Wausau, Wisconsin, US

Wausau, Wisconsin, offers an inviting blend of outdoor excitement and cultural experiences. With parks, museums, and the scenic Rib Mountain, it's a charming destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Chicago

Local Time

09:22 AM

Population

39,300

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

55-79°F (13-26°C) - Warm and humid; thunderstorms likely.

Best Time

May-Jul, Sep-Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

MSP

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport

Distance

Approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes by car via I-94 W, 230 miles.

Description

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport features two modern terminals and a wide range of shops and dining. It offers excellent ground transportation options and is known for its art installations.

Wausau, nestled in central Wisconsin, is ideal for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Offering year-round attractions such as skiing on Rib Mountain, kayaking along the Wisconsin River, and hiking in marathon landscapes, it's perfect for outdoor adventures. The city's cultural scene features the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum and numerous festivals celebrating local arts and crafts. For those looking to experience Wausau's culinary side, the city’s diverse dining venues offer everything from traditional Wisconsin fare to innovative global cuisines. Don’t miss the annual Wausau Balloon and Rib Fest, which promises fun for all ages.

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Wausau Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Wausau follows Wisconsin state laws. Visitors should be aware of alcohol consumption laws, including the legal drinking age of 21.

Crime Rates

Wausau has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. Property crimes are more common than violent crimes, but overall, the city is considered safe.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities in Wausau are readily available, with several hospitals and clinics. There are no significant health risks specific to the area.

Natural Disasters

Wausau is susceptible to typical Midwestern weather patterns, including severe thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes. Winter can bring heavy snowfall and icy conditions.

Law Enforcement

Wausau has an active and visible police presence. The local law enforcement is known for being responsive and effective in maintaining public safety.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Wausau is limited but generally safe. The Metro Ride bus service is the primary mode of public transport.

Solo Travelers

Wausau is generally safe for solo travelers. The community is friendly, and the city offers a welcoming atmosphere.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments affecting safety in Wausau. The city continues to maintain a stable safety environment.

No data Found...

No data Found...

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Wausau Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

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Average Low


Humidity


Rainy Days


Sunny Days


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Pattern

Best season to visit

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Current Conditions ():

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Best Time to Visit Wausau

Summary: The best time to visit Wausau is from May to October, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 28°C (54°F to 82°F). Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, vibrant fall colors, and cultural festivals.

🌷

May

Best

Moderate temperatures around 15°C (59°F) with spring blooms. Ideal for hiking and visiting local parks.

☀️

June

Best

Warm weather reaches 23°C (73°F), perfect for river activities and outdoor festivals.

🏖️

July

Best

Peak summer conditions at 28°C (82°F) make it ideal for all outdoor pursuits and local celebrations.

🌞

August

Continued warmth with temperatures around 26°C (79°F), great for late summer events.

🍂

September

Best

Cooling down with highs of 21°C (70°F), and stunning fall colors begin to emerge.

🍁

October

Best

Crisp autumn air at 12°C (54°F) provides a colorful backdrop for festivals and scenic drives.

November

Chilly and prep for winter with temps around 4°C (39°F), but a great time for holiday anticipation.

🎄

December

Winter begins, averaging -5°C (23°F), with seasonal events and skiing opportunities on Rib Mountain.

❄️

January

Cold at -9°C (16°F), ideal for skiing enthusiasts and winter sports lovers.

💘

February

Continues winter festivities with average temperatures of -6°C (21°F).

🌱

March

Start of spring with temperatures rising to 2°C (36°F), as nature begins to thaw.

🌸

April

Warmer weather at 10°C (50°F) prompts spring blooms and renewed outdoor activities.

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Seasonal Events in Wausau

July

Wausau Balloon and Rib Fest

Hot air balloons, live music, and delicious ribs create a family-friendly event.

Balloon and Rib Fest
August

Central Wisconsin State Fair

Features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and live entertainment.

Central Wisconsin State Fair
September

Wausau Festival of Arts

Showcases the work of regional artists in downtown Wausau.

Festival of Arts
December

Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony

Kicks off the holiday season with a festive parade and community gatherings.

Wausau Events
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Popular Foods in Wausau

Cheese Curds

A Wisconsin classic, deep-fried and served as a savory delicacy.

Bratwurst

Grilled sausage often enjoyed during local festivals and cookouts.

Fish Fry

Traditional Friday meal featuring battered fish and sides.

Kringle

A Danish pastry popular in Wisconsin, known for its sweet fillings.

Beer Cheese Soup

Creamy soup combining local beer and cheese for a hearty dish.

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Closest Airports to Wausau

Regional Airport

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Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA)

Central Wisconsin Airport offers direct flights to major Midwest hubs and features convenient parking and rental car services. It is small and easy to navigate.

Approximately 20 minutes by car via WI-29 E and I-39 S, 12 miles.

Arrive early to enjoy shorter security lines. On-site parking is available at reasonable rates.

CWA Website

International Airport

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Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport features two modern terminals and a wide range of shops and dining. It offers excellent ground transportation options and is known for its art installations.

Approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes by car via I-94 W, 230 miles.

Consider using METRO Transit services to navigate within the airport. Allow extra time during winter for possible snow-related delays.

MSP Website

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Popular Trip Types

Family Ski Vacation

Wausau, Wisconsin, is home to Granite Peak Ski Area, one of the largest ski resorts in the Midwest, offering slopes and runs suitable for all skill levels. The area also provides family-friendly accommodations and après-ski activities, making it ideal for a family ski vacation.

Outdoor Adventure

Wausau's location near Rib Mountain State Park offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and bird-watching. The region provides excellent opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of Wisconsin.

Cultural Exploration Icon

Cultural Exploration

The city of Wausau offers a rich cultural scene with attractions like the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum and the Grand Theater. Visitors can enjoy exploring local art exhibits, attending performances, and participating in community festivals, providing a fulfilling cultural exploration experience.

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Couples Retreat

Wausau provides an intimate setting for couples with its charming downtown area, featuring unique dining experiences and boutique shops. Couples can enjoy a peaceful retreat with scenic views from Rib Mountain and cozy accommodations perfect for a romantic getaway.

Fishing Trip

Wausau is located near multiple lakes and rivers, such as Lake Wausau and the Wisconsin River, which are excellent spots for fishing. Anglers can enjoy a relaxing fishing trip with opportunities to catch a variety of fish species, surrounded by beautiful Wisconsin landscapes.

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Custom Language

Bubbler

Drinking fountain

Commonly used term in Wisconsin for a water fountain.

Stop-and-go light

Traffic light

A colloquial term for traffic signals.

Up north

Northern Wisconsin

Refers to vacationing or traveling to Northern Wisconsin.

TYME Machine

ATM

Old term for Automated Teller Machine, especially in rural areas.

Pop

Soda

Common term for carbonated soft drinks.

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Popular Sports & Teams in Wausau

Wausau West Warriors

The Wausau West Warriors are a high school sports team known for their competitive spirit in various sports, including football, basketball, and hockey.

Wausau West High School Athletics

Wausau RiverWolves

The Wausau RiverWolves are a junior ice hockey team that competes in the North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL).

Wausau RiverWolves Official Site

DC Everest Evergreens

DC Everest Evergreens are a local high school sports team known for their excellence in various sports competitions, including football and track and field.

DC Everest High School Athletics

Wausau Curling Club

The Wausau Curling Club offers opportunities for people of all ages to learn and participate in the sport of curling.

Wausau Curling Club

Wausau Woodchucks

The Wausau Woodchucks are a collegiate summer baseball team that competes in the Northwoods League, attracting baseball enthusiasts from the region.

Wausau Woodchucks Official Site

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Unique customs/traditions

Polka Dancing

A popular dance style in this region during festivals and events.

Ice Fishing

A winter custom where locals fish through holes in the ice.

Maple Syrup Harvesting

A springtime tradition of collecting and boiling sap from maple trees.

Local Farmers Markets

Emphasizing local produce and goods, popular during summer and fall.

Cranberry Festivals

Celebrates the state's cranberry harvest with events and dishes.

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Recommended Activities by Group Type

Rib Mountain State Park

Family Hiking Adventure

Outdoor (Half-day)

This park provides family-friendly hiking trails that range in difficulty and offers beautiful views and picnic areas.

Marathon County Historical Society

Local Culture and History

Museum (1-2 hours)

A great place for families to explore local history through interactive exhibits that engage both kids and adults.

Wausau Ice Arena

Ice Skating Fun

Indoor (2-3 hours)

The ice arena provides family-friendly public skating sessions, perfect for creating fun memories together.

Lake Wausau

Outdoor Fun at the Lakes

Outdoor (Full-day)

Families can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and picnicking by the lakes, providing a relaxing yet active day out.

Wausau Children's Museum

Hands-On Experiences

Museum (2-3 hours)

An interactive space filled with exhibits that promote learning through play, where families can bond during engaging activities.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

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