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 
 

1. Head out on the Green Circle Trail

Bike or hike your way through the 27-mile Green Circle 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!

2. 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.

 

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. 

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!

Know before you go and read our key tips for shopping the farmers' market. 

 

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 Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from noon to 4pm 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.

10. Hit the course

There are several different disc golf courses in the Stevens Point Area, all ranging in easy to difficult terrain and skill level. Check out the courses this summer at Yulga Park, Mead Park, and Standing Rocks County 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. Don't miss a chance to explore the Nature Center, open Saturdays through the summer.

 

13. Sip new flavors at O'so Brewing

Stop by O'so Brewing for a tasty brew in their new location at the Artist and Fare in Plover. Be sure to check out their pineapple upside-down cake which is a sour ale with hints of pineapple, brown sugar, vanilla, and natural maraschino cherry extract! "It's your favorite cake in liquid form!"

14. #Selfie with a local mural

Located throughout the county, are 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 scattered around the county. 

 

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. Then, explore more routes worth exploring with our Paddle Guide.

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. 

Not sure where to start? Check out more parks worth a visit throughout the Stevens Point Area.

17. Throw an ax

Tucked away in Plover is Section 715 Throwing Company. Grab your friends and head out to learn how to throw - for a fun experience.

 

18. Experience the Energy Fair

Located in Custer is the Midwest Renewable Energy Association. After being virtual for two years, the Energy Fair is back and in person! Happening from June 24 to the 26, learn more about clean energy and sustainability while connecting with others with friendly events, live music, inspiring keynotes, and more! 

19. See local art

Head downtown to the Riverfront Arts Center and explore their gallery that is filled with different exhibits throughout the summer! Then be sure to make a stop at Q Gallery to see even more local art. 

20. 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!  

 

21. 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. 

22. 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. 

23. 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.

 

24. 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. During the summer, make a stop at their "Point Patio" to pair their outdoor space with one of their tasty beers. 

25. Head out for free live music

Check out live music every Wednesday and Thursday night in Stevens Point. On Wednesday catch Notes at Night, PJ's Live, and the City Band. Then on Thursday listen to Levitt AMP at Pfiffner Park. Can't get enough live music? View a full lineup of events in the area for more.

 

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!

27. 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! 

Not sure what to try first? We've got you covered with our guide to Three to Try: Sunset Point.

28. 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).

 

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.

Need more sweet treats? Find more tasty treats with our Insider's Guide to Ice Cream in the Stevens Point Area.

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!

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.

Craving another cup? Find more local coffee spots worth a sip in our guide to Top Coffee Spots in the Stevens Point Area.

 

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.

33. 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!

36. 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 newly added pieces!

 

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. 

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. 

 

42. 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 3-4! 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?  Grab inspiration with our guides to fishing from the Wisconsin River to trout fishing in the area. 

 

45. 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 are 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 brunch. 

46. Find a new hiking spot

For one of the state's natural areas 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 from the Ice Age Trail for more room to explore.

Find even more hiking possibilities in the area today. 

47. Get picking

Want to head out and pick some fresh berries this summer? Chet's Blueberry Farm and Sankey's Berry Patch are the perfect places for you! Check their social channels to find the best times to get out. 

 

48. Soak up summer fun, with sand & sun

Head directly to the sand beach at Tiki Beach Bar & Grill and order a bite to eat - or a Tiki drink special - 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!

49. 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 and Levitt AMP. Grab out insider's guide to learn all about local food trucks.

Want More?

Find more summer fun in the Stevens Point Area with our Insider's Guide to Summer Fun or gear up and learn more about Riverfront Rendezvous. Don't forget to capture your own fun and add your photo and be sure to tag us @StevensPointArea on Instagram or use the hashtag #StevensPointArea.