5 Things to do in Pepin WI – Nature-Inspired Wedding Venue Edition

Discovering the Allure of Nature in the Lake Pepin Area During a Wedding Weekend

You’ve chosen the natural beauty of Maidenwood Weddings & Events, nestled high in the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, for your special day. As you plan your celebration amidst our natural forest, sprawling gardens and breathtaking views, consider extending the magic beyond our 40-acre nature-inspired wedding venue and inviting your guests to explore the stunning jewel that lies just below: Lake Pepin.

Formed by the widening of the Mississippi River, Lake Pepin isn’t just a picturesque body of water; it’s a gateway to a region rich in natural beauty and charming lakeside towns. You and your guests will find yourselves immersed in the heart of the Driftless Area, a unique landscape thought to be untouched by the last glacial period. This has resulted in dramatic limestone bluffs, rolling hills, and deeply carved river valleys – a stark and beautiful contrast to the flatter terrain found elsewhere in the Midwest. The incredible bluffs that provide Maidenwood with its epic views are just the beginning of the stunning beauty around Lake Pepin.

For your guests looking to make the most of their wedding weekend, Lake Pepin offers a plethora of activities and sights. Here’s a glimpse into 5 things to do in Pepin WI and the adventures that await just a short drive from Maidenwood:

1. Dive into Water Adventures:

• Boating & Sailing: Lake Pepin is a haven for water enthusiasts. Numerous marinas and rental shops around the lake offer opportunities for leisurely boat rides, exhilarating sailing excursions, and even pontoon rentals perfect for group outings. Imagine a pre-wedding boat trip with your wedding party or guests enjoying the stunning shoreline from the water.
• Fishing: Anglers will find Lake Pepin teeming with walleye, sauger, northern pike, and catfish. Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or looking to cast a line for the first time, the lake offers ample opportunities for a relaxing day on the water. Local guides are also available for those seeking expert advice and the best fishing spots.
• Kayaking & Paddleboarding: For a more intimate experience with the lake, rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the calm bays and scenic shoreline at your own pace. It’s a fantastic way to soak in the natural beauty and enjoy some peaceful moments.

2. Hit the Road for Scenic Drives:

The roads surrounding Lake Pepin offer some of the most breathtaking drives in the Midwest. Wind along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, a designated route that hugs the Mississippi River, offering stunning vistas at every turn. Be sure to keep an eye out for designated overlooks and charming roadside stops.

Must-See Viewpoints:

• Maiden Rock Bluff (Maiden Rock, WI): Just a short drive from Maidenwood (and sharing a namesake!), Maiden Rock Bluff offers panoramic views of Lake Pepin and the surrounding Wisconsin and Minnesota landscapes. Legend has it that a young Dakota woman leaped to her death from this bluff rather than marry someone she didn’t love, adding a touch of local lore to the stunning scenery.
• Buena Vista Park (Alma, WI): Perched high above the Mississippi River in the charming town of Alma, Buena Vista Park provides arguably one of the most iconic views of the river valley and Lake Pepin stretching out below. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic and capturing unforgettable photos.
• Barn Bluff (Red Wing, MN): Located on the Minnesota side of the lake in the historic town of Red Wing, Barn Bluff offers a moderate hike to its summit, rewarding you with spectacular 360-degree views of the town, the Mississippi River, and Lake Pepin.
• Various Roadside Overlooks along the Great River Road: Keep an eye out for the numerous marked and unmarked overlooks along Highway 35 (Wisconsin side) and Highway 61 (Minnesota side). Each offers a unique perspective of the majestic river and lake.

3. Explore Charming Lakeside Towns:

Make time to wander through the delightful towns that dot the shores of Lake Pepin:

• Red Wing, MN: A historic river town with beautiful architecture, unique shops, and the iconic Pottery Place. Don’t miss a visit to the Red Wing Shoe Museum!
• Bay City, WI: A smaller, quaint town with a charming waterfront and local eateries.
• Maiden Rock, WI: Home to the dramatic bluff and offering a glimpse into local history and artisan shops.
• Stockholm, WI: Our very own charming village, known for its art galleries, unique boutiques, and delicious pie! Your guests staying in local Airbnbs will find it a delightful place to explore.
• Pepin, WI: The birthplace of author Laura Ingalls Wilder. Pepin offers a picturesque harbor, local museums, and a laid-back lakeside vibe.

4. Sample Food along Wisconsin Foodie Trail:

Check out any or all of these 13 Must Stops along Lake Pepin for Extraordinary Foodie Experiences to get the full experience of the West Coast of Wisconsin. Don’t forget our local pie shop, Stockholm Pie and General Store that was voted #1 Pie in America by US Today. Our nature-inspired wedding venue is surrounded by so much more so that you don’t have to come only for the wedding, stay for a whole weekend or for a week. 

5. Extend the Celebration:

Encourage your wedding guests to arrive early or stay a little longer to experience the natural beauty and charm of the Lake Pepin region. Provide them with a list of these recommendations in your wedding welcome bags or on your wedding website. We have a list of local vacation rentals, some that will sleep 15-20 guest, we can provide and one of our favorites, Stockholm Haus (Pictured above), is a destination by itself. By highlighting the attractions beyond Maidenwood, you’re not just hosting a wedding; you’re offering an unforgettable weekend experience in a truly special corner of Wisconsin. Let the adventure begin!

Ready to find your dream Nature-Inspired Wedding Venue in Pepin WI area? Contact us today to schedule a tour of Maidenwood. 2026 dates are filling up quickly, so don’t miss your chance to create a wedding that’s as unforgettable as the season itself. We really hope you find time to enjoy 5 things to do in Pepin WI.

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Photos Credits: The West Coast of Wisconsin / Stockholm WI / Stockholm Haus

 

5 Things to Do in Pepin WI: We are dedicated to using our platform to support locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include 5 to 10 locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.

 

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