Guide to what to do in Cedarburg, WI, including the best Cedarburg stores, activities, events and more!
Looking for an exciting small-town getaway from Milwaukee, or a unique destination to visit when you travel Wisconsin?
There are various things to do in Cedarburg, WI, making it a great escape whether you’re traveling from other cities in Wisconsin or Chicago.
With its small-town charms combined with endless Cedarburg attractions, it’s definitely one of the best weekend getaways in Wisconsin.
Whether you love history and nature or you prefer to explore Cedarburg stores to support local businesses, here are the best things to do in Cedarburg!
Psssst…!!?? You can’t get enough of Wisconsin? Have a look at my other posts:
- Most Romantic Getaways in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin Road Trips You Should Do!
- Exciting Things to Do in Wisconsin with Kids
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Overview: Top 3 Things to Do in Cedarburg, WI
- Hiking at Riveredge Nature Center
- Trying Amy’s Candy Kitchen’s signature gourmet apples
- Visiting Cedarburg History Museum
1. Visiting Cedarburg History Museum
The first settlement in Cedarburg started in the 1840s, and they built the town’s early economy through farms, businesses, and other industries.
Among many, Cedarburg’s development was closely tied to its mills industry – producing anything from flour to wool.
Cedarburg History Museum reflects all of the city’s history, making it one of the best things to do in Cedarburg, WI.
Admission to the museum is free, and you can learn more about the city of Cedarburg here.
From checking out some memorabilia and photographs taken in the old Cedarburg, Wisconsin, to experiencing the vintage Cedarburg stores centuries ago, the museum is worth visiting if you enjoy history!
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2. Watching a movie at Rivoli Theater
Among many historical places in the small city, Rivoli Theater is one you shouldn’t miss if you’re not sure what to do in Cedarburg, WI.
Situated on Washington Avenue in Cedarburg, the Rivoli Theater building has been operating as a movie theater since 1936.
After switching the design to a modern-style facade during the 1970s, the Cedarburg Historical Society took over the theater management in the early 2000s and restored its original black and white Art Deco facade that you can see today.
It’s a small theater that only shows one or two movies throughout the week, but it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Cedarburg, WI, especially if you love movies!
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3. Beer tasting at Rebellion Brewing
No matter where you go in Wisconsin, visiting breweries is a must as the Badger State is known best for its beers.
If you’re looking for some fun Cedarburg activities, Rebellion Brewing is one you should include in your itinerary.
Located in the old historical mill of Cedarburg, Rebellion Brewing is an American-themed brewery—and it’s all reflected in its signature beers.
You can try its signature lager called Rebellion Jedediah Smith or sip a glass of refreshing ale called Rebellion Florida Fever.
Visiting Rebellion Brewing is definitely one of the best things to do in Cedarburg, WI, as not only can you try the best beer in town, but you can also do it in one of the most historical spots in the city!
Cedarburg also hosts the Wine & Harvest Festival, which is one of the best fall festivals in Wisconsin!
4. Hiking at Riveredge Nature Center
Looking for things to do near Cedarburg? Head over to Saukville and visit the Riveredge Nature Center, which is one of the best places to go for outdoor activities in Wisconsin.
With more than 10 miles of hiking trails, Riveredge Nature Center is also one of the most popular day trips from Milwaukee for hikers.
You’ll find some of the best Southern Wisconsin hiking trails throughout the reserve.
In the colder season, the natural sanctuary is usually transformed into a skiing spot – making it one of the most popular things to do in Cedarburg in winter!
Buy the best hiking guides for Wisconsin
5. Attending one of the Cedarburg Festivals
Cedarburg may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re looking for Wisconsin vacation ideas.
But if you’re traveling to Cedarburg, WI, events like Cedarburg Festivals are definitely must-visit in town!
During the summer, the Strawberry Festival is one of the best Cedarburg events you shouldn’t miss. In the fall, you can also expect the Wine & Harvest Festival to make the most of your trip to Cedarburg.
With over 40% of Wisconites claiming to be German descendants, Oktoberfest is also one of the best things to do in Cedarburg, WI, if you get a chance to visit the city in October.
Looking for ideas for Christmas in Wisconsin? You can find one of the best Christmas markets in the state – making it one of the most popular Cedarburg, Wisconsin events among local Wisconites!
6. Hanging out at The Shops of Cedar Creek Settlement
Situated in Cedarburg city center, you can visit The Shops of Cedar Creek Settlement.
It’s one of the most prominent heritage buildings in the city, and it’s also where you can find some of the best shops in Cedarburg, WI.
The construction of the current building of Cedar Creek Settlement was initiated by Diedrich Wittenberg in 1864.
Originally named Hilgen and Wittenburg Woolen Mill, the mill stopped operating in 1969 and switched the ownership to Jim Pope and Bill Welty as the home of Stone Mill winery.
Under their ownership, the heritage site has become the venue of various events in Cedarburg.
It wasn’t until 1990 that they changed the building name to Cedar Creek Settlement when Bob Wollersheim purchased it.
These days, with the building’s rich history and many local shops and restaurants to visit in the former mill, it’s definitely one of the best Cedarburg things to do you should include in your Wisconsin itinerary!
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7. Trying Amy’s Candy Kitchen’s signature gourmet apples
No visit to Cedarburg is complete without stopping by the local’s favorite sweet shop at Amy’s Candy Kitchen. It’s one of the most recommended things to do in Cedarburg, WI, and for a good reason!
Situated in the historic downtown area, trying their signature apple candy is definitely a must if you’re looking for things to do in Cedarburg, Wisconsin.
Whether you want to try it for yourself or bring some gourmet apple hampers for your loved ones at home, Amy’s Candy Kitchen is one of the Cedarburg stores you shouldn’t miss on your visit!
8. Exploring the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts
Since its opening in 2001, the former farmstead building has been transformed into a small museum that exhibits over 8,000 quilts.
It’s a great place to learn more about traditional and contemporary fiber arts in Cedarburg!
If you’re looking for things to do in Cedarburg, WI, make your way to this charming museum on the eastern side of Cedarburg’s historic downtown.
Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts hosts different exhibitions regularly, so it’s still worth going even though you’ve been to Cedarburg multiple times!
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9. Visiting Cedarburg Art Museum
Looking for free things to do in Cedarburg, WI? Visit the Cedarburg Art Museum to immerse yourself in hundreds of works of art that showcase the history of this Wisconsin city from the first settlement until the early 2000s.
Located in a classic Victorian mansion, Cedarburg Art Museum also hosts some other exhibitions that support local artists – both local Cedarburg and other cities in Wisconsin.
One thing I noticed when visiting Cedarburg, WI, activities related to arts are plenty. Rest assured, you can find many artistic sides of the city, no matter what you do in Cedarburg!
10. Biking through the Ozaukee Interurban Trail
If you’re planning to do some outdoor things to do in Cedarburg, WI, make sure to include biking through the Ozaukee Interurban Trail in your travel plan.
The Ozaukee Interurban Trail is one of the best biking trails in Wisconsin, connecting Mequon in the south through Belgium in the north.
It’s a 30-mile paved trail, which can be a great way to explore the Badger State.
Unlike some other biking trails in Wisconsin state, the Interurban Trail is free to use – making it one of the best free things to do in Cedarburg!
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The city of Cedarburg claims themselves as a small city with a big history, and it’s true.
While the focus of travel in Cedarburg is mostly history-related with its background as the home to one of the largest mills in Wisconsin, you can also find some outdoor things to do in Cedarburg, WI.
From exploring the Ozaukee Interurban Trail to visiting Riveredge Nature Center, Cedarburg is definitely one of the best day trip destinations from Milwaukee!
FAQs About Things to do in Cedarburg, WI
Is Cedarburg worth a visit?
Absolutely! If you want a small-town experience in Wisconsin or have more time to explore the state, Cedarburg is a great place to visit. It is also an easy day trip away from Milwaukee.
What are the best things to do in Cedarburg, WI?
There are lots of fun things to do in Cedarburg, including lots of unique museums. A few of my favorite things to do are hiking at Riveredge Nature Center, visiting Cedarburg History Museum, and trying Amy’s Candy Kitchen’s signature gourmet apples (they’re delicious!).
What are the top Cedarburg events to attend?
There are various festivals in Cedarburg throughout the year. I highly recommend the Strawberry Festival. The Christmas markets in winter are also a must!
Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip
- You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations.
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries. Consider trying some of these eco-friendly vegan hiking boots.
- Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
- I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies.
- Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials.
- Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books.
- Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel is protected against all odds with HeyMondo.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
