Dickeyville Grotto Gift Shop & Tours - Dickeyville, Wisconsin

Dickeyville Grotto: A Unique Wisconsin Landmark

For visitors seeking a truly distinctive and spiritually enriching experience, the Dickeyville Grotto presents a remarkable destination in Dickeyville, Wisconsin. Located at 305 W Main St, Dickeyville, WI 53808, this extraordinary site offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, artistic ingenuity, and religious devotion. The Grotto’s telephone number is 85683119, and its comprehensive website, dickeyvillegrotto.com, provides further details for prospective visitors.

A History of Faith and Stone

The Dickeyville Grotto’s origins are deeply rooted in the faith of Father Florian Kimmes, the pastor of the adjacent St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, beginning in 1925. Inspired by the Grotto of Les ternes in France, Father Kimmes embarked on a monumental project – the construction of a man-made grotto featuring a diverse collection of stone structures, sculpted from the surrounding limestone. Over nearly seven years, from 1925 to 1930, he meticulously crafted this impressive landmark, utilizing volunteer labor and donations. The Grotto quickly became a place of pilgrimage and reflection for the local Catholic community, and continues to be today.

Unique Features and Attractions

The Grotto is renowned for its stunning array of structures, each uniquely decorated with an astonishing variety of materials. Visitors can explore a remarkable collection of items incorporated into the design, including tiles, glass, shells, quartz, dishes, and even petrified rock. The structures themselves range in scale and design, creating a visually arresting and emotionally resonant experience. The sheer scale of the project – spanning approximately two acres – is truly impressive, showcasing the dedication and artistic vision of Father Kimmes and his supporters. It's a testament to a singular vision and a community’s unwavering faith.

Site Amenities and Accessibility

Beyond the impressive structures, the Grotto offers several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. There are onsite services available, providing information and assistance to guests. Furthermore, the site is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can fully enjoy this remarkable landmark. The grounds are well-maintained and offer ample space for exploration and contemplation.

The Gift Shop – A Reflection of the Grotto’s Spirit

The Dickeyville Grotto Gift Shop, located within the complex, complements the overall experience by offering a selection of religious goods and souvenirs. Visitors can find items that reflect the Grotto’s themes of faith, art, and natural beauty. The gift shop is more than just a retail space; it’s a continuation of the Grotto’s spirit of generosity and devotion. It allows visitors to take a piece of the Grotto’s magic home with them.

Visitor Feedback and Reputation

The Dickeyville Grotto consistently receives positive feedback from visitors, as evidenced by its impressive 4.6/5 average opinion on Google My Business. With 34 reviews, the feedback paints a picture of a truly special place. Visitors consistently praise the Grotto’s unique beauty, the dedication of its creators, and the peaceful atmosphere. Many describe it as a “hidden gem” and a “must-see” attraction. The atmosphere is generally described as serene and inspiring, a place for quiet reflection and spiritual renewal. It’s evident that the Grotto provides a memorable experience for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Recommended Information for Visitors

• Location: 305 W Main St, Dickeyville, WI 53808
• Contact: 85683119
• Website: dickeyvillegrotto.com
• Hours: (Check website for current hours of operation)
• Admission: (Check website for current admission fees)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking.

Overall, the Dickeyville Grotto is a remarkable testament to faith, art, and community spirit. It’s a destination that offers a unique and rewarding experience for visitors seeking beauty, inspiration, and a connection to the past. It stands as a remarkable landmark and offers a truly unforgettable visit.

👍 Reviews of Dickeyville Grotto Gift Shop & Tours

Jan S.

5/5

We stopped just because it was on our route and looked interesting. I would drive out of my way to see this! What a great park. There are a couple acres of amazing stone and mortar structures that are colorfully decorated with tiles, glass, shells, quartz, dishes, and even petrified rock. Built by a Catholic priest from the adjoining church from 1925-1930, it is well worth a visit.

Paul R.

5/5

Located beside/Behind the historic grotto church. We arrived there just before their closing time. The wonderful, kind lady who was running the store gave us extra time for us to finish up our gift shopping. Answered all the questions we had, gave us a valuable history lesson about the church! The store had some really good finds if you're into such gifts and memorabilia. It's a must see place!

Mariusz M. Z.

5/5

Don't miss seeing this unique grotto. It's one of a kind. I love structures made out of rock, nature and showing creativity and industriousness. There is garden with rock creatures and statues. The grotto was built by a priest in the 1930s and includes large shrines to Jesus, Christopher Columbus, and the Virgin Mary. It is essentially a 3D mosaic made from gems, tiles, rocks, minerals, sea shells, pottery, antlers, and other assorted oddities.

Beth P.

5/5

Beautiful gardens!! The grotto is a must see!! The gift shop has a great selection of religious goods- they have a huge selection of prayer cards! Wonderful place!

Todd S.

5/5

A really neat place to visit. Lots of religious and patriotic imagery. There's also a gift shop We spent a total of about 45 minutes walking around.

Kobi R. S.

5/5

Very Spiritual place that I Love to visit at least once a year. Please stop and visit if you EVER get the chance to. A very beautiful scene to remember your whole life through.

Bethany L.

5/5

Amazing little place. Awesome sculptures and scenery. Don't forget to check out their thrift shop. Lots of treasures

Charles B.

4/5

So an inspired priest builds a "grotto". The Dickeyville grotto is quite the thing considering one man built it. It's free to see and there is a gift shop.