Wisconsin’s Cool Little Rivertown |
| Fuel Up at the Watershed Café Wholesome food made with simple ingredients is the cornerstone of eating hygge. The Watershed Café’s fresh, creative, locally sourced menu is served with a smile in a cozy, Northwoods environment. Grab a table near the fireplace and pair the Hippie Cakes – pancakes or waffles made from scratch, topped with blueberry compote and house granola – with a hot cup of coffee to ward off the cold. Hit the Fat Bike Trails As fat tire biking grows in popularity, so do the trails in Osceola. A few scenic loops are located right in town, and more to explore are on their way. Try the new Brookside Trail located behind the ArtBarn, a 2.5-mile groomed route that takes you through woodlands and over the Brookside stream. The greater Osceola area encompasses a network of bike trailheads within a 15-mile radius, including the Woolly Trails which are also groomed for fat biking in the winter. |   |
  | Hit the Wine, Chocolate and Cheese Trail The fast-growing wine region circling Osceola features four premiere destinations, each with their own brand of hygge. Osceola is home to where most of the cold hardy grapes,now part of most vineyards in the Midwest got their roots. Try the mulled wines of Winehaven, located on a 50-acre estate tucked in between three lakes in the Chisago Lakes chain. Sip the sweet and indulgent Aurora Borealis dessert wine fireside at Wild Mountain Winery. Chateau St. Croix, modeled after a French estate, is noted for its artistry and award-winning wines like Wisconsin Red. Nosh on an artisan pizza or oven baked cheese from Dancing Dragonfly’s woodfire oven and sample wines named after popular dances. The wineries host holiday events, cheese and chocolate weekends, and paint and sip gatherings throughout the winter. Stops at renowned Wisconsin cheese makers and local chocolatiers can easily be added to your wine trail excursion. Here is an easy way to make your own self guided weekend tour to taste a collage of wine styles from four different wineries including two cheese makers and one fine chocolatier- see all in only 2 hours of drive time from your basecamp of Osceola. Details here: http://www.myosceolachamber.org/wine-cheese--chocolate-tour.html |
Itinerary #2: Hills & Hot Tubs
| Ski, Snowboard or Tube at Trollhaugen Trollhaugen (haugen meaning isolated hill in Norwegian) is less than five miles from Osceola and offers ten designated snow tubing lanes, 24 ski runs and three terrain parks that rank among the Midwest’s best. Take a moment to appreciate the wintry view from the top and savor the experience of each run down the hill. The Scandi style chalet houses two areas to warm up with a hot meal. Kaffe Stuga (or Coffee Cabin) serves a complete coffee and food menu and features breakfast on the weekends. On Fridays, the slopes are open until 3:00 a.m. and the hill comes alive with the sound of music at Skolhaugen, the chalet’s 21+ lounge with a full menu and a full bar. Enjoy a Quiet Cozy Evening in a Speakeasy After your Trollhaugen adventures, it's time to slow down. Located downtown and new to Osceola, Mangos MainStreet Eatery has a speakeasy downstairs- Bar Red. Hang out with friends, play checkers, enjoy luscious libations and fresh pizza or order from the delectable menu upstairs. |   |
Bonfire at Pleasant Lake Bed & Breakfast
If you need a quite place to stay, Pleasant Lake B & B just might hit the spot. When evening falls, snuggle up in a blanket and unwind around the bonfire overlooking peaceful Pleasant Lake. Stargaze with your favorite hot beverage and enjoy the crisp, clean air nipping your cheeks. When it’s time to retire, plush rocking chairs and foam top beds await in a room that combines rustic comfort, vintage elements and modern conveniences.
If you need a quite place to stay, Pleasant Lake B & B just might hit the spot. When evening falls, snuggle up in a blanket and unwind around the bonfire overlooking peaceful Pleasant Lake. Stargaze with your favorite hot beverage and enjoy the crisp, clean air nipping your cheeks. When it’s time to retire, plush rocking chairs and foam top beds await in a room that combines rustic comfort, vintage elements and modern conveniences.
Grab a Bite at Village Pizzeria (Dresser, WI)
At the bottom of the hill, Village Pizzeria’s massive menu awaits hungry snowmeisters on their way back to Osceola. Don’t let the name fool you – the Italian-themed restaurant dishes up more than just pizza: soups and salads, steak and seafood, burgers and sandwiches, and of course there’s pasta and pizza. The large dining area is amenable to groups in a way that is particularly hygge-esque.
At the bottom of the hill, Village Pizzeria’s massive menu awaits hungry snowmeisters on their way back to Osceola. Don’t let the name fool you – the Italian-themed restaurant dishes up more than just pizza: soups and salads, steak and seafood, burgers and sandwiches, and of course there’s pasta and pizza. The large dining area is amenable to groups in a way that is particularly hygge-esque.
| Hot Tub at River Valley Inn or OHS Aquatic Center Shed the ski gear, slip into swim wear and head to the OHS Aquatic Center that has a large hot tub. Be sure to check the schedule before you go. Or let River Valley Inn’s hot tub steal the chill from your bones. The pool and hot tub is available to you for a reasonable fee and one time use after your outdoor adventure. And if you want, head up to a quiet, clean and comfortable room for a good night’s sleep. In the morning, a light breakfast is ready for you in the kitchen off the lobby which boasts a brick fireplace and small-town charm you won’t find in a chain hotel. |  |
Appreciate the Arts and Crafts – in a Barn!
Nordic cultures have a deep appreciation for the arts and crafts, valuing that which is rustic and handmade. The Art Barn in Osceola encompasses these sensibilities, starting at its very foundation. The building is indeed an authentic early 20th century dairy barn, converted to a community arts center in the mid-1990s. Grab your group and you can schedule and create your own art at theme events. The Granary, also offers creative crafts as well.
#3 Pastimes and Past Times
Coffee at Caribou or Rumor Has It
Fika is to the Swedes what tea time is to the Brits – an essential break to enjoy a cup. And as is the case with almost everything Scandinavian, fika is filled to the brim with hygge. Basically, it’s a coffee break, but a far cry from the Americanized drive-thru or grab-and-go mentality. Fika typically includes a baked good and it always serves as a moment to slow down and savor, whether it be in good company or quiet contemplation. Caribou coffee located right in Dick's Fresh Market offers a wide selection of coffee, espresso and tea to be enjoyed alongside a warm fireplace. If you are up for some down home unpretencious atmosphere, Rumor Has It on MainStreet offers a pretty darn good cup of coffee and is well known with the locals for their breakfast corned beef hash at super affordable prices.
Fika is to the Swedes what tea time is to the Brits – an essential break to enjoy a cup. And as is the case with almost everything Scandinavian, fika is filled to the brim with hygge. Basically, it’s a coffee break, but a far cry from the Americanized drive-thru or grab-and-go mentality. Fika typically includes a baked good and it always serves as a moment to slow down and savor, whether it be in good company or quiet contemplation. Caribou coffee located right in Dick's Fresh Market offers a wide selection of coffee, espresso and tea to be enjoyed alongside a warm fireplace. If you are up for some down home unpretencious atmosphere, Rumor Has It on MainStreet offers a pretty darn good cup of coffee and is well known with the locals for their breakfast corned beef hash at super affordable prices.
| Nordic Ski, Snowshoe or Hike for Miles Nordic skiing has long been a favorite pastime in the Scandinavian countries and trail mania is widespread in Osceola, too. Miles of trails crisscross the countryside with designations for Nordic ski, snowshoe, and multi-use. The Stower Seven Lakes Trail traverses 14 miles of natural landscape including wetlands, forests, prairies, farmlands, and as the name suggests, seven different lakes. It is groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing is permitted alongside the groomed path. But you don’t need a pair of skis or snowshoes to enjoy some good ol’ fashioned friluftsliv. The Cascade Trail is a preferred walking path that takes you past the most scenic places in Osceola. Cascade Falls is visible down below the trailhead on downtown’s main street and ice sculptures come into focus as you descend the flights of stairs down to its base in Wilkie Glen. |   |
The trail continues along Osceola Creek and ends on the bank of the St. Croix River. From there, you can tackle the Eagle Bluff Trail which climbs the cliffside to a spectacular view of the river valley below and connects with Simenstad Trial, an easy jaunt through the woods that loops back into town.
 | Book an In-suite Massage and Soak at St. Croix River Inn The St. Croix River Inn represents the indulgent side of hygge. An in-suite massage hits the spot on those sore muscles after a long day on the winter trails. Each room is outfitted with a fireplace and a hydromassage tub to help you defrost and decompress. Gorgeous picture windows frame stunning views of the river valley from the historic location on the bluffs. Comfort is the bottom line at this boutique hotel and you’ll hit the height of hygge in any of the luxurious suites. |
Take a Self-Guided Local History Tour
The St. Croix River and Cascade Falls have lured humans to Osceola for centuries: Native Americans, fur traders, lumberjacks, mill workers, farmers, steamboat manufacturers, and railroad builders have all called this land their home, and a village of supporting trades and hospitality sprang up around them. Although the town constantly evolves, vestiges of the past remain. There are currently five listings on the National and State Register of Historic Places, including several blocks that make up the Osceola Downtown Historic District. Step into the heart of these bygone eras and discover how this village on the river grew up.
The St. Croix River and Cascade Falls have lured humans to Osceola for centuries: Native Americans, fur traders, lumberjacks, mill workers, farmers, steamboat manufacturers, and railroad builders have all called this land their home, and a village of supporting trades and hospitality sprang up around them. Although the town constantly evolves, vestiges of the past remain. There are currently five listings on the National and State Register of Historic Places, including several blocks that make up the Osceola Downtown Historic District. Step into the heart of these bygone eras and discover how this village on the river grew up.
Itinerary #4: Lace Up, Stock Up, Eat Up, Rest Up
| Browse Osceola’s Historic Main Street Shopping Downtown Osceola hosts an array of one-of-a-kind shops with an emphasis on rustic, handmade, artisanal, repurposed, antique, shabby chic and organic goods. You’ll find carefully selected antiques and old-fashioned ice cream at the Looking Glass, natural healing products and organic teas at Simple Living, floral art and unique gifts at Wildwood Flowers, handmade jewelry at Uptown Gifts, organic meats and produce at Neumann Farms, upcycled furniture and consignment clothing at Karita’s Shoppe. Coming Home, Adoray's Treasures and Oak and Ivory. |  |
A record store, cigar shop, leather works, frame shop, craft studio, country store, salon/spas, hardware store, and more are all within walking distance of one another. Each stop has atmosphere, a story and a shop owner with a unique personality. They contain surprises and original treasures you won’t find anywhere else.
Load Up on Wholesome Ingredients from Dick’s Fresh Market
Dick’s Fresh Market, a newly expanded, locally owned grocery store situated just behind the main shopping drag, carries everything you need to set your table for a hygge feast. Gather the ingredients to make your favorite recipes or try a new Nordic delight like Swedish meatballs, Norwegian potato klub, Danish roasted pork and perhaps some Scandinavian almond cake for dessert. Their deli offers made from scratch comfort foods to take and warm up when you are ready.
Dick’s Fresh Market, a newly expanded, locally owned grocery store situated just behind the main shopping drag, carries everything you need to set your table for a hygge feast. Gather the ingredients to make your favorite recipes or try a new Nordic delight like Swedish meatballs, Norwegian potato klub, Danish roasted pork and perhaps some Scandinavian almond cake for dessert. Their deli offers made from scratch comfort foods to take and warm up when you are ready.
Gather the Libations to Make Your Own from Valley Spirits
Located within walking distance from Dick's Fresh Market, gather the fixings for relaxing with a warm drink of a mulled wine after a day of shopping. Not just for the holidays, all the ingredients can be found at Valley Spirits along with many local craft beers and wines.
Located within walking distance from Dick's Fresh Market, gather the fixings for relaxing with a warm drink of a mulled wine after a day of shopping. Not just for the holidays, all the ingredients can be found at Valley Spirits along with many local craft beers and wines.
Cook in Your Private Kitchen at Luminaries Lodging (St. Croix Falls, WI)
Whichever recipe you choose to cook, make sure it’s not too demanding. Hygge cooking calls for one part meal prep, one part aroma, one part socialization, one part relaxation, and three parts enjoyment of the whole process with all five senses. The rooms at Luminaries Lodging each have their own theme (The Copper Room, The Peacock Loft, The Artist’s Loft) and are equipped with ample kitchen space to make meals and memories.
Whichever recipe you choose to cook, make sure it’s not too demanding. Hygge cooking calls for one part meal prep, one part aroma, one part socialization, one part relaxation, and three parts enjoyment of the whole process with all five senses. The rooms at Luminaries Lodging each have their own theme (The Copper Room, The Peacock Loft, The Artist’s Loft) and are equipped with ample kitchen space to make meals and memories.
Ice Skate or Sled at Oakey Park
A warm sweater and woolen mittens. Windswept cheeks and frosty noses. Downy white snow drifts and towering evergreens. Gliding across the ice as though flying on your feet. Laughter floating in the open air. This is friluftsliv ice skating at Oakey Park. Take a hygge break in the nearby warming house or hit the sledding hill for a change of pace.
A warm sweater and woolen mittens. Windswept cheeks and frosty noses. Downy white snow drifts and towering evergreens. Gliding across the ice as though flying on your feet. Laughter floating in the open air. This is friluftsliv ice skating at Oakey Park. Take a hygge break in the nearby warming house or hit the sledding hill for a change of pace.
Itinerary #5: Sleds & Snapsvisor
Discover the Area’s Snowmobile Trails
While a hike through the woods is the epitome of friluftsliv, a snowmobile can take you even further in less time. And with 93 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in Osceola and over 350 miles in Polk County, there’s a lot to explore. The trails put you right in the heart of some of the most amazing scenery in the Midwest, so don’t forget to take some time to recognize and revel in it.
While a hike through the woods is the epitome of friluftsliv, a snowmobile can take you even further in less time. And with 93 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in Osceola and over 350 miles in Polk County, there’s a lot to explore. The trails put you right in the heart of some of the most amazing scenery in the Midwest, so don’t forget to take some time to recognize and revel in it.
Eat a Hot Meal at Tippy Canoes
You’ll see how this lodge-style restaurant got its name the moment you step off your sled – the handles on the door are actual canoe paddles! Once inside, you can’t miss the vintage canoe that hangs from the vaulted ceiling over the bar or the canoes fastened to the wall that serve as shelving for liquor bottles. Barstools with bark-covered wooden legs add to the rustic ambiance and strategically placed TVs give you a view of the game from just about any seat in the house. The menu has something for everyone, and as for the tippy part…well, that’s up to you.
You’ll see how this lodge-style restaurant got its name the moment you step off your sled – the handles on the door are actual canoe paddles! Once inside, you can’t miss the vintage canoe that hangs from the vaulted ceiling over the bar or the canoes fastened to the wall that serve as shelving for liquor bottles. Barstools with bark-covered wooden legs add to the rustic ambiance and strategically placed TVs give you a view of the game from just about any seat in the house. The menu has something for everyone, and as for the tippy part…well, that’s up to you.
A Fireside Snapsvisa
At family gatherings and traditional events in Sweden, a snapsvisa – or singing toast – is sung to raised glasses of aquavit to commemorate the occasion and honor the drink. But it doesn’t have to be aquavit and Helan Går (Sweden’s most popular snapsvisa): you can start your own tradition with a vigorous ditty and your favorite shot right at Tippy Canoes’ huge stone fireplace. If you can’t work up the nerve to sing yourself, you can sit back with a hot beverage or one of the daily drink specials and enjoy the live music provided on most weekends throughout the winter.
At family gatherings and traditional events in Sweden, a snapsvisa – or singing toast – is sung to raised glasses of aquavit to commemorate the occasion and honor the drink. But it doesn’t have to be aquavit and Helan Går (Sweden’s most popular snapsvisa): you can start your own tradition with a vigorous ditty and your favorite shot right at Tippy Canoes’ huge stone fireplace. If you can’t work up the nerve to sing yourself, you can sit back with a hot beverage or one of the daily drink specials and enjoy the live music provided on most weekends throughout the winter.
Walk to a Comfy Bed at River Valley Inn
Indulging in the libations at Tippy Canoes is no problem with a room right across the parking lot at River Valley Inn. You’ll be ready to hit those snowmobile trails again after a board game by the fireplace, a peaceful slumber in a clean bed, free coffee and a continental breakfast that'll get you going for another day outdoors.
Indulging in the libations at Tippy Canoes is no problem with a room right across the parking lot at River Valley Inn. You’ll be ready to hit those snowmobile trails again after a board game by the fireplace, a peaceful slumber in a clean bed, free coffee and a continental breakfast that'll get you going for another day outdoors.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP!
Itinerary #1 Fat Tires & Warm Fires
Itinerary #2 Hills & Hot Tubs
Itinerary #3: Pastimes & Past Times
Itinerary #4: Lace Up, Stock Up, Eat Up, Rest Up
The article "Embracing Winter: Hygge & Friluftsliv in Osceola" was produced by Linda Shober Designs and Images, and written by Karen Lawrence. Linda Shober Designs and Images is a Marketing and Design firm located in the St. Croix Valley specializing in providing content, strategy, management, design, and creative for digital and traditional marketing projects.
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Team of authors contribute. Germaine Ross, Chamber Director, Nancy Beck, Board Member.
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