If you're in town in warmer weather, you can hike the Dells of the Eau Claire County Park. The park features a swimming beach, rapids, waterfalls, and stunning volcanic rock formations. In the Nine Mile County Forest Recreation Area, you can hike and bike alongside trout streams and through hardwood forests.
When you're not outside enjoying the area's natural highlights, you can explore the historic downtown, which features high Victorian gothic and Tudor revival architecture. Specialty shopping, local pubs, and cultural highlights abound. View the Salem Lutheran Church Pipe Organ, browse the Leah Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, explore the Yawkey House Museum, or catch a show at the Wausau Community Theatre.
No matter what highlights top your must-see list in Wausau, you'll find accommodations to suit your stay. Check out the diverse hotel options available throughout the city.
When to Visit Wausau, WI
Your season of choice will play a big role in the experience you have in Wausau. Winter is the most popular season in this destination with average highs in the 20s and lows that can dip to the single digits or below. The city sees an average of 60 inches of snow each year, providing ideal conditions for skiing, snowmobiling, and other outdoor activities. Other highlights of the winter season include the Holiday Parade in December and Winter Fest and Winter Brew Fest in January.
Come spring, the weather warms rapidly from an average high of 28 in February, to 40 in March, and 55 in April. By summer, you'll find average highs in the upper 70s and low 80s with lows in the 50s. Summer brings a host of events like Concerts in the Square and Market Place Thursdays. July brings the Balloon Rally & Glow and Rib Fest, and Chalkfest. In August, you'll find the Wisconsin Valley Fair and Big Bull Falls Blues Fest.
In autumn, temperatures cool rapidly. While you have an average high of 69 in September, this drops to 55 in October, and 40 in November. Harvest Fest takes place in October, offering an enticing reason to visit during these crisp months.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Wausau, WI:
Wausau by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in Wausau, WI. You can use these charts to evaluate the best dates to book a room in Wausau for any future trips.
Luxury Hotels in Wausau, WI
4 Star Average Prices: $131.34
Travelers looking for added amenities in Wausau should look to hotels like the Courtyard by Marriott Wausau. The plush guest rooms here are awash in soothing colors. Amenities include a 27-inch television with premium movie channels, CNN, ESPN, and HBO. You also have access to Nintendo video games and free high-speed internet. A hot breakfast or grab-and-go breakfast are available for a fee. The Bistro serves dinner and drinks as well. If you forgot any essentials, drop into the convenience store. A fitness center and pool round out the hotel's amenities.
At the Hampton Inn Wausau, guests can enjoy an indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center, and business center. You'll find a free hot breakfast every morning. If you're in a hurry, snag an On the Run breakfast bag on weekdays. Rooms feature spacious showers with Waterpik shower heads and curved shower rods. You can relax with an on-demand movie or take care of business at the ergonomic workspace.
The Jefferson Street Inn is a prime pick if you want something different from the traditional chain hotels. Guest rooms feature premium amenities like Starbucks coffee and Aveda bath products. You'll find luxurious touches like fireplaces, separate sitting areas, granite counters, and full kitchens in select suites. Even standard guest rooms include free Wi-Fi and spacious work areas.
The Jefferson Street Inn offers on-site dining at the City Grill Bistro, a day spa, indoor swimming pool, business center, and fitness center. If you're hosting a special event, you can book the ballrooms for up to 600 people, and conference and meeting rooms for up to 250.
Affordable Hotels in Wausau, WI
3 Star Average Prices: $116.81
You may think of Wausau as a luxurious skiers paradise, but there are several budget hotels in the area that will help you enjoy an affordable stay in this stunning Midwestern destination. If you're looking to trim your travel expenses in Wausau, try these picks.
The Quality Inn is one of the most affordable choices in the city. This hotel is conveniently located near the Central Wisconsin Airport and offers a free airport shuttle. You'll enjoy seasonal shuttle service to the ski area as well. A hot breakfast will help you start the day right at this hotel. The indoor heated pool and whirlpool can offer the perfect solution for a lazy day in.
At the Super 8 Wausau, you'll enjoy a refrigerator and free Wi-Fi in your guest room. Mornings start with a SuperStart breakfast featuring hot dishes. An indoor pool and whirlpool give you a relaxing place to unwind for a few hours. If you have a fitness routine to follow, the on-site gym will help you keep up.
The Days Inn & Suites Wausau is another affordable pick. The free Daybreak breakfast here features favorites like sausage, waffles, and biscuits and gravy. Rooms are equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, and minibar so you can always keep refreshments close by. The indoor pool and whirlpool offer year-round recreation.
