When people think about romantic getaways in Wisconsin, winter isn’t always the first season that comes to mind. But there’s a lot to love about a weekend spent skiing, exploring local restaurants, and returning to a historic inn with a fireplace and a luxurious steam shower. Wausau is especially well suited to couples who want a little daytime adventure and a comfortable place to unwind in the evening.
If you’re considering romantic getaways in Wisconsin this winter, our full guide to romantic getaways in Wisconsin offers more ideas for planning a trip together. Here, we’re focusing on what makes Wausau an excellent winter destination.
Winter Changes What a Wausau Getaway Looks Like
Wausau is worth visiting year-round, but winter brings opportunities you won’t find in the warmer months. Granite Peak opens for downhill skiing and snowboarding, local trails draw cross-country skiers and snowshoers, and downtown restaurants offer a warm place to recharge after spending time outdoors.
One advantage of planning a Wisconsin winter getaway in Wausau is that you don’t have to choose between outdoor recreation and a weekend in town. Spend the morning on the slopes, visit an art museum in the afternoon, and enjoy a leisurely dinner downtown without traveling far between activities.
If you’d rather skip winter sports altogether, there’s still plenty to fill a weekend.
Skiing and Winter Sports, With Downtown Wausau Close By
Granite Peak Ski Area is one of Wisconsin’s best-known downhill skiing destinations, located on the north face of Rib Mountain. With a vertical drop of about 700 feet and runs for all skill levels, it’s a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in Central Wisconsin. Best of all, it’s less than five miles from the Stewart Inn, making it easy to spend a day on the slopes and return downtown for dinner.
For couples who prefer cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, Nine Mile County Forest Recreation Area is another excellent option. Located southwest of Wausau, this extensive county forest has groomed cross-country ski trails and designated snowshoeing opportunities. Trails accommodate different ability levels, so you can choose an outing that suits your interests and experience. Check current trail conditions and pass requirements before heading out.
If downhill skiing isn’t on your agenda, consider visiting Rib Mountain State Park. The park offers winter hiking and snowshoeing opportunities, including a groomed snowshoe loop when conditions permit. Its elevated setting provides beautiful views of the Wausau area and surrounding countryside. Dress for the weather, wear appropriate footwear, and check park conditions before visiting.
Whether you’re experienced skiers or simply looking for a reason to spend a few hours outdoors together, Wausau offers plenty of options for a winter getaway for couples.
Where to Warm Up Together
Some of the best romantic winter getaways in Wisconsin include time indoors, and Wausau offers several places to explore when you’re ready to warm up.
The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum is an excellent place to spend an afternoon. Known for its internationally recognized Birds in Art exhibition, the museum also features changing exhibitions and works from its permanent collection. Admission is free, making it an easy addition to your weekend plans. Check the museum’s current exhibitions and hours before visiting.
Downtown, the Center for the Visual Arts offers another opportunity to explore local and regional art. Its galleries feature rotating exhibitions, and its location makes it easy to combine a gallery visit with downtown shopping or lunch.
For drinks, Timekeeper Distillery is known for its craft spirits and cocktails, served in a historic setting. Red Eye Brewing Company is another favorite, offering house-brewed beers alongside a restaurant menu. Both make good stops during a winter afternoon or evening in Wausau.
Dinner is another reason to look forward to a couples getaway in Wisconsin. Wausau’s restaurant scene includes everything from contemporary American cuisine to traditional Wisconsin favorites. For a classic supper club dinner, visit one of the area’s Wisconsin supper clubs for an old-fashioned, leisurely meal and the hospitality these establishments are known for.
Where to Stay: A Winter-Specific Case for the Stewart Inn
Choosing the right accommodations matters even more for a romantic winter getaway. After a day of skiing, snowshoeing, or exploring downtown, it’s nice to return somewhere just as inviting as the places you’ve been visiting.
Among hotels in Wausau, WI, the Stewart Inn offers an intimate boutique lodging experience in a beautifully restored historic mansion. Built in 1906 and designed by George W. Maher, a contemporary of Frank Lloyd Wright, our boutique hotel features original architectural details, beautiful woodwork, and comfortable guest rooms with modern amenities.
Winter is especially appealing here. Several guest rooms feature gas fireplaces, including the Sheldon, Foster, and Fuller rooms. Every guest room has a private bathroom with a steam shower, especially welcome after a cold day outdoors.
Mornings begin with a gourmet multi-course breakfast prepared from scratch, with many ingredients sourced from Wisconsin purveyors. Breakfast and an evening reception are included with your stay. The hotel also has inviting common areas where guests can relax between outings.
Located in Wausau’s historic downtown neighborhood, the Stewart Inn is within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and entertainment. That makes it easy to enjoy an evening out without driving across town, though winter weather and sidewalk conditions may affect your plans.
For couples planning a special anniversary, a winter birthday celebration, or simply a weekend together, the Stewart Inn offers the historic charm, personal hospitality, and luxurious amenities that make a getaway worthwhile.
Book your winter stay at the Stewart Inn and explore the available guest rooms and seasonal packages.
A Simple Weekend Plan
You don’t need a packed itinerary to enjoy a romantic weekend in Wausau. A few plans and some free time are usually enough. Here’s one way to spend a winter weekend together:
- Friday evening: Check into the Stewart Inn, settle into your room, and head downtown for dinner. If you’ve booked a fireplace room, enjoy a little time by the fire before turning in.
- Saturday: Start with the hotel’s gourmet breakfast, then head to Granite Peak for downhill skiing or Nine Mile County Forest for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Spend the afternoon exploring the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum or downtown galleries. In the evening, reserve a table at a favorite Wausau restaurant or visit a traditional Wisconsin supper club.
- Sunday: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at our boutiqe hotel, then take a short walk through the Andrew Warren Historic District, weather permitting. Admire the neighborhood’s historic homes and architecture before heading home.
For more ideas, including restaurants, date nights, and year-round activities, see our full guide to romantic things to do in Wausau.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wausau a good winter getaway for couples?
Yes. Wausau is an excellent destination for couples who enjoy outdoor recreation, arts and culture, and great restaurants. Granite Peak Ski Area is minutes from downtown, and museums, galleries, and historic neighborhoods offer plenty to explore off the slopes. Staying at the Stewart Inn adds luxurious accommodations, gourmet breakfasts, and fireplaces in select rooms to your winter weekend.
What is there to do in Wausau in winter besides skiing?
Wausau offers plenty of winter activities that don’t involve downhill skiing. Visit the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, explore downtown galleries, enjoy craft cocktails at Timekeeper Distillery, or make dinner reservations at a local restaurant. Couples who want to spend time outdoors can try snowshoeing at Nine Mile County Forest or Rib Mountain State Park, depending on trail and weather conditions.
If you’re looking for romantic winter getaways in Wisconsin that combine outdoor activities with historic accommodations and excellent dining, Wausau deserves a place on your list.
Book your winter stay at the Stewart Inn and start planning a weekend together in Central Wisconsin.
