Location: Shell Lake
Top Things to do in Shell Lake
Countries
The 9 Best Things to Do in Shell Lake, United States
Shell Lake is a city in Washburn County, Wisconsin, United States. The population was 1,347 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Washburn County.
Restaurants in Shell Lake
1. Great Northern Train Ride
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 233 reviews
Reviewed By Kelly C
Fun experience but could be better for the money spent. Food was descent, Santa was personable and realistic. Could be done in one hour for half the price. There was no direction so we weren't sure if we should wait to be called to see Santa or just go. Bathrooms were a mess by the end of the two hours and one had a broken door. Kids got bored after the first hour. I would suggest they play Christmas music (at a low volume) throughout the ride to make the atmosphere more festive and maybe offer board/card games to keep passengers entertained while waiting. We probably will not go again but it was an experience my children will remember.
2. The Potter's Shed
Overall Ratings
5 based on 40 reviews
"like nowhere else" is the only real way to describe this place of wonder, creativity and fun. Whether you come for the shopping, eating, live music, hands on art or just relaxing--it's the one stop you've got to make.
Reviewed By wamrazing - Elyria, Ohio
My wife discovered this place while we were staying at our in laws cabin on the lake. She loved the vibe of the place and enjoyed a coffee and snack while checking emails on the free wifi.
We returned the next day for lunch and the service was terrific, the food was delish and made to order.
Brought our in laws over a couple of day later and they loved it...and hadn't even been there, though they're all of 10 minutes away and have lived there now for about 8 years!
Will definitely be going back. Enjoy the meal and walk around and look at all the crafts outside.
Ice cream for the kids...big or small at a small ice cream station.
3. Perlick Distillery
Overall Ratings
5 based on 24 reviews
Reviewed By Mb300sr - Palm Beach, Florida
we visited this area for the first time last weekend (june 2017) and were treated to a very special experience whilst seeking amusement during a little inclement weather. it turns out the perlick distillery was celebrating the grand opening of their new "tasting room" down on the farm in washburn county, northern wisconsin. it would take volumes to describe how this hard working family is engaged in a big effort to create fine spirits - beginning with distilling vodka - on their 3000 acre spread. tasting room, retail store and maybe even a quick tour. not for kids but fun for grown ups! don't miss it.
4. Museum of Woodcarving
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 27 reviews
This museum is home to hundreds of unique wood cuttings.
Reviewed By FlaTraveler - Central Florida, Florida
We visited with family, looking for something to do. This place was just OK. The place looks like it hasn't changed in 30 years. Laid out strange. No cameras allowed. I had my expensive Nikon that's with me everywhere. When informed no photos, I stated " no problem, I won't turn it on." Not good enough. I was told to leave my $1500 camera on her counter. We walked it out to the car. I'm trusted in the Sistine Chapel in Rome to carry my camera in a no photo zone and be trusted to not take photos, but not in Shell Lake Wis. Really? I mean, this really is a little no- name place, but they can't take my word for not taking photos. The woodcarvings were ok, obvious the carver has talent, but many bible references to his sculptures are incorrect. The bible he used is not my NIV bible. Maybe Catholic interpretation? I would not recommend it.
5. Clover Meadow Winery
Overall Ratings
4 based on 16 reviews
Reviewed By polarqueen31 - Madison, Wisconsin
Pulling up to Clover Meadow, you will enjoy a long scenic driveway. The entryway to the patio/bar had a bungee cord in the door way to prevent the roaming rescued horses from trotting in.
The people were friendly, and we did the 8 taste option for wine, brandy and moonshine. The wine was not bad....but not outstanding. I found it odd that none of their bottles were price labeled.
6. Washburn County Historical Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
Reviewed By uwsuper - wisconsin
I love going to local historical museums when I visit an area so I was happy to find this open. There was 4 of us who got to tour the museum, and the two ladies who showed us around were super friendly! They made sure our girls tried on hats and touched things instead of barking rules at us which was so refreshing! The area has rich logging history and there are old tools and found items-including a ball and chain that someone found in a field (Like from an escaped prisoner or slave?) that one of the docents was so excited to show my daughters by having them lift it and imagine having it around their ankle! The girls got to turn the crank on an old music box type record player. Many patriotic items and memorabilia from WWI and II including uniforms. There are several buildings to tour including an old school-be sure to ask about the hole in the floor which has since been plugged but it's a cute story! Lots of items from local people-a smattering of varied things but we had a great time and learned lots!
7. Wisconsin Canoe Heritage Museum
Overall Ratings
5 based on 8 reviews
Reviewed By MT1 - Aurora, Colorado
This is just a small museum in Spooner, WI with probably 30 or more canoes on display - from actual birch bark canoes to more modern versions, but all are wood. Quite a few are from the east coast area - Adirondacks, Maine, etc. There are numerous styles of canoes on display with plaques explaining the heritage of the different styles. There is also a short video (~ 10 min?) you start yourself to view which is related to canoes on the Brule River.
While there is no entry fee per se there is a $4 suggested donation to cover the costs of the building which is rented for the museum's use. The museum also sells some trinkets such as t-shirts, mugs, etc to help fund the operation.
If you are someone interested in canoes this is a great place to visit. Front St parallels Rt 63 (the main road through town) to the east and is pretty much right behind the Visitor's Center located on the corner of Rt 63 and Rt 70 on the south end of town.
8. Klopp's Fifth Avenue Bar
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By Marci V - White Bear Lake, Minnesota
Great fun! There was also a place to play bean bags outside! Very cordial company and friendly competition in shooting pool! The drinks were great, and the prices were awesome! The service is very quick, and they also have terrific pizzas!
9. Purple Pelican Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Purple Pelican Gallery in downtown Spooner features the artwork of owner Esa Everroad and specializes in quality handmade works by over a hundred artists and craftsmen from all over North America. The gallery also features art restoration, photo restoration, custom framing and wide format Giclée printing. The gallery boasts a large wearable art section with clothing and jewelry.
Reviewed By jnc5448 - Spooner, Wisconsin
I make sure to go to this Spooner Gallery at least twice a year. The Jewelry Selection is wonderful and honestly "unique" at least to this area. The art includes some local and they have framing available at a reasonable cost. I had new glass put in a large art print which became cracked in a corner. The cost was very reasonable! I think this is a real small town asset and others must agree because its beginning to stand the test of time.
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