Snow is melting, days are longer, flowers are getting ready to bloom - the scent of spring is in the air! Break out the bike, grab your binoculars, and snag a spot on the patio. Find more fun this season, with our guide to the top 10 reasons to visit the Stevens Point Area this spring.
1. Birding
With the migration of birds back to Wisconsin, spring makes for the perfect time to get out birding in the Stevens Point Area. Explore the 33,000-acre Mead Wildlife Area, find some of the best springtime birding views around the Erickson Natural Area, or visit the largest concentration of the greater prairie chickens at Buena Vista Grasslands.
Keep exploring with even more birding opportunities in the area.
2. Iced Coffee
Spring might as well be known as iced coffee season! With the weather warming up, it just makes perfect sense - and the Stevens Point Area has some must-try iced coffee spots. From a fun, themed menu at Zest to carefully crafted coffees at Ruby Cafe or locally sourced brews from Emy J's, good luck picking a favorite.
For a full lineup of local coffee spots, view our guide to coffee in the Stevens Point Area.
3. Blooming Flowers
You may think you can see flowers just about anywhere, but you won't want to miss all the wonderful wildflowers that bloom in central Wisconsin. Looping through a variety of habitats, the Moses Creek Segment of the Green Circle Trail is abundant with hepatica, spring beauties, wood anemone, and pink lady’s slipper. Don't forget about all the state natural areas in the county where there are no designated trails and you can explore off the beaten path.
For even more beautiful spots, take a look at our guide to where to find wildflowers.
4. Ice Cream Treats
In the Stevens Point Area, spring marks the time that a handful of local ice cream shops open back up for the season. A hometown favorite, Belt's Soft Serve, opens up at the beginning of March ready to serve up delicious, homemade ice cream. Down the street and opening around the same time, Carl D's is also ready to give you the perfect scoop. Hard serve more your speed? Make a trip to King Cone, although it'll be hard choosing just one delicious flavor.
Sweet tooth not quite satisfied? Check out other ice cream spots in the area.
5. Head Outdoors
Longer days and rising temps make for the perfect time to get outside and soak it all in! Get on the water and paddle along the flowing Plover River or the expansive Wisconsin River. Lace up your hiking boots and hit the Ice Age Trail. Or bring the bike and ride through the countryside on the Tomorrow River State Trail.
For more ways to get outside, take a look at all kinds of outdoor recreation in the Stevens Point Area.
6. Drinks on the Patio
The beginning of patio season is upon us in spring and when that sun begins to peak out, sit outside and enjoy drinks on the patio. Grab a sustainably brewed beer from Central Waters and their year-round outdoor seating area, pair games with your drinks (and bring the pup) on the Point Patio at the Point Brewery, or sip carefully crafted cocktails on the patio at Father Fats.
Take your outdoor experience a step further with outdoor dining options in the Stevens Point Area.
7. Spring Events
As events begin to ramp up for the summer season, there are many great spring events you won't want to miss. At the Riverfront Arts Center, you'll find the smile-provoking Peeps Exhibit showcasing all kinds of locally made art made from, you guessed it, peeps candy! Known as the largest trivia contest in the world is 90FM's Trivia. Kicked off with a parade and spanning the entire weekend, groups get together and put their brains together in hopes of being the top team!
For more springtime events, view our comprehensive events calendar.
8. Vibrant Murals
Public art is always on display in the Stevens Point Area with a wide array of vibrant murals. Find historic murals depicting the area's past to new additions thanks to CREATE Portage County. Perfect for an Instagram-worthy background or to simply admire, spend some time this spring exploring all the public art in the area.
Get to know local artist Stephon Kiba Freeman, the man behind the colorful mural at Worzalla.
9. Hammocking
Grab your hammock, a cozy blanket, and a good book, and spend the day relaxing. The area is home to great hammocking including spots along the Wisconsin River and in the Schmeeckle Reserve surrounded by nature. Many spots also have other fun things to do from swimming areas to playgrounds.
We've scouted out the best hammocking spots so you don't have to get tied up searching!
10. Get Ready For Summer!
The best thing about spring? Summer is right around the corner! Spending all day on the water, grabbing fresh goodies from the farmers market, visiting a gorgeous field of sunflowers - the possibilities are endless.
Get ready and inspired with our guide to summer things to do in the Stevens Point Area.
Want More?
For more fun this spring, take a look at our 15 things to do this spring, the best brunch spots, or the top spots for a spring hike. Then while you're adventuring, be sure to tag us in your photos for a chance to be featured by tagging us @StevensPointArea or by using #StevensPointArea.
