Marshfield is a great destination for a family getaway. Whether you’re looking for fun, family-friendly events or unique attractions, you’ll discover enjoyable activities for Mom, Dad and the kids right here in central Wisconsin.
Day 1
Before your trip, be sure to check our events calendar to see what’s going on in Marshfield.
Start your day at Wildwood Park & Zoo, where you’ll see species found throughout North America, including the zoo’s most iconic animals–a pair of twin Kodiak bears. The zoo is open year-round and admission is free, but donations are accepted.
Officially dedicated in 1930, the 60-acre zoo has welcomed Marshfield families for generations. Exhibits include Munsey and Boda—the twin Kodiak bears—as well as cougars, foxes, wolves and lynx. The large animal exhibits, which can be viewed by car or on foot, include bison, elk, white-tailed deer and turkeys. The zoo also features a sensory garden with a wide variety of flowering and non-flowering plants.
Wildwood Park is open 6 am to 10:30 pm daily. Zoo hours are:
- April 1-Memorial Day: 7:30 am to 6 pm daily
- Memorial Day-Labor Day: 7:30 am to 7:30 pm daily
- Labor Day-October 31: 7:30 am to 6 pm
- November 1-March 31: 7:30 am to 2:30 pm
Wrap up your day with a stop at Chip’s Hamburgers, home of the “Champ” burger, as well as delicious shakes and root beer floats.
Day 2
There are some great places to get outside and explore in Marshfield. Like hiking and biking? Head to one (or both) of the state wildlife areas nearby—the McMillan Marsh State Wildlife Area north of town and the George W. Mead State Wildlife Area to the northeast.
In the warmer months, grab some towels for the kids and head to the Wenzel Family Plaza for fun in the water feature or spend the afternoon at the newest outdoor aquatic center in Marshfield, Vandehey Waters (with a current channel, water slides, diving boards and more, the whole family will stay entertained).
Chow down at Scotty’s Pizza & Chicken, named Marshfield’s best pizza for several years running and in the 2020 Best of Marshfield Survey Awards. Be sure to try one of their specialty pizzas like the Broccoli-Bacon-Cheese or the Taco Pizza.
Day 3
Wrap up your trip with another great meal with an order from The Kitchen Table, which was selected as the best breakfast in the 2019 Best of Marshfield Survey awards.
Visit one of Marshfield’s most iconic (and photogenic) attractions—Jurustic Park, home to larger-than-life sculptures of creatures that were “discovered” as remnants from the “Iron Age.” Walk the grounds of this free attraction north of the city to explore the finds of amateur paleontologist Clyde Wynia.
In addition to the metal sculptures, Clyde’s wife, Nancy, runs the Hobbit House, where visitors will find creations including hot glass, fiber and life-size soft sculpture, as well as handmade jewelry.
Jurustic Park is open most of the spring, summer and fall until 4:30 pm.
If your kids prefer a more active pursuit, head to the Marshfield Skatepark, located at Braem Park. The park isn’t open to just skateboarders, either—inline skaters and BMX riders will find plenty to enjoy as well.