The Hodag Store

Imagine a place where the most unusual legends of the northern woods come to life. The Hodag Store is more than just a souvenir shop; it is a true cultural hub for the city of Rhinelander in the USA, entirely dedicated to the mythical creature that has become the symbol of the region.

The Hodag is a whimsical creature from local folklore with horns, spikes on its back, and fangs, which, according to legend, inhabits the dense pine forests of Wisconsin. In the store, you will find a huge selection of themed goods: from clothing and accessories to exclusive collectible figurines and official “Drink Wisconsinbly” merchandise. The interior is steeped in an atmosphere of mystery and humor, turning ordinary shopping into an exciting adventure.

The popularity of this spot is reflected in its high ratings and the love of travelers who stop by to touch a piece of living American history. A visit to The Hodag Store is a must for anyone wanting to understand the unique character of this cozy town.

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The main reason to visit The Hodag Store is for the unique shopping experience. Here, you can purchase everything imaginable featuring the famous monster's image: stylish T-shirts, mugs, magnets, and even detailed figurines. Special attention should be paid to the "Hodags on Parade" collection, where the creature appears in the most unexpected forms.

In addition to shopping, visitors love taking photos with the famous Hodag statue that greets guests at the entrance. Inside the store, there are also many interactive elements and themed decorations that bring the legend to life for both children and adults. You can learn interesting facts about the creature from information boards placed among the products.

The store's atmosphere invites a leisurely exploration of local culture. After picking out gifts for friends and family, many tourists head off to find other Hodag statues scattered throughout Rhinelander, turning their visit to the shop into the start of an engaging quest.

Finding your way to the mythical creature is quite simple: The Hodag Store is located at 538 Lincoln St in Rhinelander. If you are traveling through the USA by car, the easiest way to get here is via US-8 or WI-17, which lead right into the heart of northern Wisconsin.

For those arriving from further away, the nearest air hub is Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport (RHN), located about 20 kilometers from the city. You can rent a car or take a taxi from there. From the city center, you can even reach the shop on foot—a walk from the main Kemp St takes about 15–20 minutes, and you’ll likely spot several more images of the famous monster along the way.

Public transportation in this small town is limited, so the most comfortable option is using a personal vehicle or ridesharing services. Free parking for visitors is provided near the store.

The history of this place is inextricably linked to the legend of the Hodag, which was born in the late 19th century in the USA thanks to a local prankster and logger named Eugene Shepard. In 1893, he announced that he had discovered a terrifying monster with the head of a frog and the back of a dinosaur in the woods, and a couple of years later, he even "captured" it, presenting it to the public at a local fair. This hoax became so popular that it caught the attention of Smithsonian Institution scientists and the famous showman P.T. Barnum.

Although Shepard later admitted that the monster was skillfully crafted from wood and hides, the residents of Rhinelander did not want to part with their beloved monster. The Hodag became the official symbol of the region, helping to attract tourists during the decline of the timber industry. It became a true cultural phenomenon: its likeness was even gifted to presidents, and entire festivals were held in its honor.

Today, The Hodag Store carefully preserves this heritage, serving as the main hub for North Wisconsin folklore. Here, the legend comes to life through hundreds of items and stories, reminding us how one well-executed joke can forever change the fate of an entire city.

Visitors typically need 30 to 60 minutes to fully explore The Hodag Store. This is enough time to leisurely browse the selection of souvenirs, read about the legend, and take a few memorable photos with the exhibits.

If you are a collector or a passionate fan of cryptozoology, you might want to stay longer to examine all the variations of the Hodag's design—from classic figurines to rare collectibles.

The store welcomes guests at the end of the week and is open year-round. The visiting hours are as follows:

• Friday — Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Monday — Thursday: Closed

Since operating hours may change due to holidays or seasonal events, it is recommended to check the official website or the store's social media updates before your visit.

A stroll around the area surrounding the shop will allow you to immerse yourself even deeper into the atmosphere of northern Wisconsin and learn more about its famous residents. Exploring local landmarks is a great addition to your journey.