The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum is one of the top cultural attractions in the Midwest, and it consistently earns national recognition for its exceptional exhibitions and welcoming atmosphere. As one of the most acclaimed art museums in Wisconsin, it offers a thoughtfully curated mix of contemporary works, timeless pieces, and engaging seasonal showcases that appeal to casual visitors and dedicated art lovers alike. This winter, the museum is preparing to debut a standout feature, an exhibit dedicated to Tiffany Glass that celebrates the brilliance, craftsmanship, and innovation behind these iconic stained glass creations. It is the kind of exhibition that elevates a getaway and gives you a reason to linger a little longer in Wausau.

While the Woodson Art Museum is reason enough to plan a visit, winter in Wausau is full of memorable experiences. From exploring the charming downtown to browsing local shops and warming up with craft drinks and hearty meals, the city has a way of making cold weather feel inviting. Outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to love too, including skiing, snowshoeing, and quiet scenic walks along the Wisconsin River. Pair these options with the museum’s Tiffany Glass exhibition and you have an easy itinerary that blends art, culture, and winter adventure, all in one welcoming destination. If you are looking for things to do in Wausau that feel both enriching and relaxing, this season delivers.

To round out your getaway, the Stewart Inn offers an elevated stay that reflects the character and charm of downtown Wausau. This boutique property is known for its striking architecture, warm hospitality, and thoughtfully designed guest rooms, all of which create an experience that feels both polished and personal. As one of the leading hotels in Wausau WI, it pairs beautifully with a visit to the Woodson Art Museum, giving you a comfortable and stylish place to unwind after a day of exploring exhibitions, winter scenery, and local attractions. The combination of world class art, cozy seasonal adventures, and an exceptional place to stay makes Wausau an inspired choice for a winter escape.

Tiffany Glass Exhibit at Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum

The upcoming “Tiffany Glass” exhibit at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum promises to be one of the most visually striking and historically rich exhibitions to grace the gallery in recent seasons. Visitors will have the chance to see a curated selection from the Neustadt Collection of Tiffany Glass including about twenty leaded-glass lamps, five large stained-glass windows, hanging shades, and even three carefully reproduced forgeries.

The design, craftsmanship, and color play in each piece show off the innovations of Louis Comfort Tiffany and his studio—rich, opalescent glass that flips traditional stained-glass ideas on their head by letting the glass itself, not painted pictures, do the heavy lifting.

The exposition doesn’t just highlight Tiffany Studios’ most iconic work, it also reveals the context of American decorative glass across eras. In addition to the Tiffany pieces, the museum will present companion exhibitions featuring glass from the Victorian era and Art Nouveau period, including ornate blown-glass baskets once collected by the museum’s founder’s family.

This layered curation gives visitors a broader understanding of how glass art across time adapted to changing tastes in design, function, and decorative sensibility. It is a rare opportunity to see truly historic pieces that trace the arc of glass artistry in America.

Whether you are already familiar with Tiffany’s work or encountering it for the first time, this exhibit offers something for every kind of visitor – from lovers of antiques and decorative arts to those drawn by vivid color, light, and texture. The pieces glow under museum lighting, casting jewel-like reflections that reward lingering near. If you appreciate craftsmanship, design history, or simply want to experience stunning glasswork that feels alive with color and light the “Tiffany Glass” show at Woodson promises to be unforgettable.

Here are some of the other highlights and things worth seeing when you visit the Woodson:

• The museum’s permanent collection of nature-inspired art – paintings, works on paper, and sculptures that reflect flora, fauna, and landscapes from around the world.
• Its celebrated annual exhibition Birds in Art, which brings together contemporary wildlife art from artists across the globe and has become a landmark event in the world of nature-themed art.
• The outdoor sculpture garden and grounds, including the Margaret Woodson Fisher Sculpture Gallery — a 1.5 acre landscaped area dotted with bronze and stone sculptures, offering a chance to enjoy art and nature together.
• Rotating exhibitions throughout the year beyond glass and wildlife art, giving frequent visitors a reason to return again and again.
• Programs and events for all ages: from workshops and artist-led demonstrations to hands-on activities in their interactive gallery spaces — a welcoming invitation for families, students, and art enthusiasts alike.

A Top Choice Among Hotels in Wausau, WI

A visit to the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum pairs naturally with a stay at the Stewart Inn, especially if you appreciate thoughtful design, warm hospitality, and an experience that feels elevated without being overly formal. The Inn is one of the most distinctive hotels in Wausau WI, known for its architectural beauty and attention to detail, which creates a setting that feels both comfortable and refined. After spending time exploring the Tiffany Glass exhibition or wandering through the museum’s sculpture garden, returning to the Stewart Inn feels like a continuation of the artistry you encountered during the day.

What sets the Stewart Inn apart is the way it balances history with modern comfort. Every guest room is designed with high quality finishes, plush bedding, and amenities that make relaxing easy, which is especially appealing after a chilly winter outing. The common areas invite conversation and quiet moments alike, whether you prefer sipping wine near the fire or enjoying a leisurely morning before heading out to see more of Wausau. Its downtown location also puts you within easy reach of restaurants, shops, and other cultural attractions, making it simple to build a full and enjoyable itinerary around your museum visit.

When you choose the Stewart Inn, you are choosing a stay that enhances your entire getaway. It pairs perfectly with a day spent at the Woodson Art Museum because the experience carries the same appreciation for craftsmanship, beauty, and genuine hospitality. If your winter plans include discovering the Tiffany Glass exhibit, exploring the best art museums in Wisconsin, and enjoying the seasonal charm of the city, the Stewart Inn stands out as the ideal place to call home during your time in Wausau.