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The amazing decor outside Floral Expressions hints at what shoppers find inside. -
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Dusk makes sleigh rides at Paradise Ranch near Cedarburg, Wisconsin, enchanting. -
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A family peeks into Santa's Workshop. -
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Downtown Cedarburg shines at dusk, when twinkle lights brighten Washington Street’s more than 70 specialty stores. -
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Originally opened in 1936, the single-screen Rivoli Theater shows second-run movies throughout the year and holiday classics during December. -
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A vintage street lamp gives downtown Cedarburg a decidedly Victorian feel. -
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Storefronts seem pulled from a holiday postcard. -
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Classic country and Victorian decor define the 34 guest rooms at the Washington House Inn, where some rooms have king beds, fireplaces, whirlpools and skylights. -
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Carolers regale visitors with song at Cedar Creek Settlement. -
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Each ornament boasts a different look at Soulshine Arts Hot Glass Studio and Gallery. -
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Festive bolts of fabric at Ye Olde Schoolhouse. -
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A chalkboard at Weeds Gift Shop lists teas available by the glass that day; shoppers also can buy loose-leaf teas. -
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Even if you’re not a quilter, the selection at Ye Olde Schoolhouse amazes visitors.
Trip guide
What to do
Cedar Bridge Park Admire Cedar Creek through the lattice trusses of Wisconsin’s only remaining covered bridge. See reviews and ratings. (262) 377-4510
Downtown Dough A haven for bakers, with 2,000 cookie cutters. See reviews and ratings. (262) 387-0311; downtowndough.com
Five Festive Friday Eves Celebrate the season at these weekend events, including live music, entertainment and complimentary cider. (866) 626-7005; cedarcreeksettlement.com
Floral Expressions Designer Ron Reel sells beautiful flowers, gifts and more. See reviews and ratings.(262) 377-6361; floralexpressionsbyron.com
From the Heart A big, yellow house on Main Street sells seasonal crafty gifts and Christmas decor. (262) 376-1016; fromtheheartcedarburg.com
Lillies The sustainable, fair-trade shop sells handmade clothing and jewelry from Nepal and Peru. See reviews and ratings. (262) 377-7047; lilliesgoods.com
Marline’s Garden Goodies This garden accessories shop blooms with seasonal decor, whimsical sculptures and art. See reviews and ratings. (262) 375-5050
Paradise Ranch A 30-minute horse-drawn ride (in a wagon or sleigh, depending on snow) takes you past 50,000 colored Christmas lights. See reviews and ratings. (262) 825-7500; paradiseranchwi.com
Rivoli Theater The Art Deco building has returned to service as a movie house, thanks to the community’s support. (262) 377-1010; rivoliofcedarburg.com
Soulshine Arts Hot Glass Studio and Gallery During the holidays, drop into this glass studio for a peek at their ornaments or attend a class to create your own. See reviews and ratings. (262) 442-9624; soulshine-arts.com
Weeds Gift Shop Home and garden goods, plus seasonal finds like ornaments and woolen hats, await in this ecofriendly and upcycled shop. See reviews and ratings. (262) 377-0999; lilliesweeds.com
Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts In August 2011, an 1850s refurbished barn became the museum’s new home, showcasing an impressive permanent collection and lively traveling exhibits. Admission charged. (262) 546-0300; wiquiltmuseum.com
Ye Olde Schoolhouse This too-cute quilting store tucks into an 1887 schoolhouse off Cedarburg’s main drag. See reviews and ratings. (262) 377-2770; yeoldeschoolhouse.com
Where to eat
Amy’s Candy Kitchen Amy’s specializes in candy apples done right. They’re pricey (from $11.99) but big enough to share. See reviews and ratings. (262) 376-0884; amysgourmetapples.com
Anvil Pub and Grille Tucked into a former blacksmith shop, the eatery offers burgers, steaks and bread with a daily specialty butter. See reviews and ratings (262) 376-2163; anvilpubandgrille.com
Cream ’n Crepe Cafe Don’t try to resist the delicious dessert crepes stuffed with ice cream, mousse and berries; you’ll also find soups and sandwiches. Located in Cedar Creek Settlement. See reviews and ratings. (262) 377-0900; creamandcrepecafe.com
The Farmstead Bar and Grill Locals line up for the steak and signature sides, which include sugar snap peas and garlic mashed potatoes. See reviews and ratings. (262) 375-2655
Java House Warm up with a cup at this friendly coffeehouse, which uses freshly roasted beans and serves specialty drinks. See reviews and ratings. (262) 375-8999; javahousewi.com
Vintage Cafe and City Deli Refuel on this Tuscan-inspired deli’s soups, salads and paninis, including a great sun-dried tomato. See reviews and ratings. (262) 377-4001; vintagecafecedarburg.com
Where to stay
The Stagecoach Inn Bed and Breakfast Built in 1853, this B&B maintains a homey feel with friendly innkeepers. Not staying here? Soak in its history in the on-site pub and candy shop. From $100. See reviews and ratings. (888) 375-0208; stagecoach-inn-wi.com
Washington House Inn The city’s most iconic lodging, the 1886 inn features modern amenities, such as whirlpool baths, and holds a complimentary wine-and-cheese social hour. From $125. See reviews and ratings. (262) 375-3550; washingtonhouseinn.com
For more information or to plan your trip, contact the Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce. (800) 237-2874; cedarburg.org
(A version of this story appeared in Midwest Living® November/December 2012.)
