Discover a summer packed with the best can't-miss events, breweries, trails, and more summer fun while visiting the Stevens Point Area. Check out the best things to do this summer in the Stevens Point Area with our top 50 can't miss list!
Header photo from Travel Wisconsin
Photo Credit: @kenzplum1. Head out on the Green Circle Trail
Bike or hike your way through the 27-mile scenic trail that winds along rivers, through parks and forests and over wetlands! For a trail that meanders through natural forests and over wetlands, head out on the River Pines Trail. Or, explore as many segments as you would like and find your favorite!
Exploring with kids? Check out our Kids Guide to the Green Circle Trail.
Looking for delicious snacks along the way? Try our Tasty Spots Along the Green Circle Trail.
Photo Credit: @the.real.lens2. Catch a Wisconsin River sunset
From shore, or better yet, on the water don't skip this must-do! Rent a canoe, boat, or kayak and then sit back and relax while watching the sunset on the Wisconsin River.
For more sunset spots take a look at our Insider's Guide to Sunsets in the Stevens Point Area.
3. Venture out on the road less traveled
Drive on the rustic roads that meander through Portage County, designated the most scenic roads in Wisconsin. Hit HH and head east where the road turns into 5th Avenue to Lake Emily for a ride filled with beautiful trees for a picture-perfect drive. Then, stop at Lake Emily Park for a picnic!
4. Take a swing
Whether you're a novice or on the verge of a pro career, you'll agree the golf courses here are beautiful! SentryWorld, an 18-hole course, is known for the blooming flower hole filled with over 30,000 flowers and a different design each year! The Wisconsin River Golf Club has a great 19th hole restaurant stop if you're feeling hungry and be sure to take in all of the wildlife you see while out swinging. Or, with a complete rebuild of the course check out the Stevens Point Country Club. Be sure to make a reservation in advance if you aren't a member.
Note: SentryWorld's course will be closed until late summer as it undergoes renovations.
5. Barefoot slaloms & pyramids
Enjoy a daring water ski performance of barefooting, beautiful ballet lines, pyramids, and jumping choreographed to a theme and music at South Bay Beach on Lake DuBay! Learn more about the free Water Walkers events.
Photo Credit: @quyenhom
6. Seek out local flavor
You can find delicious goods at the Stevens Point farmers' market, open 7 days a week right in the Stevens Point Area! Head downtown and check out the local produce, flowers, and other goods. Bring the kids along for a splash in the fountain for summer fun and see where locals and visitors have been shopping for over 150 years!
7. Visit the Korean War Memorial
Pay a tribute to veterans from Wisconsin that served our country in the Korean War by visiting the Korean War Memorial in Pacawa Park in Plover. Extend your visit and head out on the trails around Lake Pacawa.
8. Bring history to life
See history come to life as you tour the park located in Plover and learn more about the history of the Stevens Point Area. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Heritage Park is open on weekends or by appointment.
Looking for specific dates and times? Visit their website for up-to-date information.
9. All aboard
Stop in to see the restored Locomotive No 2713 and commemorate the role of the steam engine in the development of the community! Be sure to climb up on the restored train while visiting.
Photo Credit: @patrick.aubyrn10. Hit the course
There are four different disc golf courses in the Stevens Point Area, all ranging in easy to difficult terrain and skill level. Check out all four this summer at Yulga Park, Mead Park, Standing Rocks County Park, and McDill Park.
11. Explore 33,000 acres
At George Mead Wildlife Area, head out for a short and tranquil walking trail through grassland habitat and native prairies on the Audubon Prarie Nature Trail. Want to bird-watch? At the Mead, there have been over 268 species of birds recorded there. Check them out for yourself!
12. Head to Jordan Park
Stop and play a game of sand volleyball, check out the playground, or take a self-guided nature walk through the scenic and well-marked Jordan County Park.
Note that due to the draw down of Jordan Pond, swimming is not encouraged during this time.
Photo Credit: @danny_runsforbeer13. Sip new flavors at O'so Brewing
Stop by O'so Brewing for a tasty brew in their new location at the Artists and Fare in Plover. Be sure to check out the High Five For Days which is a strawberry & mango milkshake style IPA brewed with vanilla, and lactose for creaminess and double dry-hopped with mosaic and lotus.
Photo Credit: @krissy_love1314. #Selfie with a local mural
Located throughout historic downtown is a plethora of murals that characterize the Stevens Point Area. For more unusual canvases, check out the new Trash Canvas. Or, head to the University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point to check out the region's largest mural, E Pluribus Unum, the 50 by 150-foot mosaic mural on the trainer CNR building.
Find your favorites by exploring all the public art in the area or any one of the gorgeous murals downtown.
15. Paddle Away
With many different waterways perfect for kayaking or canoeing in the Stevens Point Area, put the Plover River and the Tomorrow River at the top of your checklist. The backwaters of the Plover River make for undeniable scenic views while the Tomorrow River offers a look into the beautiful landscapes of central Wisconsin.
Check out our Paddle Guide to the Blue Heron Island Loop for a more in depth look into paddling the backwaters of the Wisconsin River.
16. Picnic in the parks
Grab a bite to eat in downtown Stevens Point at Habibis Gyros and Kabob House and then head to one of our many beautiful riverfront parks like Pfiffner Pioneer Park or Bukolt Park.
Photo Credit: @tiannavanderhei
17. Throw an ax
Tucked away in Plover is Backcountry Brewing and right next door is Section 715 Throwing Company. Grab one of their renowned beers, such as their trailbreaker pale ale, and head next door for a new, fun experience.
18. Take a virtual solar tour
Located in Custer is the Midwest Renewable Energy Association. While this year their in-person tours are not operating, they are having a virtual solar tour from September 28 to October 4 where you can connect, ask and answer questions, and participate in a nationwide virtual solar experience.
Photo credit: @life_as_kgb
19. Find a Field of Sunflowers
Nothing says summertime more than a field of gorgeous sunflowers. Explore the expansive field of flowers at Sopa Fairview Farm where they allow the public to come and meander through the field and take pictures. They even offer the perfect "selfie spot" where you can stop and snap a few quick shots!
20. See local art
Head downtown to the Riverfront Arts Center and explore their gallery that is filled with different exhibits throughout the summer! From June 25 to August 15 check out the Visions XXII exhibit. Then be sure to make a stop at Q Gallery to see even more local art.
21. Act like a kid for the day
Children ages 6 months to 12 years and their families can enjoy interactive exhibits and activities at the Children's Museum in downtown Stevens Point! Sit at the anchor desk or crawl through a log and enjoy all of the fun at the Central Wisconsin Children's Museum.
Photo Credit: Olivia Locascio Film & Photo
22. Hit the shores of Iverson Park
While this beach may be small, it is mighty when it comes to fun. Located off of Hwy 66, Iverson Park is the perfect spot to cool down on a hot summer day. Spend the day on the Plover River with family and friends relaxing in the sun.
For more places to take a dip in the sandy water check out our Top 6 Swimming Spots for a Summer Splash.
23. Hit the slide
If temperature-controlled water is your forte, check out the Donald Copp's Municipal Pool. With lifeguards, this Stevens Point pool has a 162-foot blue slide and two diving boards for a big summer splash. Young children? Explore the water with a zero-depth wading pool.
24. Head out for free live music
Check out live music every Wednesday and Thursday night in Stevens Point. On Wednesday's catch Notes at Night downtown Stevens Point and on Thursday's listen to Levitt Amp at Pfiffner Park. Find out more about other Stevens Point Area events.
Photo Credit: Travel Wisconsin
25. Say cheers to tasty history
Visit one of the oldest continuously operating breweries in the nation! The Stevens Point Brewery has been a local favorite since 1857. Be sure to check out the Lake Side Vacation ale for a fresh summer beer to bask under the sun with.
26. Enjoy a festival and fireworks
Mark your calendar and head out for family fun with a perfect summer festival. Filled with food, crafts, live music, and a firework show, Celebrate Plover is a summer event you can't miss out on!
Photo Credit: @brooke.godfrey27. Hit the water and battle pirates
Check out Paddlequest, a paddling-based adventure with games and scavenger hunts that provide new challenges around every corner. Geared to all skill levels and ages, the event offers two days of fun in August, where canoeing meets Comic-Con (with a side of conservation).
Photo Credit: @alyssabrown5228. Swing in the hammock chair
Head to Sunset Point Winery and enjoy a tasty glass of wine while sitting back and relaxing in one of their swings. Be sure to beat the heat this summer with a wine slushie!
29. Scope out the perfect scoop
For locally made ice cream, visit King Cone on a hot summer day. With 48 flavors that rotate throughout their case, you can be sure to find a sweet treat to enjoy! For a light and refreshing summer treat, King Cone now offers sorbets in both lemon and pineapple flavors. Or, try the King Sampler which features four flavors to mix and match.
30. Head out for demolition derby fun
Head over to Rosholt for the 95th annual Portage County Fair this Labor Day weekend for family fun activities. Don't miss the demolition derby, where you can find your fun taking part in it or watch from the stands!
Photo Credit: @kala.roo
31. Enjoy a fresh cup of joe
If you're ready to find your favorite cup of coffee this summer in the Stevens Point Area there is plenty of options for you! From Zest Bakery & Coffee House and Emy J's to Ruby Coffee Roasters and Mission Coffee House, you have a plethora of places to check out.
32. Putt through 18 holes
Taste your skills at Stevens Point Area's only indoor mini-golf course is at Putt-n-Play which features 3 glow-in-the-dark holes! You can also find outdoor "Call-of-Duty" style laser tag, an arcade, food, and more family fun.
Photo Credit: @brewsfoodtravelandbooze33. Sip with a side of sustainability
Head out to the patio and sit back and relax with a cold craft beer in your hand at Central Waters Brewing Company in Amherst. From the Shine On Ale to the Honey Blonde Ale, Central Waters has a seasonal favorite this summer just for you!
34. Climb, jump, swing
Bringing the kiddos along? Blow off some extra energy at K.A.S.H. Playground where the kids can find a soft rubber surface park that is suitable and safe for all children!
35. Test your skills
Looking to see if you can escape before the timer hits zero? Tactical Escape features escape rooms for all ages to work together and solve your objective!
Photo Credit: @kenziethompsonn36. See art & nature combined
Visit the Stevens Point Sculpture Park and venture through the 20-acres of art from local, regional, national, and international artists! Don't miss out on seeing 'A Sand County Bench' or any of the new pieces that will be installed this summer!
37. Order up a large cone
It isn't quite summer until you stop at Belt's Soft Serve! A hometown favorite and home to the large cone, you can find a 3-pound large cone or a fruit-filled flurry! Filled with homemade cake and local strawberries is the Strawberry Shortcake Sundae, you can't miss out on this tasty treat this summer.
38. Blockbusters & big screens
Looking for some indoor fun? Head to Rogers Cinema for a movie on Tuesdays for just $5. With two locations in Stevens Point, there are plenty of more options to choose from! Don't forget to get some popcorn and load up on your favorite seasoning.
39. Bike the trails
Head out on the trails at Standing Rocks County Park with your mountain bike and explore 13 miles of rolling trails! No bike? No problem! You can also hike the cross-country running trails and bring Fido along to the dog exercise area!
40. Pack the s'mores
Finding some summer fun camping this summer? In the Stevens Point Area, you will find options along the Shores of Lake DuBay or a campground filled with a waterpark pond and a sandy beach. Check out the full list of camping in the Stevens Point Area and find the perfect spot for this summer.
Photo Credit: @the_bloody_travelers
41. Find your favorite Bloody Mary
On the search for your favorite bloody mary in the Stevens Point Area? From Rusty's Backwater Saloon to Father Fats, you will be sure to find your top pick!
For more, take a look at Three to Try: Bloody Marys or the Top 3 Brunch Beverages.
Photo Credit: @travis.haines42. Grab some pizza and local beer
Tucked in downtown Rosholt is McZ's Brew Pub where you can find local flavor in their beer and homemade food. Can't choose one flavor to taste? McZ's offers flights for a perfect taste of each of their brews. In the mood for a homemade pizza with beer dough? They have flavors for everyone from BBQ Pork to Chicken Bacon Ranch.
43. Free jazz on the river
Celebrate the Riverfront Jazz Festival at Pfiffner Pioneer Park this summer on September 4th - 5th! The event is the largest free jazz festival in central Wisconsin and will feature fantastic musicians from around the nation.
44. Cast a line
The Stevens Point Area has a multitude of places to head out and cast a line. From the Wisconsin Rivers trout streams, sloughs, and backwaters filled with abundant species of fish to more than 40 lakes, you can find a variety of opportunities for fishing.
Don't know where to start? View our fishing map online or order a copy today.
Photo Credit: @goatboy9158745. Bites for breakfast
Who doesn't love a great breakfast? In the Stevens Point Area you can find many places to find a delicious breakfast to start your day off just right. From The Wooden Chair to Father Fat's to The Landmark, there is plenty of options for a tasty bite to eat!
Looking for more? Try the best pancakes and french toast in the area or find the perfect spot for brucnh.
46. Find a new hiking spot
For one of the states natural area's and a peaceful walk through a forest of red and white oak with a canopy of red and white pines, visit New Hope Pines. The spot is perfect for beginner hikers - and isn't far form the Ice Age Trail for more room to explore.
47. Get picking
Want to head out and pick some fresh blueberries? Chet's Blueberry Farm is the place for you! Be sure to check their Facebook for updates on when the best times to head out are!
Photo Credit: @tkorth31348. Soak up summer fun, with sand & sun
Head directly to the sand beach at Tiki Beach Bar & Grill, order a bite to eat - or a Tiki special, such as the Malibu bucket while enjoying the fresh air, sandy beach, and cool waters of Lake DuBay. Out on the bay boating? Pull on up to the sandy beachfront or pull into one of the docks for a fun stop. Paddleboards and kayaks are available for rental by the hour too!
Photo Credit: @j.o_goods49. Kick back in a hammock
Find your favorite hammocking spots in the Stevens Point area this summer. For some ideas, head to Pfiffner Pioneer Park and find your perfect trees to hang from next to the river. Or, head to Schmeeckle Reserve and enjoy the sounds of birds chirping and a shady spot covered by the trees lingering throughout.
50. Grab grub at a food truck
Did someone say food truck? Whether you are attending a local food event, stopping by a brewery, or enjoying live music, you'll be sure to find a variety of food trucks nearby. Keep an eye out for Barnyard Burgers, Chef C's Munchie Mobile, Fusco's Chow Bella, Dilly Dahl Deli, and more!
Trucks can be regularly found at District 1 Brewing, Backcountry Brewing, and Levitt Amp.