The charming town of New Glarus is located 28 miles southwest of Madison, Wisconsin, within the rolling topography of the Driftless Region. New Glarus is a unique, historic, and picturesque town known as “America’s Little Switzerland”. Home to 2,200 residents, this scenic town boasts Swiss-style chalet architecture, family-owned shops, the 24-mile point-to-point Sugar River State Trail, and an abundance of authentic Swiss food. In this article, I’ll highlight a few of the top restaurants in town.
Authentic Swiss Heritage
For those who have never heard the sound of an alphorn, it is a unique experience. Many years ago, herdsmen in the Swiss Alps used this traditional wind instrument for communication. Today, you can hear locals playing the alphorn throughout town at various times, and especially during the Oktoberfest Festival. The alphorn produces a low, deep and resounding tone – you can’t miss it!
Cultural Festivals in New Glarus
The city hosts numerous cultural festivals throughout the summer and fall to celebrate its Swiss heritage. A few of the most popular seasonal festivals include:
- Polkafest
- Beer, Bacon & Cheese Festival
- Blues, Brews, & Food Trucks
- Volksfest (Swiss Independence Day)
- Art in the Park
- Wilhem Tell Festival
- Oktoberfest
For more detailed information, dates, parking, and fees, read more in the New Glarus Event Calendar.
New Glarus Recreation and Ecotourism
The city actively supports outdoor recreation and ecotourism along the Sugar River State Trail. This crushed limestone trail traverses 24 miles of picturesque and rugged Driftless Wisconsin landscape. New Glarus is home to the northern trailhead for the Sugar River State Trail, which connects the communities of Monticello, Albany, and Brodhead, Wisconsin to the south.
“America’s Little Switzerland”
If you’re riding the Sugar River State Trail or just happen to find yourself in town, there are numerous options for a great meal. For authentic Swiss food, American fare, a craft brew, post-ride meal, or sweet treat, you’ll find what you’re looking for in town! Below I’ll highlight a few great options for food and drink.
Glarner Stube
For an authentic Swiss meal, I encourage you to visit the Glarner Stube. From Swedish meatballs, classic Swiss Roesti (fried hashbrowns with aged Swiss cheese) and cheese fondue to bratwurst and wiener schnitzel, this is the place to be for a hearty meal!
New Glarus Hotel Restaurant
Located at 100 Sixth Avenue, the New Glarus Hotel Restaurant is currently under renovation, with plans to open a new eatery, “The Yodel Room” in 2026. This is a favorite post-meal spot for authentic Swiss food.
Puempel’s Olde Tavern
For an authentic dining experience, be sure to try Puempel’s Olde Tavern, located at 18 6th Avenue across from Brenda’s Blumenladen Garden Center & Gift Shop. Puempel’s menu includes sandwiches, soup, cheese trays, and New Glarus brews. Outdoor patio seating available.
Sugar River Pizza Company
For a delicious pizza, visit the Sugar River Pizza Company, one of the top restaurants in town. Located at 700 Railroad Street, this is located conveniently right along the Sugar River State Trail. Bike racks are available adjacent to the trail near the outdoor patio. Pizza choices are endless, and include gluten-free options. Check out the menu! If you’re into craft beers, there’s a menu for those as well.
Other Sugar River Pizza Company locations include Sun Prairie and Verona, Wisconsin.
Dirty Dog Taphaus
Located at 101 6th Avenue, Dirty Dog Taphaus is the place to be for great food, friendly folks (and dogs, permitted outside!) great food and a large selection of self-pour craft beers, seltzers and ciders. The outdoor patio often has live music, and the vibe is friendly and festive!
New Glarus Bakery
For a sweet treat, visit the New Glarus Bakery, located at 534 1st Street. Offering a selection of freshly baked breads, pastries, donuts, turnovers, and morning rolls, there is something for everyone. My personal favorites are the cinnamon monkey bread or the apple fritter – a treat after a long ride along the Sugar River State Trail or a walk around town.
Kennedy’s Ice Cream & Grill
Conveniently located right along the Sugar River State Trail, Kennedy’s Ice Cream & Grill is a great place to stop for a cold ice cream on a summer day. Located at 400 Railroad Street, Kennedy’s is a classic ice cream shop serving a variety of ice cream, specialty sundaes, ice cream flights, shakes, malts, and floats and pints to go. You’ll find hamburgers and cheeseburgers, hot and cold sandwiches, soda, coffee, and a nice kid’s menu. Outdoor patio seating is available.
In New Glarus, you’ll find a welcoming and vibrant community with numerous options for authentic Swiss food, brews, and sweet treats. Enjoy your visit to this charming Wisconsin town!
For information on biking and ecotourism on Wisconsin’s rail trails, read more in my recent article: Bike the Beautiful Glacial Drumlin State Trail | Explore Wisconsin’s Landscapes.
Enjoy your visit to this charming and picturesque Wisconsin town!
-Erin
