Rural tourism

Beth Haskovec 
Director's message from
Beth Haskovec
Tourism is core to the economy and livelihood of rural Wisconsin. Tourism introduces people to our state from across state lines and across the world. Communities that showcase and invest in their cultural identity and creative outlets, agritourism, and outdoor recreation can enhance rural prosperity through tourism.
Some of Wisconsin’s most stunning landscapes and cultural assets lie within our state’s rural regions. The arts, unique creative businesses, and the cultural heritage of our rural and tribal communities also lure tourists. This newsletter highlights ways rural communities can enhance their resilience by shining a light on their scenery and culture to attract tourists.

Agritourism helps diversify income for farmers beyond traditional agricultural activities, and these dollars can be reinvested to help preserve farmland. Agritourism highlights local products and customs that represent Wisconsin’s farm heritage.
This newsletter points to organizations that support the growth of agritourism in Wisconsin, and U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) resources that provide tools to attract visitors to farms and ranches and promote the growth of agriculture-based businesses.

Outdoor recreation is an $8 billion business in rural Wisconsin. The Office of Outdoor Recreation has created the Wisconsin Outdoor Recreation Inventory, a comprehensive list and map of outdoor recreation sites and activities across the state. This new resource provides information on a wide range of outdoor activities—from fishing to hiking to skiing—where visitors can enjoy the pristine beauty of rural Wisconsin.
Music posters form the Project North Festival
The Project North Festival showcases Rhinelander’s artistic community, highlights its captivating Northwoods environment, and celebrates its contagious community cultural development efforts.
If you have the opportunity to travel around Wisconsin this fall, check out Travel Wisconsin’s Fall Color Report to catch peak leaf viewing times and locations. Last weekend, I was exploring Tomahawk with friends and enjoyed views of the early colors along the Wisconsin River. We also visited ArtStart in Rhinelander, a nonprofit gathering space in the former Post Office that now houses art galleries, stages, and art and music classes.

Take advantage of Wisconsin’s natural and cultural assets. Happy travels!
RURAL TOURISM RESOURCES
Wisconsin lake
Communities that focus on tourism greatly enhance their visibility to visitors. Read more about the organizations supporting tourism as well as grant opportunities available to rural communities.
REVIEW RESOURCES
Need assistance with grants or other rural projects?
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We're always adding to our resource directory, covering new initiatives and sharing success stories from around the state.
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