Ontario WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ontario, Wisconsin.
1. Wildcat Mountain State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR PARADISE
Wildcat Mountain State Park offers miles of trails for hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing with spectacular views of the surrounding Driftless area. Visitors can experience the natural beauty as the Kickapoo River meanders through the park, providing numerous vantage points to observe the unique landscape. The park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts year-round, with summer activities including hiking and nature viewing, while winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
2. Kickapoo River
WINDING PADDLING ADVENTURE
The Kickapoo River is one of the most winding rivers in Wisconsin, offering paddlers a surprise around every bend as they navigate through its meandering course. Ontario proudly bills itself as the 'Canoe Capital of the Kickapoo,' with numerous livery services available for visitors to rent canoes or kayaks. The limestone bluffs along the river provide incredible scenery and a glimpse at an ancient river system, making it a premier destination for both casual paddlers and experienced river enthusiasts.
3. Titanic Canoe Rentals
RIVER ADVENTURE OUTFITTERS
Titanic Canoe Rentals provides visitors with equipment and guidance to explore the beautiful Kickapoo River. Their services allow adventurers to experience the natural wonder of one of Wisconsin's most scenic waterways at their own pace. River trips can range from a couple hours to multi-day excursions, perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers looking to connect with nature.
4. Drifty's Canoe Rental
KICKAPOO RIVER EXPLORATION
Drifty's Canoe Rental offers visitors the opportunity to paddle the Kickapoo River with rentals of canoes and kayaks. Adventurers can choose from various trip lengths, from short two-hour excursions to longer journeys through the winding waterway. The rental service provides all necessary equipment and transportation, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the river and its surrounding limestone bluffs.
5. Kickapoo Valley Reserve
NATURAL WILDERNESS PRESERVE
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve lies just south of Ontario and offers miles of trails through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot, bicycle, or horseback, experiencing the diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas of the Driftless Area. The reserve features groomed trails that wind past spectacular views, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
6. Amish Community Tours
CULTURAL RURAL EXPERIENCE
The Ontario area is home to one of the largest Amish communities in Wisconsin, offering visitors a glimpse into this traditional way of life. Travelers can explore Amish country stores selling handmade furniture, fresh baked goods, candy, and various crafts created using traditional methods. These cultural tours provide an educational experience about Amish customs and lifestyle while supporting local artisans and businesses.
7. Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY TRAIL
The Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail, located just nine miles north of Ontario, is part of the Rails-to-Trails project and features three unique tunnels along its 32-mile length. Cyclists can ride the old railroad bed through picturesque countryside, enjoying the relatively flat grade that makes this trail accessible for riders of all skill levels. This historic trail was the first rails-to-trails conversion in the United States and continues to draw visitors from around the country to experience its natural beauty and engineering marvels.
8. Trout Fishing
PREMIER ANGLING EXPERIENCE
The Kickapoo River near Ontario is one of the Midwest's premier trout fishing streams, offering anglers excellent opportunities to catch brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Significant habitat improvements have been made to both the main river and its tributaries, including the West Fork of the Kickapoo, enhancing the fishing experience for all skill levels. The clear, cool waters flow through the scenic Driftless Area, providing not only great fishing but also a peaceful, beautiful setting for a day on the water.
9. Mountain Biking Trails
RUGGED TERRAIN ADVENTURES
The mountain biking trails in the Kickapoo Valley Reserve near Ontario offer challenging routes through diverse terrain for cycling enthusiasts. Riders can tackle varying difficulty levels while enjoying spectacular views of the Driftless Area's unique landscape. The natural trails wind through forests, along ridges, and near waterways, providing a thrilling outdoor experience for mountain bikers of different skill levels.
10. Motorcycle Scenic Routes
CURVING RURAL ROADWAYS
The Ontario area offers some of Wisconsin's most memorable motorcycle routes along State Highways 131 and 33, as well as numerous local roads. Riders can enjoy curvy roads that wind through the undulating Driftless landscape, providing spectacular scenery and an exhilarating driving experience. The friendly local communities along these routes make for pleasant stops, creating a complete riding adventure through this beautiful region of Wisconsin.
11. Hunting Grounds
DIVERSE WILDLIFE PURSUITS
The Ontario area offers all types of hunting opportunities throughout the different seasons, including spring and fall turkey, pheasant, small game, and deer hunting. The diverse landscape provides excellent habitat for various game species, with rolling hills, forests, and river valleys creating ideal hunting environments. Visitors can also enjoy morel mushroom hunting in the spring, adding a unique foraging experience to the traditional hunting options available in the region.
12. Cross-Country Skiing Trails
WINTER WILDERNESS EXPLORATION
During winter months, Ontario transforms into a cross-country skiing destination with groomed trails winding through Wildcat Mountain State Park and the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. Skiers can glide through snow-covered forests and across rolling hills, experiencing the peaceful winter landscape of the Driftless Area. The varied terrain provides options for beginners and experienced skiers alike, making it an excellent winter recreation destination.
13. Amish Furniture Stores
HANDCRAFTED WOOD ARTISTRY
The Amish furniture stores near Ontario showcase custom-made pieces crafted with traditional woodworking techniques passed down through generations. Visitors can browse and purchase heirloom-quality furniture created without the use of electric power tools, representing authentic craftsmanship. These stores offer everything from dining tables and bedroom sets to smaller wooden crafts, all made with attention to detail and durability that modern manufacturing often lacks.
14. Snowshoeing Paths
WINTER WONDERLAND TRAILS
Snowshoeing paths throughout Wildcat Mountain State Park and the Kickapoo Valley Reserve offer winter visitors access to snow-covered landscapes that are otherwise difficult to navigate. Adventurers can trek across pristine snowy terrain, enjoying the quiet solitude and beauty of the winter woods. The varied difficulty levels of paths accommodate everyone from beginners experimenting with snowshoes for the first time to experienced winter hikers looking for a more challenging excursion.
15. Amish Bakeries
TRADITIONAL HOMEMADE TREATS
Amish bakeries near Ontario offer visitors a taste of traditional baked goods made with time-honored recipes and techniques. Travelers can purchase freshly made donuts, breads, pies, cookies, and candies crafted without modern conveniences. These small, family-operated establishments provide not only delicious treats but also a glimpse into the Amish way of life and food preparation traditions.