Looking for a perfect family day trip that mixes outdoor adventure, delicious eats, and a touch of local charm? Cottage Grove, just a short drive from Madison, is a welcoming small town that has it all: great parks, tasty food, outdoor adventures, local festivals, and even cozy accommodations. Read along and discover everything Cottage Grove has to offer!
Top Family-Friendly Outdoor Spots
Outdoor lovers, Cottage Grove is your dream destination! There’s no shortage of family-friendly spots to explore. Start your day at Phoebe Bakken Memorial Park—a playground paradise with skateboarding ramps, pickleball courts, and classic playground fun.
Up for a family hike? Head over to McCarthy Youth Park, where you can explore scenic hiking trails or enjoy a picnic in the great outdoors. If you simply can’t get enough of nature, be sure to spend some time at Governor Taylor Nature Park and Glacial Drumlin State Trail, where everyone in the family, including your furry friends, can join in the fun.
Another noteworthy park worth adding to your list is R.G. Huston Memorial Park, offering even more outdoor fun, including baseball. While you’re in town, catch a Miracle League baseball game, where you can cheer on the kids or even lend a hand as a volunteer!
Family Dining Favorites
Fuel up before a day of fun in Cottage Grove with breakfast or bakery treats from Grace Coffee or Kozy Nuk Cafe. For the adults, Grace Coffee is a go-to spot to get your caffeine fix. Not to mention, they also offer fresh, daily selections of bakery, made-to-order breakfast sandwiches, and wraps. For a sit-down breakfast, Kozy Nuk is the place to be, serving up all your favorite breakfast dishes, from pancakes to skillets.
For lunch, Black Bear Inn, Don Maguey, and Outpost Bar & Grill offer casual, family-friendly meals you’ll love. Whether you’re craving hearty American fare, Mexican flavors, or classic pub dishes, these spots meet (and even exceed) the mark.
After a day of exploring, treat the family to a memorable meal at Oakstone. Known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious menu, it’s a great place to unwind and celebrate a day well spent with good food and even better company.
Active Adventures for the Whole Family
If your family’s always on the move, Cottage Grove has just the trails for you. Whether biking or hiking, there’s something for every skill level. The standout is the scenic Glacial Drumlin State Trail, a stunning 52-mile rail trail that starts right in Cottage Grove and stretches eastward through other charming small towns and picturesque Wisconsin countryside.
For families who prefer to explore on foot, McCarthy Youth Park and Governor Taylor Nature Park offer well-maintained hiking trails that wind through forested and open areas. And keep your eyes peeled for local birds and wildlife. Norman Vethe Forest is another great nearby spot that provides quiet hiking paths surrounded by beautiful woods.
Celebrate & Connect at Local Festivals
Cottage Grove knows how to throw a festive party, so you’ll want to be sure to add these local festivals to your calendar! In June, the Fireman’s Festival lights up the town with carnival rides, a parade, and live entertainment that gets the community together for some good old-fashioned fun. This beloved event has been bringing neighbors and visitors together for over 90 years.
Come fall, make the trip to Warm Belly Farm’s Full Harvest Festival. This festival offers pumpkin picking, tractor rides, corn mazes, an apple cannon, and a large play area for the little ones. Between these two festivals alone, you’ll find local charm and community spirit that make this small town a truly special experience for everyone in the family.
Where to Stay for Family Comfort
When it’s time to rest, the newly built Comfort Suites offers family-friendly accommodations that feel like a home away from home. Plus, it’s conveniently located near all the action, making it an ideal base for exploring the area’s parks, trails, restaurants, and festivals.
Whether you’re staying for a weekend getaway or an extended trip, Comfort Suites combines comfort, convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere for families looking to make the most of their time in Cottage Grove.
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With its mix of outdoor adventures, tasty local eats, local festivals, and cozy places to stay, Cottage Grove offers something for everyone in the family. So what are you waiting for? Pack up the car and hit the road for Cottage Grove! Your perfect getaway awaits just a short drive from Madison.
See what’s waiting for you in Cottage Grove by watching this Discover Wisconsin original short, “Cottage Grove: Small Town, Big Heart”:
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Hailey Marien: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
