Oct 24, 2022

Explore the best of Beloit, WI, and beyond. Check out these top local attractions in the region.

Aerial view of the city of Madison near Beloit, WI

1. Beloit Water Tower Park

The historical 19th-century limestone water tower serves as this park’s heart. The park itself offers a scenic walkway and enticing glimpses of the Rock River. In fact, the Friends of Riverfront have set up shop at this location. You can also stop by the Beloit Visitor Center and learn all about beautiful Beloit, from its incredible nature paths like the Rock River Trail to its 1,000-plus acres of parks.

A short drive from Beloit, you can enjoy another park anchored by a beloved historic structure. Beckman Mill County Park is 50 acres of country perfection that features a nice nature trail, an eye-catching vintage garden, an intriguing blacksmith shop, and a creamery with tasty treats. The historic Beckman Mill is the star attraction. You can get great views of the grist mill from the quaint footbridge and pond.


2. Near East Side Historic District

Beloit is brimming with historic architecture, including fixtures like the Greek Revival Hanchett-Bartlett homestead, which is included on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic district of Near East Side has so many relics that the whole neighborhood is included on the register. In total, 27 buildings dating back decades and even centuries dot this historical treasure trove.

Other historic buildings in Beloit include the charming cobblestone Rasey House, the segregation-era Fairbanks Flats apartments, and the Pearson Hall of Science at Beloit College.


3. Beloit International Film Festival

If you’re a movie buff or just want to partake in a unique film experience, mark the date on your calendar when this acclaimed film festival rolls into town. Over ten days, around 100 independent films are shown in a variety of venues. Locals and tourists from across the nation converge to enjoy the talents of these indie filmmakers. The hopes of discovering the next critical smash hit fill the festive atmosphere.

With the GM 360 Surround and Blindspot Camera System, available on models like the GMC Acadia, you can take advantage of movie-like shots from any direction of your ride.


4. Downtown Madison

The state’s capital is part and parcel of the larger metropolitan area, and downtown’s a dream spot for a day trip. You can’t miss the majestic Wisconsin State Capitol: a stunning architectural wonder featuring a 284-foot-high dome. At night, it’s an especially sweet sight.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s also in the area, and it’s bursting with love letters to nature such as the Allen Centennial Gardens, the campus arboretum, and the Madison Geology Museum. You can also stroll along the expansive and sparkling lakefronts. And don’t leave without browsing America’s biggest farmers’ market, where you can stock up on famed Wisconsin cheese, including local favorite cheese curds.
 
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Image courtesy of 12019 via Pixabay