Shawano WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Shawano, Wisconsin.
1. Twig's Beverage Museum
SODA HISTORY AND MEMORABILIA
Twig's Beverage Museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through the history of soda production and bottling. The museum features a wide collection of memorabilia, vintage equipment, and displays that showcase the evolution of beverage manufacturing. Visitors can also enjoy the adjacent gift shop and soda shop where they can purchase unique sodas and souvenirs.
2. Indoor Shawano Wisconsin Flea Market
WINTER TREASURE HUNTING
The Indoor Shawano Wisconsin Flea Market is a seasonal winter event running from January through March each Saturday. Treasure hunters can explore a variety of antiques, collectibles, old toys, and unique items from numerous vendors. This popular market offers free admission and parking, making it an accessible winter activity for locals and visitors alike.
3. Shawano Lake
PREMIER FISHING AND RECREATION
Shawano Lake, spanning 6,063 acres, is one of Wisconsin's largest inland lakes and a premier destination for water recreation. Anglers can fish for various species including musky, walleye, northern pike, crappie, perch, and several types of bass. The lake offers excellent swimming opportunities and is perfect for boating, making it a central attraction in Shawano Country.
4. Wolf River
WILD WATER ADVENTURES
The Wolf River provides exciting recreational activities including tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and rafting adventures. During spring (April-May), visitors can witness the remarkable annual lake sturgeon run at Sturgeon Park, featuring prehistoric fish that are a rare sight to behold. The river's natural beauty and variety of water sports make it a must-visit destination in Shawano County.
5. Sturgeon Park
PREHISTORIC FISH VIEWING
Sturgeon Park in Shawano offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe the annual lake sturgeon run during spring months. These prehistoric fish, rare and impressive in size, migrate upriver to spawn, creating a natural spectacle worth witnessing. The park provides excellent viewing areas along the Wolf River, making it a special destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
6. Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce
VISITOR INFORMATION HUB
The Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce serves as the primary visitor center for travelers exploring the region. Their visitor center vestibule is accessible 24 hours daily, stocked with regional and state travel guides and maps for self-service assistance. Staffed service hours run Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Fridays, providing personalized recommendations for local attractions and activities.
7. Off The Wall Art Studio & Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Off The Wall Art Studio & Gallery showcases the creative talents of local and regional artists in Shawano. The gallery features a diverse collection of artwork including paintings, sculptures, pottery, and unique handcrafted items. Visitors can browse through the exhibits, meet artists, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the cultural and artistic spirit of the area.
8. Sand-BAR & Grill
LAKESIDE DINING EXPERIENCE
Sand-BAR & Grill offers a relaxing dining experience located directly across from Shawano Lake. Patrons can enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in beautiful views of the water. The establishment combines the casual atmosphere of a bar with quality grill options, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike after a day of lake activities.
9. Shawano County Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Shawano County Historical Society preserves and celebrates the rich history of Shawano and its surrounding communities. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the area's development and cultural heritage. The society maintains historical buildings and collections that provide fascinating insights into the lives of early settlers and the evolution of the region.
10. Wiouwash State Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR PATHWAY
The Wiouwash State Trail stretches 23 miles between Split Rock and Aniwa, offering excellent biking and hiking opportunities through Shawano County. The trail follows a former railroad corridor, providing a flat, accessible path suitable for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. Travelers can enjoy peaceful rural landscapes, wildlife sightings, and convenient access points along this scenic recreational treasure.
11. Navarino Nature Center
WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION EDUCATION
Navarino Nature Center serves as an educational hub for wildlife conservation and environmental appreciation in Shawano County. The center features interpretive displays, educational programs, and guided experiences that highlight the diverse ecosystems of the region. Visitors can explore surrounding trails, observe native plants and animals, and participate in seasonal activities designed to foster a deeper connection with nature.
12. North Star Mohican Casino Resort
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
North Star Mohican Casino Resort offers a complete entertainment experience with various gaming options including slot machines, table games, poker, and bingo. The resort includes comfortable accommodations, dining venues, and entertainment facilities for a full vacation experience. Operated by the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians, the casino also provides cultural context and economic support for the tribal community.
13. Menominee Casino Resort
GAMING AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Menominee Casino Resort features a variety of gaming options with slots of different denominations, table games, and bingo facilities. The resort complex includes dining options, entertainment venues, and accommodations for visitors looking for an extended stay. As a tribal enterprise, the casino offers insights into Menominee culture while providing recreational opportunities for tourists visiting the Shawano County region.
14. Arvid E. Miller Memorial Library Museum
NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURAL HERITAGE
The Arvid E. Miller Memorial Library Museum houses an impressive collection of cultural and historical artifacts from the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians. Visitors can explore exhibits that document the tribe's history, traditions, and contemporary life through various displays and archival materials. The museum serves as an important educational resource for understanding Native American heritage in the region around Shawano County.
15. Shawano County Heritage Park
HISTORIC SETTLEMENT EXPERIENCE
Shawano County Heritage Park showcases historic buildings and gardens at the site of the first European settlement in the county, overlooking the Wolf River. The park presents a collection of preserved structures that illustrate the architectural styles and daily life of early settlers in the region. Visitors can stroll through the grounds, explore the buildings, and gain insights into the pioneering history that shaped Shawano County.