Sunday, August 8, 2010

Shop New Glarus






















Also known as America's "Little Switzerland", New Glarus is located about 30 minutes south of Madison, WI. Located among the rolling hills of Green County, it's the perfect weekend get-away no matter what time of year. My last visit happened to be during their annual Heidi Festival, in which the town celebrates their Swiss heritage and crown the Dairy Queen and Princess. There are many reasons to explore New Glarus, but this particular visit was devoted to shopping, and of course, beer.

Where to Shop and what to buy:
The Bramble Patch - Stock up on soy candles, maple syrup, and Polish Pottery.
• Brandi's Bridal - Buy your wedding dress here.
Edelweiss Bath and Body - Soaps, soaps and more soaps!
Maple Leaf Cheese and Chocolate House - The name says it all. Yum!
New Glarus Bakery - Authentic Swiss bakery.
New Glarus Brewing Company - Fill your fridge with this delicious beer (only sold in Wisconsin) and while you're there, stay a while by taking a self-guided tour while sampling their many award winning beers.
Roberts European Imports - Tons of Swiss, German, Austrian, and other European nation imports. Where else can you find Lederhosen, nutcrackers, cow bells, and fondue pots all in one place?
• Sugar River Shoppe - They have something for everyone here so start your Christmas shopping early.






















Where to Eat:
The Glarner Stube
New Glarus Hotel Restaurant
• Puempel's Olde Tavern

Where to Stay:
• Chalet Landhaus Inn






















What Else to Do:
• Attend one of their many festivals (I think eleven in all!)
• Eat, eat, and then eat again.
• Wash down all that food with lots of beer in one of their many European taverns.
• Visit their historical museums.
• Hike around New Glarus Woods State Park.
• Taste wine at the Primrose winery.
• Relax, and get a massage at Touch of Massage and Spa.
• See how many painted cows you can find around town (you'll know what I mean when you get there).
• Visit the New Glarus website for more ideas. 






















I haven't been everywhere in New Glarus so please feel free to add to my list in the comments section. I'd love to hear from you!