Craving nature, art, and architecture in the Driftless Region? Head to Spring Green! Tucked along the Wisconsin River, Spring Green blends scenic beauty with world-class attractions like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin and the American Players Theatre. From hiking bluffs to browsing artisan shops, this charming village offers a cultured yet outdoorsy escape.
Spring Green, WI Highlights:
- For Families: Tour the House on the Rock – Explore sprawling rooms filled with eclectic collections, musical machines, and fantasy architecture.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike at Governor Dodge State Park – Just a short drive away, this park features scenic trails, waterfalls, and lakes.
- For Kids: Visit Peck’s Farm Market – Enjoy petting animals, riding pedal carts, and picking fresh produce in season.
- For an Adventure: Paddle the Wisconsin River – Canoe or kayak past sandstone cliffs and quiet forests for a peaceful float.
- For Art Lovers: Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin – Take a guided tour of this iconic architect’s home, studio, and school set amid rolling hills.
When I like to visit Spring Green, WI
The best time to visit Spring Green is from late spring to early fall (May–October). These months offer ideal weather for hiking, river paddling, and attending outdoor theater. Fall also brings vibrant foliage to the hills and valleys of the Driftless Area.
Tips for getting to Spring Green, WI
- If you are traveling by car: Spring Green is located on Highway 14, about 45 minutes west of Madison and 2 hours from Milwaukee.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in Madison, with rental car access for the scenic drive to Spring Green.
- By Bus: Limited regional bus service is available; a car is recommended to fully explore the area’s rural attractions.
Where I like to stay in Spring Green, WI
- Spring Valley Inn – Comfortable lodging with an indoor pool, sauna, and easy access to Taliesin and APT.
- The Usonian Inn – Mid-century modern motel inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s design philosophy.
- Round Barn Lodge – Rustic charm and family-friendly amenities just outside downtown.
Best Things to Do in Spring Green, WI
1. Experience World-Class Performances at American Players Theatre
American Players Theatre (APT) is a classical indoor and outdoor theatre. It was founded in 1980 by Randall Duk Kim, Charles Bright, and Anne Occhiogrosso. There is an outdoor amphitheater with 1,089 seats and an indoor theatre called The Touchstone with 200 seats. Before each show, guests can buy a picnic dinner or bring their own food to enjoy in the picnic areas. More than a hundred performances take the stage in the outdoor amphitheater during the season, which runs from June to November. The theatre group usually performs plays by classic playwrights, such as Shakespeare, and George Bernard Shaw.
5950 Golf Course Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588, Phone: 608-588-2361
2. Wander Through Whimsical Wonders at House on the Rock
House on the Rock is a local tourist attraction designed by Alex Jorden Jr., that opened in 1959. Along with the “house” that sits on Deep Shelter Rock, this complex features distinct rooms, shops, and gardens. From the time House on the Rock opened, additions to the original structure were made. So, some of today’s highlights include areas named “The Streets of Yesterday,” “The Heritage of the Sea,” and “The Music of Yesterday.” Furthermore, the complex features a large indoor carousel with 269 animals, hundreds of chandeliers, and more than 20,000 lights. During the Christmas season, the carousel transforms using a Christmas-inspired theme.
5754 WI-23, Spring Green, WI 53588, Phone: 608-935-3639
3. If You Love Iconic Architecture, Explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin
Taliesin is an 800-acre estate where the home, studio, and school of Frank Lloyd Wright sit. Before Frank Wright died in 1959, he named his estate Taliesin, to pay tribute to his Welsh heritage. The literal translation of the word is “shining brow.” To honor Wright’s legacy, a number of programs, workshops, and culinary events take place at Taliesin. Examples include summer youth workshops, art and culture programs, and The Taliesin Food Artisan Immersion Program. This last program teaches about the connection between architecture, the land, food, art, and community. This harmony is paramount to the success of creating a healthy food system.
5607 County Road C, Spring Green, WI 53588, Phone: 608-588-7900
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
4. Hike Rare Prairies at Spring Green Preserve
In 1972, Spring Green Preserve received the designation as a State Natural Area. Since then it’s been nicknamed the 'Wisconsin Desert' because of its sandy prairie that runs along a former Wisconsin River terrace. The preserve grows a special kind of flora and fauna that can adapt to the dry landscape and hot environment. Plants found here include the false heather and prickly pear cactus. Bird life at the preserve is diverse with birds like the dickcissel. For recreational activities, visitors can reserve a campsite, hike the park’s trails, ride motorcycles or ATVs, and go skiing or snowmobiling in the winter.
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
5. Camp and Climb at Tower Hill State Park
Tower Hill State Park neighbors the Wisconsin River and is often visited due to its many historical structures, including the Helena Shot Tower. The original tower was built in 1832 and a century and a half later it became part of the National Register of Historic Places. The park opens during the warm weather months where visitors can see the exhibits documenting the use and construction of the tower. There are trails and 15 campsites at this park that feature picnic tables, and fit pits. Campsites are family-friendly and can accommodate up to six people per site.
5808 County Rd C, Spring Green, WI 53588, Phone: 608-588-2116
6. Find Dazzling Treasures at The Opal Man
The Opal Man is a jewelry gallery that primarily carries Australian opal. This gemstone has several varieties which are carried at the gallery, such as, boulder, white, crystal, treated matrix, and opal doublets. Dennis Dahl is the owner of The Opal Man and brings nearly 50 years of experience to the business. The entire team at the gallery brings a wealth of knowledge, which helps to answer customer questions. Services offered include cutting, polishing, appraising jewelry pieces, and designing custom pieces from this precious gemstone. The gallery was formerly a gas station over a century ago and is a member of Wisconsin's Register of Historic Places.
137 S Winsted St, Spring Green, WI 53588, Phone: 608-588-9317
7. If You Crave Classic Supper Club Fare, Dine at Arthur’s Supper Club
Arthur's Supper Club is a casual dining restaurant for families, friends and couples, looking to enjoy a steak or seafood dinner. Since 1966, this supper club has been a favorite local spot best known for their prime rib buffet, lobster dishes and complimentary homemade bread, served at every table. Inside the restaurant is a full lounge and bar that serves classic cocktails, and a variety of wines and beers. Plus, there is live music and other entertainment playing here several nights a week. Outside, there are two separate and distinct outdoor patio areas that feature beautiful waterfalls.
E4885 US Highway 14 and 60, Spring Green, Wisconsin 53588, Phone: 608-588-2521
Where I Like to Eat in Spring Green, WI
- Freddy Valentine’s Public House – Upscale pub cuisine in a historic bank building with craft cocktails and local fare.
- Riverview Terrace Café – Seasonal café at Taliesin serving light lunch fare with architectural views.
- Spring Green General Store Café – Healthy breakfast and lunch options in a relaxed, artsy setting.
My favorite local events:
- Spring Green Art Fair (June) – Juried arts and crafts show featuring regional artists, live music, and food vendors.
- APT Season (June–October) – American Players Theatre runs multiple shows in rotating repertory each summer and fall.
- BeatleFest at The Shed (Summer) – A fun, outdoor concert celebrating all things Beatles at this quirky roadside venue.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Spring Green, Wisconsin:
- Dodgeville (30 min) – Visit Governor Dodge State Park or the charming downtown square.
- Plain (20 min) – Tour the Arena Cheese Factory or enjoy small-town shops and diners.
- Arena (15 min) – Launch for Wisconsin River paddling or visit the nearby Mazomanie Bottoms.
- Baraboo (30 min) – Home to Circus World Museum, Devil’s Lake State Park, and the International Crane Foundation.
- Richland Center (30 min) – Birthplace of Frank Lloyd Wright with more rural architecture and bluffs to explore.
Plan Your Trip