Home sweet Cedarburg

Asking for a table for one was awkward enough. I had never been to a sit-down restaurant by myself, let alone in a town where everyone might not necessarily know your name. But the locals sure know you’re “not from around here.” Feel free to repeat the last line with an appropriate, sarcastic twang.

After several minutes of strange glances from the waiter, he finally asked the obvious question: “So you’re not from around here, huh?” And that’s where our conversation began about what in the world I was doing at a restaurant by myself, and what I truly thought of Cedarburg, Wis.

When I first arrived, I felt like I was seeing in black and white. Sidewalks were flocked with bicyclists, and nearly every building had a “Go Bulldogs!” salute to the high school football team in its window. It felt like I was driving back in time, or at least a lot further than 22 miles north of Milwaukee.

Apparent time travel aside, a day trip through Cedarburg was the perfect amount of time to check out this cute, homey town and all it has to offer. With great places to eat, drink, be entertained and relax, a day in Cedarburg provides peaceful enjoyment for travelers of all ages. But for those of us who want a sure-fire travel experience, here’s a cheat sheet to help you out:

Cedarburg's Boulangerie Du Monde supplies delectable sticky buns. Photo by Kassie McLaughlin

Where to get breakfast

I spent my mid-morning at Boulangerie Du Monde, which means “Bakery of the World.” It’s a simple, Paris-inspired bakery owned by head baker Brad Brandolino and known for its exceptional croissants, fresh breads and homemade pastries.

The sticky bun you’re snacking on began its gestation last night. Brandolino’s sidekick baker comes in at 11 p.m. to mix dough. Brandolino then joins him at 2 a.m. to cut and hand shape each individual item. They allow the dough to rise for one to two hours and then begin baking at 4 a.m. Finally, at 7 a.m. doors open for the day.

Caffeine break

The Roastery is right across the street from Boulangerie Du Monde, and boasts a wide selection of coffee beans roasted in a giant vat in the center of the floor. But if you’ve got a pooch in tow, try Java House. There’s a chalkboard full of drink options for you and a bowl of water outside for your pup.

Best novelty shop

Hands down, it’s Amy’s Candy Kitchen. You know it’s a great day when the hardest decision you have to make is between 20 types of candied apples. And while you consider your options, take time to watch the chocolatiers make sweets in the mirror hung on the ceiling. A must try: it’s between their award-winning fudge or the light and airy fairy food.

Best natural landmark

Take a quick drive north to Covered Bridge Park. Cedarburg boasts the last remaining original covered bridge in Wisconsin, which deserves a walk through. The park itself is a great place for a relaxing picnic along the creek.

When you need a drink

One of Cedarburg’s main attractions is the Cedar Creek Winery. With a history dating back to the 1860s, it crafts 12 nationally and internationally awarded fruit wines and a few special varieties during the town’s seasonal festivals. For $3 and 45 minutes of a mediocre tour, you can probably get a decent buzz.

The city's old-fashioned style even translates to its automobiles. Photo by Kassie McLaughlin

What makes Cedarburg, Cedarburg

At 7 p.m., catch that movie you “meant to see in theaters” at the Rivoli Theatre. Every night, the Rivoli shows second-run movies for only $3.50. On Tuesdays, it’s a whopping $2. Saturdays and Sundays offer a 3:30 p.m. matinee as well. Try even renting a movie at that price ⎯ you just can’t beat it.

After an “action-packed” day in Cedarburg, I ended my stay where this story began, at the Anvil Pub & Grille. Its food was decent and the atmosphere was warm and inviting – very true to Cedarburg overall.

Cedarburg may not have wild thrills and flashy excitement, but it has at least one friendly bartender.

And he has beer.