Dreaming of a winter escape from the everyday? Sand Valley, in Rome, Wisconsin, brings it to life with seasonal events, exciting activities, delicious dining, and cozy lodging across its vast dunes. Read on to start planning your perfect trip!
Events
Before planning too far ahead, first up, grab your calendars and build your trip around the iconic winter events at Sand Valley and around Rome!
Coming up soon, from January 30th through February 1st, is the fourth annual Sand County Classic Pond Hockey Tournament, where teams come to Sand Valley to participate in an icy competition like no other.
Speaking of icy competitions, the local ice fisherees are a must, popping up throughout Rome. Among the favorites are the Ducks Unlimited Fisheree, happening February 7th, and the Lake Camelot Fisheree, held annually on the third Saturday in February.
From friendly competitions to culinary traditions, plan a full weekend at Sand Valley for the can’t-miss Friends of James Beard Chef Invitational! Midwest chefs serve up exclusive signature flavors. But hurry, this event sells out fast! Get your tickets here.
Activities
Aside from the impressive event lineup, this Central Wisconsin hub offers endless activities inside and out. Discover your favorites at Sand Valley and throughout the Rome area!​
At Sand Valley, bundle up for fat-tire biking, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and peaceful winter hikes across the dunes. Crank up the fun with on-site sledding, broomball, pond hockey, curling, or ice fishing right on their ponds.
Too chilly? Stay inside and play your way! Choose from Sand Valley’s vast collection of board games, unwind with a massage or yoga class, or suit up for court tennis. Over in Rome, catch free local dance classes too!
When in Rome, head outdoors to test your luck ice fishing at local hotspots like Lake Petenwell, Lake Arrowhead, Lake Sherwood, and Lake Camelot. If you can’t get enough of nature, birdwatching is a must here. Did you know Rome is a certified Bird City?
Dining
After a day of play, it’s time to refuel! Between Sand Valley and the town of Rome, you’ll find dining options for every taste.
Dreaming of a leisurely morning? Kick off at Sand Valley’s Mammoth Bar with hearty Wisconsin breakfasts and lunches—build-your-own omelets to crowd-pleasing smash burgers that families, friends, and couples love.
Out exploring? Fuel up with fresh pastries and coffee at Slice of Heaven Bakery. For laid-back lunch or dinner, swing by Rome favorites like Hoozels at The Lakes or Up North Brewing Company.
Back at Sand Valley, cap your evening with a memorable meal at The Gallery. This Italian gem serves up handcrafted pizzas, pasta, and other signature dishes—all starring fresh, local ingredients. And yes, you can truly taste the difference.
Lodging
No need to venture far for a great stay! Sand Valley offers diverse lodging to suit you and your crew, from cozy rooms and suites to charming cottages and spacious estate homes.
Rooms offer single king or double queen beds, creating comfortable home bases for solo adventurers or couples seeking simplicity and convenience. Elevate your stay with an upgrade to a suite—Crenshaw’s Cabin, the Wisconsin Suite, or the Mammoth Suite!
Traveling with a group? Sand Valley’s 2-Bedroom or 4-Bedroom Cottages offer the perfect fit. Craving scenery? The Lake Leopold Cottages are just for you. Each accommodates families and friends with ease. For unmatched privacy, book an estate home like the Mammoth Conservancy or Sedge Village.
No matter if you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, these on-site accommodations provide the ultimate home base, keeping you close to the action and immersed in Sand Valley’s winter magic.
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Ready for your ultimate winter escape? Sand Valley awaits with seasonal events, exciting activities, delicious dining, and cozy lodging! So come and visit Rome, Wisconsin, and make unforgettable memories with family, friends, or that special someone this snowy season.
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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.
