Summary
This 4-day weekend itinerary for New Glarus with kids offers a blend of cultural, culinary, and outdoor experiences, showcasing the best of America's Little Switzerland and its surroundings. From the charming Swiss-inspired town of New Glarus to the cheese capital, Monroe, families can enjoy a variety of activities including museum visits, nature hikes, and delicious dining options. The guide emphasizes kid-friendly attractions and dining, ensuring a memorable trip for all ages.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Begin your adventure in New Glarus with a delightful breakfast at Fat Cat Coffee Works, followed by a fun Cow Parade and a leisurely lunch at Chalet Cheese Haus. The day can be wrapped up with dinner at Glarner Stube, offering a cozy Swiss dining experience.
Fat Cat Coffee Works
A perfect spot for breakfast with an extensive menu of coffee, pastries, and more.
Tips
Opt to sit at the food prep bar for an engaging experience for the kids.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: (608) 527-3346 |
| 🌐 Website: http://www.fatcatcoffeeworks.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 15 min to 1 hr |
| 📍 Address: 606 Railroad St, New Glarus, WI 53574 |
🔗 Profiles:  |
New Glarus Cow Parade
A self-guided route to find uniquely designed cow statues by local artists.
Tips
Pick up a physical map at the New Glarus Chamber of Commerce for an interactive experience.
Chalet Cheese Haus
Known for its grilled cheese sandwiches, a simple yet delightful lunch spot.
Tips
Consider taking away unique meats, cheeses, and crackers for a picnic.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: (608) 636-2130 |
| 🌐 Website: http://www.chaletcheesehaus.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 554 1st St, New Glarus, WI 53574 |
🔗 Profiles:  |
Glarner Stube
A must-visit restaurant offering a warm Swiss dining experience with generous portions.
Tips
Arrive early to secure a table and consider sharing entrees due to large portion sizes.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: (608) 527-2216 |
| 🌐 Website: https://www.facebook.com/glarnerstube |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 1-2 hours |
| 📍 Address: 518 1st St, New Glarus, WI 53574 |
🔗 Profiles:  |
🌳 Day 2: Nature and Brews
Day two is filled with outdoor activities and a visit to the renowned New Glarus Brewing Company. Start with a picnic at Village Park, followed by a self-guided brewery tour, and wrap up with a hike along the Sugar River Trail.
🏞️ Village Park
Village Park is a serene and picturesque park offering a large playground, water fountains, and ample picnic spots, making it the perfect setting for a family morning of outdoor fun and relaxation.
Tips
Before heading to the park, grab morning treats from New Glarus Bakery located downtown, and let your kids pick up a few Swiss-inspired items that appeal to their tastes.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: (608) 527-5095 |
| 🌐 Website: https://newglarusvillage.com/recreation/parks |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 300 Railroad St, New Glarus, WI 53574 |
🍺 New Glarus Brewing Company
The New Glarus Brewing Company is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the brewing process and tastings of their renowned beers, including the popular Spotted Cow. The self-guided tour provides flexibility and a chance to explore the brewery at your own pace.
Tips
Opt for the self-guided tour and start with a tasting of their famous beers, such as the Spotted Cow, before delving into the brewery's history and production areas. The brewery's huge outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy the tastings, weather permitting.
🌲 Sugar River Trail
The Sugar River Trail is a picturesque and versatile trail, ideal for both hiking and biking, offering stunning views of Green County's natural beauty. The trail follows an abandoned railroad line, crosses the highway into fields and forests, and crisscrosses over several rivers, providing a delightful outdoor experience.
Tips
Consider renting bikes for a unique trail experience, and be sure to explore the trail's south end near Brodhead to see a replica of a covered bridge. If you're looking for a convenient dining option, head to Sugar River Pizza Co. located right off the trail for a delightful dinner experience.
🧀 Day 3: Monroe Cheese Adventure
Explore Monroe, the Cheese Capital of the USA, with a visit to the National Historic Cheesemaking Center and lunch at Baumgartner’s Cheese Store & Tavern. Return to New Glarus for a museum tour and dinner.
🏛️ National Historic Cheesemaking Center
The National Historic Cheesemaking Center in Monroe is an insightful museum detailing the rich history of cheesemaking in the area. Visitors are treated to a guided tour by retired cheesemakers, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Tips
Make sure to plan your visit during the museum's opening hours, Thursday to Sunday from early May to late October, to fully immerse yourself in the area's compelling cheese and dairy history.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: (608) 325-4636 |
| 🌐 Website: http://nationalhistoriccheesemakingcenter.org/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 2108 6th Ave, Monroe, WI 53566 |
🔗 Profiles:   |
🍽️ Baumgartner’s Cheese Store & Tavern
Baumgartner’s Cheese Store & Tavern, Wisconsin’s oldest cheese store, offers a variety of sandwiches and local cheeses. It's a great place to try the authentic Limburger sandwich and savor the flavors of the region.
Tips
Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in the dynamite Reuben sandwich and soak in the historic ambiance of this community staple that has been serving since 1931.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: (608) 325-6157 |
| 🌐 Website: https://baumgartnercheese.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 30 min to 1.5 hr |
| 📍 Address: 1023 16th Ave, Monroe, WI 53566 |
🏛️ Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum
The Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum, located just outside the immediate downtown area of New Glarus, is housed in a Swiss chalet and showcases a vast collection of global artifacts. It's a unique opportunity to explore historic treasures and an authentic Swiss chalet.
Tips
If you plan to visit on a day other than Saturday, private tours can be arranged for groups of two or more, offering a more personalized and intimate experience with the eclectic collection of artifacts.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 🌐 Website: http://www.newglarusvillage.com/recreation/chalet-of-the-golden-fleece |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 618 2nd St, New Glarus, WI 53574 |
🔗 Profiles:  |
🌄 Day 4: Departure and Caves
On your departure day, stop at Badger Bros Coffee in Mount Horeb for a morning treat, then explore the Cave of the Mounds before enjoying lunch at the original Culver’s in Sauk City.
☕ Badger Bros Coffee
Badger Bros Coffee is a cozy spot for coffee and morning treats, perfect for starting your day. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with a wide selection of coffee and delicious pastries, makes it an ideal stop before embarking on your day's adventures.
Tips
This is a great place to grab a coffee before heading to Cave of the Mounds. Don't miss out on their specialty drinks and freshly baked goods.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: (608) 218-4508 |
| 🌐 Website: https://badgerbroscoffee.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 515 Springdale St, Mt Horeb, WI 53572 |
🔗 Profiles:   |
🏞️ Cave of the Mounds
The Cave of the Mounds is a fascinating natural limestone cave offering guided tours and showcasing stunning formations. The constant temperature of 50°F makes it a comfortable experience year-round, and the knowledgeable guides lead visitors through a mesmerizing array of colorful crystal formations and unique rooms.
Tips
Dress in layers due to the cave's constant temperature, and it's advisable to book tours in advance to secure your preferred time slot. The paved and lighted walkways make it accessible for all ages, and don't forget to inquire about the VIP packages for an enhanced experience.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: (608) 437-3038 |
| 🌐 Website: http://www.caveofthemounds.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 2 hours |
| 📍 Address: 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517 |
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🍔 Culver’s original location
The original Culver’s location in Sauk City offers a taste of local history along with delicious meals. The updated building on the same plot of land is adorned with informational boards and black-and-white photos, providing insight into the heritage of this beloved establishment.
Tips
While savoring your meal, take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of the original Culver’s location by exploring the informative displays and photographs that celebrate the brand's journey.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: (608) 643-6620 |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 15 min |
| 📍 Address: 716 Phillips Blvd, Sauk City, WI 53583 |
🔗 Profiles:      |
