Catherine - Savvy Family TravelJust 30 minutes north of Milwaukee, Cedarburg is one of Wisconsin’s most charming small towns. Historic limestone buildings line Washington Avenue, locally owned boutiques invite you inside, and every season offers a festival worth planning around.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or weekend escape, this Cedarburg, WI itinerary organizes the best experiences by traveler type.
Families, couples, book lovers, history enthusiasts, and girls’ getaway groups will find plenty of reasons to linger longer.
Things to Do in Cedarburg
Why Visit Cedarburg?
Unlike many tourist towns, Cedarburg feels authentic. Historic architecture has been carefully preserved while independent shops, wineries, restaurants, and seasonal events keep downtown lively year-round.
It deserves its nickname as the “Hallmark of Wisconsin.”
One of the best things about visiting is that you can easily spend a relaxing afternoon wandering—or fill an entire weekend with activities that’ll please any type of traveler. If you’re already in Milwaukee, Cedarburg is one of our favorite weekend getaways.
Things to Do in Cedarburg for Families
Family-friendly activities are one of Cedarburg’s biggest strengths. From orchards to playgrounds to nostalgic attractions, there is something for every age.
Visit Honey Creek Orchard
If you’re visiting during apple or pumpkin season, Honey Creek Orchard is easily one of the best family stops near Cedarburg.
Kids will enjoy the farm animals, playground, corn silo, corn maze, and picking apples or pumpkins. Plan to spent 2.5+ hours here.
If you are short on time, be sure to stop into the farm store for apple donuts or pastries!
Play at Cedar Creek Park
This beautiful park sits right along the creek and offers one of the nicest playgrounds in town.
During summer, it hosts Summer Sounds, a free Friday evening concert series where families spread blankets on the lawn while kids play and dance to the music.
Take an Art Class
The Cedarburg Cultural Center regularly offers art classes and workshops for children and families.
It’s a wonderful rainy-day activity or a creative break between shopping and sightseeing.
Ride the Miniature Trains
One of Cedarburg’s hidden gems is the Milwaukee Light Engineering Society miniature railroad.
For just $5 per rider, visitors enjoy unlimited train rides during their limited operating days. Check their Facebook page for upcoming dates.
Kids absolutely love this experience, and many parents admit it’s just as much fun for adults.
Cool Off at the Cedarburg Community Pool
Hot summer afternoon? The Cedarburg Pool is an easy and affordable way to spend several relaxing hours before heading back downtown for dinner or ice cream.
Browse Kid-Friendly Shops
Lillie’s
Don’t miss the back rooms that are filled to the brim with unique children toys, books, and apparel.
Cedarburg Toy Company
Classic toys, puzzles, educational games, and unique finds make this a favorite stop and almost impossible to leave empty handed.
Catch a Movie at Rivoli Theatre
This beautifully restored historic theater brings old-school movie-going back to life. It makes for a great evening activity after exploring downtown.
Visit the Cedarburg Art Museum Beer Garden
Parents can relax with a drink while kids enjoy the free creative play area nearby.
It’s one of the more unexpected family-friendly spots in town. Plus the Art Museum itself is free! A great way to introduce kids’ to art even if they will only last a fraction of an hour inside.
Celebrate Christmas in Cedarburg
If you’re visiting during the holidays, Christmas is one of the most magical times to experience Cedarburg.
Downtown transforms into a Hallmark-worthy scene with twinkling lights, decorated storefronts, horse-drawn carriage rides, festive window displays, and plenty of opportunities to shop local for unique gifts.
The annual Festive Friday Eves in November kick off the holiday season with extended shopping hours, live entertainment, visits from Santa, and seasonal treats.
A Cedarburg Christmas packs the end of the year with holiday cheer, family activities, and special events throughout town. Between sipping hot cocoa, browsing boutiques, and admiring the historic buildings dressed up for the season, Christmas in Cedarburg is an unforgettable family tradition.
Things to Do in Cedarburg for Couples
Cedarburg naturally lends itself to romantic weekends.
Historic streets, wineries, boutique shopping, and cozy restaurants make it easy to slow down together.
Stay at Washington House
If you’re planning a couples getaway, the historic Washington House is difficult to beat.
Its location lets you walk to nearly every downtown attraction while enjoying one of Cedarburg’s most iconic historic buildings.
Explore Cedar Creek Settlement
Originally a woolen mill, Cedar Creek Settlement has been transformed into one of downtown’s signature destinations. Browse specialty shops after enjoying a wine tasting at Cedar Creek Winery.
Guests can stroll the Settlement with their wine while shopping.
Wine Tastings
Several wineries make Cedarburg an ideal destination for wine lovers.
Favorites include Cedar Creek Winery, Chiselled Grape Winery, and Blind Horse Winery & Restaurant.
Romantic Dinner
Excellent dinner choices include:
- Stilt House
- Anvil Pub & Grille
- Maxwell’s
- New Fortune (for Chinese cuisine)
Things to Do in Cedarburg for a Girls’ Getaway
If you’re planning a girls’ weekend, Cedarburg checks every box:
- Shopping
- Wine
- Spa treatments
- Great food
- Walkable downtown
Relax at Bella Lei
Start the weekend with massages, facials, or spa treatments before exploring the downtown shops and eateries.
Shop Local Boutiques
Some favorites include:
- Wild & Precious Collective for clothing, gifts, and a cafe
- Downtown Dough for kitchen lovers
- Weeds for plants and home décor
- Rylie Roo for stylish clothing
- Irish Boutique for gifts and European treats
Spend an Afternoon Wine Tasting
Pair boutique shopping with stops at:
- Cedar Creek Winery
- Chiselled Grape Winery
- Blind Horse Winery
Visit the Cedarburg Art Museum Beer Garden
Grab a drink, relax outdoors, and enjoy one of Cedarburg’s most peaceful settings. Check their live music schedule before you go.
Things to Do in Cedarburg for Book Lovers
Readers will love discovering literary-themed stops sprinkled throughout downtown.
Reading Nest (Coming Soon)
Book lovers should keep an eye on the opening of Reading Nest, Cedarburg’s eagerly awaited independent bookstore.
Shop for Bookish Gifts
Lillie’s
Beautiful journals, children’s books, and literary-inspired gifts.
Geek Boutique
Lots of great gifts for fantasy readers, gamers, comic fans, and pop culture enthusiasts.
Book & Cranny (Nearby Grafton)
Only 7 minutes away, this charming independent bookstore is worth adding to your Cedarburg, WI itinerary.
Things to Do in Cedarburg for History Buffs
Cedarburg is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it one of Wisconsin’s best-preserved historic downtowns.
Cedarburg Visitor Center & History Museum
Start here for excellent context before exploring the rest of town.
Covered Bridge
The Cedarburg Covered Bridge is Wisconsin’s last historic covered bridge and one of the area’s most photographed landmarks. (There are 4 other covered bridges in the state but they are not recognized as historic.)
1849 Kuhefuss House Museum
History enthusiasts shouldn’t miss this restored pioneer home offering a glimpse into Cedarburg’s earliest years.
Cedarburg Cultural Center
In addition to classes and performances, the building itself reflects Cedarburg’s commitment to preserving local culture.
Cedar Creek Settlement
Originally built as a woolen mill, the settlement remains one of Cedarburg’s defining landmarks.
Things to Do in Cedarburg for Teens
Cedarburg offers several fun options for teen visitors.
Highlights include:
- Cedarburg Cultural Center classes
- Geek Boutique
- Lillie’s
- The Daily Dose Juice Bar
- Summer Sounds concerts
- Ozaukee County Fair
Many teens especially enjoy browsing the eclectic downtown shops before grabbing smoothies or coffee. Consider ending your night at the Rivoli theater (depending on what’s playing) or Summer Sounds if visiting on a Friday in the summer.
Things Everyone Should Do in Cedarburg
Experience Cedarburg Festivals
If possible, plan your visit around one of Cedarburg’s signature festivals:
Strawberry Festival
One of Wisconsin’s largest summer festivals featuring strawberry-inspired foods, live entertainment, art vendors, and family activities. (Typically the last weekend in June)
Harvest Festival
Expect giant pumpkins, scarecrows, local artisans, seasonal treats, and beautiful fall colors. (Historically held the 2nd or 3rd weekend in September)
Summer Sounds
Every Friday during summer, Cedar Creek Park fills with live music, food vendors, and families enjoying one of Cedarburg’s favorite traditions.
Ozaukee County Fair
One of Wisconsin’s few remaining free county fairs, this event features:
- Carnival rides
- Animal exhibits
- Fair food
- Shopping
- Live entertainment
It’s easily worth planning an entire weekend around.
Sweet Tooth Stops
One thing quickly becomes obvious while exploring downtown, Cedarburg loves dessert.
Don’t leave without stopping at at least one of these favorites.
Amy’s Candy Kitchen
Famous for handcrafted chocolates, candies, and decadent gourmet caramel apples that are almost too pretty to eat.
Donut Monster
Fresh, creative donuts. Go early for the best selection.
Chocolate Factory
Grab ice cream or stay for one of their surprisingly delicious sandwiches before dessert.
Lakeside Cookie Co.
Perfect if you’re craving giant gourmet cookies designed to the nines.
Delicately Delicious
An excellent stop for pastries and baked treats.
Where to Eat in Cedarburg
Breakfast
- PJ’s
- Brunch
- Pompette Creperie and Cafe (Coming Soon!)
Coffee & Tea
- Dorsey’s
- Java House
- Cedarburg Coffee Roastery
Lunch or Dinner
- Stilt House
- Tomaso’s
- Dorsey’s
- The Daily Dose Juice Bar
- Chocolate Factory (great sandwiches)
- Anvil Pub & Grille
- New Fortune
- Maxwell’s
Where to Stay in Cedarburg, WI
Washington House
Perfect for couples, history lovers, and anyone wanting to stay in the heart of downtown.
Airbnb
Traveling with kids or a group of friends? A vacation rental provides extra bedrooms, kitchens, and outdoor space while keeping you close to downtown.
Cedarburg, WI Itinerary Samples
One-Day Cedarburg, WI Itinerary
- Breakfast at PJ’s or Brunch
- Tour the Covered Bridge
- Shop downtown boutiques
- Lunch at Stilt House or Tomaso’s
- Visit the Cedar Creek Settlement Shops and Cedar Creek Winery
- Stop for chocolates or ice cream
- Cedarburg Art Museum or more Shopping
- Wine tasting and dinner downtown
- End with Summer Sounds or a movie at the Rivoli Theater
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cedarburg worth visiting?
Absolutely. Cedarburg offers a unique blend of history, boutique shopping, family attractions, wineries, festivals, and excellent restaurants, making it one of Wisconsin’s best small-town destinations.
How much time do you need in Cedarburg?
A full day is enough to experience the highlights, but spending a weekend allows time to enjoy wineries, shopping, seasonal festivals, and nearby attractions without feeling rushed.
What is Cedarburg known for?
Cedarburg is known for its beautifully preserved historic downtown, Cedar Creek Settlement, annual festivals, covered bridge, wineries, locally owned shops, and family-friendly attractions.
When is the best time to visit Cedarburg?
Summer and fall are especially popular thanks to Summer Sounds, Strawberry Festival, Harvest Festival, orchard season, and the Ozaukee County Fair.
Winter is also charming with holiday shopping and festive downtown decorations and Christmas events.
Final Thoughts on a Cedarburg, WI Itinerary
Whether you’re planning a family adventure, romantic escape, girls’ weekend, or simply searching for the best things to do in Cedarburg, this charming Wisconsin town offers far more than its small size suggests.
From historic landmarks and independent boutiques to wineries, festivals, playgrounds, and sweet shops, every visit feels a little different depending on the season.
Catherine – Savvy Family Travel
My favorite pastime is finding fun, interesting experiences to share with family and friends.
I’m a mom of two energetic and curious boys. My tireless husband provides comic relief, is our favorite photographer, and an expert navigator.
I’m a firm believer that travel with kids doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive. It can be affordable, epic, and, dare I say, even relaxing!
Are you a travel loving parent too? I’d love to meet you, please reach out via Messenger and say “hi!”
Based in: Milwaukee, Wisconsin USA