Things to Do
There's a little something for everyone in our fun little town. Our Inn is perfectly located within minutes from Lake Ripley, the CamRock trails, downtown shopping, restaurants, pubs, and parks. We offer suggestions and menus for all our local restaurants, supper clubs, wineries, breweries, and establishments in our area. For more information, please visit the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce website at http://cambridgewi.com .
Disclaimer: The Chamber website does not alway reflect the most current information.
Biking, Hiking, and Lake Ripley
The development and continued expansion of the CamRock trail system has energized Cambridge into an active place to experience nature. These trails continue to expand and connect for hikers and bikers, Fat Tire riders and cross country skiers. The trailhead for CamRock 1 is just steps outside the back door of CamRock Café for year-round adventure. Rent bikes, skis or bring your own for a trail experience. And, when you’re done, we’ve got a spot to relax, refuel and reflect at any of our unique eateries.
If you’re a lake lover, dip into Lake Ripley, a sparkling gem in Cambridge. This 420-acre lake has a maximum depth of 44 feet, loaded with fish including , Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike and Walleye. Take Park Road east of downtown to locate Lake Ripley Park with a public beach, playground, and concessions. Enjoy two tennis courts, a basketball court, volleyball courts, disc golf and more. Whether your idea of active play involves tires and trails or waves and water, you’ll find plenty of ways to play outside in Cambridge.
More helpful links:
http://cambridgewi.com/active-play-lake-ripley-and-camrock-trails/
Dining, Cocktails, and Wineries
Bring your appetite when you visit Cambridge! Tempt your taste buds with a fresh doughnut or scone and your favorite coffee kick at any of our cafes including KindFolk Coffee, CamRock Café, or The Family Restaurant. Lunch and dinner options range from homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, and entrees plus several Wisconsin Friday fish fry options. Try a lobster roll or brisket at CCs Sandwiches on Highway 18 next to the Cambridge Cooler. CamRock Café offers a full menu of healthy food options along with more than 100 craft beers (join their beer lovers club). Linger by the outdoor fire at PLOW located in our original grain mill while their chef prepares farm-to-table fare for a unique dining experience. Find plenty of wine and beer offerings around town coupled with chef-created accompaniments at The Cambridge Winery (don’t miss their wine tasting experience). If you are looking for a Sport’s Bar venue to watch your favorite team, stop by the Sports Page. Don’t be surprised to find a locals potluck appetizer table for Packer and Badger football games. Bear fans are always welcome!
More helpful links:
http://cambridgewi.com/play-for-foodies/
Artful Play
We offer year-round artistic fun. Each spring, The Clay Collective, a group of eight potters along with selected guest potters, open their studios and galleries so pottery lovers can interact with artists and view their newest works. The annual Midwest Fire Fest bursts forth each July with an impressive reveal of a one-of-a-kind sculpture surrounded by two days of celebrating “all things forged in fire.” Regular Wine and Art Nights and the Summer Concert Series in downtown Veteran’s Park keep our community creative juices flowing. The fall Earth, Wood & Fire tour offers a seasonal look at a wide variety of local artisans, many with interactive demonstrations.
You’ll find artists quietly at work every day in downtown Cambridge. Explore unique and artisan jewelry at The Voyagers where jewelry designers are at work daily carving molds, pouring precious metals and creating original art pieces for clients in the historic ‘Old Stone House’. At Rowe Pottery, artisans have their wheels moving daily creating earthy salt-glazed pottery that has stood the test of time for over 40 years.
More helpful links:
http://cambridgewi.com/artful-play/
Family Activities
Cambridge is the perfect place for family fun and playtime with kids. Check out Lake Ripley Park with play structures, family restrooms, our beautiful public beach and plenty of space to make memories. We offer several family-friendly events throughout the year. Bring the kids to the annual Memorial Day Parade and Fireman’s Breakfast to remember our Veterans. Come downtown for “Concert in the Park” nights, enjoy a winter skate at Westside Park or bring your sleds for fun at CamRock Park. Make a scarecrow together at Fall Fest in September, visit Santa, sip hot cocoa and enjoy a horse-drawn hayride during Cambridge Classic Christmas each December.
There are also many local attractions to explore. There are three play-farms within minutes, the Highway 18 Drive-in, Little Amerrika Amusement Park, Lake Ripley Lanes, or head to Madison to visit the State Capital, the Union, the Madison Children's Museum and more.
More helpful links:
Romantic Play and Weddings
Cambridge is the perfect place to bring hearts together. Capture beautiful memories with Belle Floral & Gifts and Julie Anderson Photography along with other personalized wedding amenities in the area. For those planning a more elaborate affair, wedding planner Stephanee Hughson, can help you design the perfect day. Find an elegant bridal gown downtown or create a custom engagement and wedding band at The Voyagers Jewelry Design or Cambridge Jewelry. Get pampered from head to toe with hair, makeup and manicures/pedicure services at Pure Hair Concepts, Elegance and Design Studio or A Box of Fluffys. The Cambridge Winery offers special event catering for parties up to 250 guests. Not ready to get hitched? Simply design a relaxing getaway for two with our help.
More helpful links:
Playful Shopping
Cambridge was historically an “inland” town, untouched by rail access, so our downtown then was bustling with shops filled with everything needed for self-sufficient 19th century living. Today, you’ll stroll through those same shops to find boutiques, artisan wares, pottery, jewelry and creative finds of all sorts. Whether boutique or bridal is your style, you’ll find plenty of playful options. Stop into The Garment Shop to see the latest fashion trends. A Box of Fluffys offers delectable lingerie, accessories and unique finds to make your trip memorable. Village Pharmacy and Gifts is the perfect spot to pick up a Cambridge souvenir or gift. And, The Galleria at 214 Main (our former Wagon Factory) offer shopping delights from Ruby Rose Gallery, Sprout Artisan Marketplace and House to Home Too. Looking for a special gift or memento from your visit? Voyagers Jewelry has specialized jewelry for bike, lake and animal lovers.
More helpful links:
http://cambridgewi.com/playful-shopping/