Portage County Wisconsin Map
Introduction
Located in the heart of Wisconsin, Portage County is a hidden gem that offers a plethora of attractions and activities for tourists. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, this county has something to offer for everyone. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches, and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Portage County has to offer.
Top Attractions
Iverson Park
Iverson Park is a 78-acre park located in Stevens Point that offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The park also has a playground, a disc golf course, and a winter sports area.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is a public university that offers a variety of cultural and educational attractions, including the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Collins Classroom Center.
The Green Circle Trail
The Green Circle Trail is a 27-mile scenic trail that circles the city of Stevens Point and offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and skiing.
Hidden Gems
The Stevens Point Sculpture Park
The Stevens Point Sculpture Park is a 20-acre park that features over 40 sculptures created by local and international artists. The park also has hiking trails and picnic areas.
The Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame
The Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame is located in Stevens Point and honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the conservation of Wisconsin’s natural resources.
Food Scene
Guu’s on Main
Guu’s on Main is a popular restaurant located in downtown Stevens Point that offers a variety of Asian fusion dishes, including sushi and ramen.
The Wooden Chair
The Wooden Chair is a family-owned restaurant located in Stevens Point that offers a variety of homemade comfort food, including soups, salads, and sandwiches.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Outdoor Activities
Portage County offers a variety of free outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and swimming at local parks and beaches.
Wisconsin River Trail
The Wisconsin River Trail is a 10-mile scenic trail that follows the Wisconsin River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is free and open year-round.
Outdoor Adventures
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile trail that follows the edge of the last glacier in Wisconsin and offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and bird watching.
Chain O’ Lakes
The Chain O’ Lakes is a series of 28 interconnected lakes located in Waupaca County that offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.
Historical Landmarks
Stevens Point Historic District
The Stevens Point Historic District is a 10-block area in downtown Stevens Point that features over 50 historic buildings and offers a variety of walking tours.
Heritage Park
Heritage Park is a 60-acre park located in Plover that features a variety of historical buildings and artifacts, including a one-room schoolhouse and a blacksmith shop.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum
The Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum is located in Stevens Point and offers a variety of interactive exhibits and programs for children of all ages.
Wildwood Park and Zoo
Wildwood Park and Zoo is a 60-acre park located in Marshfield that features a variety of animals, including bears, wolves, and otters.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Wisconsin Dairy State Cheese Company
The Wisconsin Dairy State Cheese Company is located in Rudolph and offers a variety of Wisconsin-made cheeses, including cheddar, colby, and feta.
The Wisconsin River Meats
The Wisconsin River Meats is a family-owned meat market located in Mauston that offers a variety of homemade sausages, jerky, and smoked meats.
Natural Wonders
The Dells of the Eau Claire River
The Dells of the Eau Claire River is a series of rapids and waterfalls located in Marathon County that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Ice Age Trail
The Ice Age Trail is a 1,200-mile trail that follows the edge of the last glacier in Wisconsin and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Encore
The Encore is a popular nightclub located in Stevens Point that offers a variety of live music and entertainment.
The Main Grain
The Main Grain is a popular bar located in Stevens Point that offers a variety of craft beers and cocktails.
Local Markets
The Stevens Point Farmers Market
The Stevens Point Farmers Market is located in downtown Stevens Point and offers a variety of locally grown produce, baked goods, and crafts.
The Plover Farmers Market
The Plover Farmers Market is located in Plover and offers a variety of locally grown produce, meats, and cheeses.
Beaches and Mountains
The Wisconsin River
The Wisconsin River offers a variety of beaches and swimming areas, including Bukolt Park in Stevens Point and South Park in Plover.
The Rib Mountain State Park
The Rib Mountain State Park is located in Wausau and features a variety of hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Cultural Immersion
The Hmong New Year Celebration
The Hmong New Year Celebration is an annual event held in Stevens Point that celebrates the culture and traditions of the Hmong people.
The Scandinavian Festival
The Scandinavian Festival is an annual event held in Junction City that celebrates the culture and traditions of the Scandinavian people.
Art and Music Scene
The Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra
The Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra is located in Stevens Point and offers a variety of classical music performances throughout the year.
The Q Gallery
The Q Gallery is located in Stevens Point and features a variety of contemporary art exhibitions and events.
Walking Tours
The Stevens Point Sculpture Park Walking Tour
The Stevens Point Sculpture Park Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that explores the 20-acre park and its over 40 sculptures.
The Stevens Point Historic District Walking Tour
The Stevens Point Historic District Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that explores the 10-block area in downtown Stevens Point and its over 50 historic buildings.
Architectural Marvels
The Old Main Building
The Old Main Building is located on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and features a variety of architectural styles, including Romanesque Revival and Gothic Revival.
The Pfiffner Pioneer Park Bandshell
The Pfiffner Pioneer Park Bandshell is located in Stevens Point and features a variety of architectural styles, including Art Deco and Prairie School.
Historical Sites
The Heritage Rose Garden
The Heritage Rose Garden is located in Stevens Point and features a variety of roses that were popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Wisconsin River Papermaking Museum
The Wisconsin River Papermaking Museum is located in Stevens Point and explores the history of papermaking in Wisconsin.
Biking Routes
The Tomorrow River State Trail
The Tomorrow River State Trail is a 29-mile scenic trail that follows an abandoned railroad line and offers a variety of recreational activities, including biking and hiking.
The Mountain-Bay State Trail
The Mountain-Bay State Trail is a 83-mile scenic trail that follows an abandoned railroad line and offers a variety of recreational activities, including biking, hiking, and snowmobiling.
Wellness Retreats
The Wellness Spa
The Wellness Spa is located in Plover and offers a variety of spa treatments and services, including massages, facials, and body treatments.
Portage County Wisconsin Map