on some of the Midwest's most acclaimed trails, including access points near Palmyra. The forest also provides camping, birdwatching, and scenic picnic spots year-round.
5. John Muir Trailhead
MOUNTAIN BIKING DESTINATION
The John Muir Trailhead in nearby La Grange features a renowned system of singletrack mountain biking trails. Cyclists of all skill levels enjoy a range of loops that wind through dense forest and glacial terrain. The trailhead also serves as a starting point for hikers and trail runners.
6. Bald Bluff
SCENIC VISTA HIKE
Bald Bluff is a popular hiking destination within the Kettle Moraine State Forest, offering stunning panoramic views after a moderately challenging ascent. Visitors are rewarded with vistas of rolling hills, prairies, and distant lakes. The area is especially beautiful during autumn when the foliage changes color.
7. Scuppernong Springs Nature Trail
WETLAND BOARDWALK WALK
Scuppernong Springs Nature Trail leads visitors through a restored wetland area using a wooden boardwalk. Interpretive signs along the way educate hikers about native plants, local wildlife, and the region's hydrology. The tranquil setting makes it a favorite spot for nature photographers and birdwatchers.
8. Palmyra Airport
GRASS RUNWAY AIRFIELD
Palmyra Airport is a picturesque, all-season turf runway popular with recreational pilots and aviation enthusiasts. The 2,100-foot runway hosts casual fly-ins and small events. Watchers can see classic and experimental aircraft take off and land in a relaxed rural setting.
9. Ice Age National Scenic Trail
GLACIAL HIKING ROUTE
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through Palmyra, traversing glacial moraines and kettle lakes unique to the region. Hikers can explore varying segments, each offering different difficulty levels and landscapes. It is a must-see for geology buffs and long-distance trekkers.
10. Paradise Springs Nature Trail
HISTORIC SPRING WALK
Paradise Springs Nature Trail, located in nearby Eagle, takes visitors past a crystal-clear spring, historic springhouse, and lush wetlands. The short, accessible loop features interpretive signs about the site's development as a resort in the early 20th century. It's an easy, scenic walk ideal for families.
11. Old World Wisconsin
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Old World Wisconsin is an immersive living history museum showcasing 19th-century rural life through relocated historic buildings and costumed interpreters. Visitors enjoy hands-on activities and demonstrations of traditional farming, crafts, and domestic skills. The expansive grounds make for a full-day educational outing.
12. Glacial Drumlin State Trail
RAIL-TO-TRAIL CYCLING
The Glacial Drumlin State Trail runs through Jefferson and nearby communities, providing over 50 miles of scenic biking and running paths on a former rail corridor. The trail meanders past farmland, wetlands, and woodlands, making it suitable for all ages. Trailheads offer parking and amenities for easy access.
13. Blue Spring Lake Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Blue Spring Lake Park offers seasonal swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities on a spring-fed lake surrounded by lush woods. Families appreciate the sandy beach, boat launch, and picnic facilities. This tranquil area is popular for day trips and summer gatherings.
14. Hooper's Mill
HISTORIC GRIST MILL
Hooper's Mill stands as a testament to Palmyra's 19th-century agricultural roots, with its historic structure located near the Scuppernong River. While the mill itself is not operational, visitors can view its exterior and appreciate its significance in local history. It is a popular stop for photographers and heritage enthusiasts.
15. Eagle Historical Society & Depot Museum
RAILROAD HERITAGE SITE
The Eagle Historical Society & Depot Museum preserves the town's railroad and community history through engaging exhibits housed in a restored train depot. Visitors can explore photos, artifacts, and memorabilia spanning more than a century. The museum is an excellent destination for families and train buffs alike.