Sharon WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sharon, Wisconsin.
1. Winslow Studio
LOCAL ART GALLERY EXPERIENCE
Winslow Studio is a charming art gallery located in downtown Sharon that showcases the works of local and regional artists. Visitors can explore various artistic mediums including paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted items that reflect the cultural heritage of the area. The studio occasionally hosts special exhibitions and meet-the-artist events that provide insight into the creative process.
2. St. Catherine Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE
St. Catherine Catholic Church stands as a beautiful example of traditional church architecture in Sharon. The church features noteworthy stained glass windows and religious artifacts that tell the story of the local Catholic community's history. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and architectural details that make this church a significant landmark in the village.
3. Iron Horse Saloon
CLASSIC WISCONSIN TAVERN
The Iron Horse Saloon offers visitors a genuine Wisconsin tavern experience in the heart of Sharon. This establishment serves up classic drinks and typical pub fare in a friendly, welcoming environment that reflects small-town charm. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the authentic atmosphere and opportunity to mingle with residents while experiencing a slice of Wisconsin culture.
4. Al's Auto Body and Arboretum
UNIQUE AUTO-BOTANICAL EXPERIENCE
Al's Auto Body and Arboretum presents an unexpected combination of automotive history and beautiful gardens in Sharon. This unique attraction features a collection of vintage automobiles alongside meticulously maintained garden spaces that create a surprising juxtaposition. Visitors can wander through the themed garden areas while appreciating the restoration work on classic vehicles displayed throughout the property.
5. Model A Day Festival
ANNUAL VINTAGE CAR CELEBRATION
The Model A Day Festival has been a beloved annual event in Sharon since 1997, organized by the Sharon Main Street Association. Each year, this gathering attracts over 300 Model A collectors and enthusiasts who display their meticulously restored vintage vehicles throughout the village streets. Visitors can admire these classic automobiles, meet collectors, and enjoy the festive atmosphere that celebrates automotive history.
6. Edwards Apple Orchard
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FRUIT FARM
Edwards Apple Orchard offers a delightful seasonal experience just a short drive from Sharon across the Illinois border. Visitors can pick their own apples from numerous varieties, enjoy fresh apple cider donuts and other treats from the farm bakery, and participate in family-friendly activities including hayrides and a pumpkin patch in the fall. The orchard's country store offers an array of homemade products including jams, honey, and specialty food items that make perfect souvenirs.
7. The Waterfront at The Abbey Resort
LAKESIDE DINING EXPERIENCE
The Waterfront at The Abbey Resort provides an upscale dining experience with stunning views of Geneva Lake, just a short drive from Sharon. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood and regional specialties while watching boats glide across the picturesque waters through the restaurant's expansive windows. The establishment offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, with the patio being especially popular during summer months for its panoramic lake views and refreshing atmosphere.
8. Big Foot Beach State Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Big Foot Beach State Park spans 271 acres along the shores of Geneva Lake, providing numerous outdoor recreational opportunities within a short drive from Sharon. Visitors can enjoy swimming at the sandy beach, hiking through wooded trails, and camping at one of the 100 campsites available throughout the warmer months. The park's diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife viewing opportunities and peaceful natural settings perfect for picnicking and photography.
9. Geneva Lake Shore Path
HISTORIC LAKESIDE WALKING TRAIL
The Geneva Lake Shore Path offers a unique 21-mile hiking experience around the perimeter of Geneva Lake, accessible within a short drive from Sharon. This historic footpath passes through the backyards of magnificent estates and offers unparalleled views of the crystal-clear waters and impressive architecture that has made the area famous. Hikers can complete sections of the path or attempt the entire route, passing through several Lake Geneva communities while learning about the area's rich history through informational markers along the way.
10. Apple Barn Orchard and Winery
FRUIT PICKING AND WINE TASTING
Apple Barn Orchard and Winery combines the pleasures of fruit picking and wine tasting in one charming destination near Sharon in Walworth County. Visitors can select from seasonal fruits including apples, pears, and raspberries, then sample award-winning wines made on-site from the orchard's own harvest. The rustic barn houses a country store offering fresh baked goods, preserves, and gift items that showcase the agricultural bounty of the region.
11. Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy
PRISTINE WETLAND PRESERVE
Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy protects 231 acres of pristine wetlands, woodlands, and prairie within easy reach of Sharon. Visitors can explore over four miles of maintained trails through diverse habitats that support countless bird species and native plants throughout the changing seasons. Educational signage throughout the conservancy helps hikers identify flora and fauna while learning about the ecological importance of these protected natural areas.
12. East Troy Electric Railroad
VINTAGE RAILWAY EXPERIENCE
The East Troy Electric Railroad offers a nostalgic journey aboard historic trolleys and interurban cars that once formed Wisconsin's transportation backbone. Passengers embark on a scenic 10-mile round trip between East Troy and Indianhead Park in Mukwonago, crossing beautiful countryside and stopping at a charming depot housing a museum dedicated to electric railroad history. Special themed rides are offered throughout the year, including dinner trains, pizza trains, and holiday-themed excursions that delight visitors of all ages.
13. Dancing Horses Theatre
EQUESTRIAN PERFORMANCE ART
Dancing Horses Theatre presents spectacular equestrian performances featuring highly trained horses and riders executing intricate choreographed routines set to music. Each show combines elements of artistry, athleticism, and the natural beauty of various horse breeds in a climate-controlled indoor arena that ensures comfort for visitors year-round. The facility also includes the Animal Gardens exotic animal park and a bird show, making it a comprehensive entertainment destination for animal lovers near Sharon.
14. Yerkes Observatory
HISTORIC ASTRONOMICAL RESEARCH FACILITY
Yerkes Observatory houses the world's largest refracting telescope and stands as an architectural marvel with its ornate Romanesque design just a short drive from Sharon. The historic facility, founded in 1897, has played a crucial role in the development of modern astrophysics and continues to inspire visitors with its blend of scientific significance and architectural beauty. Guided tours allow visitors to learn about the observatory's contributions to astronomy while admiring the intricate stonework featuring astronomical motifs and the impressive dome housing the 40-inch telescope.
15. Walworth County Fair
TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITION
The Walworth County Fair has been a regional tradition since 1849, offering visitors from Sharon and beyond a quintessential county fair experience each Labor Day weekend. This agricultural showcase features livestock competitions, farm equipment displays, and demonstrations of traditional skills alongside carnival rides, games, and an array of food vendors serving classic fair treats. Entertainment options include grandstand concerts, tractor pulls, demolition derbies, and various performances that celebrate rural American culture and community spirit.