Janesville, Wisconsin, could also be a small city, however it presents an abundance of outside adventures and thrilling issues to do for guests to get pleasure from. Janesville is a small-town American success story.
When Massive Auto pulled out, they appeared for a brand new identification and located it with a vibrant artwork scene and culinary surprises. This “New Janesville,” paired with its wealthy historical past and well-preserved nature, creates one thing for everyone who likes to discover the outside and discover a hidden gem or two. Come together with us as we present you the enjoyable issues to do in Janesville and the best way to have a memorable getaway to Wisconsin’s nice outdoors.
Bike or Hike Wisconsin’s Ice Age Path
For nature lovers and out of doors lovers, Wisconsin’s Ice Age Path presents the right alternative to discover the state’s breathtaking surroundings. Seize your bike or mountaineering boots and hit the paths, immersing your self in the fantastic thing about the glacial landscapes and plush forests.
The literature says this 1,200-mile-long path roughly follows the situation of the terminal moraine from the final Ice Age, which is to say it’s the farthest extent of the glaciers. You’ll discover distinctive geology alongside the area, like kettle lakes left behind from the retreating ice. The Metropolis of Janesville’s in depth paved path system hyperlinks their many parks collectively to create an city greenbelt alongside this part of the Ice Age Path, which, even in midsummer, was nonetheless wealthy with wildflowers.
Professional-Tip – Didn’t deliver a motorcycle? No worries! Velocity Multi-Sport has 2 areas in Janesville and all kinds of motorbike leases together with hybrids and e-bikes!
Hike The Satan’s Staircase Path
Should you’re up for a problem, The Satan’s Staircase Path is a must-visit vacation spot. Because the title suggests, this path boasts steep inclines and rocky terrain, rewarding hikers with beautiful panoramic views on the high.
The Satan’s Staircase Path travels alongside and up the facet of the bluffs by the Rock River in Riverside Park. Within the spring, native wildflowers blanket the world; within the fall, you’re greeted by a wave of amber colour because the leaves change colour.
Paddle the Yahara River with Drift Away Paddle
Take to the waters and expertise the tranquility of paddling alongside the Yahara River with Drift Away Paddle Co. You’ll love recognizing native wildlife and soaking within the serenity of the river as you drift downstream.
Drift Away helps a number of native areas, together with Gibbs Lake and Lake Koshkonong, however their main route is a 6-mile part on the decrease Yahara River. The rental consists of the shuttle, and you’ll look forward to finding a largely wooded financial institution alongside a lot of the run.
Hire a Jet Ski or SUP on Lake Koshkonong

For water sports activities lovers, Lake Koshkonong is the place to be. Hire a jet ski or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) to have an exciting time on the water whereas admiring the lake’s scenic magnificence.
Lake Koshkonong is a naturally occurring physique of water, however the dams have elevated the water degree. Even nonetheless, it’s very shallow, with a median depth of solely 6′, however there are 4 boat landings across the lake and two seashores.
Picnic in Murwin Park (or certainly one of Janesville’s different Parks)

Pack a scrumptious picnic and head to Murwin Park or any of Janesville’s different well-maintained parks. These inexperienced havens provide the right setting for rest and high quality time with household and buddies.
Janesville takes pleasure in its in depth park system, offering locals and guests with ample leisure alternatives. With 64 improved parks unfold throughout 2,609 acres, there’s all the time a brand new spot to discover.
See the 21-Time U.S. Nationwide Champion Rock Aqua Jays Water Ski Crew

Witness the jaw-dropping performances of the Rock Aqua Jays Water Ski Crew, 21-time U.S. Nationwide Champion. Put together to be amazed by their daring stunts and unimaginable abilities on the water. Climate allowing, they carry out each Sunday and Wednesday from Memorial Day by means of Labor Day.
Take In a Efficiency From the Janesville Performing Arts Middle

Should you respect arts and tradition, visiting the Janesville Performing Arts Middle is a should. Catch a stay efficiency, be it a play, live performance, or dance present, and immerse your self within the native arts scene.
I had an opportunity to see Tempest whereas I used to be in Janesville on the Rock County Historic Society. It was a enjoyable strategy to spend a summer time night and a very good excuse for a picnic or no less than a bottle of wine.
Tour the City with Roaming Wealthy of Roam Round Excursions
Discover Janesville’s historical past, structure, and hidden gems with Roaming Wealthy of Roam Round Excursions. This guided tour presents a singular and informative strategy to expertise the city’s allure.
Roaming Wealthy presents strolling excursions of Janesville’s historic downtown and neighborhoods. With over 20 years of tour expertise, Wealthy presents a wonderfully paced introduction to the historical past and heritage of Janesville and Rock County.
Discover Public Artwork
Janesville takes pleasure in its vibrant artwork scene, and you’ll uncover charming public artwork installations all through the city. Take a leisurely stroll and respect the creativity on show. Downtown Janesville is house to over 20 unimaginable murals, many created in the course of the annual Artwork Infusion occasion.
Discover Native Fare on the Saturday Farmers Market
Savor the flavors of Janesville by visiting the Saturday Farmers Market. Pattern domestically grown produce, artisanal treats, and distinctive handcrafted items from pleasant distributors each Saturday from Could by means of October in Janesville’s lovely City Sq.. This can be a Wisconsin producer-only retail market with stay music and kids’s actions most weeks.
Go to the Rotary Botanic Gardens
For a serene escape, go to the Rotary Botanic Gardens, the place you possibly can stroll by means of meticulously designed landscapes, lush gardens, and tranquil ponds. This 20-acre backyard packs the plant punch with surprises round each nook. It’s been known as probably the most romantic spot in Rock County, the most effective place for a marriage, and certainly one of America’s high 20 public gardens.
Study Historical past on the Milton Home Museum
Step again in time and discover the wealthy historical past of Janesville on the Milton Home Museum. Milton Home Museum is the final licensed Underground Railroad Station in Wisconsin that’s open for excursions. It presents fascinating insights into the city’s previous and the Underground Railroad. Every tour lasts roughly 1 hour in size and is absolutely guided.
Go Wine Tasting
Indulge within the native flavors by embarking on a wine-tasting tour at Northleaf Vineyard, Fermenting Cellars Vineyard, or Timber Hill Vineyard. Savor quite a lot of wines amidst charming settings. Wisconsin is a part of the Higher Mississippi Valley AVA, America’s largest Viticultural Space, which incorporates southwest Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota, northeast Iowa, and northwest Illinois.
Awake in Superior Lodging


When it’s time to relaxation after a day of pleasure, Janesville has you coated with comfy lodging. Our favorites are the Cobblestone Lodge and Suites, the Midwest’s fastest-growing lodge chain, and the Hampton Inn by Hilton witch upheld model requirements.
Cruising for Espresso
Breakfast in Janesville is a lot greater than immediate espresso and pop-tarts to start out your day. It’s a celebration of yum, from the primary style of scrumptious scones to the final drop of espresso. Listed below are a few of my favourite locations for breakfast in Janesville
- 29 South Cafe– all the pieces is made contemporary in-house — OMG, it’s important to attempt the scones.
- Citrus Cafe – named the Reader’s Selection “Finest Breakfast Restaurant in Janesville” for ten consecutive years!
- Havana Espresso – An cute retailer with scrumptious espresso and an expansive menu.
In search of Lunch
Some individuals say lunch is an important meal of the day. It’s exhausting to argue that logic with the lunch lineup in Janesville.
- Sandwich Bar – A rotating gourmand sandwich menu with a enjoyable foodie aptitude.
- The Milwaukee Grill – An area favourite with conventional American meals
- The Bodacious Cafe – Greater than only a cafe, it’s a set of distinct outlets, all beneath one roof The Sugar Trade – They are saying they’ve one thing for each candy tooth, however fudge it’s important to attempt the fudge!
Dinner Perfection
Dinner is the right strategy to finish your day, particularly with a well-paired wine and housemade dessert. Whereas that’s usually true, Janesville punches above its weight class with a powerful farm-to-table scene, conventional favorites, and shocking international flavors.
Concluding Enjoyable Issues To Do in Janesville – Why Getaway to Wisconsin’s Nice Exterior

Janesville could also be a hidden gem, however it presents a plethora of enjoyable actions and breathtaking experiences for all to get pleasure from. Whether or not you’re searching for out of doors adventures, cultural delights, or a calming getaway, Janesville has all of it. So, pack your baggage and head to Wisconsin’s Nice Exterior for a getaway you’ll cherish perpetually.
Completely satisfied Exploring!
Disclosure: A giant thanks to the Janesville CVB for internet hosting me and organising a incredible itinerary! For extra Janesville journey inspiration, try their Instagram, Fb, Twitter, and YouTube accounts.
As all the time, the views and opinions expressed are fully our personal, and we solely suggest manufacturers and locations that we 100% stand behind.
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