SOUTH CENTRAL WISCONSIN

Portage, Wisconsin

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES AND HISTORICAL DISCOVERIES

Rich in history, abounding in culture, and filled with family fun, the South Central region of Wisconsin is bursting with some of the state’s most unique travel destinations. In a place of endless prosperity, you are sure to find a thriving combination of urban opportunities and rural, unspoiled natural beauty.

The region’s deep-rooted history and traditions come alive in Beloit—the midpoint of the Rock River Trail. Equipped with a rich cultural history, Beloit is home to the state’s oldest continuously-operating college (Beloit College), was a way station on the Underground Railroad, and made its mark as a major player in the Industrial Revolution. Beloit is a city that honors its industrial past while fully embracing downtown revitalization. Today, visitors are welcomed by a bustling downtown with a first-class riverwalk, eclectic shops, unique dining establishments, and a wide variety of great hotels. Adventures of all kinds are forged in Beloit.

As you travel further north on I-90 through the rolling hills, rich fields, and scenic woodlands of South Central Wisconsin, you will discover there is no place quite like Janesville. Recharge your spirit in Janesville’s beautiful parks and recreational areas, take a tour of one of the city’s thirteen historical districts, and visit the downtown community where commerce, culture, entertainment, and history intersect. Janesville is the perfect place to immerse yourself in live theater or enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of the award-winning botanical gardens before you hit the road to the next stop on your enriching getaway.

Did you really visit South Central Wisconsin if you don’t take a trip to the state capitol in Madison? With a city as vibrant as its people, there is something here for everyone. Located on an isthmus and other land surrounding five glistening lakes—Lake Mendota, Lake Monona, Lake Kegonsa, Lake Waubesa, and Lake Wingra— there is no shortage of ways to get in and on the water. If you’d rather have solid ground under your feet, venture along the biking and hiking trail system that spreads more than 200 miles—Madison was recently ranked among the best cycling towns by USA Today. Recreation not on your agenda? Catch an outdoor concert in the summer or visit the nation’s largest producersonly market at the Dane County Farmers Market on the Capitol Square. From roadside motels to luxury hotels, this enticing city has options to accommodate all travelers on their Madison minication.

While traveling to the Madison area, be sure to make a stop in Mount Horeb, the Troll Capital of the World. You cannot miss staying at the award-winning GrandStay Hotel & Suites and visiting their very own troll named Tormund. Your themed getaway does not end there—book one of their enticing packages, such as the Troll Hunter Package, for an adventure through the village, or select the Grand Romance Package if you are looking to make your celebration special. Stay onsite and enjoy the hotel’s indoor pool and hot tub or head out to explore the nearby trails that are great for hiking, biking, snow shoeing, and so much more. Alongside the trolls of Mount Horeb comes a commitment to providing safe & clean accommodations. GrandStay offers spotless rooms and suites to make your stay as comfortable and refined as possible.

Head off into a region of endless possibilities and historical discoveries when you visit South Central Wisconsin!

Plan your getaway to South Central Wisconsin today! Search lodging options at WisconsinLodging.org.