Stratford WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Stratford, Wisconsin.
1. Deborah Ann's
LOCAL POINT OF INTEREST
Deborah Ann's is a notable point of interest in Stratford that draws visitors to the small Wisconsin town. Visitors can explore this local landmark that has been recognized as one of the top attractions in the area according to traveler reviews. The charming spot offers a unique experience that represents the character of this Marathon County community.
2. Big Rapids County Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Big Rapids County Park offers a peaceful natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Stratford area. The park features beautiful landscapes with opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the Wisconsin wilderness. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds that provide a refreshing escape from everyday life.
3. Country Aire
LOCAL BAR AND CLUB
Country Aire is a popular local establishment in Stratford that offers a taste of Wisconsin's friendly bar culture. Visitors and locals alike gather here to enjoy drinks, socialize, and experience authentic small-town hospitality. The venue provides a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the community spirit of Stratford.
4. Walls of Wittenberg
OUTDOOR ART GALLERY
The Walls of Wittenberg (WOW) is an impressive outdoor art gallery featuring colorful murals throughout the community. Artists have transformed building exteriors into striking works of public art that tell stories of local history and culture. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to appreciate these artistic treasures that have become a point of pride for the region.
5. Pablo Center at the Confluence
ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTER
The Pablo Center at the Confluence stands as a premier arts and cultural hub in western Wisconsin. This modern facility hosts a diverse array of performances, exhibitions, and educational programs that celebrate creativity in all its forms. Visitors can enjoy everything from concerts and theater productions to visual art displays in this architectural gem.
6. Paul & Matilda Wegner Grotto
UNIQUE FOLK ART SITE
The Paul & Matilda Wegner Grotto showcases remarkable folk art created by German immigrants who transformed their property into a wonderland of concrete sculptures. Adorned with thousands of glass fragments, shells, and porcelain pieces, these intricate structures include a replica of their 50th anniversary cake and a glass church. Visitors marvel at this testament to creativity and dedication that began as a retirement project in the 1920s.
7. McMillan Marsh Wildlife Area
NATURAL WILDLIFE HABITAT
McMillan Marsh Wildlife Area provides a vast natural habitat spanning thousands of acres near Stratford in Marathon County. Nature enthusiasts can observe diverse wildlife including waterfowl, deer, and numerous bird species in their natural environment. The area offers seasonal recreational opportunities including hiking, hunting, fishing, and wildlife photography throughout the year.
8. Stratford Heritage Trail
HISTORICAL WALKING PATH
The Stratford Heritage Trail guides visitors through the historical development of this charming Wisconsin community. Walkers can discover local landmarks and learn about the town's evolution from its early settlement days to the present. Informational markers along the route provide fascinating insights into Stratford's cultural and economic heritage.
9. Jurustic Park
WHIMSICAL METAL SCULPTURES
Jurustic Park is a unique outdoor museum showcasing hundreds of fantastical metal sculptures created by local artist Clyde Wynia. These rusty creatures, said to represent extinct creatures from a nearby marsh, delight visitors with their whimsical designs and creative backstories. The free attraction includes both the outdoor sculpture garden and Clyde's workshop where visitors can often meet the artist himself.
10. Stratford Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Stratford Farmers Market brings together local growers and artisans offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and specialty foods. Visitors can browse stalls filled with seasonal vegetables, baked goods, and unique Wisconsin-made products while chatting with the people who created them. The market creates a vibrant community gathering space that showcases the agricultural heritage of the region.
11. Wildwood Park and Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Wildwood Park and Zoo offers an accessible and enjoyable wildlife experience near Stratford in Marshfield. Visitors can observe native Wisconsin species including bears, bison, wolves, and cougar in naturalistic habitats across the 60-acre facility. The free zoo combines animal exhibits with beautiful park grounds featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails for a complete family outing.
12. Connor's Living History Farm
INTERACTIVE AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE
Connor's Living History Farm recreates rural Wisconsin life from the early 20th century through preserved buildings and authentic demonstrations. Visitors can explore the original farmhouse, barns, and outbuildings while learning about traditional farming methods and daily life from costumed interpreters. The immersive experience offers insights into the agricultural practices that shaped communities like Stratford throughout Wisconsin's development.
13. Stratford Veterans Memorial
TRIBUTE TO SERVICE MEMBERS
The Stratford Veterans Memorial honors those who served their country through military service from the local community. Visitors can reflect on the sacrifices made by service members as they view the thoughtfully designed monument in a peaceful setting. The memorial serves as an important reminder of Stratford's contribution to national defense throughout America's history.
14. Powers Bluff County Park
SCENIC RECREATIONAL AREA
Powers Bluff County Park features one of central Wisconsin's highest points with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Winter sports enthusiasts enjoy the park's ski and snowboard runs, while summer visitors can explore hiking trails through diverse woodland habitats. The site also holds cultural significance as a former Native American settlement with protected archaeological features.
15. Stratford Cheese Factory Tour
LOCAL DAIRY PRODUCTION
The Stratford Cheese Factory Tour provides visitors with an inside look at Wisconsin's famous dairy industry in action. Guests can observe the cheese-making process from milk delivery to aging while learning about traditional and modern production techniques. The experience typically concludes with sampling various cheese varieties produced on-site, offering a delicious taste of authentic Wisconsin culture.