Here we go
After a nearly two month long process, we want to formally welcome you to the results of the 1st Annual Best of the River Valley reader poll for the Spring Green area!
Drawing inspiration from cities like Eau Claire, Madison and Milwaukee, we were excited to facilitate this reader poll that showcases the community’s voice in sharing the best of what our area has to offer to our community and those who visit it.
Let’s get into the nitty gritty. Only the date range of June 2020 – May 2021 was considered for the poll. Exceptions were given to COVID-cancelled events that are annual and due to return. Residents could only vote once, popular write-ins were added to the poll, most of the categories were limited to the Valley (Arena, Lone Rock, Plain and Spring Green), with some exceptions. The greater area was included, more or less 15-20 miles around the Valley. There were questions that specifically stated they were regional, and others where all of Sauk, Iowa and Richland counties were included where otherwise the answers would be over-limiting.
Over nearly two months, through weeks of nominations and almost a month of polls being open, hundreds of you voted on your community favorites for 2021. There were upsets, there were certainties and there were ties. Online exclusive editorial content including editors’ picks, honorable mentions and more are available exclusively online below.
Best of the River Valley is not only a complement to existing guides that help community members and newcomers alike navigate our area, but also a place to share where you believe the area is headed, what the area needs to focus on, and also a place to brag about your business or your favorite Old Fashioned, with a healthy competitive spirit.
So we created categories and questions we felt represented a good cross section of the community, its services and where it’s going. We hope it is thought-provoking and leads to not only celebration, but also new experiences and constructive conversations about what’s next for the community.
Throughout the Best of the River Valley process we talked to dozens of businesses and residents, and a familiar sentiment kept coming up: if you know, you know.
So that’s our 2021 Best of the River Valley theme: if you know, you know. However, it’s not our goal to reinforce that, it’s our goal to break those walls down — hence the wrecking ball above. We can’t count the amount of times even many locals hadn’t heard of the cool stuff (it’s a technical term), events, things and places that exist in the Valley, but those that know, know.
But it’s time to share and we can’t thank all those that did enough! That sharing of cool stuff, events, things and places is why we’ll be listing not only the winners, but all of the nominations here, it’s why we’re doing some editors’ picks and honorable mentions — so everyone can go out and try new things — and maybe you’ll have a brand new favorite next year?
Ultimately, this is YOUR poll, YOU decided the winners.
And here they are —
OUTDOORS & LEISURE
Best Body of Water For Recreation
We’re called the Valley for a reason, and what better body of water to win than the body of water that created the Valley? As COVID drove people to the outdoors in record numbers in recent memory, people are looking for more and better ways to engage with our protected Lower Wisconsin Riverway. For now, we suggest a local canoe or kayak rental. The Valley has several great options.
Central Boat Launch Address: Peck’s Landing, S13608 WI-23, Spring Green, WI 53588
DNR Lower Wisconsin Riverway Phone Number: 608-588-7723
Website: www.dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/lands/lowerwisconsin/info
Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913
Phone Number: 608-356-8301
Website: www.dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/devilslake
Website: www.dnr.wi.gov/lakes/lakepages/LakeDetail.aspx?wbic=1260600
Other nominees: Goofy’s Mud Hole/Helena Slough/Goofy’s Slough, White Mound Lake, Bakken’s Pond, Blackhawk Lake (Highland), Cox Hollow Lake/Twin Valley Lake (Gov. Dodge State Park), Liza’s Lagoon (Wisconsin Riverside Resort), Pine River
Best Campground
Who doesn’t like sitting around a fire and making s’mores? We’re only surprised no one nominated the generic “a sandbar on the river” — well there’s always next year!
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Address: 2025 Co Hwy BH, Highland, WI 53543
Phone Number: 608-623-2707
Website: www.blackhawklake.com
Address: 4175 State Road 23 N, Dodgeville, WI 53533
Phone Number: 608-935-2315
Website: www.dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/govdodge/recreation/camping
Other nominees: Trader’s Island Campground, Tower Hill State Park, White Mound Campground, Fireside Campground
Best Golf Course
Address: 400 Springs Dr, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7000
Website: www.thehouseontherock.com/visit-stay/golf/
Address: 7899 US-151, Barneveld, WI 53507
Phone Number: 608-924-3033
Website: www.deervalleylodgeandgolf.com
Address: Hwy 23 & Hoxie Street Spring Green, WI 53588
Website: www.vi.springgreen.wi.gov
Other nominees: Westbrook Hills Golf Course – Village of Plain, Quail Run (Richland Center)
Best Place to Get Fit
Address: 136 N Lexington St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-0189
Website: www.rvlexfit.com
Address: Angelo Lane, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-266-0394
Website: https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Lands/naturalareas/index.asp?SNA=102
Central Boat Launch Address: Peck’s Landing, S13608 WI-23, Spring Green, WI 53588
DNR Lower Wisconsin Riverway Phone Number: 608-588-7723
Website: www.dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/lands/lowerwisconsin/info
Other nominees: Mix It Up Fitness (Mazomanie), The fitness center & pool at Spring Valley Inn, Prairie Fire Yoga (Prairie du Sac), Zefit Sauk Prairie, Emily Benz Yoga, Moxie Fit, Devils Lake, Anytime Fitness, Walking the beautiful back roads, Richland to Lone Rock Bike Path
Best Sledding Hill
Does anyone have a name for the nominee that got third place? That hill narrowly edged out Tom Limmex’s hill. Also, does Tom mind? Does Tom know everyone is using his hill? Someone tell him so he can start selling hot cocoa.
Address: Below the 4th and 5th hole, Hwy 23 & Hoxie Street, Spring Green, WI 53588
Website: www.vi.springgreen.wi.gov
Address: 1240 Nachreiner Ave, Plain WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-2482
Website: www.stlukecatholicchurchplain.com/
Address: Hudson Road, Beckman Road, Mazomanie, WI 53560
Other nominees: Tom Limmex’s hill, Bear Vale, Hunter Cabin
Best Trail – Hiking/Biking
We may have made a faux pas by combining hiking and biking, but it led to some great nominations. Check ahead at each to see if they allow bikes or only foot traffic. Perhaps next year we’ll split them into two categories? But you really can’t beat the climb up to the bluffs at the Spring Green Preserve.
Address: Angelo Lane, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-266-0394
Website: https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Lands/naturalareas/index.asp?SNA=102
Address: 4175 WI-23, Dodgeville, WI 53533
Phone Number: 608-266-0394
Website: www.dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/govdodge/pdfs/govdparkmap.pdf
Headquarters Address: Cross Plains, WI 53528
Website: www.iceagetrail.org
Other nominees: Walking Iron County Park (Mazomanie), White Mound County Park, Tower Hill State Park, Welsh Hills Trail (Taliesin), Military Ridge Trail, Ferry Bluff State Natural Area, Governor Dodge, Natural Bridge State Park, Richland Center to Lone Rock trail
ARTS & CULTURE
Best Free Entertainment Option
As the pandemic wanes, the great music scene is coming out in full force in the Spring Green area. It’s no surprise that the Thursday evening Local Nights are the winner here. Held at the Post House Garden and organized and fed by The Shed, they’re a must attend every warm season.
Address: The Shed/Post House Garden, 123 N Lexington Street, 119 E Jefferson Street, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-9049
Website: www.facebook.com/TheShed2004
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Address: 137 South Albany St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7070
Website: www.springgreengeneralstore.com
Other nominees: Bakken’s Pond, Witwen Concerts
Best Holiday/Seasonal Event
Cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID, the Spring Green Arts and Crafts fair is a local favorite with enduring popularity that brings thousands to downtown Spring Green the last week of June each year. Narrowly missing the top three was Spring Green Country Christmas. We’re all missing the sleigh rides, community fires and s’mores. Christmas in July anyone?
Address: 101 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7398
Website: www.springgreenartfair.com
Address: Lone Rock, WI
Website: www.facebook.com/Lone-Rock-4th-of-July-1584886141787064/about/?ref=page_internal
Address: 660 Daley St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2556
Website: www.rvschools.org
Not everyone sees the intersection of agriculture, art and fermentation — enter the Wormfarm Institute, a nonprofit organization in Sauk County, Wisconsin “working to build a sustainable future for agriculture and the arts by fostering links between people and the land.” In 2021 Plain is playing host to a Wormfarm Institute “Test Plot” as research for the 2022 Farm/Art DTour. Wormfarm says: “This experimentation leads to new discoveries, builds community friendships, and sparks conviviality & joy.”
Website: www.fermentationfest.com
Other nominees: BobFest, Mary Jones Fireworks, Strassenfest, Spring Green Country Christmas, Fermentation Fest, Spring Green Community Church Cookie Walk and Craft Fair, Fall Art Tour, Holidays in Highland, Smoke in the Valley/Prem Meats
Best Local Play/Musical (specific production)
A tough year for the arts, musicals still prevailed. After largely cancelling their regular season, APT came back fall and winter with Zoom productions and play readings ahead of a summer 2021 season. River Valley High School was able to hold their annual musical, wearing masks, performing for a limited audience and offering a recording for purchase.
Phone Number: 608-588-2556
Website: www.rvschools.org
Phone Number: 608-588-2361
Website: www.americanplayers.org
Phone Number: 608-588-2361
Website: www.americanplayers.org
Best Regional Music Festival
When envisioning this question, 4PeteSake’s Day in the Park wasn’t originally what we had in mind, but what better event is there than one that brings the community together for a good cause? The Spring Green area and Sauk, Richland and Iowa counties have a depth of musical events, but no other event brings the area together quite like 4PeteSake.
Address: Spring Green, WI 53588
Website: www.facebook.com/4petesakesg
Address: 137 South Albany Street Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7070
Website: www.springgreengeneralstore.com
Address: 137 South Albany St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7070
Website: www.springgreengeneralstore.com
Though technically out of our immediate coverage area, but still within Richland County, everything the Driftless Music Gardens in Yuba has been doing, and has done recently to provide music safely during a pandemic to those that seek it, is nothing short of amazing. Standing out is the Bonfire Music & Arts Festival, which very narrowly missed placing.
Website: www.driftlessmusicgardens.com
Other nominees: Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society, Bonfire Music & Arts Festival (Driftless Music Gardens – Yuba)
Best Mural
Despite healthy competition from E.LEE’s ‘Center Stage’ on the side of the Gard Theater downtown, the collaborative Nick Ringelstetter/various artists live art/graffiti/Atomic7 mural on the side of the Spring Green General Store wasn’t a surprise win. Now can anyone tell us if there’s a shorter name for it? Spring Green General Store, any nicknames for the wall?
We hear there’s going to be competition from Slowpoke Lounge next year on a jazz mural!
Address: 137 South Albany Street Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7070
Website: www.springgreengeneralstore.com
Address: Lexington Street, Spring Green, WI 53588
Best Local Visual Artist (Illustration/Painting/Sculpture, etc.)
One of the most nominated questions, the amount of choices didn’t even begin to list all of the many amazing artists in the area. This question may grow and change as the years go on to showcase the various mediums of art. For now, the field was huge and Nick Ringelstetter, of Atomic 7 Studio, came out on top.
Address: E3493 US HWY 14 and 60, Spring Green, WI 53588
Website: https://atomic7studio.com
Address: S12027 Co Rd C, Spring Green, WI 53588
Website: www.suejohnsonfineart.com
Address: 355 S Winsted St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7718
Website: www.galleryarton23.com
Other nominees: Jen Salt, Linda Kellen, Vicky Lilla, Paula Barta, Leah Griffith Boyce, Paula Schiller, Charles Munch, Ashley Pfannenstiel, Kim Russell, Hillary Patzner-Gratz, Wilson Creek Pottery
Best Art Gallery
Address: 355 S Winsted St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7718
Website: www.galleryarton23.com
Address: 120 South Albany St Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-358-5524
Website: www.facebook.com/gallerytea
Address: 159 N Lexington St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-239-5974
Website: www.alfredarttowear.com/index.html
Other nominees: Arts Lab, Paula C. Schiller Art Studio and Gallery, Sue Johnson, Red Door Richland Center
Best Local Musician/Band
Another huge field, many of these artists are regulars at The Shed’s Local Night at the Post House Garden and on the River Stage at Shifflets Bar & Riverside Grille at the Wisconsin Riverside Resort and more.
Address: Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-5683
Website: www.facebook.com/jannajohnson123/
Website: www.jakeomusic.com/
Address: Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.facebook.com/groups/938769379802885
Other nominees: Middle West, Camela Widad, Better Daze, Charles Boheme/Boheme 66, Solstice Jazz, Don Greenwood, The Michael Mikrut Band, Hard Tellin’ Band, Hank Dedrick, Wurk, Screamin’ Gene and The Lake Louie Growlers, Ukulele Band at Beatlefest
Best Local Author
Website: https://www.jamesdevita.com
Website: www.kathysteffen.com/index.html
Other nominees: Sara Rath, Doris Green, Lori Wick
Best Music Venue
Address: 506 E Madison St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-520-0605
Website: https://shittybarnsessions.com/
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Address: 119 E Jefferson Street, Spring Green, WI 53588
Other nominees: Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret, Hillside Theater (Taliesin)
Best Photographer
Address: E6420 Co Rd B, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-574-1767
Website: https://thecopperantler.com/
Website:https://www.mollyducharmephotography.com/
Other nominees: Josh Thompson/Driftless Hills Photography, Rob Steffen, Cindy Hollenberger/Cindy H Photography, Mike Lawler/Lawler Photography (Mazomanie), Nicole Silvers Photography (Muscoda), Brittney Brent Design, Jolean Lewis, Kelsey Feller/ Kelsey Jean Feller Photography, Sydney Clarson / Bakken Company,
NOMS & NIGHTLIFE
Best Food Event
Address: E5028 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: (608) 588-2164
Website: www.premmeats.com
Address: 123 N Lexington St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-9049
Website: www.facebook.com/TheShed2004/
Address: 242 N Lexington St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-4226
Website: www.facebook.com/WhiteSchoolCollective/
Other nominees: Strassenfest, Taliesin Farm Dinner Series, Pizza on 14 – The Shoppe at Herbs Spices & More, Morel Mushroom Festival (Muscoda)
Best Appetizer (location and item)
A big upset in the Valley as extended-area restaurant Bob’s Bitchin’ BBQ in Dodgeville takes the top spot with their deep fried cheese curds. Take from this win what you will, shot across the bow duly noted Dodgeville. Let’s hope for a win from the Valley proper next year.
Address: 167 N Iowa St Dodgeville, WI 53533
Phone Number: 608-930-2227
Website: www.bobsbitchinbbq.com
Address: 234 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: (608) 583-0112
Website: www.lonerockbistro.com
Address: 320 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: (608) 583-2625
Website: www.facebook.com/thewoods6/?ref=page_internal
For a new restaurant, Lone Rock Bistro and Taproom is pulling punches and has quite the following already. Lone Rock Bistro appetizer choices alone received nearly 31% of the vote for Best Appetizer. We’ve had a chance to sample many of the appetizers from Lone Rock Bistro and the crab rangoon stands out among the others.
Website: www.lonerockbistro.com
Other nominees: Cheese Fries – Rumbleseats, Crab Rangoon & Cheesecurds – Lone Rock Bistro and Taproom, Fondue – 400 Springs Restaurant, Cozy Fries – Vickis Cozy Cafe, Deep Fried Pickles – Bob’s Bitchin’ BBQ
Best Bakery
Sidney bakes, what more can we say? Although the scuffins are a favorite at Paper Crane in Arcadia Books, don’t sleep on the purple ube cookies.
Address: Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-5114
Website: www.sidneybakes.com
Address: 154 N Iowa St, Dodgeville, WI 53533
Phone Number: 608-935-3812
Website: qualitybakerydodgeville.com
Address: 102 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-935-2315
Website: www.facebook.com/kitchenatArcadia/?ref=page_internal
Other nominees: Mazo Grind (Mazomanie), Nectar Bakery, The Shoppe at Herbs Spices & More, Fondue 400 Springs Restaurant
Best Place to Get Coffee
Butternut Road was fast to become a community and regional favorite and surprises no one with this much deserved win. Notable for Brewhaha Roaster’s number three spot: based on out most current understanding, both Butternut and The Paper Crane at Arcadia Books use Brewhaha coffee! So does Mazo Grind! So that certainly gives Brewhaha an honorable mention.
Now the real question is, where can we get a cup of coffee after 5pm in Spring Green?!
Address: Spring Green, WI 53588
Website: www.butternutroadcoffee.com
Address: 102 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Website: www.facebook.com/kitchenatArcadia/?ref=page_internal
Address: 4175 State Road 23 N, Dodgeville, WI 53533
Phone Number: 608-616-9994
Website: www.brewhaharoasters.com
Other nominees: Convivio, Mazo Grind (Mazomanie), Spring Green General Store, Kwik Trip, Kelly’s Coffee (Richland Center)
Best Breakfast/Brunch Spot
Easily one of the most important questions on here. Sign us up for brunch, mimosas and bloody mary’s!
Address: 400 Springs Dr, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-0140
Website: www.400springs.business.site/
Address: 137 South Albany St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: (608) 588-7070
Website: www.springgreengeneralstore.com
Address: 214 US-14, Arena, WI 53503
Phone Number: 608-753-2025
Website: www.facebook.com/shaqirirestaurants
Other nominees: Grandma Mary’s, Traders Bar and Grill, The Woods, Lone Rock Bistro and Taproom, Vickis Cozy Cafe, Bestsys
Best Friday Fish Fry
Address: 1240 Nachreiner Avenue Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-2482
Website: www.stlukecatholicchurchplain.com
Address: E5028 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2164
Website: www.premmeats.com
Address: 234 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: 608-583-0112
Website: www.lonerockbistro.com
Other nominees: Arthur’s Supper Club, I-Diehl Tap, Traders Bar and Grill, The Woods, The Shed, Shifflet’s Bar & Riverside Grille – Wisconsin Riverside Resort, Anita’s Cafe, Villa Tap – Hillpoint, Logan’s Hero Loganville, Rookies – Black Earth, Red Zone – Highland, Vickis Cozy Cafe, Bootleggers – Highland
Best Burger (location and item)
Burger, Baron Brooks. Just Burger? Does it have a name? What comes on it? We have so many questions.
Address: 122 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2882
Website: www.facebook.com/Baron-Brooks-111662665538318/
Address: 950 Alma Ave, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-9231
Website: www.facebook.com/pages/Ring’s%20Bar/117511444976792/
Address: 600 Water St, Sauk City, WI 53583
Phone Number: (608) 370-8200
Website: www.vintagebrewingcompany.com/saukprairie/
Other nominees: Double Cheeseburger – Culver’s, Harley Burger – I-Diehl Tap, The Shed – The Shed, Rodeo Burger – The Woods, Terry Burger – Traders Bar and Grill, Crispy Burger & Mushroom and Swiss – Lone Rock Bistro and Taproom, Stinky Burger – Shifflet’s Bar & Riverside Grille/Wisconsin Riverside Resort, George Burger – Betsys, Highland, Happy threesome – Vickis Cozy Cafe, Bacon cheeseburger – Gordon’s
Best Wings (restaurant/bar)
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Address: 10267 US-14, Mazomanie, WI 53560
Phone Number: 844-464-7942
Website: www.rookiesfood.com
Address: 320 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: (608) 583-2625
Website: www.facebook.com/thewoods6/
Other nominees: Traders Bar and Grill, Lone Rock Bistro and Taproom
Best Food Truck/Food Pop-up
Another extended area upset, with Jose’s Authentic Mexican Restaurant’s food truck out of Baraboo taking the win. Jose’s is a welcome visiting staple to the area, always sure to work with local businesses and positively engage with the community. Honorable mention goes to new pop-up Rub-in the Bonez BBQ, started by a group of friends wanting to share their passion for BBQ and smoked meats.
Address: 825 8th St, Baraboo, WI 53913
Phone Number: 608-448-2162
Website: josesauthenticmexicanrestaurant.com
Address: Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-623-2707
Website: www.butternutroadcoffee.com
Address: E4782 Kennedy Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-459-5700
Website: www.enosfarms.com
Other nominees: Vesperman Farms ice cream truck, Rub’in the Bonez BBQ
Best Regional Beer (brewery/specific brew)
Not a surprise here, Spotted Cow is a statewide favorite. With Lake Louie now brewed in Verona, perhaps the Valley will be home to some local brews again to challenge Spotted Cow by this time next year?
Address: 2400 WI-69, New Glarus, WI 53574
Phone Number: 608-527-5850
Address: 7556 Pine Rd, Arena, WI 53503
Phone Number: 608-753-2675
Website: www.lakelouie.com
Address: 320 Pierce St., Black River Falls, WI 54615
Phone Number: 715-284-7553
Website: www.furthermorebeer.com/our-beer/fatty-boombalatty
Other nominees: Proper – Furthermore Beer, Pop. 834 – Lake Louie
Best New Restaurant
Another no surprise here, there were new pop-ups and new endeavors, but other than a scattering, Lone Rock Bistro was the only verifiably new restaurant in the Valley in a year shaped by COVID. But what an entry into the Valley it has been, becoming a fast favorite and lending itself to the revitalization of downtown Lone Rock. Anyone down for a Woods, Bistro, Keg & Kettle bar crawl?
Address: 234 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: 608-583-0112
Website: www.lonerockbistro.com
Other nominees: Betsys in Highland
Best Outdoor Dining
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Address: 123 N Lexington St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-9049
Website: www.facebook.com/TheShed2004
Address: 242 N Lexington St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-4226
Website: www.facebook.com/WhiteSchoolCollective
Other nominees: Traders Bar and Grill
Best Pizza (restaurant/bar)
It’s shaping up to be a busy year in upscale pizza dining, with at least a couple new coming ready to challenge these staples in the next year. But for now, Tuesday nights are for Pizza on 14 at Herbs, Spices & More, Friday nights are for White School Collective pizza parties and The Woods is for every night in between!
(And Site 12 at Tower Hill is for when you want to make your own pizza in the woods.)
Address: 7352 US-14, Arena, WI 53503
Phone Number: 833-486-5160
Website: www.herbsspicesandmore.com
Address: 242 N Lexington St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-4226
Website: www.facebook.com/WhiteSchoolCollective
Address: 320 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: 608-583-2625
Website: www.facebook.com/thewoods6/
Other nominees: Rookies (Mazomanie), Riviera Bowl & Pizzeria (Sauk City), Site 12 – Tower Hill (make your own), Hyde Store, Shifflet’s Bar & Riverside Grille, Wisconsin Riverside Resort, Traders Bar and Grill, Logan’s Heros Loganville, Tower Junction, Mazo Grind, The Shed
Best Place for Dancing
Are we allowed to call it Shitty Barn? Why not. The Shitty Barn Sessions are something special. Gone last year due to COVID, Shitty Barn is ready to make a comeback in 2021. Known for it’s intimate setting with good music and good drinks, all we can say is, “see you at the Barn!”
Address: 506 E Madison St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-520-0605
Website: www.shittybarnsessions.com
Address: 104 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: 608-583-0107
Website: www.facebook.com/LoneRockBar
Address: E4885 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2521
Website: www.arthurssupperclub.com
Other nominees: Traders Bar and Grill, Local Night at The Shed
Best Bar
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Address: 400 Main, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: (608) 546-2323
Website: www.facebook.com/I-Diehl-Tap-LLC-140379049368109/
Address: 122 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2882
Website: www.facebook.com/Baron-Brooks-111662665538318/
Other nominees: Pat’s Place, Spring Valley Inn, Slowpoke Lounge and Cabaret, Traders Bar and Grill, The Shed, Lone Rock Bistro and Taproom, Keg & Kettle, The Barstool, Highland, Mid Town Pub, The Gym
Best Old Fashioned
Arguably the most important question, Arthur’s comes out on top with a Wisconsin favorite. Not to be ignored is Slowpoke’s craft old fashioned, which could be a solid contender in the future. The real question is, brandy or whisky?
(There is a wrong answer, this is Wisconsin.)
Address: E4885 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2521
Website: www.arthurssupperclub.com
Address: 234 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: 608-583-0112
Website: www.lonerockbistro.com
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Other nominees: Pat’s Place, Spring Valley Inn, Slowpoke Lounge and Cabaret, Ring’s Bar, Trader’s Bar & Grill, Dorf Hause, The Shed
Best Subs/Sandwiches (anything between 2 pieces of bread that’s not a burger)
Address: 137 South Albany St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7070
Website: www.springgreengeneralstore.com
Address: 5006 E Hwy 14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-9333
Website: www.subway.com
Address: 300 Dalogasa Dr, Arena, WI 53503
Phone Number: 608-753-2727
Website: www.crappieshoptogo.com
Other nominees: The Paper Crane, Arcadia Books, Traders Bar and Grill, The Woods, Baron Brooks, Lone Rock Bistro and Taproom, Shifflet’s Bar & Riverside Grille,Wisconsin Riverside Resort, The Shed, Rookies, The Mazo Grind
Best Restaurant
Another upset from outside the Valley proper, with Bob’s taking best restaurant — and it wasn’t even close. Valley residents had varied interests and a lot of nominees, but Bob’s was the clear winner.
Address: 167 N Iowa St, Dodgeville, WI 53533
Phone Number: 608-930-2227
Website: www.bobsbitchinbbq.com
Address: 234 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: 608-583-0112
Website: www.lonerockbistro.com
Address: 320 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: (608) 583-2625
Website: www.facebook.com/thewoods6/
Other nominees: Culver’s, Traders Bar and Grill, Arthur’s Supper Club, 400 Springs Restaurant, Rumbleseats, Riverview Terrace Cafe, The Shed, Spring Green General Store, Vickis Cozy Cafe, Shifflets Bar & Riverside Grille
Best Wedding Venue
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Address: 8637 Linley Rd, Arena, WI 53503
Phone Number: 608-795-4909
Website: www.sugarland-weddings.com
Address: E4350 Horseshoe Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: (608) 459-8051
Website: www.theoctagonbarn.com
Other nominees: Hilltop, Trader’s Island, White Oak Savanna,
Best Regional Supper Club
The biggest upset of the poll, with two extended area supper clubs beating out the Valley’s own Arthur’s.
Address: 7487 WI-78 Trunk, Sauk City, WI 53583
Phone Number: 608-643-2305
Website: www.greenacressaukprairie.com
Address: 6900 Co Rd HHH, Ridgeway, WI 53582
Phone Number: 608-924-2819
Website: www.hipointsteakhouse.com
Address: E4885 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: (608) 588-2521
Website: www.arthurssupperclub.com
Other nominees: Driftless Glen Distillery, Dorf Haus Supper Club, Ishnala Supper Club
Best Steak (restaurant/bar)
Arthur’s comes roaring back with Best Steak, beating out even the Arena VFW Steak feed known to fill Willow Street up and down with eager patrons from around the Valley. “Excalibur?” “No, I take it medium rare.”
Address: E4885 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2521
Website: www.arthurssupperclub.com
Address: 320 S Oak St, Lone Rock, WI 53556
Phone Number: 608-583-2625
Website: www.facebook.com/thewoods6
Address: 514 Willow Street Arena, WI 53503
Phone Number: 608-753-2225
Website: www.vfw.org
Other nominees: Traders Bar and Grill, 400 Springs Restaurant, Lone Rock Bistro, Hi Point Steakhouse, The Shed, Green Acres
Best Regional Winery
No surprise here, Wollersheim is a regional favorite. The real question, is hard cider a wine? Federal law says yes, state law says yes if it’s boozy and science says basically yes. Brix Cider, other than delightful, what are you? So we’ll say yes, you are a wine in this poll.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Address: 7876 WI-188, Prairie Du Sac, WI 53578
Phone Number: 608-643-6515
Website: www.wollersheim.com
Address: 16008 Pine Tree Rd, Highland, WI 53543
Phone Number: (608) 929-7692
Website: www.spurgeonvineyards.com
Address: 1065 Walnut St, Baraboo, WI 53913
Phone Number: 608-448-2958
Website: www.balancedrockwinery.com
Other nominees: Wild Hills Winery (Muscoda), Brix Cider (Mt. Horeb), Botham Vineyards & Winery (Barneveld)
OOT & ABOOT
Best Day Trip
Website: https://dnr.wi.gov/lakes/lakepages/LakeDetail.aspx?wbic=1260600
Address: 122 W. Washington Ave. Madison, WI 53703
Phone Number: 608-512-1343
Website: www.visitdowntownmadison.com
Website: https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Lands/naturalareas/index.asp?SNA=217
Other nominees: Viroqua, Wisconsin State Fair, Eau Claire, Sheboygan, Wisconsin River, La Crosse/Mississippi River Boat, Baraboo
Best Hotel
Ironically, none of hotels that placed or were nominated have ‘hotel’ in their name.
Address: E5296B US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2141
Website: www.springgreenmotel.net
Address: 400 Springs Dr, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7000
Website: www.thehouseontherock.com
Address: E4830 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2568
Website: www.roundbarnlodge.com
Other nominees: Spring Valley Inn, Usonian Inn
Best Public Park
Address: 4175 WI-23, Dodgeville, WI 53533
Phone Number: 608-935-2315
Website: www.dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/govdodge
Address: Daley Street, Spring Green, WI 53588
Address: 925 Park View Ave Plain, WI 53577
Other nominees: Arena Community Park, Rustic River Archery Club Park – Arena, Fireman’s Park – Lone Rock, Natural Bridge State Park, Tower Hill State Park, Kaul Park – Bear Valley, South Park – Spring Green, River Park – Muscoda
Best All-Ages Hangout
Central Boat Launch Address: Peck’s Landing, S13608 WI-23, Spring Green, WI 53588
DNR Lower Wisconsin Riverway Phone Number: 608-588-7723
Website: www.dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/lands/lowerwisconsin/info
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Address: Spring Green, WI 53588
Other nominees: High School Football Games, Paper Crane Coffee – Arcadia Books, Black Hawk Lake
Best Tourist Attraction
“Tourist attraction” doesn’t adequately sum up the amazing American Players Theatre (APT) and what they mean to this community. APT stands in a field all their own. In lieu of their own category, they earn this well-deserved award.
Address: 5950 Golf Course Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2361
Website: www.americanplayers.org
Address: 5754 State Road 23 Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-935-3639
Website: www.thehouseontherock.com
Central Boat Launch Address: Peck’s Landing, S13608 WI-23, Spring Green, WI 53588
DNR Lower Wisconsin Riverway Phone Number: 608-588-7723
Website: www.dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/lands/lowerwisconsin/info
Other nominees: Taliesin
Best/Most Beautiful Local Spot
Address: S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2826
Website: www.wiriverside.com
Website: www.dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/towerhill
Address: Pearl Road, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-266-0394
Website: www.dnr.wi.gov/topic/Lands/naturalareas/index.asp?SNA=102
Other nominees: Welsh Hills at Taliesin, Peck’s Landing, Wisconsin River, Cactus Bluff (in Ferry Bluff SNA), Unity Chapel, River Valley Area Community Gardens, Ferry Bluff, Looking up & down the river from any bridge at sunset
SHOPPING
Best Area Bookstore
Address: 102 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7638
Website: www.readinutopia.com
Address: 130 S Main St, Richland Center, WI 53581
Phone Number: 608-647-8826
Website: www.ocoochbooks.blogspot.com
Best Clothing Boutique
Address: 143 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2366
Website: www.ninas-department-variety-store.business.site
Address: 941 Fountain St Mineral Point, WI 53565
Phone Number: 608-987-3336
Website: www.facebook.com/BargainNook/?ref=page_internal
Address: 137 South Albany St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7070
Website: www.springgreengeneralstore.com
Other nominees: Alfred Art to Wear, The Pink Spot, Muscoda, Bailey’s, L.A.F
Best Gas Station (specific location)
Address: 1110 State St, Black Earth, WI 53515
Phone Number: 608-767-2475
Website: www.kwiktrip.com/locator/store?id=596
Address: 4905 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2465
Website: www.facebook.com/RiteWayPlaza
Address: 995 Wachter Ave, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-3900
Website: www.facebook.com/Plain-Kwik-Stop-153304251349793/?ref=page_internal
Other nominees: River Valley Mobil, Spring Green, Lone Stop Shell, Lone Rock, D&Z’s, Lone Rock, Arena Super Stop/BP, Arena, Jts highland, Gas N Go, Highland, Shell Gas Station – Plain, Insight fs spring green
Best Sporting Goods/Tackle Store
Address: 300 Dalogasa Dr, Arena, WI 53503
Phone Number: 608-753-2727
Website: www.crappieshoptogo.com
Address: 7345 US-14, Arena, WI 53503
Phone Number: 608-753-2022
Website: www.pappastradingpost.com
Other nominees: Kates Bait,Dodgeville, Driftless Angler
Best Place to get Groceries
Address: 171 S Worcester St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2155
Website: www.hometownspringgreen.com
Address: E5028 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: (608) 588-2164
Website: www.premmeats.com
Address: E5663 Co Rd B, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-3308
Website: www.ederers.doitbest.com
Other nominees: Hollandale Grocery, Benders, Muscoda, Dollar General, SG Farmers Market, Piggly Wiggly
Best Hardware Store
Address: 116 W Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2166
Website: www.doerrehardware.com
Address: E5663 Co Rd B, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-3308
Website: www.ederers.doitbest.com
Address: 17 W Commercial St, Mazomanie, WI 53560
Phone Number: 608-795-9919
Website: www.mazohardware.com
Other nominees: Tri County Building Supply
Best Place for Jewelry
Address: 150 W Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2134
Website: www.pamelasfinejewelry-sg.com
Address: 137 S Winsted St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-9317
Website: www.theopalman.com
Address: 101 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-322-9237
Website: www.alikaussadornment.com
Other nominees: Stella & Dot – Keep, Amanda Nabbefeld, No Rules Jewelry, Jay Walsh Jewelry Richland Center,
Best Cheese Factory
Address: 300 US-14, Arena, WI 53503
Phone Number: 608-753-2501
Website: www.arenacheese.com
Address: E5904 Mill Rd, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-5284
Website: www.cedargrovecheese.com
Address: S3797 County Road G La Valle, WI 53941
Phone Number: 608-985-8200
Website: www.carrvalleycheese.com
Other nominees: Meister Cheese (Muscoda), Mill Creek Cheese
Best Place to Buy Meat
Address: E5028 US-14, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2164
Website: www.premmeats.com
Address: 915 Alma Ave, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-3301
Website: www.strakameats.com
Address: 590 S Main St, Richland Center, WI 53581
Phone Number: 608-647-4577
Website: www.richlandlocker.com
Other nominees: Hometown Supermarket, Hollandale Grocery, Vendors at the Farmers Market
Best Shop for Gifts
Address: 137 South Albany St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7070
Website: www.springgreengeneralstore.com
Address: 143 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2366
Website: www.ninas-department-variety-store.business.site
Address: 1030 Wachter Ave, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-3500
Website: www.countrycrossroadsfloral.com
Other nominees: North Earth Gifts, Prairie Flowers & Gifts, Convivio, Arcadia Books, No Rules Gallery, Red Door Gallery Richland Center
SERVICES
Best Attorney
Address: 115 N Washington St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7100
Website: www.curranpfeillaw.com
Address: 150 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7776
Website: www.tomkellylaw.com
Address: 33 E Main St Suite 400, Madison, WI 53701
Phone Number: 608-257-0945
Website: www.hurleyburish.com
Other nominees: Patricia McKinney-Lins
Best Autobody Shop/Automotive Repair
Address: 127 Wood St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2320
Website: www.facebook.com/Georges-Auto-Body-1632909126972320/
Address: 319 N Winsted St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2444
Address: E4829 Highway 14 & 60, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7399
Website: www.ringbrothers.com
Other nominees: Four Way Auto, Ehlert Repair, Specialty Auto, Loren’s Repair, Nachreiner Auto Care, Lone Wolf Auto Repair, R&J Auto Body PdS, Dan’s Auto, Shawns Auto, R&R Richland Center
Best Bank/Credit Union
Address: 166 S Lexington St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7959
Website: www.thepeoplescommunitybank.com
Address: 152 S Worcester St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7787
Website: www.royalbank-usa.com
Address: 430 W Union St Suite 1, Richland Center, WI 53581
Phone Number: (608) 647-8835
Website: www.wccucreditunion.coop
Other nominees: Heritage Credit Union (Sauk City), State Bank of Cross Plains, BMO Harris Bank, Heartland, Community First, Summit Credit Union
Best Place to Get a Haircut
Address: 550 Sunrise Dr Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-212-2534
Website: www.bowdatioussalon.com
Address: 150 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-7449
Website: www.facebook.com/Style-Station-158066234205384/
Address: 1025 Main St, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-3400
Website: www.facebook.com/Changez-Salon-1313543025404056/?ref=page_internal
Other nominees: East 14 Salon (Black Earth), Infinity Salon (Cross Plains), Talullah Salon, Lucy’s Hair & Nail Salon, Top Notch (Muscoda), Inspired Innovations Salon, Rock Paper Shears, Shear Trendz Baraboo, A Touch Above. Dodgeville, Elite Hair and Wax Shop (Sauk City), Sally’s Hair Styling, Cost Cutters Richland Center, Simple Elegance, Richland Center, Laura’s House
Best Carpentry or Remodeling Company
Address: E5006 US-14 suite b Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-574-9555
Website: www.feinerconstruction.com
Address: 510 Main St, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-574-3607
Website: www.jasonschluterconstruction.com
Address: E5726 Jones Rd Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2669
Other nominees: S&D Builders, RV Roofing and Siding, Nate’s Home Improvements, Nate Meixelsperger, CMH, Ent, Michael Heard, John Jensen
Best Construction Company
Address: E5006 US-14 suite b Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-574-9555
Website: www.feinerconstruction.com
Address: 925 Park Ave, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-2411
Website: www.kraemerbrothers.com
Address: Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-574-4234
Other nominees: JF Building, LLC, CMH, Michael Heard, Radel
Best Dental Practice
Address: 240 W Jefferson St, Spring Green, WI 53588
Phone Number: 608-588-2122
Website: www.villagefamilydental.com
Address: 1260 Plainview Rd, Plain, WI 53577
Phone Number: 608-546-4441
Website: www.afdentalrv.com
Address: 1313 W Seminary St, Richland Center, WI 53581
Phone Number: 608-647-8868
Website: www.richlandfamilydds.com
Other nominees: Williams & Pearce Family Richland Center, Dodgeville Dental, EagleView Dental, Mineral Point Family Dentistry, Access Dental, Dodgeville,