With the sounds of construction rumbling at Foundry on 3rd, downtown Wausau is awakening to a new era of community-driven commerce, where local businesses unite to support urban living.
Businesses like the Pinery Coffee Co. are reaching out with more than great products. Co-owner Nolan Baker and his business partners Daniel Tyler and Len Kats offer a hub of activity where folks can gather and enjoy a fresh cup of in-house-roasted coffee. Almost one year after opening its doors at 300 N. Third St., the Pinery is even more committed to the community. "Each drink sold supports a cause of the month, benefiting local organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and the Humane Society," Baker said. "There's a little hope in every cup."
The Pinery also collaborates with other local businesses, creating unique drinks that raise awareness for community initiatives. Currently, they're featuring a Back-to-School Pencil Lemonade with Children's Imaginarium, showcasing how local groups can work together creatively. The Pinery hosts game nights and book clubs and even provides a platform for local creators to showcase their work. "It's about building community inwards to grow outwards," Baker said.
Just across the street at 303 N. Third St., Forward Beverage is carving out a niche with its non-alcoholic functional cocktails. Owners Amy and Paul Yanzer are excited to launch a new nitro cocktail this fall, a unique offering in the region. "We applied for and were awarded a grant for small businesses in Wisconsin and Illinois to purchase our own equipment to make a specialty drink," Amy said.
Their new espresso nitrotini is a collaboration with the Pinery, which supplies the expresso. It will be available at Forward's taproom, where seven different flavors are currently on tap.
Since opening a year ago, Forward's beverages have gained attention. Customers share stories of their journeys toward sobriety and express gratitude for the tasty alternatives, which include some social seltzers with CBD.
The Yanzer's decision to open in downtown Wausau was strategic. "The plan for the Foundry apartments was one of the exciting factors that led us to lease this space because we knew how much potential there is for foot traffic," Amy said. She added that their first year in business went better than imagined. "Not only have we had a lot of customers, but we're now working with a distributor so our products are available statewide."
Forward Beverage offers ready-to-drink cans in the store and online at www.forwardbev.com.
Community Sauna Comes to Downtown
Northern Lights Sauna, located at Whitewater Music Hall, is a new experience on the downtown scene. Business partners Heather Schuette and Brittany Burns drew inspiration from their visit to a sauna in Stevens Point. "We wanted sauna to be part of our daily lives and share it with others in our hometown," Schuette said.
The Finnish-style wood-fired sauna promotes relaxation and well-being. Community and private sessions can be purchased online at www.northernlightswausau.com.
"We are excited about the downtown revitalization and wanted to be a part of the newfound energy happening down here. There are so many new businesses opening in the River District, and I hope we can bring in more people to enjoy what Wausau has to offer," said Schuette.
Unveiling of a Mural on Historic Landmark Building
Art is also playing a pivotal role in revitalizing downtown Wausau, as seen by the vibrant murals popping up in recent years. Rocket Industrial sponsored the latest mural by artist Lindsey Cherek Waller, a central Wisconsin native who enjoys creating community-focused art. The large-scale painting on the Landmark Building recently debuted during the Festival of Arts on Sept. 7 and 8.
The mural features whimsical thank you bags and draws inspiration from Waller's family heritage, particularly the early years spent in her grandmother's restaurant. Waller reflects on how her grandmother's dedication to serving others has shaped her understanding of love and community, and the imagery in her work represents a "secret language" of symbols and sentiments passed down through generations. Through the thank you bags. Waller aims to celebrate the small acts of gratitude that contribute to a sense of belonging and connection.
She envisions her mural as a colorful moment that brings joy to the community and encourages people to reflect on the world they are co-creating. "The only way we survive is through joy, community, authenticity and gratitude," Waller said.
As the Foundry on 3rd project progresses, Wausau's downtown is alive with activity. The collaboration among local businesses, the infusion of art and innovative ventures are reshaping the community and cultivating a vibrant urban atmosphere.
Construction Updates
This week, the precast concrete planks and columns are being installed on the first floor of the south half of the Foundry on 3rd.
“Overall the construction is going great. The city is really excited about the progress on the site,” said Randy Fifrick, the economic development manager for the City of Wausau.
Things to Do in Downtown Wausau
Wausau Farmers Market - Saturdays and Wednesdays
Visit River Drive in Wausau for fresh vegetables, fruit and more. Starts at 7 a.m. until sold out. For more information, visit Wausau Farmers Market.
New Jobs on the Block
Thurs., Sept. 19, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Jobseekers and employers come together on the 400 Block for opportunities and visibility. See the Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce.
Hispanic Heritage Day
Fri., Sept. 20, 5 - 7 p.m.
Children’s Imaginarium presents history of famous Hispanic scientists, authentic foods, folkloric dance and more. Free to members.
Daniel O’Donnell at the Grand Theater
Fri., Sept. 20, 7 p.m.
Famed Irish singer performs live at The Grand for the first time. Visit The Grand Theater for tickets.
Scenic Fall Color Chairlift Rides
Chairlift rides return to Granite Peak Ski Area Sept. 20 - Oct. 13. Visit Granite Peak for times and tickets
ExhibiTour Art and Wine Walk
Saturday, October 5, 4 - 7 p.m.
Downtown businesses transform into art galleries for the evening with wine, beer and hard seltzer samples at each location. For tickets, visit Wausau River District.
Downtown Museums to Explore
Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art
Open Tuesday – Saturday from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free.
The current exhibit is “The String Project®: We Are All Connected - Photography Exhibition”. This exhibit features stunning photographs of everyday people from five continents and over thirty countries. Go to wmoca.org to learn more.
Children’s Imaginarium
Open Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., and until 6 p.m. on Wednesdays.
This new children’s museum is a place to inspire discovery and imagination. There are many STEM-based interactive exhibits for learning and play. Visit their website for more information on the exhibits, tickets, programs and special events.
Woodson History Center
Open Tuesday – Sunday from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Free.
The Marathon County Historical Society presents the following exhibits: “The 1920s: Rebellion, Prosperity and Loss” and “Our Stories: The History of Marathon County”.
Also, tour the historic Yawkey House Museum (admission fee) and the beautiful garden.
With the convenience of the Passport Parking app, finding a parking spot downtown has never been easier and the first two hours are free. Parking is also free in the evenings after 6 p.m. and on weekends. Learn more.
Refreshing changes are happening in Downtown Wausau. For more information, make sure to sign up for regular emails at downtownrefresh.com.
Wausau Opportunity Zone, Inc. is leading the charge to inform residents of progress made during the development phases of Downtown Wausau. WOZ collaborates with the Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership, local governments, businesses and organizations to involve and engage the community.