Minocqua is located on US Hwy 51 in the Wisconsin Northwoods. Most families traveling to the area will make their way by car. From Chicago, take I90 west to Madison and US51 to Minocqua. From Minneapolis, take I94 east to Eau Claire, Hwy 29 to Wausau, and US51 to Minocqua. Trans North Aviation Ltd provides commuter service between Minocqua's Lakeland Airport and Chicago's Palwaukee Airport twice weekly and between Eagle River and Palwaukee Airport four times a week. Midwest Airlines provides daily service between Rhinelander and Milwaukee and Northwest Airlines offers daily service between Rhinelander and Minneapolis.

Area trails and waterways provide an excellent alternative to the automobile. Hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and even snowshoeing offer families an opportunity to explore Minocqua and the surrounding area at a relaxed pace. Having said that, families flying to Minocqua or any other Northwoods location should consider renting a vehicle; public transportation is limited in the Wisconsin Northwoods. And while the family car may not be the most adventurous way to get around, a slow drive through the Northwoods in autumn is one of the best ways to observe Colorama, the changing of the leaves.

The weather in the Wisconsin Northwoods affects more than the layers of clothing required. Weather can affect how the fish are biting as well as the condition of area trails. And while family fun is to be had in summer, fall, winter and spring, the amount of time you spend outside will depend on Mother Nature to a large degree. Rain is possible from March to November and snow is likely from November to April. Summer (June - August) is the peak fishing season and best time to enjoy Minocqua rivers and lakes. Colorama, the local term for the changing of the leaves, begins in late August and ends in mid-October. Winter sports from cross-country skiing to snowmobiling are optimal from January through March.