Kendall WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kendall, Wisconsin.
1. Kendall Garden Walk
SCENIC FLORAL PATHWAYS
The Kendall Garden Walk offers visitors a serene journey through beautifully maintained gardens showcasing local flora and landscaping artistry. Winding paths guide guests through seasonal blooms, ornamental shrubs, and creative garden designs that highlight the natural beauty of Wisconsin. This peaceful attraction provides both inspiration for home gardeners and a tranquil escape for nature lovers visiting Kendall.
2. Hidden Inn Bar and Grill
LOCAL DINING HOTSPOT
Hidden Inn Bar and Grill serves as Kendall's premier dining establishment, offering hearty meals and refreshing beverages in a welcoming atmosphere. The establishment combines small-town charm with quality food, making it a favorite gathering spot for both locals and visitors exploring the area. Guests can enjoy classic American fare while experiencing the friendly hospitality that defines this cornerstone of Kendall's community.
3. 3 Sisters Treasures
UNIQUE LOCAL SHOPPING
3 Sisters Treasures delights shoppers with an eclectic collection of handcrafted items, antiques, and unique gifts in the heart of Kendall. This charming shop showcases locally made products and one-of-a-kind finds that reflect the character and creativity of the region. Visitors can discover memorable souvenirs and special keepsakes while supporting the local artisan community during their Kendall adventure.
4. Elroy-Sparta State Trail
HISTORIC RAILS-TO-TRAILS PATH
The Elroy-Sparta State Trail holds the distinction of being America's first rails-to-trails conversion, with its headquarters located in Kendall. This celebrated 32-mile trail takes cyclists and hikers through stunning rural landscapes, including three historic train tunnels carved through limestone hills. Adventure seekers can experience the natural beauty of Wisconsin's Driftless Area while traveling this pioneering recreational pathway that connects the communities of Elroy and Sparta.
5. Omaha Trail
SCENIC BIKING ADVENTURE
The Omaha Trail provides outdoor enthusiasts with a peaceful 13-mile route through the picturesque countryside near Kendall. This former railroad corridor offers cyclists and hikers a relatively flat journey through forests, wetlands, and pastoral scenes that showcase Wisconsin's diverse ecosystems. Nature lovers can spot local wildlife and enjoy the changing seasonal landscapes while traversing this less-crowded alternative to the nearby Elroy-Sparta Trail.
6. Baraboo River
FISHING AND RECREATION
The Baraboo River flows near Kendall, offering excellent fishing opportunities and peaceful water recreation in a tranquil natural setting. Anglers can cast for various fish species while enjoying the serene environment and scenic views of the surrounding valley. The river provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and outdoor adventure, making it a highlight for nature enthusiasts visiting the Kendall area.
7. Village Campground
SCENIC BLUFF CAMPING
Village Campground in Kendall offers a picturesque camping experience atop a bluff overlooking Glenwood Park and the beautiful Baraboo River Valley. The six primitive sites come equipped with fire pits and picnic tables, providing a rustic yet comfortable setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Campers can enjoy stunning panoramic views and easy access to fishing and other recreational activities, making this campground an ideal base for exploring the natural attractions of the region.
8. Labor Day Weekend Parade
COUNTY'S LARGEST CELEBRATION
Kendall's Labor Day Weekend Parade stands as the largest such celebration in Monroe County, drawing visitors from throughout the region. The festive event anchors a weekend of community activities including kid's games, a chicken BBQ, craft and vendor shows, and sporting tournaments. Visitors can immerse themselves in small-town American culture while enjoying this beloved annual tradition that showcases Kendall's community spirit.
9. Mustang Mudder
THRILLING MUD RUN
The Mustang Mudder challenges adventure seekers with an exciting 5K mud run through Kendall's varied terrain. Participants navigate obstacles, splash through mud pits, and tackle physical challenges in this popular event that combines fitness with fun. The energy and camaraderie of this muddy adventure make it a standout attraction during Kendall's Labor Day Weekend festivities.
10. Glenwood Park
RIVERSIDE COMMUNITY RECREATION
Glenwood Park provides Kendall residents and visitors with a scenic recreational space nestled near the Baraboo River. The park offers amenities for family gatherings, outdoor relaxation, and community events throughout the warmer months. From its position below the Village Campground bluff, the park serves as a central green space that connects Kendall's natural beauty with its community spirit.
11. Wildcat Mountain State Park
DRAMATIC RIVER BLUFFS
Wildcat Mountain State Park, located near Kendall in Monroe County, offers breathtaking views from 500-foot bluffs overlooking the Kickapoo River. Visitors can explore over 20 miles of hiking trails winding through the park's diverse terrain of steep ridges, deep valleys, and lush forests. The park provides year-round recreational opportunities including horseback riding, canoeing on the Kickapoo River, and cross-country skiing during winter months.
12. Mill Bluff State Park
ANCIENT ROCK FORMATIONS
Mill Bluff State Park, a short drive from Kendall, showcases dramatic rock formations that once stood as islands in the Glacial Lake Wisconsin thousands of years ago. These towering bluffs rise impressively from the otherwise flat landscape, creating a unique geological attraction with hiking opportunities and panoramic views. Visitors can climb to observation points, swim in the park's spring-fed swimming pond, or enjoy picnicking in this fascinating natural area that connects to the region's prehistoric past.
13. Kickapoo Valley Reserve
PRISTINE NATURAL WILDERNESS
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve encompasses 8,600 acres of protected wilderness near the Kendall area, offering visitors access to one of Wisconsin's most pristine natural environments. This ecological treasure features diverse habitats including forests, prairies, wetlands, and the winding Kickapoo River, providing endless opportunities for hiking, canoeing, fishing, and wildlife observation. The reserve hosts educational programs throughout the year that highlight the region's unique natural features and cultural heritage.
14. Wegner Grotto
UNIQUE FOLK ART
Wegner Grotto, located in Monroe County near Kendall, showcases an extraordinary collection of concrete sculptures adorned with glass fragments, creating a colorful folk art wonderland. German immigrants Paul and Matilda Wegner began this unique artistic expression in retirement, crafting replicas of notable buildings alongside whimsical original creations. This distinctive attraction offers visitors a glimpse into the creative spirit and immigrant experience in rural Wisconsin, preserved today as a county park and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
15. Amish Country Tours
CULTURAL RURAL EXPERIENCE
Amish Country Tours provide visitors near Kendall with authentic glimpses into the traditional lifestyle of Wisconsin's second-largest Amish settlement. Travelers can observe Amish farms, schools, and businesses while learning about this distinctive culture that maintains nineteenth-century practices in the modern world. Local guides share insights about Amish customs, craftsmanship, and agricultural methods while visitors have opportunities to purchase handcrafted furniture, quilts, baked goods, and other items directly from Amish producers.