Rudolph

Rudolph is a village of approximately 400 in Wood County Wisconsin. It is best known as the site for the "Grotto Shrine", a Catholic shrine built on the grounds of the local Catholic church, St Phillips. Largely conceived and built by one man, Father Wagner, over 40 years, the shrine includes a man made cave (the Wonder Cave) and numerous monuments and gardens.

Rudolph is located approximately 7 miles from Wisconsin Rapids on Highway 34.

No car rental agencies are located in Rudolph, nor does it have any public transportation. Walking down Main Street is the best way to see this village.

• The Grotto Shrine is the chief draw to visitors but the local Cheese Factory, Dairy State Cheese Factory is also worth a visit. The factory includes an observation room on the second floor overlooking the cheese making process as well as large windows in the showroom looking out into the factory. The selection of locally produced cheese is huge.

• A visit to the Grotto Shrine and the Wonder Cave is a must for any visitor. While primarily open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the gardens and monuments can be visited any time of the year. The Wonder Cave and the gift shop are only open during the regular season. The gardens, monuments, the log Chapel as well the picnic area draw close to 30,000 visitors a year.
• Rudolph holds their annual Rudolph Country Christmas on the second Saturday of December. This is an all day event that ends with a lighted Christmas parade. Other events usually include live animals, a live nativity, Belgian horse wagon rides, live reindeer and Santa, music, food and holiday crafts.

• Dairy State Cheese Factory sells a large selection of locally produced cheeses. Don't forget to buy some fresh Cheese Curds. Large windows allow for viewing the cheese producing process. Also be forewarned, they take only checks or cash, no credit cards.
• Fischer's Antiques, Main Street is an interesting shop from which to purchase local antiques.
• The gift shop at the Grotto Shrine offers post cards, gifts, books etc.
• Pete's Market sells a selection of locally produced meats and sausages.

• Dairy State Cheese Company offers a small ice cream parlor on the premises. The ice cream, produced in Wisconsin, is tasty and reasonably priced.

• Ricky's Bar & Bowl and Skmo's Place are two local watering holes. Both are located on Main Street.

No motels or hotels are available in Rudolph but there are several good choices in Wisconsin Rapids, seven miles away. The Mead Inn and the AmericInn are two of the better choices.