Points of Interest

Things to Do and See near Wisconsin Country Places

* Elroy Sparta Bike Trail / LaCrosse River State Trail 
The first 'Rails to Trails' project, the Elroy Sparta Bike Trail meets the LaCrosse River State Trail just a few miles from Wisconsin Country Places. The Elroy Sparta Bike Trail features three long railroad tunnels. Bring your flashlights! Both trails traverse some of the most scenic Wisconsin countryside. Riding the trails is sure to make a lasting memory for you and your family.
Elroy Sparta Trail   La Crosse River Trail

* Ginny's Cupboard
Located in downtown Sparta's 1929 MC Steel building, Ginny's Cupboard features a restored tin ceiling, 1957 soda fountan and an espresso bar. Decorated in a combination of 'retro' and antique furnishings, there is plenty of memorabilia to take in while you enjoy homemade soup, hearty sandwiches and dessert.
Ginny's Cupboard

* Speed's Bicycle Shop
Bicycle sales & rentals, repairs, parts and accessories. Bike trail passes and shuttle service to the trails. Owned and operated by our friend Milt 'Speed' Leis, this well-respected shop has served locals' and visitors' bicycle needs for over 46 years!
Speed's Bike Shop

* The Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum
The museum is a progression of transportation from the first bicycles, the wright Brothers' Bicycle Shop, and the Wright Flyer, exploring Monroe County's rich aviation history - and into outer space with Mercury 7 Astronaut, the Sparta area's own, Donald Kent 'Deke' Slayton.
Space & Bike Museum

* Ellistone Canoe & Kayak Rentals, LLC
Take a leisurely trip down the LaCrosse River from one of several starting points to your choice of end point. Multiple options for trips estimated to take between 2 and 7 hours. The LaCrosse River passes through the countryside just a couple miles from us!
Ellistone Canoe & Kayak Rentals

* Used Anew, LLC
An always changing inventory of reclaimed materials are available on site, including barn siding, rusty corrugated tin, barn beams, Amish milled flooring and wall and ceiling treatments made from our reclaimed woods. Used Anew is owned and operated by Larry & LuAnn Hutson, your hosts at Wisconsin Country Places! We also create furniture and decor from our reclaimed materials. You’ll find some examples of our “reclaimed art” in your properties when you stay with us. Please also take time to visit our Show Home & Shoppe.
Used Anew LLC 

* Craig's Meats & Catering 
Our favorite place for old fashioned smoked meats. Famous for their jerky, hams, bacon, beef sticks, etc. This family owned and operated butcher shop located 'off the beaten path' attracts customers from states away through 'word of mouth' advertising from loyal customers. We're one of them! (not open Sundays).
Craig's Meats & Catering

* Historic Church
Former Big Creek Church established 1874 and built by volunteers from the Big Creek Valley, is part of the beautiful view from Wisconsin Country Places - Special events such as old fashioned Ice Cream Socials and a Christmas program are celebrated at the historic grounds. Available for weddings, receptions, etc.
Big Creek Church

* Monroe County Local History Room & Museum
Targets the story of Monroe County and its people, as experienced yesterday and today. The Museum is dedicated to documenting Monroe County life in all periods through collecting artifacts, documents, photographs, and genealogical resources. My favorite exhibit is a collection of agricultural tools used in the 1800s.
Monroe County Local History Room & Museum

* Lake Neshonoc at West Salem
Boating, fishing, picnics and swimming available at this beautiful lake located at West Salem, Wisconsin (about halfway between LaCrosse and Sparta).
Lake Neshonoc

* Northwood Country Market
Family owned and operated, this unique country store features bulk foods and baking supplies, homemade candy, locally grown produce (in season) and a deli stocked with beef and other meats and Wisconsin cheese. You won't be disappointed!
Northwood Country Market

* McPherson Guitars
Home of McPherson acoustic guitars designed by founder Matt McPherson. McPherson guitars are preferred by many well-known stars... and perhaps you too?
Mcpherson Guitars 

* Mathews Archery
Home of Mathews Archery Bows and Accessories. Tours of the plant are available during certain times of the year. Contact them for dates and times.
Matthews Archery

* Fort McCoy Military Training Installation
The military installation has been in operation in one form or another since 1909. Currently, it operates as a Total Force Training Center, providing quality training facilities for reserve- and active-component military forces. The military base also offers many open-to-the-public recreational and entertainment opportunities.
Fort McCoy

Wisconsin Country Places - 4975 Garden Avenue - Sparta, WI 54656 - Phone 608 487 0547 - © Larry Hutson 2014