At a Glance Summary
Spring Green is one of the Driftless Region’s most captivating destinations—an easy, scenic drive from Valley Springs Farm and rich with architecture, theater, quirky attractions, local food, and stunning natural landscapes. Guests can explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin, enjoy world-class performances at American Players Theatre, wander the wonderfully odd House on the Rock, shop and dine in a creative small-town downtown, and immerse themselves in rare sand prairie and river valley beauty. It’s a perfect day trip that blends culture, nature, and Driftless charm.
Spring Green is one of those Driftless Region gems that feels both timeless and quietly extraordinary. Just a scenic drive from Valley Springs Farm Bed & Breakfast, this small Wisconsin village blends natural beauty, artistic brilliance, and rural charm in a way that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Whether you’re drawn to architecture, theater, outdoor adventure, or simply the pleasure of wandering through a beautiful place, Spring Green offers a day trip full of discovery.
Here are five compelling reasons to add Spring Green to your getaway itinerary.
1. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin: A Masterpiece in the Hills
Taliesin isn’t just a building—it’s an entire landscape shaped by one of America’s most influential architects. Frank Lloyd Wright grew up in these hills, and his deep connection to the Driftless Region is reflected in every line, stone, and vista of his 800-acre estate.
Visitors can explore:
- Wright’s personal residence
- The Hillside School
- The Romeo & Juliet Windmill
- Gardens, courtyards, and sweeping valley views
Guided tours offer rich stories about Wright’s life, his innovations, and the tragedies and triumphs that unfolded here. For guests who appreciate art, architecture, or history, Taliesin is an unforgettable experience—one that feels both intimate and monumental.
2. American Players Theatre: World-Class Performances in the Woods
Imagine settling into an outdoor amphitheater surrounded by oak forest, fireflies drifting through the dusk, and some of the country’s finest classical actors taking the stage. That’s American Players Theatre (APT), a nationally acclaimed repertory company that draws audiences from across the Midwest.
APT offers two venues:
- The Hill Theatre, an open-air stage with breathtaking natural acoustics
- The Touchstone, an intimate indoor space for contemporary and experimental works
From Shakespeare to modern classics, APT productions are known for their emotional depth, artistry, and the magical setting that makes every performance feel like an event. Pair an evening show with a picnic, and you have one of the most memorable nights the Driftless can offer.
3. The House on the Rock: A Wonderfully Strange Wisconsin Icon
Few attractions spark as much curiosity as The House on the Rock. Built by Alex Jordan, this sprawling, eccentric complex is part architectural oddity, part museum, and part immersive fantasy world. It’s the kind of place guests talk about long after they’ve visited.
Highlights include:
- The Infinity Room, stretching impossibly over the valley
- The world’s largest indoor carousel
- Elaborate music machines and mechanical displays
- Collections ranging from maritime scenes to mythical creatures
It’s whimsical, bizarre, and endlessly fascinating—a perfect stop for travelers who enjoy the unexpected.
4. A Charming Downtown Filled with Local Craft, Food, and Creativity
Spring Green’s downtown is small but full of personality. Its shops, galleries, and cafés reflect the artistic spirit of the community and the surrounding countryside.
Our top choices are:
- Wilson Creek Pottery – Artisan pottery and handmade goods
- Arcadia Bookstore – Big Town selection – Small Town Comfort
- The General Store – Features old school comfort food with a creative twist
- Spring Green Farmers Market – local food available year round on Saturdays
The pace is relaxed, the people are friendly, and the atmosphere invites you to slow down and savor the moment. It’s an ideal place to browse, sip a coffee, or pick up a Driftless-made souvenir to take home.
5. Natural Beauty That Captures the Driftless Spirit
Spring Green sits at the intersection of river valley, sandstone bluff, and rolling prairie—an environment that feels both rugged and serene. Outdoor lovers will find plenty to explore.
Top nature experiences include:
- The Spring Green Preserve, often called the “Wisconsin Desert,” with rare sand prairie habitat
- The Wisconsin River, perfect for paddling, birdwatching, or a peaceful riverside walk
- Nearby Tower Hill State Park, offering quiet trails and stunning views
The landscape here is unlike anywhere else in the state. It’s a place where guests can reconnect with nature, breathe deeply, and feel the Driftless Region’s ancient geology beneath their feet.
A Perfect Day Trip from Valley Springs Farm
One of the joys of staying at Valley Springs Farm Bed & Breakfast is the balance between peaceful rural retreat and easy access to remarkable places. Spring Green embodies that balance beautifully. You can spend the morning exploring Taliesin, enjoy lunch downtown, wander the Preserve in the afternoon, and end the day with a world-class performance at APT—then return to the quiet comfort of the farm as the stars come out.
As lifelong residents of Sauk County, we are happy to share with you insider tourist tips so be sure to check out the Sauk County Cheese Trail and/or the Sauk Country beer and wine trail. For other ideas on what to do on your next visit to Valley Springs Farm, check out our things to do page.