Things To Do
In Town
Downtown Spring Green is worth a wander. Start at Arcadia Books, an independent bookstore and cafe with a well-chosen selection of new releases, classics, and just about everything in between, plus coffee and a good spot to sit and read. From there, downtown has a handful of local shops, galleries, and restaurants within easy walking distance.
The Outdoors
The Driftless Area around Aldebaran is made for spending time outside. Here are a few of our favorite spots, all within a short drive:
Hiking
Tower Hill State Park is close by and has trails leading up to the old Shot Tower, with views over the Wisconsin River bluffs. Governor Dodge State Park, one of the state's largest, has nearly 40 miles of trails winding past two lakes and a waterfall at Stephens Falls. White Mound County Park, the largest park in Sauk County, has an easy lakeside trail that's good for families. Devil's Lake State Park is a bit further out but worth the drive, with quartzite bluffs rising above the water.
Biking
A marked bike route runs from Hillside School to Dodgeville, connecting to the Military Ridge State Trail, which passes near Governor Dodge for those who want to make a longer day of it.
Kayaking & Canoeing
The Wisconsin River is typically slow-moving and gentle, with no rapids along its length, so it suits paddlers of any experience level. A couple of local outfitters handle rentals and shuttle service, so you don't need to bring your own boat: Wisconsin Canoe Company and Wisconsin Riverside Resort, both based in Spring Green.
Tubing
The same outfitters rent tubes for a slower float down the river, if you'd rather drift than paddle.
Fishing
The river holds a good number of gamefish and panfish, including smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike. If you'd rather go with a guide than fish on your own, Round River Adventures and Black Earth Angling Co. both run guided trips on the Lower Wisconsin River nearby. Everyone fishing needs a Wisconsin fishing license, available online through the DNR's Go Wild portal.
Architecture & Theater
Aldebaran sits just down the road from Taliesin, Frank Lloyd Wright's home and estate, and it's an easy walk or short drive from the farm. Tickets sell out during peak season, so we recommend booking ahead.
The American Players Theatre is also nearby. Its outdoor amphitheater is set on 110 acres of woods and meadows and runs its season from June through November. Many guests picnic on the grounds before a show. You can order a picnic in advance through APT's Hubbard Avenue Diner (by 4pm the day before your show), or pick something up in town.