Nestled among farm fields in beautiful south central Wisconsin lies Cambridge – the lakeside village where the arts thrive

Full of charm and natural beauty with wonderful outdoor adventures, annual family fun events, quaint specialty shops, cozy and comfortable bed & breakfasts and a great cup of coffee. These are just of few of the experiences that made Cambridge one of the top “100 Best Small Town Getaways” by Midwest Living Magazine.

Recreation

The crystal clear, spring-fed waters of Lake Ripley are ideal for swimming, power-boating, canoeing, jet skiing, waterskiing, sailing and fishing.   A true sportsman’s paradise, Lake Ripley boasts the Wisconsin state record for large mouth bass. Bluegill, Walleye, Northern, and bass abound.  Also, running through downtown is Koshkonong Creek, which is a favorite for canoeists and kayakers.

Bicyclists can spend a few hours or an entire day exploring nearby Glacial Drumlin State Bike Trail and peaceful country roads. Mountain biking and cross country trails at Cam Rock County Park include a 3.5 mile main loop with two additional branching trails. Hiking and picnicking are also high points offered at Cam Rock Park.  Bike rentals are available near  the downtown access to Cam Rock Park  as well as ski, snow shoe & skate rentals in the winter.

Lake Ripley Park, located on the west shores of Lake Ripley, is an 18 acre park privately owned by the Cambridge Foundation and managed by the Cambridge Community Activities Program (CAP). Lake Ripley Park is open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day and is home to two tennis courts, a disc golf course,  a basketball court, a children’s play structure, volleyball courts, a beach and much more. Also available are umbrella rentals, an on-site bathhouse with showers as well a concession stand. Visit www.cambridgecap.net for more information.

Our History

History buffs will get a sense of the rich heritage of the Greater Cambridge and Lake Ripley area at the Cambridge Historic School, listed on the Wisconsin and National Register of Historic Places. A self-guided walking tour of historic homes delights all who take it with a range of architectural styles and period details.

Shopping, Dining & Lodging

Cambridge boasts a wide variety of quaint shops and specialty stores. Throughout town, anchored by historic Main Street, shoppers will find hand-made furniture, salt-glazed and art pottery, clothing, home accessories, antiques, galleries, Scandinavian gifts, jewelry and more. Looking for a great place to dine? Try our coffee houses and full-service restaurants.  A diverse collection of local pubs and cafes, plus award-winning bed & breakfasts, also adorn Cambridge.

Events

The Village bustles with activity during the numerous festivals held year-round.

In spring and summer, Cambridge holds events like the Girls Night Out, Spring Potters Tour, Kruise Nights (2nd Tues. May -Sept),  Memorial Day Parade & Firemen’s Pancake Breakfast, Grand Opening of Lake Ripley Park,  The Midwest Fire Fest (July) and hosts various sporting events including the Battle at Camrock bike race, EMS Cannonball Run, the Lake Ripley Ride, Corpfest & Pitch Black Single Track bike event and the Try Cambridge Tri triathlon.

In the fall, Cambridge presents Maxwell Street Days and the Friends of the Library Book Sale (1st weekend in August), Utica Festival, Firemen’s Annual Dance & Poker Run, Fall Fest & Family Wellness Expo & Barktoberfest (September), Girls Night Out, the Earth, Wood & Fire Artist Tour (October), and the Arts &  Craft Fair (November).

Cambridge celebrates the holidays with the annual Cambridge Classic Christmas weekend event (1st weekend in December) and the spectacular Holiday Lights display at Ripley Park.

Come Join Us

Located just 20 minutes east of Madison and one hour west of Milwaukee, Cambridge is nestled in the heart of south central Wisconsin and is just waiting for you to discover our many simple pleasures.

Events Hosted by Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce