The Ultimate Hodag Hunting Guide: Photo Ops, Souvenirs & Folklore

Welcome to Rhinelander, home of the legendary Hodag! Whether you’re a curious first-time visitor or a long-time fan of our famous folklore, you’re in the right place to embark on a family-friendly adventure like no other. Use this ultimate Hodag hunting guide to discover where to snap the best pics, find quirky souvenirs, and dive into the mysterious lore that makes Rhinelander one of the most unique destinations in the Northwoods.

Say Cheese! Top Hodag Photo Ops

The Hodag is everywhere- you just need to know where to look. Keep your camera ready and make it your mission to find them all! Here are where you can find some unique hodags:

• The World’s Largest Hodag at the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce: This is the most iconic Hodag in town and your essential first stop. Pose with the statue and pick up some maps and info while you’re there.

• Downtown Rhinelander: Walk the streets to find colorful one-of-a-kind Hodag sculptures hiding near local shops and businesses.

• Pioneer Park Historical Complex: Check out the historic hodags inside of the museum complex and learn about Hodag history.

• Hodag Park: Snap a photo with the park sign, enjoy a picnic, or swim at the beach and keep your eyes out for hidden Hodags along the trails and playground. (Hint: you can find hodag in a mural painted on one of the buildings in the park.)

Don’t forget to pick up the hodag finder map while you’re at the Chamber of Commerce! Return to the Chamber with your map completed for a special hodag-themed prize. How many Hodags can you find?

Take a Hodag Home: Souvenir Spots

No Hodag hunt is complete without a keepsake (or three). Whether you’re shopping for yourself or picking up a gift, these stores have you covered:

• Downtown Boutiques and Shops: Find everything from Hodag apparel and artwork and plush Hodags.

• The Hodag Store: A local favorite with over 200 Hodag items—stickers, t-shirts, drinkware, keychains and so much more.

• Metro Screenprinting and Embroidery: Carries a wide selection of Hodag and Rhinelander apparel! Shirts, sweatshirts, hats and more.

• Happy the Hodag: Discover kids hodag books and coloring books, plush and other gear! Happy the Hodag items are sold online and also available in person at several retail spots in town- Pioneer Park Historical Complex, Mel’s Trading Post, and The Hodag Store.

View the full list of area businesses carrying Hodag/Rhinelander items here.

Uncover the Legend: Hodag Folklore 101

The story goes back to 1893, when local lumberman and prankster Eugene Shepard claimed to have discovered a terrifying beast in the woods near Rhinelander. He called it the Hodag—a fierce creature with horns, claws, and a spiked tail. While Shepard later admitted it was a hoax, the Hodag legend took on a life of its own.

Today, the Hodag isn’t just a tale—it’s a symbol of Rhinelander’s creativity, humor, and local pride. You’ll see it in everything from school mascots and business names to festivals and public art.

Hodag Hunt Pro Tips

Want to take your adventure to the next level? Here are some extra ideas to make the most of your Hodag-themed outing:

• Visit during Hodag Heritage Festival: If you’re visiting in May, don’t miss this annual celebration full of Hodag-themed fun, celebrating the Hodag’s history with entertainment, activities, vendors and more!

• Follow the Hodag on Social Media: @TheRealHodag.

• Book a stay at the House of Hodags, a Hodag-themed vacation rental owned by The Hodag Store.

• Try a Hodag-Themed Meal or Treat: Check out restaurants or coffee shops and you may discover Hodag-named menu items.

Start Your Hunt Today!

There’s no wrong way to go Hodag hunting. Whether you’re exploring as a family, snapping selfies with friends, or just curious about the legend, Rhinelander is ready to welcome you.
And remember—if you think you saw something green with horns peeking around a corner… you just might be right.