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Sun Prairie, WI: Where Fun is Always on the Agenda – Best Places to Visit and Things to Do

Sun Prairie is a Madison suburb with two things entirely its own. A groundhog and a corn festival. Jimmy the Groundhog makes his prediction on February 2nd, the whole town turns out for it, and the tradition has been running for over 70 years. The Sweet Corn Fest in mid-August is the bigger event by a considerable distance. Angell Park Speedway has been racing since 1903, on Sunday nights through the summer. Everything else is a short drive into Madison.

Planning a trip to Sun Prairie, Wisconsin? You are in for a treat. This charming city is full of fun and exciting things to do, from local attractions through to the food and drinks. Traveling with family, friends or alone, Sun Prairie handles all three.

First settled in 1837, Sun Prairie has a long history and the local museums and landmarks cover it. But that is not all. There are plenty of modern attractions too, water parks through to ice arenas. And the city sits close to Madison and Milwaukee, which makes it a good home base for a Wisconsin trip.

Key Takeaways

• Sun Prairie, Wisconsin is a charming city with a rich history and plenty of modern attractions to enjoy.
• Visitors can explore local museums, landmarks, and outdoor activities, as well as nearby cities like Madison and Milwaukee.
• The city is also known for its delicious food and drinks, making it a great destination for foodies.

A Brief History of Sun Prairie

So you want the history of Sun Prairie? You are in luck, because here is the lowdown.

Sun Prairie is a city in Dane County, Wisconsin. It is a suburb of Madison and the second-most populous city in Dane County after Madison itself. The city was named after the Sun Prairie, a large wetland in the area dominated by prairie grasses and sunflowers.

The first settlers arrived in Sun Prairie in the 1840s, and by the 1850s the town was a center for agriculture and commerce. In 1856, Sun Prairie was incorporated as a village. In 1958, it was incorporated as a city.

Sun Prairie is a thriving community now with a long history behind it. For more of that history, there are several places to visit.

The Sun Prairie Historical Library & Museum is the best place to start. The history of the city is laid out through exhibits, artifacts and photographs. The museum also runs events through the year, lectures and workshops and tours among them.

The historic downtown area is the other one, full of interesting shops, restaurants and buildings. Several of them are historic, including the Sun Prairie City Hall, which was built in 1899.

For a deeper dive into the history of Sun Prairie, there are more history museums in the area. They cover the city and the surrounding region, from the early days of settlement through to the present day.

So there you have it, a brief history of Sun Prairie. History buff or simply curious about the city’s past, there is plenty to work through in this community.

Top Attractions in Sun Prairie

Sun Prairie is full of fun and exciting attractions that will keep you entertained throughout a stay. These are the two top attractions to check out:

Angell Park Speedway

Racing fans should head straight to Angell Park Speedway. This historic racetrack has been running since 1903 and has hosted some of the biggest names in the sport. There is a race here every Sunday night during the summer months. The track is known for high speeds and tight turns, which makes for exciting racing.

But Angell Park Speedway is not only about the racing. There is a museum on site covering the history of the track and of the sport. The drivers, the cars, and the track itself are all laid out in it. It fills an afternoon, especially for a racing fan.

Jimmy the Groundhog

You have heard of Punxsutawney Phil, but have you heard of Jimmy the Groundhog? Jimmy is Sun Prairie’s own weather-predicting groundhog and a local celebrity. Every year on Groundhog Day, Jimmy makes his prediction about whether we get six more weeks of winter.

But Jimmy is not a one-trick pony. You can visit him at the Sun Prairie Public Library, where he has his own exhibit. Jimmy’s history and his role in the community are laid out there. And with luck, you might even meet the little guy himself.

Those are two of the many attractions Sun Prairie has. Racing fan or someone simply after a good day out, both are covered. So pack the bags and head to Sun Prairie.

Festivals and Events

For a good time in Sun Prairie, you are in luck. There are festivals and events throughout the year. These are the two most popular:

Sweet Corn Fest

You cannot visit Sun Prairie without attending the Sweet Corn Fest. This annual festival takes place in mid-August and celebrates one of Wisconsin’s most beloved crops: sweet corn. Food vendors sell every kind of corn-based treat, from corn on the cob to corn fritters. There are carnival rides, live music and a parade. And the sweet corn itself is the highlight, fresher and sweeter than anywhere else.

Groundhog Day

Yes, you read that right. Sun Prairie has its own Groundhog Day celebration. Every year on February 2nd the town gathers to see whether Jimmy the Groundhog sees his shadow and predicts six more weeks of winter. It is a quirky tradition and it has been going for over 70 years. The celebration includes a parade, live music, and the main event, which is Jimmy’s prediction. Whether or not you believe in groundhogs, it is worth being there.

Other events worth mentioning include the Taste of Sun Prairie, which showcases the town’s restaurants and food vendors, and the Farmers’ Market, which runs every Saturday from May to October. Whatever time of year you visit, something is going on in Sun Prairie.

Best Restaurants and Bars

On food and drinks, Sun Prairie has plenty to choose from. These are the best restaurants and bars to check out while you are in town.

Downtown Dine and Drink

For a place to eat in the heart of Sun Prairie, head downtown. There are restaurants and bars to choose from, each with its own atmosphere and menu.

One popular spot is The Nitty Gritty, a local favorite for its burgers and the famous “Gritty Burgers” challenge. Finish a three-pound burger and fries in under an hour and your picture goes on the wall of fame.

Another downtown find is Salvatore’s Tomato Pies, known for its thin-crust pizza and Italian dishes. Try the signature Tomato Pie, made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil.

Madison’s Menu Magic

For anyone willing to go a little further, Madison has a great deal more dining. It is a short drive from Sun Prairie, and the range runs from upscale restaurants to dive bars.

For a unique dining experience, The Old Fashioned, a Wisconsin-themed restaurant known for comfort food and a long list of local beers. Try the famous cheese curds, fried properly and served with a side of ranch dressing.

In the mood for something spicy? BelAir Cantina does some of the best Mexican food in town. The menu runs tacos, burritos and margaritas, all made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Whatever the craving, Sun Prairie and Madison have plenty between them. So go ahead. Eat, drink, and be merry.

Outdoor Activities

When the weather is good, Sun Prairie has a run of outdoor activities to fill a day. These are the best of them:

Parks and Lakes

For somewhere to relax and get into the nature, Sun Prairie has plenty of parks and lakes. These are the best parks in Sun Prairie:

Carriage Hills Park

This park runs tennis, swimming, softball and martial arts. There are special events too, art exhibits and dances and festivals among them.

Sheehan Park

This park is the one for a family picnic or a game of frisbee. It has a playground, a basketball court, and a large open field for running around in.

Wetmore Park

This park has a beautiful lake for fishing or a slow walk around. There is also a baseball field, a soccer field and a playground for kids.

Sports in Sun Prairie

Sports enthusiasts have options in Sun Prairie. These are the best sports activities in town:

Sun Prairie is flat. That is what a prairie is. Nothing here needs any effort beyond walking, and the parks are all the level, mown kind with a pond and a ball field. The speedway is a dirt oval on the edge of town. The skiing everybody mentions is not here at all: Cascade Mountain and Tyrol Basin are both a real drive away. What is genuinely local is the corn, the groundhog and the Saturday farmers’ market.

Volleyball

Sun Prairie has several outdoor volleyball courts, one of them at Wetmore Park. Grab some friends and make a game of it.

Swimming

Sun Prairie has a few public swimming pools, the Sun Prairie Family Aquatic Center among them. Take a dip and cool off on a hot summer day.

Basketball

For somewhere to shoot some hoops, the basketball court at Sheehan Park. It is a good spot for a pickup game with friends.

Whatever the interest, Sun Prairie covers it. So get outside and use what this charming city has.

Nearby Cities Worth Visiting

There are a couple of nearby cities worth checking out from Sun Prairie. A change of pace, or simply more of the area, both are reasons to make the trip.

Middleton Magic

Middleton is a short drive from Sun Prairie and it is a charming city with plenty in it. Known for its beautiful parks and gardens, it is where you go to slow down. Take a stroll through Pheasant Branch Conservancy or visit the National Mustard Museum, which is exactly what it sounds like. And Capital Brewery runs tours and tastings for anyone feeling adventurous.

Lake Mills Leisure

For something more laid-back, head to Lake Mills. This small city holds Rock Lake, where you can swim, fish and get on the water. Walk the historic downtown for the shops and restaurants. And the Tyranena Brewing Company is the local stop, with beer named after the area’s history.

Whichever nearby city you pick, it will be a good day. So pack up the car and hit the road.

Community and Social Events

Creative Social Event

Sun Prairie is a community that knows how to have fun. There are creative social events worth turning up to, and they are how you meet people here. For a unique night out, the Artful Wine Walk. It runs in downtown Sun Prairie with local artists, musicians and wine tastings, which is the city’s creative side in one evening.

The other one is the Sun Prairie Farmers Market. This weekly event is held on Saturdays with local farmers, artisans and food vendors. It supports the community and it feeds you at the same time. You never know what turns up there.

Community Gatherings

Sun Prairie is a tight-knit community and it comes together for a good cause regularly. There are community gatherings through the year worth attending. The most popular is the Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival, held every August with live music, a parade and plenty of sweet corn. It is how the town marks the end of summer.

For a way to give back, consider the Sun Prairie Volunteer Fair. This annual event brings together local organizations and non-profits looking for volunteers. It is the straightforward way to find out how to get involved.

Whatever the interest, something is always happening in Sun Prairie. So grab your friends and family and go.

Tourism and Amenities

Sun Prairie works as a tourist destination and the amenities are there to make a stay comfortable. A day or a week, you will find what you need.

Parking is the first thing most visitors worry about. Sun Prairie has plenty of spots throughout the city, so nobody circles the block for hours. Park the car and start exploring.

On amenities, Sun Prairie has it covered. The city runs hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts across every budget. A luxurious stay or something cheaper, both are available here.

Alongside the hotels, Sun Prairie runs a good selection of restaurants, cafes and bars. Casual eateries through to fine dining, and somewhere to grab a drink at the end of it.

For anyone who likes the outdoors, Sun Prairie has parks and green spaces to work through. The city’s parks run hiking trails through to playgrounds. And there is more adventurous ground within a short drive.

Sun Prairie is a good place to visit for a fun and exciting trip. There are enough amenities and attractions to keep you busy. So pack the bags, grab the camera, and go.

Food and Drink Tasting

You cannot visit Sun Prairie without indulging in the local flavors. Classic American fare through to international cuisine, and every palate is covered. And what is a food tour without drinks to wash it down?

First, wings. Who does not love a good wing? Head over to Monk’s Bar & Grill for their famous ones. Classic buffalo, BBQ, garlic parmesan or teriyaki. And if you are feeling brave, the “Habanero Death” sauce.

For something more upscale, Salvatore’s Tomato Pies. The pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven. Pair one with a glass from their wine list.

For something more exotic, Taqueria Gonzalez does authentic Mexican cuisine. Try the carne asada tacos or the chile rellenos. And wash it down with a margarita.

And for something genuinely different, The Wire Basket runs a tasting experience of its own. They carry gourmet oils and vinegars to sample, blood orange olive oil through to blackberry ginger balsamic vinegar.

Whatever the food and drink preferences, Sun Prairie has an answer. So go ahead and indulge.

Seasonal Activities

Sun Prairie runs activities throughout the year. Summer fun or winter wonders, both are covered here.

Summer Fun

Summer in Sun Prairie means warm weather and plenty outdoors. Take a stroll through the Sun Prairie Farmer’s Market and pick up fresh produce, or head to Angell Park Speedway for the stock car and midget truck racing. And for something more adventurous, cyclocross racing.

For a more relaxed summer, the Sweet Corn Fest or the Artful Wine Walk. And for something unique, the Groundhog Day celebrations in August.

Winter Wonders

When the snow starts falling, Sun Prairie turns into a winter wonderland. Bundle up and hit the slopes at Cascade Mountain or Tyrol Basin. If skiing or snowboarding is not your thing, there is ice skating at the Sun Prairie Ice Arena.

For a cozy indoor afternoon, head to the Sun Prairie Public Library and curl up with a book. And for something festive, the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in December.

Whatever the season, Sun Prairie has enough to keep you entertained. So grab the sunscreen or the snow boots and go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to spend a day in Sun Prairie without breaking the bank?

You are in luck, because Sun Prairie has plenty of free or cheap activities to fill a day. Start at the Sun Prairie Historical Library and Museum, where the city’s history is laid out. Then Schumacher Farm Park, a 40-acre park with hiking trails, picnic areas and farm animals. For indoor fun, The Wire Basket, a unique gift shop that also runs free craft classes. And no visit is complete without Sassy Cow Creamery for ice cream and cheese.

Are there any hidden gems in Sun Prairie that tourists often miss?

Absolutely. One of our favorites is the Sun Prairie Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday from May through October, with fresh produce, baked goods and handmade crafts from local vendors. Another is the Sun Prairie Wetlands Preserve, a 130-acre nature preserve with hiking trails and birdwatching. And for craft beer, the Sun Prairie Hop Haus does some of the best in the area.

What are some must-visit restaurants in Sun Prairie for foodies?

Sun Prairie has an unusual number of good restaurants, but Salvatore’s Tomato Pies is the one not to miss. This local favorite serves New York-style pizza that will leave you craving more. Buck & Honey’s is the other one, with a farm-to-table menu built on locally sourced ingredients. And for Asian cuisine, Sake Sushi does the best sushi in the area.

Are there any unique events or festivals that happen in Sun Prairie throughout the year?

Yes, there are plenty of unique events and festivals in Sun Prairie. The most popular is the Sweet Corn Festival, every August, with live music, carnival rides and plenty of sweet corn. Another is the Sun Prairie Farmers’ Market Dinner, held every September, a farm-to-table dinner built from local vendors’ ingredients. And for live music, the Sun Prairie Blues Fest every June brings in some of the best blues musicians in the area.

What are some of the best parks to visit in Sun Prairie for a picnic or outdoor activities?

Sun Prairie has plenty of beautiful parks, but our favorites include Sheehan Park, with hiking trails, a disc golf course and a playground for kids. Wetmore Park is the other option, with a large picnic area, a fishing pond and a walking trail. And for a park with a view, Liberty Square Park looks out over the city and is a good spot for a picnic.

Frequently asked questions about Sun Prairie, Wisconsin

When is the Sweet Corn Fest in Sun Prairie?

Mid-August, every single year. It runs food vendors doing corn on the cob and corn fritters, carnival rides, live music and a parade through the middle of town. Book somewhere to stay early if you are coming from out of town, because it is the busiest weekend of the year here. Go hungry and wear shoes you do not mind.

Is Angell Park Speedway worth a Sunday night?

Yes, if you like dirt track racing at close range. Racing runs on Sunday nights through the summer months and the track has been going since 1903, which shows in the grandstand. There is a museum on site covering the drivers, the cars and the history of the track itself. Take ear protection for the children.

Which Sun Prairie park works for a picnic?

Sheehan Park for the disc golf course and the trails, Wetmore Park for the large picnic area and the fishing pond. Liberty Square Park has the view out over the city if that matters more to you than shade. All three have playgrounds and none of them need booking. Bring your own everything, because none of them have a kiosk.

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