With A Beautiful Fountain and Footbridges, The Little-Known Pauquette Park In Wisconsin Is Unexpectedly Magical

There’s a little park in Portage Wisconsin that’s as historic as it is beautiful. Pauquette Park is a city park that’s a picture-perfect place for a stroll, with delicate footbridges and a pond with a beautiful fountain. The property is connected to the city’s story and many of the oldest homes here – read on to take a stroll into one of Wisconsin's prettiest city parks.

Pauquette Park takes its name from Pierre Pauquette, a fur trader and translator who left a big mark on the area. Back in the early 19th century, from 1828 to 1857, Pierre Pauquette operated a ferry that served as a vital lifeline for transportation. The landing was near the park – today, a sign marks the spot.

In later years, the land here was home to a brickyard that churned out the very bricks that built many of the early homes of Portage. William Armstrong, the visionary owner of the "Armstrong Brick Yard," acquired this land from the U.S. Government in 1869.

In 1924, Attorney Charles H. Hall donated the land to the City This paved the way for the creation of Pauquette Park as we know it today.

Pauquette Park has a small network of recreational trails that wind through the lush greenery and flowers, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

A path over the pond winds over dectortive footbridges - it’s a very popular place for photos. The park also has a gazebo and rentable shelters.

A pretty fountain serves as a centerpiece to the park, adding to the property’s ambiance and tranqulity.

I recently walked through this little park - it’s a true hidden gem. There are also some paths at the park that will take you down to the water’s edge. Learn more about Pauquette Park on the City of Portage website. Be sure to get all your hiking supplies at REI. Wisconsin has tons of amazing wild places to explore. Here’s where to find them.