Ever since freshman year at UW-Whitewater, I’ve been dedicated to making the most out of my new home. After exploring beyond campus and going on a mission to find the best coffee shops, thrift stores, and local spots, I’ve discovered Whitewater has a lot more to offer than people think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re looking for new places to visit, especially with warmer weather coming, here are some of my favorite local finds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Whitewater Rotary Skate Park\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Located at Brewery Hill Park, the Whitewater Rotary Skate Park is a great place to spend an afternoon. The park has street spines, angled wall rides, and more. Whether you skate, scooter, or just want a different spot to hang out with friends, it’s a solid outdoor option and a nice break from campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. Local Coffee Shops & Cat Cafe<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As someone who loves hopping between coffee shops, Whitewater has a few great spots. BaristaCats Cafe stands out because you can enjoy a drink while spending time with adoptable cats. It’s a cozy place to study or relax! It\u2019s also purrfect for students, especially with the student discount for Sip & Study Sundays! I also love visiting The SweetSpot Cafe and Center Street Cafe for coffee, treats, and a chill place to study or catch up with friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 3. The Book Teller<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Also located downtown, The Book Teller is an independent bookstore and artisan gallery that’s perfect for finding a new read or picking up a unique gift. The coolest part is that the building used to be an old bank, and they still have the original vault you can walk into.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 4. Arts and Local History<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n For creative and cultural experiences, check out exhibits and events hosted by the Whitewater Arts Alliance. Their Cultural Arts Center displays work from local, regional, and student artists throughout the year. You can also learn more about the area through programs from the Whitewater Historical Society. Both are easy to visit with friends and are worth checking out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5. Starin Park and Cravath Lakefront Park<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Starin Park and Cravath Lakefront Park are some of the best places to be when the weather is nice. You can walk along the lake, use the athletic fields and playground, have a picnic, study outside, or just meet up with friends. Both parks host community events and seasonal festivals throughout the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 6. Whitewater City Market<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Whitewater City Market is a great way to support small businesses while getting out of the house. Local vendors sell produce, baked goods, and handmade items, and there’s usually live music too. They have both indoor and outdoor markets, depending on the season. I’d recommend following the Whitewater City Market on Facebook or Instagram for updates and vendor info.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 7. Whitewater Spirit Tours<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re into Whitewater’s legends and lore, don’t miss out on the annual Whitewater Spirit Tour. These walking tours dive into the city’s darker history and paranormal tales. It’s a fun evening activity, especially around Halloween.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 8. Outdoor Recreation: Trails, Lakes & Water Sports<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Whitewater is a great spot for outdoor activities. Nearby trails connect to the Kettle Moraine State Forest, offering hiking, biking, and some really scenic views. I personally enjoy hiking on different segments of the Ice Age Trail. You can also kayak, paddleboard, or swim at Whitewater Lake during the warmer months. For students, UW-Whitewater Outdoor Recreation offers equipment rentals and organized trips, making it easy to try something new.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whitewater may be a small city, but there’s genuinely a lot to explore. If you’re staying for the summer or just want a break from campus life, these spots make it easy to get out, try something different, and enjoy the community around you!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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\n\n\n\nLia Mui<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n