Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast | Walking Iron Bed and Breakfast

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2011-12-18T09:56:00.000-06:00

Just a week before Christmas and if any one is as stressed as I am; a getaway in January would be perfect! We still have rooms available for the New Year weekend. What a great way to bring in the new year by reconnecting with the ones we love! Just check out our website www.walkingiron.com to see what is still available. If you are looking for things to do....On January 7th, Blue Mounds state park is having a candle light ski and hike hosted by the Friends of Blue Mounds. Sauk Praire is having their 25th Bald Eagle Watching Days starting January 13th. Check out their website Ferry Bluff Eagle Council . Make sure you check out our Area's page....there is lists of things to do, no matter what time of the year! Hope all of you have a wonderful Holiday Season!

December at Walking Iron Bed and Breakfast

2011-11-30T09:45:00.001-06:00

We are getting all ready for the Holidays here at Walking Iron! If you are looking for a quiet and relaxing retreat, make sure you look us up! Our sauna followed up by a relaxing whirlpool is a favorite for our guests this time of the year! For those of you looking for an entertaining evening, American Players Theater in Spring Green is performing "Gift of the Magi" now until December 18th. Also in Madison at the Overture Center, they are several different events going on all through the holiday season. Check out our website http://www.walkingiron.com/ and give us a call or email if you have any questions! Happy Holidays!

Small Business Saturday

2011-11-26T10:00:00.008-06:00

Along with other small businesses around the nation we encourage everyone to take part in Small Business Saturday by shopping at your locally owned businesses.

Here at Walking Iron Bed and Breakfast, we do offer our winter discount rates.

When you plan to head out of the Chicago area and make your winter getaway plans, consider staying with us when you're in southern Wisconsin.

We also support all the area small businesses here in Mazomanie, along with Madison and Dane County.

We encourage you to buy local.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home Up For Auction

2011-11-26T09:00:00.003-06:00

For the Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiasts who visit our Wisconsin bed and breakfast to visit the Spring Green area we have news that a Wright designed home is up for auction by the home's original owner.

The Kenneth Laurent House, at 4646 Spring Brook Road in Rockford, Illinois, which was commissioned in 1948, is was Wright's first exploration of elliptical design, according to the auction house.

Laurent commissioned Wright to build an open floor plan home that took into account his needs as a wheelchair-bound disabled veteran.

The interior furnishings were commissioned from Wright's Taliesin studio in Spring Green for the home and an addition.
Original custom built furnishings are included in the sale. The 2,500 square foot single story home has three bedrooms and two baths and sits on 1.3 acres of land.

If the price for the home is too steep for you, take heart. The auction on the 15th will also include a number of architectural pieces from other Wright homes. These items include a portion of the under-eave frieze from the Dana-Thomas House in Springfield, Illinois, original windows from the B. Harley Bradley House in Kankakee, Illinois, the Oscar Steffens House in Chicago, and the Avery Coonley House, along with a pair of planters from the Arizona Biltmore Hotel, designed by Wright and Warren McArthur.

Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Green Bean Casserole

2011-11-21T18:50:00.001-06:00

We were looking in the freezer over the weekend for some items and I came upon some green beans from the summer garden. With Thanksgiving Day coming up, I plan on using them to cook up a green bean casserole that includes one of America's Dairyland's favorite cheeses. So, for your holiday feast, get out a 2 quart casserole, preheat the oven to 350 and start baking!

Ingredients include:
1 can of Cream of Mushroom Soup
1/2 cup milk
4 cups of cut green beans
1 1/3 cups french fried onions
3/4 cup shredded Sharp Cheddar cheese
2 slices cooked and crumbled bacon

Directions:

In a large bowl, stir together: soup, milk, green beans, 2/3 cup of onions and 1/2 cup of cheese.
Add mixture to a 2 quart casserole or baking dish.
Place in 350 degree oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the mixture is bubbling.
Mix together remaining onions with the bacon crumbles and sprinkle over the top.
Be patient.....Bake an additional 5 minutes. Salt and Pepper to taste. Serve

Fall is Fading Fast

2011-11-18T21:00:00.000-06:00

Well, after a busy fall, Thanksgiving Day is nearly here. We've already had a taste of winter with a light snowfall in the last couple of weeks, but the warmer temperatures took it all away rather quickly.
At Walking Iron we've been busy getting ready for winter. The gardens and grounds needed cleaned up after a beautiful summer and fall, although we do have a few aches from raking the leaves.
Holiday craft shows around the area have begun, and holiday events are scheduled. One of our favorite events is the upcoming annual Spring Green Country Christmas on December 3rd. You can check the schedule of events here. With horse drawn carriage rides, holiday craft fair, quilt show and more, all topped off with a live fireworks show to cap off the day. Just a reminder that our Winter Specials are in effect now, so plan your winter getaway now and make reservations for the best selection from our luxury accommodations.

Closed Nature Area Reopens

2011-10-06T20:00:00.000-05:00

Wisconsin DNR Photo

One of the area's natural treasures has re-opened after being closed for nearly two years. The Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area at Devil's Lake State Park opened this week. Last year heavy rains and flash flooding swept across Sauk County and caused a lot of damage to the glen. The walking trail was washed away in several areas along with vegetation along the creek and the area was closed to the public while officials came up with plans on how to re-open the area. State DNR officials said that, although the flooding caused a number of problems, it's actually an opportunity to see the natural history of the glen in action and not just as millenniums of dull pre-historic geology. Most of the damage was done to man made objects in the glen, notably the trails and boardwalks that allowed easier access. The course of the creek even changed, as shown in the photo running where part of the trail used to be. Mother nature continually shows us who really is in charge.

Starstruck

2011-09-01T22:00:00.000-05:00

Beneath the summer skies, outdoor theatre is alive and well at the American Players Theatre at Spring Green. "Of Mice and Men" along with the Tennessee Williams classic "The Glass Menagerie", as well as "Taming of the Shrew", "The Critic", "Crime And Punishment" and "The Tempest" are now being performed just minutes from Walking Iron B&B. If you didn't know, APT is a summer staple for thousands and has a rich 32 year history. As they say, The Hill, the trees, the stars, the picnics, the magic of the surrounding towns. Dave and I can attest, there is no better place and time to spend a summer day. Their season runs through October 16th.

Fruits and Veggies, Oh My

2011-08-13T18:00:00.000-05:00

The fruits (and vegetables) of our Wisconsin summers are on display at the Dane County Farmers' Market. It's the nation's largest producer-only farmer's market every Saturday morning around the Capitol Square. You really do have to see it to believe it. The market opens at 6:00 a.m. and runs until 2:00 p.m. and it's all outdoors, rain or shine through November 5th. If you get there early it's sure a lot easier to find a place to park and less congested as the crowds work their way one-way clockwise around the square. Plus, it's easier to take your time and not get caught up in the crowd as it works its way around the square at a steady pace. Just wear some nice walking shoes and bring along a knapsack or a tote bag to carry your purchases.

Summertime at Walking Iron Bed and Breakfast

2010-06-29T12:13:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it is the end of June already! All of us say this at one point or another, "Where did the summer go?" Well hopefully you all have an opportunity to get away this summer, even if it is for one night. It's amazing what a night away from the "real world" can do for you and your partner. If you are looking for a quiet, relaxing vacation, Walking Iron is the perfect place for just that! Weekends in July are pretty full, but August has some openings. Check our availability to get something set up...before the summer is gone. Many guests, who aren't familiar with the area, ask "What is there to do?" We can proudly reply that the list is endless! If you are wondering, just check out our "The Area's" page on our website. You should hopefully find something that interests you from that page. If you are curious as to what events or things that are going on in the area check out the following links; Spring Green Area, Mazomanie Area, Madison Area. The most important thing that you can do is making sure you don't let the Wisconsin Summer slip away without enjoying it. Let us help you do just that here at Walking Iron.

What an amazing Spring at Walking Iron Bed and Breakfast

2010-05-05T08:33:00.000-05:00

This Spring has been such a treat for us living in southwestern Wisconsin! The weather has been awesome bringing with it vibrant colors and lush green surroundings! Many of our guests have been enjoying this fantastic spring by getting out and enjoying some of the fun surrounding attractions. Wollersheim Winery has great tours and wine tasting and it's only 15 minutes away! Many of the State Parks are open now so hiking and exploring is endless around us. Make sure to take a look at our "Area's" page to check out all the activities.

Don't Miss Spring This Year!

2010-03-17T08:59:00.000-05:00

It seems that we always have great intentions to get out and enjoy spring after a long winter, but before we know we have missed it again! March is almost done so what are you waiting for? Take advantage of Walking Iron's winter rates through April! There are amazing state and county parks to take in that are within thirty minutes from Walking Iron. Devil's Lake, Tower Hill, Governor Dodge, and Parfrey's Glen to name just a few! Go hiking for the day and come back to relax in your double whirlpool bath in your own private bath! If you are up for taking a hike indoors, The House on the Rock is now open for the season. Wanting to get some ideas for your outdoor gardens this year, the UW Arboretum is a great place to visit. Whatever your plans may be, make them happen! Don't let the Wisconsin spring slip away without seeing it this year! Check out our rooms at Walking Iron and go to the area's and special's page to make your spring one to remember!

Looking To Get Away and Relax?

2010-01-27T08:49:00.000-06:00

With the Holidays behind us, we settle in for the rest of the winter until the thaw begins. These can be some long months ahead, so why not escape to Walking Iron to relax, reconnect, and rejuvenate yourselves. We provide the perfect amenities to do exactly just that! Walking Iron provides private baths with double whirlpools, a four person sauna, and massage therapy. (just to name a few!) Right now we have some great specials going on to help with the pocket book. Stay two weekend nights and receive 30% off your spa treatments! Make sure you check out all of our specials at our website www.walkingiron.com . Looking for things to do in the area? We are just 20 minutes from Madison where there is always something going on. In February, there is plenty to do at the Alliant Energy Center. The Garden Expo,Tim McGraw, and a fishing expo to name just a few!
Make sure you check out "The Area" page on our website to see what is available all around Mazomanie. There is skiing, snow shoeing and snowmobiling all within minutes of Walking Iron! There is something for everyone so if you need that weekend getaway make sure you check us out. We are the best kept secret in Wisconsin!

What a Great Summer!

2008-11-12T20:51:00.000-06:00

Hello All!
Walking Iron is starting to slow down for the season, but we are always looking ahead! We had a wonderful summer meeting all our new guests and seeing all of repeat guests who have truly become good friends! We had a busy summer with not only all of our wonderful guests, but also with all the rain! Water was not our friend the beginning of this summer. Our basement flooded and and everything was ruined in our lower level. Since we had to rip everything out we figured it was a good time to start another project! (for those of you who know Dave and I, we love projects!) We now have an awesome SPA in the lower level of the B&B. It turned out just as we had hoped! Adrian has been busy ever since giving massages down there. For those of you who have not met Adrian, she is our property manager. She has been a wonderful asset to Walking Iron, and the guests just adore her!(so do we!) She helps out with cleaning, breakfasts, marketing, and oh, yeah, massages! She truly is a jack of all trades!
Right now we are in the process of getting together some winter get-a-way packages. We still have scrapbook retreat packages available, but now the ladies will scrap in the two front parlors (instead of the basement as before). I'm in the process of putting together Spa retreats as well. Just ironing out the details, so more to come! We are also updating our Spa menu. We are hoping to have "couple" massages available very soon! Finally, we are also revamping our website! We are so excited about this one! We realize how many of our guests find us through our website, so we really want to make it amazing! Your feedback/suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Talk to you soon!
Karisa

Spring is in the Air at Walking Iron!

2008-04-06T21:36:00.000-05:00

We have so much going on at Walking Iron! First off, we are offering some amazing new amenities for our guests! Nice comfy robes are now in the rooms! What better way to unwind in the evening after a nice warm bath! We also have a coffee and tea available around the clock. We just added an awesome Keurig coffee machine to our dining room. This is the freshest coffee out there! Finally we have some wonderful new products from Arbonne International for your use during your stay (shampoo, conditioner, bath gel, body lotion, and bath salts) They are formulated in Switzerland and made in the U.S. They are botanically based and truly are amazing. These products are also for sale in the B&B. Along with that, we offer Gift Baskets for your purchase. We have combined some awesome pampering products along with wine glasses or coffee mug. We have you covered if you need an Anniversary, Birthday, or Just Because gift! Also, what better gift for that wonderful person who watched your house, pets, or children so you were able to escape to Walking Iron? Please ask us for details! We hope to see you in the upcoming months!

Winter Packages at Walking Iron B&B

2007-11-11T09:24:00.000-06:00

We have some sad news.... as of right now, we won't be able to host Murder Mystery Weekend Packages:( Unfortunately Dead Write Productions has been dissolved, so we don't have anyone to run the event. (Dave and I have never been very good at acting, so there is no way we can do it!) If anyone knows of another company in our area, please let us know.
On a good note, we are offering couple massages now! We have a nice big area available to have two massage beds- so we are really excited to be able to offer this to our guests!! We also just ordered nice fluffy robes for the rooms so now after a nice whirlpool you have something to snuggle into.
Lastly, we now have a romance package available. Make sure to check out the web site for more details! If you have any suggestions on what you would like to see us offer, please make sure you let us know. We are always looking for ways to improve and make our guests stay one they soon won't forget!

Winter is just around the corner!

2007-10-28T18:57:00.000-05:00

The busy season is starting to wind down. We had a wonderful summer seeing our returning guests and meeting so many new ones! The fall colors are also winding down as well. They were absolutely beautiful these last couple of weeks! We are now gearing up for our winter season. Check out our pages on Scrapbooking Retreats and Murder Mystery Weekends. We are really excited about these getaway packages! Let us know if you have any questions!

Great Things Happening at Walking Iron!

2007-08-15T09:30:00.000-05:00

I'm just starting to learn how to blog...so bare with me! We've got some exciting things happening at Walking Iron Bed and Breakfast! We just opened our 5th room three weeks ago. Alsie's Retreat has a queen size bed with private bath. It doesn't have the whirlpool yet, but we hope to add it this winter or in the spring. Check out the pictures on our website! Fall colors are just around the corner and weekends are starting to fill up quickly. Call for availability or check out the availability calendar online.

Starting in November we will be doing Scrapbook weekends (or for that matter, retreat weekends), and Murder Mystery weekends. The scrapbook weekends include a two-night stay with 5 meals. Our return rate is 100%, the ladies just love to get away and be pampered! We are so excited about the Murder Mystery weekends! We are working with Dead Write Productions to host them. It will be a two night weekend package, which includes wine reception Friday night, and Dinner Saturday night (and of course breakfast both mornings!). We have spots for 5 couples. Look for updates on our website for cost, etc.