Winter in Wisconsin offers a magical backdrop for any quick getaway or an extended vacation filled with outdoor adventures during the day and cozy evenings by the fire. There are so many great things to do in Baraboo this winter, especially at Devil’s Lake State Park, including snowshoeing, cross-country excursions, and so much more. This state park is one of the most visited in Wisconsin, much because it’s a four-season destination where winter sports enthusiasts can explore and enjoy the snow.
One of the most popular pastimes in this area is cross-country skiing, and at Devil’s Lake State Park, is an open winter playground for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Visitors can partake in various exciting activities, including dog sledding, where they can experience the thrill of being pulled by a team of well-trained sled dogs across snowy landscapes. Additionally, there’s an opportunity to build igloos, providing a fun and interactive way to learn about snow architecture. For those who enjoy adventure, geocaching offers a treasure-hunt experience using GPS coordinates to find hidden caches throughout the area.
Moreover, the Nature Center hosts special open days on selected Saturdays during the winter months, offering educational programming and a chance for visitors to learn more about the local environment and its wildlife. This is a great place to start your visit to Devil’s Lake State Park and feel free to ask your innkeepers for insider tips and tricks for enjoying the park, and about the all of the winter things to do in Baraboo. Before you start planning your itinerary for your winter adventures, secure your spot at the Ringling House B&B, the top-rated bed and breakfast in Baraboo; book your room today!
Things to Do In Baraboo: Devil's Lake State Park & More
There is a long list of things to do in Baraboo, WI, all year long. However, winter is beautiful when the countryside is covered in a blanket of white. We’re fortunate to have a great selection of state parks for outdoor recreation, lovely restaurants and bars, and other indoor activities for chilly days. Bring your warm coat, snow boots, hats, and gloves, and head out in the snow!
Here are the best things to do in Baraboo, WI, this winter:
- Explore Devil’s Lake State Park: As we’ve already mentioned, this impressive Wisconsin State Park is such a beautiful place to visit in the winter. Guests enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. There are no groomed trails here, so all the trails are open for those to explore depending on their skill level.
- Cross-Country Skiing at Mirror Lake State Park: Another absolutely beautiful destination to visit in winter, this glassy lake becomes even more exceptionally calm when covered with a thin layer of ice. The park features 18 miles of trails groomed for both skate and classic skiing, along with an additional mile groomed explicitly for classic skiing. If you’re a cross-country skier, this park has to be at the top of your list.
- A Chilly Day on the Baraboo River Walk: If you want a mild winter stroll, bundle up and explore this three-mile paved trail through downtown Baraboo. It offers scenic river views and access to multiple parks.
- Enjoy a Beer at AL. Ringling Brewing: When it’s time to warm up with a beer and a snack, this local brewery serves the original Ringling family beer recipe. According to the story, the recipe was found in a small hidden box while renovating the historic building.
- Lively Atmosphere at Tumbled Rock Brewery & Kitchen: For a more modern brewery experience, it is known for its flagship and seasonal beers, wood-fired pizza, and Wisconsin cheese curds.
- Wine Tasting at Balanced Rock Winery: The closest winery to Devil’s Lake State Park, Balanced Rock, is a locally owned gem offering great wine tastings and food. They also often host live music and events!
- Spirit Tasting at Driftless Glen Distillery: One of the best things to do in Baraboo is warm up with spirits tasting at this distillery on the Baraboo River. For a delectable meal, make a reservation at the on-site fine-dining restaurant.
The Best Bed and Breakfast in Baraboo
Our Baraboo Bed and Breakfast is about ten minutes from Devil’s Lake State Park. It’s the best place to stay for those hoping to explore the excellent winter activities during the day while having a cozy, comfortable space in the evenings. Our inn’s history is rich and apparent in every detail;. We’ve meticulously restored this Baraboo mansion, which was once part of the famed Ringling Circus family. During your stay, you’ll see connections to the past in every nook and cranny.
In our elegant guest rooms, each is a tribute to a past couple from the Ringling Family who once call this house a home. For example, the Charles and Edith Room is dedicated to the couple who built this grand home in 1901. This room was Edith’s sitting room. It features a king size canopy bed, large windows, built-in fireplace with electric insert, air conditioning, and private attached bath with walk in shower, marble sink, and heated bath fan. This room is 238 sq ft without the bathroom, and has an adjoining door to the Sally & Richard Room—perfect to book in tandum with another couple.
Our breakfast service is a lovely addition to your stay, and in the winter, you’ll enjoy this meal at the historic Ringling Family dining table. We always offer sweet and savory options for your morning meal, paired with hot coffee or tea, and fruit and juice. It’s the best way to start your day before you head out to explore all of the things to do in Baraboo nearby. We can’t wait to host you this winter and beyond; book your room today!
