Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

Growing up in Chippewa Falls has its advantages. Gorgeous parks, an historic downtown, and festivals and museums that are a treat.

Today, Chippewa retains its 'small town' charm. Tour the Leinie Lodge, walk through Irvine Park, or poke around at some antique stores.

HISTORY

Chippewa (or Ojibwa) Native Americans were among the first residents of the area. Historically, the Ojibwa clashed with the local Sioux.

Lumber brought many to the Chippewa Valley and Chippewa Falls was no different. The mansions of the lumber barons, such as the Cook - Rutledge Mansion, can be visited today.

Lake Wissota is a popular place to spend a weekend. It's mentioned in the movie Titanic, which provides us all with a little chuckle. The man-made lake wasn't created until 1917 -- years after the Titanic sank.

FESTIVALS

Pure Water Days

The Chippewa Springs was discovered by a French explorer. Today, Pure Water Days is a festival that celebrates those springs.

Christmas Parade

The Christmas Parade features many floats from churches, schools, and local businesses. Downtown businesses offer hot cocoa, and the town is filled with families waiting for the show.

Trying to figure out when the parade is? It's usually the first weekend in December, but check the Calendar to know for sure. If I've found out, I put it there.

Another place to look? It's officially called the Bridge to Wonderland Parade. Try the Chamber's calendar here.

Chippewa Valley Renaissance Faire

The Chippewa Valley Renaissance Faire captures the imagination. Forging demonstrations, comedy shows, food -- dress in your best 'olde world' clothes and join in the fun!

Country Fest

Country Fest is just down the road in Cadott, WI. Every year, thousands of people flock to hear some of country's best stars. On site camping is available.

Northern Wisconsin State Fair

The state fair draws people every year with rides, food, games, and more. Check out the local art, the animals, and the school stuff, too. The Northern Wisconsin State Fair is fun -- no bull.

ATTRACTIONS

Irvine Park

Irvine Park is the treasure of Chippewa Falls. Land donated to the city by William Irvine in 1906 marks its beginning. Since then, more donations of land and finances have expanded the park and kept it going.

Today, the large park hosts the zoo, numerous pavilions, the bandstand, and more. In the winter, it's colorfully lit with hundreds of strings of lights. What a treat!

Leinienkugel's Beer

The Leinenkugel's family have been brewing beer for a long time. You'll see it served all over the valley. Take a tour of the brewery.

Apple Orchards

There's nothing so intoxicating as the smell of the apple orchards at harvest time. Local orchards offer hay rides, samples, and bushels of the best apples around. A real treat is warmed apple cider.

Olson's Ice Cream

All winter, our cows cuddle in warm barns. In the summer, we love them -- they are the beginning of delicious ice cream.

Thank you, cows. Thank you for helping to create the Chocolate Monster.

Chippewa Falls has a lot to offer. Small town living, festivals, and a downtown that cherishes its history combine to make it unique.

Experience our great outdoor spaces -- beautiful in every season. Bring your family and stay awhile.