Wausau

Located in the picturesque state of Wisconsin, Wausau attracts travellers with its nature and cosy atmosphere, offering excellent opportunities for outdoor activities at any time of the year. When planning a trip to Wausau, you will discover the developed transport infrastructure of the USA, allowing you to travel here comfortably both by car and by air. If you are looking for information on how to get to Wausau, this guide will help you choose the optimal route for your journey.

The most convenient option for arriving by air is the Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA). It is located in Mosinee, just a 15–20 minute drive from the centre of Wausau. This airport serves regular flights from major transport hubs such as Chicago and Minneapolis, making it easy to plan a connection from anywhere in the world.

Alternatively, travellers may consider flying into airports in neighbouring cities, such as Appleton (Appleton International Airport) or Green Bay (Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport). They are located approximately one and a half hours away and sometimes offer a wider choice of flights or more favourable fares. In this case, the remainder of the journey can be conveniently covered in a rental car, enjoying the landscapes of the state of Wisconsin.

There is no direct railway connection to the city of Wausau, so it is not possible to get here exclusively by train. The nearest active passenger stations are located in the cities of Wisconsin Dells and Tomah, situated at a distance of 130–160 kilometres.

These stations are served by the national operator Amtrak (Empire Builder route). To cover the remaining distance, travellers usually rent a car at the arrival station. The drive will take about 1.5–2 hours, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy the natural views of Wisconsin.

There is also the option to use the Amtrak Thruway service. This is a system of bus transfers synchronized with the train schedule, which allows you to book a single ticket to your final destination. Buses usually depart from major transfer hubs, so it is recommended to check the availability of this option in advance when booking tickets.

Bus services connect the central part of the state with neighbouring regions, offering scenic routes through the forests and plains of Wisconsin. A trip from the city of Rhinelander will take just over an hour, covering a distance of about 75 kilometres, while the journey from Appleton lasts approximately two hours, covering a distance of 160 kilometres.

A convenient transfer is also available from the Camp Douglas transport hub, located 135 kilometres to the south; travel time is usually about one and a half hours. Modern buses from regional carriers, such as Jefferson Lines or Lamers, ensure a comfortable journey right to the centre of Wausau, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views from the window.

Travelling by car is one of the most convenient ways to get to the city of Wausau, which serves as an important transport hub in central Wisconsin. Thanks to its favourable location at the intersection of major highways, it is easy to drive here from any point in the region. The main arteries leading into the city are the interstate highway I-39, the federal highway US-51, and the state highway WI-29.

If you are planning a route from major metropolitan areas, consider the following directions. A trip from Madison heading north on I-39/US-51 will take about 2.5 hours. Travellers heading from the west, for example from Minneapolis, will find it most convenient to use the WI-29 expressway; travel time will be approximately 3 hours. The road from Milwaukee will require about 3 hours of driving, passing through picturesque areas of the state.

A road trip on the roads of the USA allows you not to depend on public transport schedules and to enjoy the views of the hills and forests of Wisconsin. Furthermore, having a car will give you the freedom to explore the surroundings and nature parks located around the city. Services of major rental companies are available at airports and in the city centre.

To ensure your trip to Wausau is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth familiarising yourself with local features in advance. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations that will help you easily navigate the city and feel confident in any situation.

1. Clothing and Gear. The climate in Wisconsin is sharply continental. If you are travelling in winter, be sure to take thermal underwear, a warm windproof jacket, a hat, and gloves — the frost here can be severe. Summer is usually warm and comfortable, light clothing will suffice, but for evening walks by the river, it is worth bringing a hoodie or windbreaker.
2. Getting Around the City. Although the city has the Metro Ride bus network, it has a limited schedule and routes. The most convenient way to get around for a tourist is a rental car, which will give you the freedom to visit nature parks. Taxi and ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft) are also available.
3. Monetary Matters. The official currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from hotels to small cafes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to carry some cash (small bills) for tips or purchases at farmers' markets.
4. Health and Safety. Wausau is considered a calm and safe city. Medical care in the States is expensive, so having travel insurance is mandatory. In emergencies, call 911. Pharmacies can be found in large supermarkets and as standalone stores (for example, Walgreens or CVS).
5. Language Barrier. The main language of communication is English. Locals speak quite clearly but may use specific regional expressions. Tourism staff are accustomed to international visitors, so a basic knowledge of English will be sufficient for comfortable communication.
6. Local Etiquette. Wisconsin residents are famous for their friendliness, known as "Midwest Nice". It is customary here to greet shop assistants, hold the door for those following you, and smile at passers-by. In restaurants, it is customary to leave tips of 15–20% of the bill, as they make up the basis of the waiters' earnings.
7. What to Avoid. Do not underestimate weather conditions in winter: if you are not confident in your skills driving on snow and ice, it is better to refrain from car trips during a blizzard. Also, avoid discussing sensitive political topics with strangers in social settings — this is considered bad manners.
8. Gastronomic Advice. Being in the "Dairy State", be sure to try fresh cheese curds, especially fried. This is a cult local snack that can be found on the menu of most establishments in the city.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid domestic inconveniences and focus on what matters most — relaxation and getting to know the culture of the Midwest. Wausau is a hospitable city where every tourist can feel at home.