Brighten Winter Days: Five Vibrant Spots to Inspire You Until Spring
From bright hues to sunny vibes, these five spaces will keep you excited for the spring.
Spring is just around the corner. While eagerly awaiting its arrival, plenty of places in Middleton will bring a burst of color, warmth, and energy into the final days of winter. From sunny spots filled with natural light to vibrant murals and lush greenery, these five spots will help visitors stay inspired and excited as we start the countdown until spring.
The National Mustard Museum is the perfect place to put a smile on any visitor's face. With over 6,700 types of mustard from around the world and walls painted in cheerful yellow, this vibrant museum instantly brings warmth and joy. Visitors can explore mustard on the big screen at the Mustardpiece Theatre, test their newfound knowledge with an interactive food quiz, enjoy unique activities like the mustard ring toss, and find the perfect mustard to kick off the upcoming cookout season at the tasting bar upstairs. Best of all, admission is completely FREE!
Return on Saturday, Aug. 2, for an epic summer celebration of National Mustard Day. At this annual event, the museum "paints the town yellow" with live music, games, and, of course, plenty of mustard.
Grace Coffee Co. is a lively and welcoming space surrounded by large windows that let in plenty of natural light and tall houseplants that add a touch of greenery. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and a freshly baked treat while working or meeting a friend. Colorful hand-painted murals by local artist Julie Vornholt adorn the white walls, creating a lush, nature-inspired environment through her artwork. Julie's freehand approach lets the murals evolve organically, giving a unique, natural flow that complements the cozy ambiance of the space. Julie is also the talented artist behind several murals on the Middleton Outdoor Art Trail, a fantastic option to explore on days with the first hints of early spring.
With state-of-the-art golf simulators, X-Golf allows players to experience green fairways year-round, regardless of weather. The simulators track detailed stats — launch angle, club speed, and more — helping improve skills and maintain an edge throughout the season. This ensures that when stepping onto the award-winning Pleasant View Golf Course in April, players can leave competitors in the dust (or bunker). With space for up to 130 guests and a full bar, X-Golf is the ideal spot to gather with friends or unwind after a round. Join a tournament or book tee-times.
At The Bruce Company, it’s always spring. Since 1952, this year-round garden center has been a local favorite for vibrant greenery. The expansive nursery offers everything from popular houseplants to rare finds, perfect for bringing a touch of spring indoors and adding color to any space. New to plants? The knowledgeable staff are always available to provide expert guidance on selecting the right plant and help navigate the area’s largest selection. Whether searching for pet-friendly options, plants that thrive in low light, or hardy varieties that can handle anything, The Bruce Company has it all.
Throughout the year, the garden center hosts various events where visitors can get their hands in the dirt at workshops such as making DIY succulent gardens or creating terrariums.
Don’t let those pickleball paddles gather dust. There’s no need to wait for outside courts to open when Hitters Sportsplex is right here in Middleton. Unlike tennis, the sportsplex does not require a membership to play pickleball.
Open play is available 2 – 4 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, 4 – 6 p.m. and 8 – 10 p.m. on Friday, and noon – 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. One-time play costs $15, and players can sign up via the Playtime Scheduler Website. Hitters Sportsplex also has private and group pickleball lessons for those looking to learn the game.
As winter continues the search for a change of scenery or a place to unwind becomes more appealing. Luckily, Middleton offers the perfect solution with nine hotels that are all located less than 10 minutes from the vibrant spots mentioned above. Each hotel features a pool where guests can escape winter chills, and several have hot tubs (Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Staybridge Suites, Country Inn & Suites). These hotels provide the ideal base for enjoying all the warmth and brightness Middleton has to offer, making it easy to embrace the season and look forward to spring.
Not ready to let go of winter fun? It's never too early to start planning next year's winter getaway. Learn more about Middleton's cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing hotspots and all things winter wonderland.
Modified March 14, 2025