When I was a kid, my family cherished our trips “Up North” to the family cabin. We went as often as we could. I remember sitting in the back seat, watching as the scenery transformed from endless farm fields to towering pine trees in just a few short hours. That shift in the landscape always brought me a deep sense of bliss, as if I were crossing into a world where time slowed down and adventure awaited.

A Childhood Spent Outdoors 

My love for the outdoors was ingrained in me from the beginning. I grew up hunting and fishing with my family, spending endless hours outside, my skin perpetually sun-kissed and weathered from time in the woods and on the water. Four-wheeling, boating, and swimming in lakes were just part of life. Hiking with the dog often led me deeper into the wilderness than I should have gone, making my dad concerned enough that he taught me how to use a compass at a young age. Northern Wisconsin wasn’t just a place we visited; it was a place that shaped me.

Exploring the Towns Enroute 

As I grew older and gained independence, my trips Up North took on a new layer of excitement. I made it a point to stop in the small towns along the way, exploring their quirky shops and soaking in their Northwoods charm. These places, once just passing landmarks on my childhood journeys, became destinations of their own. The specialty stores stocked with novelty T-shirts featuring bears and walleye, and shelves filled with homemade fudge and old-fashioned candies each added to the magic of my northern experience. It wasn’t until adulthood that I realized these businesses weren’t just part of my nostalgic road trips; they were the heartbeat of the communities I would one day call home.

College “Up North” 

When I was old enough to move out, my first instinct was to head north. I chose to attend college “Up North” and live at our family cabin. Along the way, I met many like-minded people who shared their experiences, what drew them to the North, whether permanently or part-time, and the diverse backgrounds that shaped their perspectives. I cherished these stories, each offering a unique lens on the world.

And Then I Met this Woman 

And then I met Tina—the woman who would become my wife. We met in our hometown as non-traditional students, loving the college atmosphere and embracing a lifelong love of learning. I was finishing my final year of guiding sea kayak expeditions in the Apostle Islands when Tina came along for the ride. We quickly realized that what we shared was an unfathomable love for the wilderness.

Discovering a Love of Nonprofit Work 

For a few years, we moved around, living in upstate New York while Tina finished her degree at Ithaca College and I worked as a Naturalist for the New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. During that time, I also transitioned into nonprofit work, something I had long felt drawn to, by taking on the Directorship of the Sampson State Park WWII Museum. During this time that I realized nonprofit work wasn’t just a job for me, it was the life’s work I wanted to pursue.

Landing in Minocqua and a Dream Come True 

When the directorship position opened up at what was then the Chamber of Commerce in Minocqua, I saw it as more than just a job; I saw it as a calling to serve communities, preserve stories, and help shape a better future. I leapt into that role wholeheartedly, excited to bring that mission to life in a place I already loved.

Minocqua became the answer to that long-held Northwoods dream for both of us. Tina and I weren’t looking for flash or noise; we wanted rhythm and stillness, a life where the pace matched our values. In other places, we’d felt out of sync, like we were always reaching for something that didn’t quite fit. But here, the mornings start slow, with coffee in the backyard under the tall pines, and loons calling in the distance. We found endless waterways to explore, places where we can lose entire afternoons paddling, side by side, moving in quiet tandem with the lake and each other. We found a small-town community that felt like an extension of home, a place where people show up for each other, in times of crisis and moments of joy. It wasn’t just that Minocqua was beautiful, though it is, it’s that it made space for a life rooted in nature, in simplicity, in shared effort and shared celebration.

Now, with more than 10 years living in Minocqua and helping to evolve our organization into the Visitors Bureau distinction it has today, I keep discovering new things to love about the place we call home. Tina and I were married on the banks of a Northwoods lake, and today, we share our lives with three dogs and live in the cutest little piece of history, a 1917 one-room schoolhouse converted into a home.

The Northwoods Experience 

As a destination marketer, I’ve come full circle, inviting people into this community of Northwoods dreamers who carve out a living in our tourism economy. Here, the Northwoods experience is at everyone’s fingertips. Every type of outdoor recreation and activity is available, and I love nothing more than introducing visitors to their newest outdoor obsession, or new store, or attraction when they step into our visitor center.

I think our region has sometimes gotten an unfair reputation for being unwelcoming, which is hard for me to wrap my head around. While no place is perfect, my experience has shown me that our community is made up of kind, hardworking people who care deeply about the place we call home and the people who visit. I’ve always believed that with an open mind, a cup of coffee, and a good conversation, most misunderstandings can be worked out. In a world that sometimes feels increasingly divided, I hold onto the idea that connection starts with simple moments, welcoming a newcomer, sharing a story, or extending a bit of curiosity instead of judgment. That’s the kind of hospitality I know exists here, and it’s what I strive to foster every day.

Travel is Good for the Individual and the World 

Mark Twain said it best: “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.”

For the queer community, travel is more than just an escape or an adventure, it’s a vital act of self-discovery, visibility, and connection. For LGBTQ+ travelers, experiencing different cultures, meeting like-minded individuals, and finding spaces where they feel safe and accepted can be life-affirming. Travel allows queer individuals to see that they are not alone, that love and identity exist in infinite forms, and that there are places where they can truly be themselves without fear. At the same time, their presence in new communities helps shift perspectives, demonstrating that diversity is not something to be feared but embraced. Every journey taken is not just a personal experience; it’s a step toward a more open and accepting world.

An Invitation 

I invite you to experience our Northwoods communities, not just as a visitor, but as someone stepping into a way of life that’s slower, more intentional, and deeply connected. Through our personalized itineraries, we’ll help you find more than just scenic views and charming shops—we’ll guide you toward the kind of meaningful moments that have shaped my own life here. Whether it’s paddling a crystal-blue quiet lake at sunrise, sharing a meal in a place where the owners greet you by name, or feeling the warmth of a town that rallies together in both celebration and hardship, these are the experiences that stay with you. This isn’t just a destination, it’s a place to feel at home, even if just for a while.

Minocqua Visitor’s Itinerary

Day 1:  Arrival & Exploration

MORNING – Arrival in Minocqua – Welcome to the heart of the Northwoods! Start your adventure with a stop at the Minocqua Visitor’s Center for a warm welcome, fresh popcorn, maps, and your complimentary welcome bag filled with local goodies.

Minocqua Museum: Dive into the area’s fascinating history, logging heritage, and cultural evolution. (Open 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., early June to Labor Day. Free admission; donations appreciated.)

Stroll & Shop at Gaslight Square Shoppes and Downtown Minocqua: Discover handmade gifts, Northwoods décor, local art, and unique boutiques like: Earth Goods (eco-friendly products and natural gifts), Imaginuity (puzzles, games, and quirky finds), Minocqua Popcorn & Puffs (grab some flavored popcorn for the road!).

LUNCH – Thirsty Whale: Savor classic Wisconsin fare like fish fry, burgers, or whitefish tacos with a lakeside view. Patio seating is a favorite in summer!

AFTERNOON – Northwoods Wildlife Center: Take a guided tour of Wisconsin’s first wildlife rehabilitation center. Great for families and animal lovers alike. You might even meet an owl or fox!

Northern Waters Distillery (handcrafted small-batch spirits) or Rocky Reef Brewery (family-friendly atmosphere and board games!) – Enjoy a flight and learn about the production process. Many offer seasonal flavors like maple bourbon or cranberry ale.

HIKING OPTIONS – Bearskin State Trail: Take a short walk or rent a bike for a peaceful ride through scenic forest and wetland areas. 

The Minocqua Island Trail: A flat, easy 1.5-mile loop trail with picturesque views of the lake makes for a perfect afternoon stroll.

HOTEL CHECK-IN – Choose from cozy resorts, lakeside cabins, or a boutique inn. Favorites include:  The Waters of Minocqua, Northwoods Inn & Suites, The Pointe Hotel & Suites (right on Lake Minocqua).

DINNER – The Boathouse: Upscale-yet-approachable dining featuring steaks, seafood, and a well-curated wine list. Ask for seating near the water for the full experience.

EVENING – Min-Aqua-Bats Water Ski Show: Sit back and enjoy this legendary performance under the stars. Bring a blanket or camp chair for the best view at the Aqua Bowl.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure & Wildlife

MORNING – Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari: Feed giraffes, walk with kangaroos, and take a safari tram ride through acres of wildlife. It’s a family-friendly must-see!

Minocqua Pontoon Cruises: Cruise the Minocqua Chain of Lakes with a guide sharing stories of the area and local lore.

Hinterland Musky Guides: Hire a local guide and try your hand at catching musky or walleye!

LUNCH – Great Northern Coffee Traders: Casual bites and strong coffee.

Picnic at Torpy Park: Just off downtown, with beach access, playgrounds, and plenty of shady spots to relax.

AFTERNOON – Hiking in Northern Highlands American Legion State Forest: Choose from popular trails like: Fallison Lake Nature Trail (1.5-mile loop, interpretive signs), Raven Trail System (Offers a mix of difficulty levels and gorgeous lake views), Ziplining at Northwoods Zip Line Adventure Tours (A thrilling canopy tour perfect for adrenaline seekers!).

DINNER – Norwood Pines Supper Club: Famous for prime rib and cozy pine lodge ambiance. Don’t forget the ice cream drinks for dessert—it’s tradition!

Day 3: Unique Tours & Entertainment

MORNING – Hillestad Pharmaceuticals Tour: Take a behind-the-scenes look at how natural supplements are made, with insights into their 70+ year legacy. Tours are free, informative, and surprisingly fun!

Northwoods Art Tour Stop (if dates align): Meet local artists in their studios. Great for art lovers or those looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

LUNCH – On-the-Go Meal at Hoggie Doggie’s: A retro drive-in spot with homemade root beer, classic hot dogs, and fish baskets. Outdoor seating makes it a perfect summer lunch.

AFTERNOON – Scheer’s Lumberjack Show: Cheer on world-class lumberjacks as they saw, chop, and splash their way through a lively, family-friendly performance. Great for all ages, with snacks and souvenirs on-site.

DEPARTURE – Before heading out, grab a final coffee or ice cream cone from Kilwin’s or stop at Dan’s Minocqua Fudge to take home some tasty treats!