The best things in life and the Minocqua area are free. If you are planning a getaway on a budget or just looking to occupy a few hours during the day, there is plenty of fun to be had without breaking the bank.
Hillestad Pharmaceuticals® Tours
This unique tour takes you behind the scenes of the making of many natural products like vitamins, minerals, herbs, skin creams, and lotions. Tours are offered Monday through Friday between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. Walk-ins are absolutely welcome.
Northwoods Wildlife Tours
The Northwoods Wildlife Center rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured wildlife from the Northwoods. The center admits about 600-700 animals a year in need of medical treatment. You can see some of these animals up close on guided tours. Learn about eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, and even turtles. If you are lucky, check to see if it’s feeding time of any of the baby wildlife patients. Tours run hourly from 10 am - 4 pm Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are required so book ahead of time. The tours are free but a $7 donation is recommended.
Min-Aqua Bats Waterski shows
The Min-Aqua Bats are the one of the longest running amateur water ski show teams in the United States today. They originated in 1950 with a group of local young people water skiing on Sunday afternoons. The group now performs three shows a week at the Aqua Bowl in downtown Minocqua. Check out amazing tricks and stunts performed by some of the best water skiers every Wednesday, Friday & Sunday at 7:00 p.m. from June-August.
Minocqua Public Library
You could just check out a good book and curl up in a hammock under a shady pine tree for an afternoon but if your kids need more activity than that, the Minocqua Public Library offers great programs for your little ones and big kids too. Check out the Family StoryTime on Wednesdays at 10 am or Tot TimeThursdays at 10 am for toddlers and preschoolers.
Your older kids can attend many events geared just for them throughout the year. Check out their schedule here.
Live Music
Throughout the year there are unique festivals and events that feature great live music. Popular local musicians like Brad Emanuel, Scott Kirby, & Bernie Thompson also play weekly at bars and restaurants like the Minocqua Yacht Club, Northfork Fin & Filet, and The Black Bear Bar & Grill. Grab a cocktail and some appetizers and enjoy the evening.
Learn our history
Do you know the connection Elizabeth Taylor has to Minocqua? Or that we have the World’s Largest Penny? From our roots in logging to inspirational & famous figures, the Minocqua area has a fascinating history. The Dr Kate Museum, the Minocqua Museum, and the Snowmobile Hall of Fame are exceptional stops to learn about the history of our Northwoods communities and what has made the area so unique.
Events
From the weekly farmer's market to popular annual festivals like Beef-a-Rama, there are unique events and activities all year long. Check out the area events calendar for upcoming happenings.