A December Getaway in Rhinelander, Wisconsin

In the Wisconsin Northwoods, the town of Rhinelander is a charming place for a weekend getaway. In December, there are a myriad of holiday events and the downtown is lit up with festive lights. From the many restaurants to the in-town hiking trails, there’s something for every kind of adventurer to discover in Rhinelander. Follow this guide for my suggestions on the best places to eat, drink, and see holiday lights!

Eat & Drink

Catalyst Wine Bar

At this wine bar, you receive a card that you use to self-serve from what’s akin to a wine vending machine (but much fancier). The best part is that you can choose to have a sip, a half glass, or a full glass – so you can try lots of different varieties! The charcuterie board is the perfect accompaniment to order alongside your drinks.

Rhinelander Brewing Company

Right next to Catalyst Wine Bar is Rhinelander Brewing Company, offering craft beer in a great space. Groups can spread out along several long tables in the taproom, and there are lots of board games to borrow to pass the time. This microbrewery offers plenty of beer options on tap to suit any taste. While in Rhinelander, you HAVE to try the Hodag beer from Rhinelander Brewing Company! They have a great selection on tap, including a hard root beer and a seltzer. We went with a flight so we could try a little bit of (almost) everything.

Fun Factory Sweet Shoppe

This candy store is a heaven for the sweet tooth! Chocolates made in-house line the bakery cases and are available to buy by the pound, so you can try a bit of everything. The store is also full of other candy options as well. And as the delicious scent of chocolate hits you as you enter the door, you can’t leave without buying something sweet.

Holiday Lights

Christmas Open House at the PPHC – Railroad Museum

View the lights and learn about the area’s history at Pioneer Park Historical Complex and Rhinelander Railroad Museum. During the annual Christmas Open House, the museum is merrily decorated and there are cookies and hot cocoa for all. Outside, the train is lit with lights and there are sleigh rides during select times.

A Christmas Wonderland at Rondele Ranch

More than one million lights are on display at Rondele Ranch’s annual Christmas Wonderland experience. Both walking and driving tours are available, and all proceeds benefit local non-profit organizations. With music playing throughout the grounds, this wonderful and whimsical light display is sure to dazzle and delight!

Lights of the Northwoods at Hodag Park

Lights of the Northwoods at Hodag Park is a FREE walk-and-drive-through holiday light experience in the heart of Rhinelander. The lights are on every night – not just weekends – so you can go anytime you want between 5-9 p.m. during the holiday season. Plus, there is a fireworks show on New Years Day, which is sure to add even more sparkle to the park. During Lights of the Northwoods, you might just see Hodags – instead of reindeer – pulling Santa’s sleigh!