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Lake, Town, Lake Welcome To McFarland
Founded in 1856 by William H. McFarland this Southern Wisconsin town along the eastern shore of Lake Waubesa was once a popular resort destination. McFarland's quaint historic downtown is also just minutes west of Lake Kegonsa.
Today, this lakeside community is now a thriving, underappreciated suburb of
Madison, welcome to McFarland.
(Pictured above is Skare Family Log Cabin photo courtesy of the McFarland Historical Society)
Like so many towns in Dane County, McFarland has seen explosive growth due to its' proximity to the state's second biggest economic engine, Madison. Despite the influx of new residents this town of almost 10,000 the downtown along Main Street has retained much of its' late 19th century character even with the addition of suburban type, housing development filling in nearby
farm lands east and south of town.
(Pictured above is a birds eye view of Main Street in downtown McFarland)
There are numerous, family-friendly attractions in and around McFarland making this Southern Wisconsin town truly double day trip worthy. The newer library with large children's section and the adjacent municipal swimming pool is a year-round destination for families,
daytrip worthy.
(Pictured above is McFarland Public Library photo courtesy of city of McFarland)
Places to visit on your Daytrip to McFarland
Over the years Lakes Edition journalists have covered attractions, places to eat, and
shops in McFarland and much more. Below are some of just a few of our favorites.
Please enjoy!
Have a place in McFarland you would like to recommend? Send us a line info@lakesedition.com
LOWER YAHARA RIVER TRAIL
4806 McDaniel Ln., McFarland, WI 53558
The Lower Yahara River Trailis a 2.5 mile stretch of boardwalk that connects the suburb of McFarland to Madison.an accessible fishing pier, rest stops, and observation areas with picturesque views. Careful consideration was made during construction to ensure Native American artifacts were not disturbed.
The Larson House Museum
6003 Exchange Street
Phone Number (608) 835-5572
This beautifully restored Queen Ann Style home is part of the Mcfarland Historical Society's diverse properties spread about the downtown area. Inside historic Larson House many exhibits portraying late 19th Century life in McFarland including historic photos.
(Photo provided courtesy of the County of Dane)
Skore Family Log Cabin
Norwegian Log Cabin and Farm Display at 5814 Main Street, and the Larson House Museum at 6003 Exchange Street are open to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1 to 4 pm from Memorial Day through September. Covid vaccinations are required for those 12 and up and masks are required for
McDaniel Beach
4806 McDaniel Lane
McFarland, WI, located on Lake Waubesa
Located on the western side of McFarland and the shoreline of Lake Waubesa. A pea gravel beach on the the northeast end of Lake Waubesa. Parking and restrooms available. No lifeguards on site. Note waterfowl may create conditions harmful to your health and could result in a temporary beach closing.
For more information call the park office at (608) 838-3153.
The McFarland Farmers' Market
4711 Farwell St - McFarland, WI 53558
The Best of Wisconsin Indoor Farmers Market of McFarland
takes place every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the McFarland Municipal Center, 5915 Milwaukee Street, through Dec. 17
Jump Start Your Day Trip Itinerary Visiting Our Southern Wisconsin Town Guides Day trip adventures are just a short drive away in Lakes Edition country.
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