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. northwoodszipline.com
Grab your bikes (or rent them from Z-Best Bikes located a block from the trailhead) 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. dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/bearskin
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!
4. Minocqua Zoo
The second largest zoo in the state, Wildwood Wildlife Park & 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. wildwoodwildlifepark.com
5. Catch of the Day
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.)
You’ll find one of the longest sledding runs (400 feet) in the area at Minocqua Winter Park. No need to climb a big hill; just grab the tow rope and you’ll enjoy a leisurely ride to the top, followed by a thrilling ride down! minocquawinterpark.org
7. Day at the Beach
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.
9. Bond in a Boat
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. Northwoods Children’s Museum
Children will delight in the 24 interactive exhibits featured at the Northwoods Children’s Museum in nearby Eagle River. Create a masterpiece in the art center, dress up in Grandma’s Attic or check out the giant Bubble Station. northwoodschildrensmuseum.com
