Search Everything in One Place

Explore the web, images, videos, news, and more – all in one place.

Travel

This historic Wisconsin restaurant feels like stepping back in time

This Historic Wisconsin Restaurant Feels Like Stepping Back in Time
Photo by Trent Jonas for Only In Your State

Do you enjoy immersing yourself in history as much as we do? If you want to take a step back in time while enjoying today’s best food, beer, and entertainment, we suggest a trip to western Wisconsin. The Trempealeau Hotel has been around since the 1870s and has become a true destination in its own […]

Do you enjoy immersing yourself in history as much as we do? If you want to take a step back in time while enjoying today’s best food, beer, and entertainment, we suggest a trip to western Wisconsin. The Trempealeau Hotel has been around since the 1870s and has become a true destination in its own right. Adjacent to a mighty river and a spectacular park, this historic restaurant in Wisconsin is a treasure and one of the state’s best landmarks. Here's what's waiting for you at the hotel, which also features a lively restaurant and saloon.

A Small Town With a Big History

Main street of downtown Trempealeau, Wisconsin, featuring historic buildings and local storefronts.
Photo by Sonny Cohen via Flickr Creative Commons

Trempealeau is a cozy community of about 1,800 residents located in Trempealeau County, right along the banks of the Mississippi River. Native Americans have called this land home for hundreds of years, and European immigrants arrived in the 1800s to establish the first post office in 1852. The town is a perfect starting point for exploring the historic supper club in Wisconsin scene that makes the Badger State so special.

The Legacy of the Historic Trempealeau Hotel

Night view of the historic Hotel Trempealeau building with white siding and green trim in Wisconsin.
Photo by Trent Jonas for Only In Your State

The story of this legendary establishment began in 1871, perched just above the river and the busy railroad tracks. It is one of the few local buildings that managed to survive a devastating fire in 1888, despite being built primarily of wood. Nowadays, the hotel still retains much of its original charm, from the intricate woodwork to the authentic tin ceilings. It remains a nostalgic Wisconsin restaurant and a favorite local watering hole, drawing in crowds who appreciate a sense of history with their meal.

Savoring a One-of-a-Kind Dining Experience

Vintage red neon arrow sign saying Delicious Food in Trempealeau, Wisconsin.
Photo by Larry Myhre via Flickr Creative Commons

While the building is beautiful, this is no stale history museum. The hotel offers a vibrant rustic restaurant experience where you’ll frequently find live music from local and regional acts. The menu is just as exciting as the entertainment, featuring dishes made from scratch with responsibly sourced ingredients. You have likely heard of their famous Walnut Burger, which was actually invented right here. The signature patty is made with walnuts, cheddar, mozzarella, and tamari, and it’s a classic local favorite in Wisconsin. If you enjoy fish, they also serve up delicious catfish and bluegill fillet sandwiches.

A Night To Remember by the River

The historic Hotel Trempealeau at night under a dramatic moonlit sky with heavy clouds in Wisconsin.
Photo by Trent Jonas for Only In Your State

Your experience doesn’t have to end after dinner. As the name suggests, this is still a welcoming place to spend the night. You can choose from eight simple, European-style rooms above the bar that share a common sitting area, or opt for one of the Kingfisher units with private decks and river views. For a more luxurious stay, the Doc West House features suites with Jacuzzi tubs and gas fireplaces, while the Pines Cottage offers a private kitchenette. You can learn more about this historic place at the official Trempealeau Hotel website.

Discovering the Wonders of Perrot State Park

High-angle view of Trempealeau Bay in autumn with colorful fall foliage on the hills and river islands.
Photo by johnsroad7 – stock.adobe.com

While you’re in town, be sure to explore nearby Perrot State Park, where the Mississippi and Trempealeau rivers meet. You can hike the steep trails up to Brady’s Bluff or Perrot Ridge for sweeping views from the 500-foot bluffs and the river valley below. The park is also home to ancient effigy mounds and a marked canoe trail in Trempealeau Bay. A hike or paddle in the park is the perfect way to burn off a Walnut Burger before heading back to the hotel for a craft cocktail and some live music. For more inspiration on where to stay in the Badger State, check out these hotels and motels on the Travel Wisconsin site-and never pass up the chance for breakfast at a legendary diner in Wisconsin.

Read full story on Only In Your State

Related News

More stories you might be interested in.

Top