Whether you’re an old friend of Mineral Point or a first-time visitor, there’s a few things you need to know about this charming and historic Wisconsin town. First, it’s a hub of artistic energy. Second, their Cornish and mining history runs deep. Third, you’ll find restaurants and shops thriving generation after generation next to eateries and boutiques that have only made their mark in just a few short years. Lastly, those who call Mineral Point “home” are incredibly talented and friendly.
Mineral Point truly is truly unlike any other place in Wisconsin. It’s a unique mash-up of quirky and quaint, traditional and unconventional, making it the perfect destination for every type of traveler.
There is so much to see and do in Mineral Point that it can be hard to know where to start. One thing is for certain, this is a town that will beckon you back year after year.
To help jumpstart your first – or perhaps your next – visit to Mineral Point, here is a list of our top 20 things to do in Mineral Point – in no particular order:
1. Attend a Local Event
Local events are the perfect way to experience the best of Mineral Point. And with plenty of local events held year-round there’s always something for everyone and every season. Here are two of our favorite, fun-filled events we’ve recently attended:
Mineral Point Blues & Roots Fest
It’s no secret that Mineral Point is a crossroads for artists of all kinds including exceptional musical talent in the world of Blues. The Mineral Point Blues & Roots Fest held annually each August contributes to the town’s vibrant tapestry of art and music. The intimate setting of this music fest along with good food, laidback vibes and renowned musical talent makes this an enjoyable event for music lovers of all ages.
Candlelight Shopping
Immerse yourself in the warmth and spirit of the holidays while experiencing Mineral Point’s annual Candlelight Shopping event. This is truly a magical experience, perfect for all ages. It’s about supporting small businesses and getting your holiday shopping done as much as it is about having a genuinely good time with friends and family. Take a leisurely stroll along streets lined with hundreds of luminaires. Bite into chestnuts freshly roasted on an open fire. Listen to Christmas carolers and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride down High Street, the town’s main street. There’s even an impressive and festive firework show halfway into the event. The hours for Candlelight Shopping are about from sunset to 9 p.m. (four hours).
2. Gallery Hop
The town’s unique artisan legacy is thriving and impossible to miss. The best way to dive into the eclectic art scene is to stroll through the picturesque streets while popping in and out of art galleries and studios. You’re sure to find something memorable to take home as a memento of your art-filled weekend in Mineral Point.
A great spot to find handcrafted art and décor with an ever-changing collection is the Little Elk Art Collective located on High Street. Longbranch Gallery is great for authentic, reasonably priced folk pieces, sculpture, jewelry, fine art and more. Wantoot Gallery, located in a historic building that was once the Charles Hornung City Bakery & Restaurant (built in 1891) has incredible collections displayed all within the American Modern style. You’ll find painting, jewelry and even furniture created by artists from all over the United States. Driftless Studio and Gallery has a diversity of artistic media and if you visit during the winter holiday season, you’ll likely find handmade Christmas ornaments too! The Globe Clay Center has a stunning selection of wood-fire ceramic mugs that are not to be overlooked especially because this is a functional piece of art that you can use and enjoy daily. They make for great gifts too!
3. Shop Small
Whatever you are looking for, we bet you’ll find it at Sullivan’s. Reminiscent of a dry good store, much of what you’ll find here is in fact locally sourced, including a variety of handmade items like hand-stitched pillows. It’s also the go to place for local Mineral Point Gear including t-shirts, sweatshirts and hats. Bobbi Jo’s Boutique is a locally owned boutique perfect for anyone who is endlessly in search of their next scented candle, one-of-a-kind apparel items, home decor finds or that perfect gift for that special someone. The Board Shoppe is known for its expertly made furniture including benches, shelves, desks or boxes. 90% of the furniture sold here is handmade with most pieces made with locally sourced wood.
4. Stay at a Historic Property
A hallmark of Mineral Point is its unique and varied accommodations. Here are two standout hotel properties in Mineral Point and the reasons why we love both:
Located steps from art galleries, studios and boutiques, the Commerce Street Brewery Hotel serves up historic charm with modern conveniences. Housed in an 1854 Cornish-style building and registered landmark, guests can expect free parking, complimentary breakfast, fireplaces and full-size whirlpool tubs in each guest room. This intimate, boutique property scores top marks for location, warm hospitality and its collection of little luxuries like peppercorn scented bath products, white noise machines and eye masks.
Mineral Point Hotel & Suites, a boutique hotel on the Wisconsin Registry of Historic Places, is housed in a building built by an Irishman in 1857 in anticipation of the railroad coming to Mineral Point. With a stay at this hotel, you’ll feel transported back in time but will also be equipped with modern-day amenities like luxurious, clawfoot bathtubs and a stocked bar in the main lobby. Not to mention an incredible, central location in the heart of downtown Mineral Point, exemplary service and standout design. The property also doubles as a café, so you don’t have to be a guest to stop by and take in the romantic aesthetic and history of the place. In the warm months you can even enjoy your coffee or sink your teeth into a delicious crepe out on the patio.
5. Visit Shake Rag Alley
Close to the heart of Mineral Point is where you’ll find this hub of creativity spread across 2.5 acres and set in an idyllic setting with eleven historic buildings. By the main entrance, grab a map and set out on a guided self-tour of the property. Be sure to stop by the 1830 Log Cabin which is believed to be the oldest schoolhouse in Wisconsin. You’ll also want to look into the workshops held here. Both adult and youth workshops are offered throughout the year and span a unique range of artistic mediums like heritage craft and mixed media. Classes vary in size and length with special programming planned each season.
6. Hike Merry Christmas Mine Hill Trail
Immerse yourself in the unique mining past of Wisconsin on the Merry Christmas Mine Trail and Prairie. Set out on either the Lead Trail Loop, the Zinc Trail Loop or both. Stop along the way at different points of interest that hold particular significance to the land and its past as a major mining site. There are a total of 16 points of interest, or “stations” spread across both loops. Start by walking the Lead Trail Loop first followed by the Zinc Trail Loop to learn about the history of the place in chronological order.
Pro Tip: Before you set out on your walk, stop by Pendarvis, a Wisconsin Historic Site, to pick up a paper visitor’s guide that includes a detailed look at the Merry Christmas Mine Trail. If Pendarvis is closed when you visit like it was when we went, you’ll find these paper maps available in a box located by the front door.
7. Discover Pendarvis
If you find Wisconsin history interesting or if you’re curious to learn more about a distinctive slice of the Badger state’s past, then a visit to Pendarvis is an absolute must. The best way to experience Pendarvis and appreciate the significance of the place is by participating in a 1-hour tour offered at select times in the summer and early fall. On the tour, a knowledgeable guide will lead you in and out of several 19th century limestone and wooden buildings built by Cornish immigrants while giving you the download on the area’s unique Cornish and mining past. You’ll also learn a great deal about Bob Neal and Edgar Hellum, the couple who were ahead of their time and helped restore and preserve the buildings that make up this unique historical landmark. The labor Bob and Edgar poured into sustaining these buildings will live beyond any one life. They left behind something sturdy and lovely for future generations to appreciate for years to come.
8. Tour Orchard Lawn and the Gundry House
Historical charm is on full display at Orchard Lawn. On this stunning, 9-acre estate nestled Mineral Point you’ll find the Gundry House. This Italianate style mansion has been around since 1868 and has a lot of history to show you. During the end of May through the end of October you can partake in a unique tour of the Gundry House. While on the tour, as you walk around admiring the library, formal parlor, stained glass windows and more, the thought “if these walls could talk” will be playing in your mind on repeat. But wait. There’s more! What makes the Gundry House extra special is that it is presently owned and operated by the Mineral Point Historical Society. It’s a treasured piece of restored history that remains standing and open to the public thanks to residents who understand the importance of this site to Mineral Point’s story and identity.
9. Wander Around the Mineral Point Railroad Museum
Did you know that the oldest railroad depot in Wisconsin can be found in Mineral Point? It’s true! Today this pre-Civil War depot, located along what was once an operational railroad line, is where you’ll find the Mineral Point Railroad Museum. Inside this niche museum you’ll find two floors filled with an impressive collection of one-of-a-kind railroad artifacts. Things like a full Milwaukee railroad uniform, tools of the railroad including a 10-foot-long shovel, and the crown jewel – a huge, intricately detailed diorama of the Mineral Point rail yard circa 1917 (located on the top floor). You will need more time here than you think so plan to explore for at least 2 hours. If you’re on the fence about visiting the museum, take our word for it and give it a shot. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised, and it will help you better understand the unique character and history of Mineral Point.
10. Explore the Archives at the Public Library
On the second floor of Mineral Point’s Public Library, you’ll find a true hidden gem: a full-blown archive section complete with an archive documentation room and professional archivist who works at the archives full-time. The archives are free to visit and are the place to go to brush up on local history, check out old photographs and do some fact checking.
11. Visit a Seasonal Market
In the summer, the Mineral Point Market is perfect for homegrown, farm-fresh produce. Enjoy a beautiful kaleidoscope of colors as you peruse fruits and veggies – always local, always seasonal and always Wisconsin grown. This is a great place to appreciate and learn more about the bounty of the local food scene in Wisconsin’s Driftless region. Other than food items, you’ll also find things like freshly cut flowers, locally made maple syrup and honey, rugs and more.
In December, you can find the Festive Holiday Bazaar serving up mega bargains inside the First Methodist Church. The Church is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and has some lovely glass-stained window work which you can enjoy while perusing the tables. You’ll find a mix of goodies here including handmade crafts, books, home décor, cookies, pies and more.
12. Visit the Award-Winning Hook’s Cheese
A trip to the Dairy State just isn’t complete until you’ve tasted some Wisconsin-made cheese. In Mineral Point you’ll find the main factory of a famous, award-winning cheese producer right in the heart of the town. Hook’s Cheese has been in the cheesemaking business for over 80 years and remains a family-owned and run operation to this day. A visit to their humble factory will grant you access to a wide range of specialty cheeses including a Wisconsin Classic and the cheese that won Hook’s its very first World Championship Award: Colby (presently called “World Champion Colby”). You’ll also be able to take a gander at their operation, flip through a binder littered with news clippings and photos and take in an impressive number of award ribbons including many blue, first-place ones. When we visited, we were surprised and delighted to be checked out by master cheesemaker and owner, Tony Hook. He was even willing to pose for a photo with us! In addition to meeting Tony, we walked away with a supply of the freshest, squeakiest cheese curds we have ever found in Wisconsin. We visited the factory on a Friday morning hours after the curds were made and bagged up for sale.
Fun Fact: If you can’t make it to the factory during their regular business hours – which are limited to weekdays – you can catch Hook’s Cheese at the Dane County Farmer’s Market in the summer or email Hook’s Cheese to place an order.
13. Take a Coffee Break
Slow down and refuel at Wild Blue Yonder Coffeehouse – an inviting, eclectic little coffeeshop in the heart of Mineral Point. When you walk in be prepared to be served by the friendly owner herself while being captivated by two gorgeous paintings by Bruce Tunis, a Mineral Point based artist.
The menu here has something for everyone including vegetarians and those looking for gluten-free options. For those taking their sips in-house, choose from delicious cups of steaming, fair-trade coffee served up in a giant ceramic mug, a cold Spotted Cow beer in a pint glass or even a copa de vino. Pair your drink with freshly made baked goods, a toasted sandwich or perhaps a veggie and hummus snack tray. Pull up a chair or bar stool, pop open your laptop or try your hand at a communal boardgame and stay awhile.
Fun Fact: In the back you’ll find a shared workspace or Internet café that is completely free to use!
14. Enjoy Something Sweet
There is no shortage of sweet offerings in Mineral Point but if you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, look no further than High Street Sweets or Ice Cream Parlor.
High Street Sweets is a cute candy shop that stocks a range of chocolate bars and treats from the United Kingdom. We bought a bunch of Tunnock’s Tea Cakes. You’ll also find penny candy, mainstream candies like gummy worms and even chocolate sourced from an Amish community.
At Sweet Life Ice Cream Parlor, you can choose from an assortment of Cedar Crest, small batch ice cream flavors like cherry amaretto and peanut butter cup plus three different types of cones – waffle, sugar and cake. There is also a gluten free cake cone option. If you’re in the mood for something a bit splashier try a float! Once you have your sweet treat, settle into a retro style seat/table or grab a bench outside. Be sure to take a good look at the unique painting on the fully functional garage door and peruse the little shop located in the same space too.
15. Go on a Self-Guided Architectural Tour
Mineral Point has an unbelievable number of buildings and sites recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places – over 500 to be exact – including the very first building in the state of Wisconsin placed on the Register. One of the best places to admire the array of historical architectural styles is on High Street. Take yourself on a self-guided tour/walk along Mineral Point’s downtown where you can enjoy and learn about over 20 historical buildings and sites. Historical buildings are marked with an official U.S. Register of Historic Places plaques located on the exterior of the building. You will also see buildings in the Cornish stone cottage style built in the 1840s. Most of the buildings remain in use today with some restored as art galleries and boutiques.
Pro Tip: This is a free activity and can be done in as short or long as a duration as you have time for.
16. Take a Walk or Ride on the Cheese County Trail
If adventure is what you crave, adventure is what you’ll find on the Cheese Country Trail. Get some fresh air and find some solitude on this public trail made up of 47 scenic miles from Mineral Point to Monroe. The part of this recreation trail near Mineral Point is an easy trail perfect for a leisurely stroll or good beginner’s bike ride. This portion is an accessible, hard-pack trail that makes it possible for people of all abilities to enjoy outdoor activities and the benefits of an active lifestyle. The trail is a shared pathway for bicycles, pedestrians and motorized modes of transportation including ATVs. Stroller friendly too!
While enjoying the trail, please remember to leave the trail as beautiful as you found it. Leave no trace by remembering to stick to the trail, leave all plants and rocks where you found them and trash your trash (pack it in, pack it out).
17. Try Figgyhobbin
Mineral Point’s strong Cornish culture is due in large part to the mining industry which brought many Cornish immigrants to the area starting in the 1830’s. There’s no better way to celebrate the town’s unique Cornish history than by taking a bite out of figgyhobbin served up at the Red Rooster Café. Cornish specialties have been served at this café for three consecutive generations, so you know you’re getting an authentic, perfected piece of figgyhobbin at the Red Rooster.
What is figgyhobbin? figgyhobbin is a Cornish sweet treat or dessert. It is made with raisins, nuts, brown sugar and cinnamon all rolled up in a pastry crust. It is often served with warm caramel and whipped cream. Other sweet Cornish fare you’ll find on the menu includes Bread Pudding, Tea Biscuits and Saffron Bread.
18. Sip a Locally-Made Beer at a Historic Brewery
The Brewpub at the Commerce Street Brewery & Hotel is a Euro-inspired pub. It’s an excellent spot to discover hearty fare, local flavors and house beers brewed on-site! Its wide selection of tasty pub food, including rotating specials, makes it the perfect spot for lunch, dinner or even just a drink in downtown Mineral Point. Popular items on the menu include ribs, tilapia and fish and chips.
19. Swing by the Chamber of Commerce
Located on High Street, next to Cornish Heritage Park, the Mineral Point Chamber of Commerce is a must-stop if you have questions about the area or are looking for recommendations. Stop by to pick up maps of town, more information about the surrounding Driftless region and dive even deeper into the history of the local area. Volunteers are usually posted up here and make for very knowledgeable and dependable resources. Plus, they have cool merch available, and you can see the first fire truck ever used in Mineral Point.
20. Chat with Locals to Discover more Hidden Gems!
The Midwestern hospitality in Mineral Point is unbeatable. Local residents love their town, and many have lived there for years or even generations. Don’t be shy to ask people working in the shops, galleries and hotels any questions you might have about the area. They are a treasure trove of information and always willing to share. We wouldn’t have found out about the Archives at the Public Library if it hadn’t been for a helpful staff member at Shakerag Alley.
We wish you a memorable time exploring the many splendors and hidden gems in Mineral Point. Be sure to let us know what you enjoyed the most and if you’d add anything to our list!
– Justin + Alyssa
Disclaimer: As with any work of travel literature, this blog is a snapshot that captures a particular place at a particular time. And of course, through a particular set of eyes (ours). All opinions in the post below are our own and we only recommend places and products we love! Also, while we do our best to keep blog posts up to date with current prices, locations, and hours of operation we suggest double-checking when planning a trip.
