Things To Do
in Merrill
Merrill is a charming town located in north-central Wisconsin, USA. Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, it offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities for activities like hiking, fishing, and camping. The community is known for its friendly residents and small-town atmosphere, making it a great place to raise a family.
Merrill also has a rich history, with historic buildings and museums showcasing its heritage.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll in T.B. Scott Walkway Park along the Wisconsin River.
Head to the historic downtown area and explore unique shops and boutiques. Grab lunch at one of the quaint restaurants offering American cuisine.
Enjoy a scenic drive in the surrounding countryside. As the sun sets, relish a relaxing dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant.
Set out early to visit Rib Mountain State Park for hiking and stunning views. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the overlook areas.
After hiking, visit the Wisconsin River for some kayaking or canoeing. Don’t forget to take a break and enjoy lunch by the riverside.
As you return, unwind at a local brewery or winery. Engage with locals and sip on refreshing drinks while soaking in the ambiance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Small-town charm with a close-knit community.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities like hiking and fishing.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Low crime rates, contributing to a safe environment.
- Good schools and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Potential for harsh winter weather affecting daily life.
- Limited public transportation options.
- May lack diverse cultural experiences and amenities.
Best Activities in Merrill
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore miles of trails with diverse scenery including lakes, streams, and wildlife. The forest offers trails suitable for all skill levels.
Enjoy fishing in the Wisconsin River, known for its diverse fish populations. Perfect for anglers looking for a peaceful day on the water.
Experience the beauty of nature by camping at Rib Mountain State Park, which offers campsites, hiking trails, and stunning views.
Take advantage of the scenic biking trails around Merrill, offering both challenging rides and leisurely paths for cycling enthusiasts.
Visit the recreation complex for a chance to see various wildlife species in their natural habitat while enjoying the outdoors.
Places to Visit in Merrill
Visit one of these nice places.
A spacious park that provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape and has ample opportunities for beautiful nature photography.
A scenic trail that follows the banks of the river, offering picturesque views and chances to photograph wildlife and natural beauty.
A charming area featuring historic buildings and architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of the town's history and character.
This park features beautiful waterfront views and lush greenery, making it ideal for photography during sunset and sunrise.
A hilltop park that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Merrill
Merrill Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These deep-fried cheese curds are a local favorite, perfectly crispy on the outside and oozing with cheesy goodness on the inside. Don't miss out on trying them at Fred Drews' Tavern or C & C Catering.
Must-Try!
This classic Wisconsin tradition involves plates piled high with golden-brown fried fish, along with sides like coleslaw and rye bread. Experience this culinary delight at places like Council Grounds State Park or Club X-It.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in downtown Merrill, this vibrant market showcases a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies. It's a great spot to sample homemade jams, breads, and other treats.
Every Friday, food trucks gather at the River Bend Trailhead, offering an assortment of delectable street food. From gourmet hot dogs to tasty tacos, there's something to satisfy every craving.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Merrill, a firm handshake and making eye contact is a common practice. It is also polite to greet with a simple 'hello' or 'hi' and to introduce yourself if you haven't met before.
Being on time is appreciated in Merrill. Whether for social gatherings or professional meetings, arriving on time shows respect for others' schedules and is considered a courteous behavior.
Participating in local events and being involved in community activities is highly valued. Engaging with neighbors and attending town events fosters a sense of belonging and respect for local traditions.
Safety
Tipping in Merrill
Ensure a smooth experience
In Merrill, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip waitstaff, bartenders, and other service workers around 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping may vary based on the quality of service received. In some cases, such as hair salons or taxi services, tipping may also be expected.
Payment methods in Merrill typically include cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment solutions are increasingly popular. For smaller services or personal transactions, cash may still be preferred. Prices in restaurants, shops, and other establishments usually include tax, and customers should be aware of this when calculating tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Merrill brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect daytime temperatures to range from the mid-40s to mid-60s °F. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.
Summer (June to August) is the warmest time to visit Merrill, with temperatures often reaching the 70s and 80s °F. This is the peak season for outdoor activities including fishing, boating on the local lakes, and enjoying community events. Be ready for humidity and occasional thunderstorms.
Fall (September to November) showcases beautiful foliage as leaves change colors. Temperatures begin to cool, averaging from the mid-50s to mid-70s °F in early fall. This is an excellent time for photography and enjoying local harvest festivals.
Winter (December to February) in Merrill can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Expect snowfall and opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowmobiling. The community embraces the season with winter festivals and holiday events.
Merrill at Night
Hiking in Merrill
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of scenic trails located near Merrill, perfect for hiking, walking, and enjoying nature.
This state park features over 5 miles of well-maintained hiking trails along the Wisconsin River, along with beautiful picnic areas.
A peaceful park nearby with several trails for hiking, surrounded by forested areas and wildlife.
Offers hiking trails with views of the lake, suitable for hiking and nature observations.
A lesser-known spot with beautiful trails ideal for a quiet hike and exploring local flora and fauna.
Aiports
How to reach Merrill by plane.
Located approximately 100 miles south of Merrill, this airport is one of the largest and busiest in the United States, serving as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
About 150 miles northwest of Merrill, MSP is a major airport serving the Twin Cities area, offering a wide range of domestic and international services.
Located about 90 miles southeast of Merrill in Milwaukee, this airport provides multiple domestic and some international flights.
Approximately 70 miles northeast of Merrill, this airport serves northeastern Wisconsin, with various domestic flights and limited international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest racial demographic group in Merrill, comprising a significant majority of the population.
A growing demographic group in Merrill, representing a diverse mix of cultural backgrounds.
A smaller but important demographic group that contributes to the cultural diversity of Merrill.
An emerging demographic group in Merrill, including various nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
A historical demographic group in the area with deep cultural roots in the region.
Includes individuals from various racial and ethnic backgrounds not specifically categorized.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular summer sport, often played in local leagues and with community teams.
Widely played at the high school level and supported by local fans, especially in the fall.
Popular among youth and adults alike, with many recreational leagues and school teams.
Gaining popularity in recent years, with increasing participation among youth.
A traditional sport in many northern communities, with local youth and adult leagues.
Played in schools and local clubs, especially popular during the summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Merrill.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Merrill offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, including flavorful plant-based dishes and creative meatless alternatives.
Several eateries in Merrill cater to gluten-free diets, providing options such as gluten-free pasta, sandwiches on gluten-free bread, and specially prepared salads and entrees.