8 Ways to Get to Know West Bend

The lively and historic city of West Bend is located just 30 minutes north of Milwaukee on a westward bend of the Milwaukee River. Here, you’ll find cosmopolitan amenities and small-town charm rolled into one exciting place. From local music festivals to an acclaimed art museum and incredible food, this city is bursting with a fun, creative energy that needs to be experienced.
Here are 8 ways you can get to know the city of West Bend:

Farmers’ Market

Walk through the Downtown West Bend Farmers’ Market. Featuring more than 80 vendors, this market is one of the largest markets in Wisconsin. We highly recommend trying a breakfast sandwich from Schwai’s Meat and Sausage! 

Laughing Mountain Gourmet Popcorn & Candyman on Main

Stop by Laughing Mountain Gourmet Popcorn or Candyman on Main. Both downtown, these local staples are the perfect places to satisfy a sweet tooth.

Music on Main

Spend a Thursday night at Music on Main. This summer concert series is held June through September at Old Settlers Park. It’s free to attend, there’s live music, and food and drinks are available on-site; no better recipe for a summer night!

Tochi Ramen

Have a bowl of Tochi Ramen. You have got to try a bowl of this self-described, “punk rock ramen.” Chef Gregg Des Rosier spent years perfecting his ramen bowls, and the incredible tastes come together with the music and atmosphere to create a truly unique dining experience.

Tochi Ramen – West Bend

The Norbert

Order some delicious small plates at The Norbert . This tapas bar is simultaneously casual and classy, and with their dedication to fresh ingredients, you’ll find an ever-evolving menu that changes daily.

The Norbert – West Bend

Museum of Wisconsin Art

Visit the Museum of Wisconsin Art. This museum explores the art and culture of Wisconsin and is considered one of the top museums of regional art in the country. Located on the east bank of the Milwaukee River, the stunning, 32,000 square-foot building that houses the museum is an architectural work of art itself. 

Eisenbahn State Trail

Bike the Eisenbahn State Trail. This 25-mile trail extends from West Bend into the scenic countryside of eastern Wisconsin, past the glacial landscape of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. We highly recommend a stop at Regner Park and the beautiful Labyrinth Garden.

Dirty Ninja Mud Run

Let the kids get dirty at the Dirty Ninja Mud Run in July. What’s more fun than playing in the mud? This fun, family event is held every year at Regner Park.
Brian Mohsenian is a producer of Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show on Fox Sports Wisconsin every Saturday at 10am or on Roku, Chromecast, Smart TV, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, or on DiscoverWisconsin.com.