Scattered around the Milwaukee area are some towns that protect area history and integrity. Not only do these little communities thrive in architectural beauty, they are great spots for a quick get away. Cozy accommodations, quaint boutiques and pleasant eateries make visits to towns like Cedarburg rewarding.
Located 20 miles north of Milwaukee, historic Cedarburg dates back to the 1840s. Once reliant on natural power from Cedar Creek, the town housed five mills. Here history lingers through original limestone and cream brick buildings which shelter specialty shops, antique stores and restaurants.
In the heart of historic Cedarburg lies a plethora of old-world shops and galleries. Cedar Creek Settlement is a woolen mill from the 1860s, once the largest west of the Alleghenies, restored and home to antique shops, art galleries, attractive gift stores, and the Cedar Creek Winery, N70 W6340 Bridge Rd. A wine shop and tasting room overlooks the scenic Cedar Creek waterfall and varieties of Cedar Creek wines include Sparkling and Chardonnay. Winery hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. For more information, call 1-800-827-8020.
Arbor Winds Farm presents visitors the opportunity to experience rural back roads by hors-drawn wagon, carriage, or sleigh. Hay wagon rides are also available. For evening excursions, wagons are equipped with lights to illuminate the path. Wagons can be privately reserved for parties as large as 18. Carriages can be privately reserved for six people. For reservations or information, call 262-377-6151.
Cedarburg Cultural Center, W62 N546 Washington Ave., is another excellent place to discover the community's vivid history, heritage and contemporary culture. Admission is free and the experience is educational. Permanent collections and temporary exhibitions include a varietyt of historical artifacts. Open Tuesday through Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 1-5.
The Cultural Center's Founders Room offers a space that hosts lectures, concerts and receptions, as well as community theatre, children's workshops and dance productions. In conjunction with the Cultural Center is the historic Kuhefuss House, W62 N627 Washington Ave., an ongoing showcase of the community's German-American heritage in stone residence dating from 1849. Open Saturdays and Sundays 1-4, June through January 15, admission to the Kuhefuss House is $1.
Resting along Cedar Creek is Wisconsin's last remaining covered bridge in Covered Bridge Park, three miles north of Cedarburg on Covered Bridge Rd. Picnic, read or meditate as animals rustle in the trees in this beautiful 12-acre park or find a quiet spot to catch some of the fish which occupy the creek.
Pioneer Village offers another opportunity for fun and respite. A living museum featuring 17 buildings dating from 1840 to 1907, Pioneer Village is home to Cedarburg Railroad Depot (circa 1907) as well as old homes and barns. A shed equipped with antique tilling and harvesting machinery as well as an 1850 blacksmith shop with a working forge can be viewed. Pioneer Village is open to the public from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend and weekends through the second Sunday in October.
To see some of Wisconsin's oldest breweries, visit to the Ozaukee Art Center/ Brewery Works Fine Arts Complex, which combines retail shops with art exhibitions and workshops.
If you want to spend a weekend enjoying the area, there are some snug accommodations offering a restful night's sleep. The Stagecoach Inn, W61 N520 Washington Ave., is a 145-year-old 12-room bed and breakfast decorated with antique and period furniture. Decked out for their visitors' supreme comfort, six of the rooms are furnished with two-person whirlpools and two are adorned with fireplaces. Continental breakfasts are offered and prices are reasonable. For more information, call 888-375-0208.
Another option is the Washington House Inn, W62 573 Washington Ave., a country victorian inn built in 1886. With 34 rooms, each named for a Cedarburg pioneer and featuring snug down comforters, private baths and antiques, the inn offers a lavish repose. Nestled in the heart of historic Cedarburg, it is a perfect place for a romantic sojourn or serene retreat. To find out more, call 1-800-554-4717.
