The car is packed, the kids are loaded, and you’ll soon be arriving in the Northwoods. Now you’re wondering how to keep your electronics-addicted offspring busy for the week? No problem! The Minocqua area offers dozens of activities and attractions that your kids will love! Here are just a few of our favorites.
Ever wonder what it’s like to fly above the trees? This may be the closest you’ll get to realizing your dream of flight. Northwoods Zip Line offers several canopy tour options for kids as young as three. Trek across adventure bridges, cruise over a lake, and for the competitive family, check out the dual race zip line.
Grab your bikes (or rent them nearby BJ's Sportshop) and explore this 18-mile crushed granite trail. Running along a former rail corridor, the trail crosses 13 trestle bridges and offers the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including deer and bald eagles.
3. S’more Fun
A fire pit, surrounded by towering pines, with the glimmer of the water reflecting the moonlight as a backdrop … the only thing missing is some chocolate, graham crackers and marshmallows! S’mores are part of the authentic Northwoods experience. Any local grocery store will have all the supplies you need for this ooey, gooey treat or make your own gourmet s'mores!
4. Minocqua Zoo
The second largest zoo in the state, Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari is the perfect place for kids of all ages. Get up close and personal with dozens of miniature goats, walk through the Budgie Encounter (wear a hat if you don’t want the parakeets to mess up your hair when they land on your head!), feed the giraffes and see dozens of different animal species.
Anglers of all ages enjoy fishing the Northwoods. Commonly caught species include Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Muskie, Crappie, Perch and a variety of other panfish. Stop in at one of several local bait shops to grab your supply of crawlers, lures and other tackle gear. (State fishing licenses are required for those ages 16 and up.)
The show features world-class lumberjack athletes performing different events, including log rolling, pole climbing, and ax throwing . You'll also enjoy a blend of comedy, history, and thrilling lumberjack demonstrations.
Head over to one of the area’s great beaches. We recommend Torpy Park, Brandy Park or Clear Lake, which offer picnic areas and restrooms, among other amenities. Build a sandcastle, bury your best friend in the sand, play some Frisbee, just don’t forget the sunscreen!
8. Two Scoops
What better way to wrap up a day at the beach than to top it off with ice cream! Cookie dough? Chocolate? Butter pecan? Whatever you’re hungry for, there’s a good chance you’ll find it at any one of a number of shops offering sweets and treats. Just be sure it doesn’t melt before you get a chance to enjoy it.
Being confined to a space less than 150 square feet with your family might not sound like fun, unless the space is a boat and you are cruising Minocqua area lakes. Explore the chain of lakes, stop by lakeside restaurants for a bite to eat, ski, tube or fish.
10. Go Go-Karting
On you mark, get set, let's race! Challenge your family to a little friendly competition and drive go-karts at Rock Falls Riding Stables, Mini Golf, and Go Karts or Holiday Acres Recreational Park. Who will win the family bragging rights?
