Thankful for Central Wisconsin: A Thanksgiving Getaway through 6 Central Wisconsin Communities

Being thankful comes easy to some but during the holiday season (the busiest season of the year) sometimes we all need a change of scenery to help remind us that its okay to relax and the more friendly, beautiful, and welcoming the space, the easier i find it to get into the spirit of the season.

So with that in mind here is my recommended weekend itinerary to visit all six Greater Wausau communities to make the most of your Thanksgiving weekend!

Your Thanksgiving Weekend at a Glance

FRIDAY: A LITTLE COUNTRY CHARM AND A LOT TO BE THANKFUL FOR

8:30 AM — Start the Weekend at Black Creek Coffee

Communty: Athens

Image from Black Creek Coffee

Begin your road trip at Black Creek Coffee, where you can settle into a relaxed morning and enjoy a great pick me up coffee and light breakfast, that won't weigh you down, before exploring the surrounding countryside.

Make sure to take your time! After all, Thanksgiving is about appreciating the little moments that make a day special.

10:00 AM — Take a Nature Walk at Erbach Park

Image from Google Maps

After breakfast, head to Erbach Park for a peaceful start to the day. Enjoy the fresh air, stretch your legs, and take in the natural beauty around Athens.

Make this a mindful autumn walk. Notice the changing leaves, listen for birds, and take a few photographs of the scenery. If you're traveling with family, challenge everyone to find something in nature that makes them feel grateful, at least a bit more than before the beautiful walk.

11:30 AM — Discover a Wisconsin Wonder at the 45°N, 90°W Geographical Marker

Theme of the morning: A little perspective

For an unusual stop, visit the 45°N, 90°W Geographical Marker near Athens. This landmark identifies a location close to the halfway point between the Equator and the North Pole, as well as halfway between the prime meridian and the 180th meridian.

It's a fun roadside discovery that offers something a little different from the usual fall attractions.

Take a team photo, learn a little geography, and appreciate the opportunity to discover a place you might otherwise drive right past.

12:30 PM — Enjoy a Casual Lunch in Athens

Community stop: Stoney Acres Farm

Before leaving Athens, take time for a relaxed lunch at a local dining spot.

Stoney Acres Farm, for example, is known for its wood-fired Pizza on the Farm nights, which combine local food with a welcoming farm atmosphere. Its seasonal schedule means you'll need to check whether it is operating during your visit.

2:00 PM — Head to Weston for an Afternoon Walk

Community stop: Weston

After lunch, make your way toward Weston and explore the Mountain-Bay State Trail area.

A walk along the trail is a wonderful way to enjoy the Wisconsin landscape without committing to a strenuous hike. Depending on the weather, you may see late-autumn colors, open countryside, or the quiet beauty of the landscape as things transitions toward winter.

A helpful hint from a pro: if you have time bring a thermos of hot chocolate or cider to help enjoy that fall chill

4:00 PM — Check In and Settle Into Your Home Base

Rather than moving between hotels every night, choose one comfortable hotel in the greater Wausau area for both nights. This gives you more time to explore and less time packing and unpacking.

The perfect option to investigate is the Hilton Garden Inn Wausau near Rib Mountain.

Unpack, warm up, and enjoy a little downtime before dinner.

6:00 PM — Enjoy a Cozy Dinner in the Wausau Area

Friday evening is all about easing into the weekend.

For a close meal explore the area's local restaurants and choose somewhere with a menu that suits your group. If you're craving something a little more special, Van Acre inside your Hilton Garden Inn offers a more polished dining experience with regionally inspired dishes.

Finish the evening with a warm drink, a favorite holiday movie, or a relaxed night at the hotel.

SATURDAY: MOUNTAIN VIEWS, LOCAL FLAVORS, AND TIME TOGETHER

8:00 AM — Breakfast at ERA Café

Image from Tripadvisor

Community stop: Rib Mountain

Big day = big breakfast.

Start Saturday with breakfast at Era Pancakes & Café in Rib Mountain. 

A cozy and full café breakfast is a perfect autumn tradition, especially when the temperature outside calls for another warm drink and a little extra time at the table.

9:30 AM — Explore Rib Mountain State Park

Theme of the morning: Adventure and appreciation

It's time to get outside! Head to Rib Mountain State Park for a scenic walk and a chance to appreciate one of the region's best-known natural attractions.

Depending on the weather and trail conditions, choose a route that suits your group. If the observation tower and summit area are accessible, take in the views across the surrounding landscape.

Early in autumn, this is a wonderful place for fall colors. By late November, the leaves may have fallen and the landscape may feel more wintry, but the views remain breathtaking.

Remember that Wisconsin state parks require a vehicle admission sticker, and outdoor conditions can change quickly as winter approaches.

11:30 AM — Warm Up With a Seasonal Drink at Tucknee Coffee Company

Community stop: Wausau

Theme of the day: Cozy comforts

After your outdoor adventure, head into downtown Wausau for yet another warm drink at Tucknee Coffee Company.

This locally owned coffee shop offers a welcoming place to pause, warm up, and enjoy a seasonal beverage. It's also a lovely opportunity to slow down before the afternoon's activities.

Choose a latte, tea, or another favorite drink, and take a moment to appreciate the small pleasures that make autumn special.

12:30 PM — Lunch at Red Eye Brewing Company

For lunch, theres no need for a big trip, head next door to Red Eye Brewing Company for some of the greatest seasonal menu options, in my own opinion, in all of Wisconsin.

Make sure to check to specials menu which is again as unique as they come and say hello to the Chef Nate on the way in and thanks on the way out! 

It's thanksgiving after all and we are all grateful to have such great people who make up our communities!

2:00 PM — Browse Downtown Wausau and the 400 Block

Theme of the afternoon: Community and connection

After lunch, how about a bit more time without the car! Walk just a couple blocks to explore downtown Wausau! Browse local shops, discover independent businesses, and enjoy the character of the city's downtown district.

The 400 Block is a central gathering place for community events throughout the year. Depending on your dates, you may find seasonal activities or holiday events nearby.

This is also a great opportunity to get a head start on holiday shopping. Look for locally made gifts, books, homewares, or a little something for someone who deserves an extra treat this year.

3:30 PM — Spend the Afternoon at Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum

Next visit the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum for a time to relax and enjoy the award winning museums collection of the moment!

The museum is an excellent way to add a cultural experience to your weekend, particularly when late-autumn weather makes an indoor activity appealing. Its celebrated Birds in Art exhibition is a seasonal highlight, though exhibition dates and displays vary from year to year.

Take your time exploring the galleries, enjoy the creative atmosphere, and appreciate the opportunity to experience something new.

6:30 PM — A Thanksgiving-Inspired Dinner

Gather around the table, saturday night is the perfect time to make dinner feel like a Thanksgiving celebration.

Book a table at a restaurant that suits your group, whether that's a relaxed supper-club experience or a classic Wisconsin bar and grill.

I would recommend Richard's Restaurant for a happy mix!

For a traditional Thanksgiving meal with turkey and all the familiar sides, check specifically for restaurants offering a holiday menu.

It doesn't need to be elaborate. No matter what the best part is enjoying the meal together.

8:00 PM — A Relaxed Evening in Wausau

Finish Saturday with a leisurely evening. Depending on the event calendar, you could attend a performance at The Grand Theater, explore a local evening event, or simply return to the hotel for a cozy night in.

A Thanksgiving weekend doesn't have to be packed from morning until night. Sometimes the most memorable moments happen when everyone has time to relax and enjoy one another's company.

SUNDAY: RIVERSIDE STROLLS, SMALL-TOWN DISCOVERIES, AND A SWEET SEND-OFF

8:30 AM — Enjoy a Relaxed Breakfast

Community stop: Schofield

Take Sunday morning slowly. Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or go out to Schofield and enjoy great places like the Log Cabin Restaurant!

There's no need to rush. You've already explored mountains, cities, and country roads, so today is about enjoying a few final discoveries before heading home.

9:30 AM — Visit Radtke Park in Schofield

Now let's get out and about in Schofield and enjoy some time at Radtke Park.

The park is a pleasant place to stretch your legs and appreciate the area's connection to the Wisconsin River. Depending on current conditions and available facilities, you may be able to enjoy a walk, sit for a while, or simply take in the surroundings..

11:30 AM — Discover Rothschild's Parks and History

Community stop: Rothschild

Next, head south to our final location during the trip, Rothschild, for a relaxed exploration of the village.

Start with Gaska Park, where you can enjoy some fresh air and a gentle walk. If the weather cooperates, continue toward River Park and the Wisconsin River Trail area for more riverside scenery.

You can also stop by the historic Rothschild Pavilion, a distinctive local landmark associated with community gatherings and events.

Rothschild is a lovely place to round out the outdoor portion of your weekend, offering a combination of green spaces, river views, and local history.

12:30 PM — Sunday Lunch at a Local Favorite

Image from Google Maps

By now, it's time for one last meal before heading home.

Blissful Bites and Brunch offers a wide range of meals for any who the perfect way to celebrate your time and reflect! 

Take all the time you need and talk about their favorite moments from the trip. You might discover that someone loved the mountain views, another person found a new favorite coffee shop, and someone else simply enjoyed the quiet countryside.

That's the beauty of a multi-community getaway: everyone can find something!

2:00 PM — Head Home With a Full Heart

Your Thanksgiving weekend adventure has come to an end, but hopefully you've left with more than just photographs.

You've explored six central Wisconsin communities, spent time outdoors, enjoyed local food, discovered art and history, and made room for the most important part of Thanksgiving: appreciating the experiences and people that make life special.

Whether you travel with family, friends, a partner, or solo, this getaway is a reminder that gratitude doesn't have to be reserved for one meal or one day of the year.

Sometimes, all it takes is a road trip, a beautiful view, and a little time to invest in yourself and others!