Rice Lake, Wisconsin is one of those Northwoods destinations that feels both easygoing and full of possibility. Located in Barron County in northwestern Wisconsin, Rice Lake blends classic lake-country scenery with a lively small-town energy. It’s a fantastic spot for a romantic getaway, but just as well-suited for a long weekend of fishing, biking, and exploring.
Rice Lake is known first and foremost for its water. The city sits along the shores of Rice Lake itself, with nearby access to Red Cedar Lake and the larger Chain of Lakes in the Blue Hills region. Boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and classic pontoon afternoons are part of everyday life here in the warmer months. Anglers come for walleye, musky, and panfish, and ice fishing season brings a whole new rhythm once winter settles in. For many visitors, the appeal is simple: Sunrises over still water, coffee in hand, and a full day outside, without a more complex care in the world.
Beyond the lakes, there are plenty more outdoor experiences and things to do in Rice Lake, WI. The Red Cedar State Trail is a major draw for cyclists and hikers, stretching from Rice Lake south toward Menomonie. It follows an old railroad corridor, which means gradual grades and scenic stretches along wetlands, woods, and farmland. In the fall, the Wisconsin fall colors are vivid and photo-worthy. In winter, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing take center stage, with well-maintained trails connecting the area to the broader Northwoods network.
When considering Things to do in Rice Lake, visitors quickly discover that this is more than just a fishing town. The Rice Lake Curling Club, one of the oldest in the United States, gives the city a unique identity and a proud sporting tradition. The Northern Star Theatre Company hosts live performances that bring professional-quality productions to a small-town stage. Art enthusiasts can explore the annual Art in the Park event, which draws regional artists and makers each summer. Local boutiques and shops in the downtown district offer everything from home goods to specialty gifts.
Dining in Rice Lake reflects its mix of Northwoods roots and modern tastes. Lehman’s Supper Club is a long-standing favorite, known for classic Wisconsin fare, steaks, seafood, and brandy Old Fashioneds. Casa Mexicana and Badger Brew Coffee Loft bring variety and local flavor to the mix. Visitors who appreciate craft beer can explore nearby breweries in the region.
Rice Lake, Wisconsin is also a compelling choice for couples who want to spend a little time away together. A lakeside sunset, a quiet dock, and a bottle of wine can turn a simple weekend into a meaningful Romantic getaway. The town’s manageable size means you can enjoy dinner, a show, and a moonlit walk without traffic or long waits. Weddings and elopements find a natural home here as well. The lakefront settings, wooded backdrops, and changing seasons create memorable ceremony locations. Independent inns and Bed and Breakfast properties in and around Rice Lake often provide personalized event coordination, curated local vendor recommendations, and a level of attention that larger hotels simply cannot match.
Choosing a Bed and Breakfast in Rice Lake through the Midwest Association of Independent Inns means choosing hosts who know the area intimately. They can recommend the best fishing spots, suggest scenic stretches of the Red Cedar State Trail, and point you toward seasonal events you might otherwise miss. Independent inns are rooted in the community, reflecting the character of Rice Lake itself.