Tucked into the heart of Central Wisconsin, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum is one of the top cultural attractions in the state, especially for those who find inspiration in the natural world. With a strong focus on nature-themed art, the museum is best known for its world-renowned exhibition, Birds in Art. This celebrated annual show brings together some of the finest artists from around the globe, all exploring the beauty, complexity, and spirit of birds through a wide range of media. In 2025, Birds in Art marks its 50th year, making it an ideal time to experience this iconic exhibit at one of the most respected art museums in Wisconsin.
While the Woodson Art Museum is reason enough to visit, there are plenty more things to do in Wausau while you’re in town. From scenic hiking trails at Rib Mountain State Park to lively summer events on the 400 Block, there’s something happening every weekend. You can stroll through downtown Wausau for coffee, cocktails, and boutique shopping, or check out other local gems like the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art and the vibrant dining scene. Whether you’re here for the culture, the food, or the outdoors, Wausau is full of experiences that pair perfectly with a trip to the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum.Â
Rounding out your trip is the Stewart Inn, a historic Boutique Hotel that’s rated as one of the best small hotels in the country, let alone one of the top places to stay in Wisconsin. This top-rated boutique hotel, offering bed and breakfast amenities, provides refined accommodations in a beautifully restored historic home just minutes from downtown and the museum itself. With luxurious guest rooms, spa-quality bathrooms, a gourmet multi-course breakfast, and genuine hospitality, the Stewart Inn adds comfort and character to your art-filled getaway. It’s the perfect home base for exploring Wausau and experiencing the 50th anniversary of Birds in Art at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. Book your stay today!
Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum
The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum has become one of the most beloved cultural institutions in the Midwest, earning national recognition for its thoughtful curation, engaging exhibits, and unwavering commitment to connecting art and nature. Founded in 1976 in a stately English Tudor home, the museum has since expanded with light-filled galleries and public spaces that are as inviting as the art they house. As one of the most celebrated art museums in Wisconsin, the Woodson Art Museum consistently ranks among the best small museums in the country. Admission is always free, making it an accessible and rewarding experience for all visitors.
The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum’s most famous exhibit is Birds in Art, a juried international show that showcases the beauty, movement, and expression of birds through paintings, sculpture, and mixed media. Held every fall since 1976, Birds in Art draws top artists from around the world, each offering their own interpretation of avian subjects. The 2025 exhibit marks the 50th anniversary of this iconic event, promising an even deeper look into the evolution of nature-inspired art over the decades. It’s a must-see for both casual visitors and seasoned collectors, and it cements the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum’s status as a leading museum in Wisconsin for nature and wildlife art.
Beyond Birds in Art, the museum presents a range of year-round exhibitions, from contemporary sculpture to themed collections that explore the intersection of nature, science, and creativity. The art doesn’t just stay inside the galleries, though. Outside the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, you’ll find the Margaret Woodson Fisher Sculpture Garden, filled with beautiful seasonal gardens and delightful sculptures. It’s a peaceful space to reflect and enjoy art in the open air. Visitors should also visit the Kathy Kelsey Foley Rooftop Sculpture Garden, which offers a similar immersive outdoor experience, but with breathtaking, panoramic views of the Wisconsin River Valley.Â
The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, offering free admission and ample parking on-site. The museum is fully accessible and family-friendly, with hands-on learning spaces and seasonal programs for kids and adults alike. Located just a short distance from downtown Wausau, it’s close to many other attractions and restaurants, making it easy to spend the day exploring the area. Whether you’re an art lover, a bird enthusiast, or simply looking for meaningful things to do in Wausau, a visit to the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum is an experience you won’t want to miss.
A Closer Look at the 50th Annual Birds in Art Exhibit
The 2025 Birds in Art exhibition at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wausau, Wisconsin, marks a significant milestone: its 50th anniversary. Renowned globally, this juried exhibition showcases contemporary artistic interpretations of birds, featuring original artworks in various media, including two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and time-based forms. The exhibition will be on view from September 6, 2025, through January 4, 2026, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of avian-inspired art.
The opening weekend of this year’s Birds in Art Exhibit, from September 6 to September 7, 2025, promises a series of engaging events. Attendees can look forward to exhibition previews, artist excursions, and special programs designed to celebrate this landmark year. One highlight is the “Artists in Action” program on Saturday, September 6, where visitors can observe artists demonstrating their techniques and discussing their work. Additionally, the weekend coincides with Wausau’s Festival of the Arts, in conjunction with the annual Wausau Artrageous Weekend, which features multiple art events throughout the city.
The Birds in Art exhibition is free to the public, aligning with the museum’s commitment to accessibility. Visitors can explore a diverse array of artworks that capture the essence of birds through various artistic media. The museum’s hours during the exhibition are Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, with extended hours on Thursdays until 7:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and holidays.
The 50th anniversary of Birds in Art offers a unique opportunity to engage with exceptional avian-themed art and participate in a weekend filled with cultural events. It’s truly one of our favorite weekends of the year, and we’ll no doubt fill up for this celebrated art exhibit. Join us at the Stewart Inn, and turn your love of nature-inspired art into a luxury-filled weekend getaway. Book your stay today!
