Photo by Bob Mainhardt
Bmx Gold Cup Finals: Make the Most of Your Trip
In the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, Rhinelander welcomes visitors with small-town charm, outdoor fun, and plenty of local favorites. Whether you’re here for the BMX action or exploring between races, this guide will help you make the most of your visit—from great food and comfy stays to local attractions and group-friendly activities.
Where to Stay
Rhinelander offers a wide variety of places to stay just minutes from the track, making it easy for families, teams, and large groups to settle in and recharge. Choose from amenity-packed hotels, classic Northwoods resorts and cabins, or scenic campgrounds surrounded by fresh air and space to unwind.
Comfortable Hotels & Suites
- AmericInn
- Cobblestone Hotel & Suites
- Comfort Inn
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites
- Quality Inn
- Clarion Pointe Rhinelander Downtown
Lakeside Resorts & Cabin Stays
- Holiday Acres Resort on Lake Thompson
- Brekke’s Fireside Resort
- Clear Lake Inn and Resort
- Merry Dale Resort
Scenic Campgrounds
Visit our Lodging tab to view the full list of lodging options.
Places to Eat & Drink
From casual bites to sit-down dinners, Rhinelander has a variety of flavors to fuel your days. Here are just a few ideas:
- CT’s Deli – Great sandwiches, paninis, soups and more with outdoor seating available.
- Friendship House Family Restaurant – Classic American comfort food.
- Casa Mexicana Rhinelander – Tasty Mexican favorites, great for groups.
- Crimson Cafe – Diverse menu including fresh sandwiches and seasonal salads.
- Rhinelander Family Restaurant – A local favorite serving hearty breakfasts, classic lunches, and hearty dinners.
- Almond & Berry – Cozy gluten-free bakery and juice bar.
- Buckethead’s Sports Bar & Grill – Casual bar-and-grill fare with delicious burgers, sandwiches, and plenty of TV to watch a game.
- Kid’s Korner – Family-friendly dining with fresh made subs, pizzas and soups.
- The Pizza Haven – Made-from-scratch pizzas and classic Italian dishes, perfect for sharing.
- Tilly’s – Popular breakfast/lunch stop, focusing on organic and local ingredients and artisan coffee and tea.
- R&T’s “Not So” Dinky Diner – Serving breakfast all day, lunch, Friday fish fry and comfort food classics.
Attractions & Group-Friendly Activities
There’s plenty to do in between BMX events, whether you’re with family, friends, or a whole team.
See Local History
- Pioneer Park Historical Complex – Explore Rhinelander’s logging heritage, historic buildings, and exhibits in this 7-building complex.
- Hodag statues– The city celebrates its legendary mascot everywhere, perfect for quick photo ops and exploration. Pick up a Hodag Finder Map at the Chamber & Visitor Center to see if you can find them all!
- Stroll downtown to see landmarks like the Oneida County Courthouse. Step inside to take the historic self-guided walking tour and see the Tiffany-inspired glass dome.
Outdoors & Active Fun
- Hodag Park – Scenic park with a walking path, amphitheater and beach located along the shores of Boom Lake, great for group strolls and located right in town.
- Holmboe Conifer Forest – Old growth forest with towering trees, offering scenic views of the Pelican River. Located in the heart of town.
- Trails & Parks – Hike and explore at many other trail systems within the Rhinelander Area! Rhinelander is home to a variety of trails for different activities, varying in mileage, amenities, and terrain. Popular parks and trails nearby include Almon County Park, the Bearskin State Trail, and C.A.V.O.C. Trails to name a few. Click here for the full trails guide for Oneida County.
- The Hodag Dome – Rhinelander’s year-round indoor sports facility is the largest air supported high school dome in the country! The Dome has turf, sport courts, batting cages, golf simulators and space for a variety of athletic activities, making it a great option for active groups and families. Open turf time and day passes are available to the public- visit their website here for details and hours.
Shopping & More
- Downtown Brown Street is home to boutiques and specialty shops offering gifts, art, Northwoods gear, and souvenirs.
- Stop by the one-of-a-kind Hodag Store for hodag souvenirs, apparel and more. Featuring over 200 different Hodag items!
- Hodag Farmers’ Market at Pioneer Park (seasonal Saturdays) – Shop fresh local produce, baked goods, and crafts.
- Check out artwork and gallery displays at ArtStart and the Nicolet College Art Gallery.
- Enjoy a locally brewed beer or root beer at the Rhinelander Brewing Co. or unwind in a relaxing atmosphere at Catalyst Wine Bar.
- Local visitor resources, maps, and brochures are available at the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center.
From race day excitement to off-the-track adventures, Rhinelander offers plenty of ways to round out your BMX Gold Cup Finals experience. Slow down, explore, and enjoy everything that makes this community a great place to visit!
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