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Location and Lodging
School of the Arts at Rhinelander takes place at James Williams Middle School, 915 Acacia Lane, Rhinelander, Wis.
About Rhinelander
Rhinelander's roots lie in the boom days of logging. Settled in 1880, it was first called Pelican Rapids. It was a granted a city charter two years later and was named after a man who most likely never set foot in the town – F.W. Rhinelander, the president of the Lake Shore and Western Railroad. Grateful residents renamed the community in his honor after the railroad agreed to build tracks through the town.
Rhinelander soon became a supply point for many logging camps in northern Wisconsin and Michigan. A visit to the local Logging Museum in Pioneer Park includes photos and records dating back to the early 1900's as well as a fascinating look at the men who planted trees and constructed roads during the Great Depression.
The focal point of Rhinelander's historic downtown is the Oneida County Courthouse. Striking murals inside the building depict pioneer life while the Tiffany glass windows of its dome make the landmark building an unforgettable site.
Things to do in the area
With more than 230 lakes within a 12-mile radius of Rhinelander, it's no surprise that water helped define the town's past and its present. Access to water routes made Rhinelander a logging center. Today, local waterways help support one of the town's main industries, papermaking, as well as varied recreational opportunities. Located on US 8, Rhinelander is located in the Wisconsin northwoods about 220 miles from Minneapolis, 230 miles from Milwaukee, and 320 miles from Chicago.
The areas many lakes and rivers provide a venue for water activities ranging from fishing and boating to kayaking and canoeing. For more information on these opportunities visit the Fishing in Rhinelander http://www.fishingrhinelander.com and Northern Paddle and Trail http://www.northernpaddletrail.org.
The nearby Thunder Lake Wildlife Area is a 2,700 acres of meadow, barrens, bog lacks and tamarack forest. Enjoy birdwatching from the observation field or one of the many area trails. Call (715) 356-5211 for more information.
The Rhinelander Logging Museum offers insights into the history of the Wisconsin Northwoods. Visitors can tour a full-scale replica of a logging camp and the original Soo Line Rail Depot (built in 1892).
For more details on these and other activities, as well as the complete Visitor's Guide, please visit the Rhinelander Chamber of Commerce website or contact them at 1-800-236-4386.
Lodging Information:
Each participant is responsible to secure personal lodging. Early reservations are advised since the School of the Arts takes place at the peak of Rhinelander's tourist season. Contact the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce (www.rhinelanderchamber.com) by email at info@rhinelanderchamber.com or by phone at 800-236-4386 for information on the many area resorts and campgrounds.
Mention the School of the Arts at Claridge Inn, Best Western, or Quality Inn and a corporate rate may be available.
Claridge Inn, Best Western: 1-715-362-7100
Best Western:
715-362-7100
Quality Inn: 715-
369-3600