The Surprising Wisconsin Town That Makes An Excellent Weekend Getaway
By Ben Jones|Published February 01, 2022
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Ben Jones
Author
Ben Jones is at heart an adventurer who delights in inspiring others. A former reporter and photojournalist, he explored towns large and small as a Wisconsin correspondent for USA Today. He later became a lead photographer and senior copywriter for an award-winning destination marketing agency, before founding Boldland Creative, a company that produces photography, video, and other content for travel destinations. Jones has completed photography and content projects in more than 15 states and when he’s not looking through a camera or at his Macbook you’ll find him exploring the world’s lakes and forests.
In southern Wisconsin, Janesville has a history that’s tied to industry. The city started as an 1800s flour and lumber town on the Rock River. Foundries and farm machinery factories followed, along with a massive General Motors plant. While many of these ventures have come and gone, there’s a new vibrancy in the city that’s worth discovering – it’s a place that hasn’t forgotten its past as it embraces what’s new. It’s a place to discover waterfront art, craft beverages, and tranquil natural areas. Welcome to Janesville, a town that just might surprise you – here are some of our very favorite spots there.
A former sand and gravel quarry has been transformed into a lush oasis that will take you to another world. Rotary Botanical Gardens is a 20-acre property with paths that wind through Japanese, Scottish, French formal, Italian, and English cottage gardens. During the winter holiday season, the property hosts a huge holiday lights display.
This 1857 home holds an interesting history. It once hosted Abraham Lincoln, back when the future president was traveling through the area to make appearances. It’s now owned by the city of Janesville. The Rock County Historical Society operates a museum in the home that details life in the 1800s.
North of Janesville, this log home winery delivers great wine and atmosphere. A seasonal patio is the perfect spot to gather with friends or just relax with a glass or two.
Janesville’s downtown flanks the Rock River and it's filled with shops and restaurants. It’s a pleasant and relaxed shopping district with plenty of parking - you'll want to explore this place on foot. The downtown has some beautiful and vibrant murals that will provide a beautiful backdrop to your time downtown.
This tranquil 87-acre park traces the Rock River and it’s the perfect place for a stroll. You’ll encounter scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and pavilions.
This national scenic trail traces the path of ancient glaciers and it runs more than 1,000 miles through Wisconsin. It crosses through the heart of Janesville – follow the marked signs for a winding journey through the city’s parks and natural areas.
Janesville has plenty of comfortable lodging options and it’s an easy drive from cities like Milwaukee, Wausau, and Green Bay. Learn more about the city and its top attractions here. Once you’ve explored Janesville, here are some more Wisconsin towns that are perfect for your next escape.
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