Janesville: Make the Journey

Janesville Convention and Visitors Bureau

www.janesvillecvb.com
This site has information on Janesville’s history, attractions, dining, lodging, and anything else you’ll need to know when visiting the city.

The Rock County Historical Society

www.rchs.us
The Historical Society’s Web site contains online exhibits of historical significance to Janesville as well as links to other historical sites in and around the city. You also can visit the Historical Society’s Helen Jeffris Wood Museum Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. The museum’s collection includes information and exhibits on Pauline Pottery, Samson Truck and Tractor, Parker Pens, Tallman and Collins Perfume, Civil War and other military artifacts, horse-drawn vehicles made by Wisconsin Carriage Co. and much more!
426 N. Jackson St. (608) 756-4509 or (608) 752-4519

Hedberg Public Library

www.hedbergpubliclibrary.org
The library’s Web site contains photographs, postcards and historical documents through which you can discover Janesville and its past. Or visit the library itself 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays or 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays for even more information on Janesville!
316 S. Main St. (608) 758-6588

Janesville Performing Arts Center (JPAC)

www.janesvillepac.org (link opens in new browser)
Located at the site of Janesville’s original high school, built in 1923, the Janesville Performing Arts Center (JPAC) contains many interesting examples of the architectural style of the period including Prairie-Style stained glass, decorative plaster molding and the building’s original light fixtures. JPAC presents everything from local theater to Broadway musicals to the Beloit Janesville Symphony. The Web site contains a calendar of upcoming shows and events as well as a guide to dining and entertainment in Janesville.
408 S. Main St. (608) 758-0297

Downtown Riverfront Park

This park was created in 1999 to link Hedberg Library and the JPAC. The park’s unique artwork was designed to promote art and literature. Be sure to visit the River Onlook and the River Walk for a relaxing view of the Rock River.

The Lincoln-Tallman House and Museum

Because of a mishap with his boots, President Lincoln stayed not one but two nights as a guest in this 26-room Italianate Villa-Style mansion! This is Wisconsin’s only private home still in existence that can claim this honor. The house has been restored to its 1857 condition and is open for tours.
440 N. Jackson St. (800) 577-1859 or (608) 756-4509 or (608) 752-4519

Francis E. Willard School House

Willard, who is famous for her commitment to the National Woman's Christian Temperance Union and the Women’s Suffrage Movement, spent her early years in Janesville. Willard’s father built this school house in 1853 so she, her sister and other local children could receive an education. The school house is located on the 4-H fair grounds and is open during the spring and fall, and also in July during the Annual 4-H Fair. For more information, contact the Rock County Historical Society.

Wisconsin Wagon Co.

www.wisconsinwagon.com
Tour the facilities of Wisconsin Wagon Co., maker of the Janesville Coaster Wagon and other wooden toys of yesteryear.
507 Laurel Ave. (608) 754-0026

General Motors (GM)

www.gm.com
Take a free one-hour tour of the largest GM plant under one roof, an industrial staple in Janesville since 1923. Tours are offered Monday through Thursday at 9:15 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 1 p.m. Call for more information.
1000 General Motors Drive (608) 756-7681

Rotary Gardens

www.rotarygardens.org
This 15-acre botanical garden is dedicated to international peace and friendship and contains several specialty gardens including gardens with international themes. The garden is free of charge and open year round during daylight hours. There is a Recreation Center on site and guided tours are available.
1455 Palmer Drive (608) 753-3885

North American Hydro

www.nahydro.com
Get a firsthand look at the wonders of hydroelectric power, used to power the city of Janesville for more than 80 years. Free tours are available by appointment.
15 W. Centerway (920) 293-4628 ext.22

Walking Tour of Janesville’s Historic Districts

Janesville features six historic districts that can be viewed on walking tours. The districts are Prospect Hill, Courthouse Hill, S. Main St., Look West, W. Milwaukee St. and Old Fourth Ward. Maps and information on each of the historic districts is on sale at the Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Office.
51 S. Jackson St. (800) 48-PARKS