Located in the south-central part of Wisconsin, Fort Atkinson gets its name from founder General Henry Atkinson, who built Fort Koshkonong in 1832. Although the city is small, the rich heritage and scenic views along Rock River make Fort Atkinson a popular place for visitors. Hoard Historical Museum is the perfect spot to explore if you want a glimpse into the city’s past. Fireside Dinner Theater is one of the most popular entertainment places in the city where you can experience Broadway musicals throughout the year. The town also offers a number of year-round recreational activities like boating, fishing, and more. If you are traveling with kids, don’t miss Family Aquatic Center, which features water slides, play areas for children, and more. Check out some of the things to do in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, that you can indulge in while visiting.
1. Explore Hoard Historical Museum
This museum has several exhibits from the 19th century and the Lincoln Era. Here you can learn more about General Henry Atkinson, take a peek into the lives of the people who lived here, and President Abraham Lincoln’s role in the Black Hawk War. This museum also houses a Bird Room, which is full of taxidermied birds, including that of the extinct passenger pigeon. You can take a guided tour of the five gardens on-site as well.
Hoard Historical Museum
Address: 401 Whitewater Ave, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Website: Hoard Historical Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9:30am - 4:40pm (closed on Sun - Mon)
2. Watch a performance at Fireside Dinner Theatre
Fireside Dinner Theatre is liked and visited by families and couples alike. This theatre is considered one of the best entertainment destinations not only in Fort Atkinson but in the entire Midwest. Fireside Dinner Theatre is well-known for its world-class Broadway performances, but it is also a great night-out spot. Apart from theatrical performances, this venue also offers a memorable fine-dining experience. You’ll even find a gift shop here that offers over 50,000 attractive gifts.
Fireside Dinner Theatre
Address: 1131 Janesville Ave, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Website: Fireside Dinner Theatre
3. Learn more about the Panther Intaglio historical landmark
Several effigy mounds are found in the state of Wisconsin, but the 125-foot-long (37-meter) Panther Intaglio in Fort Atkinson is one of the most popular. Discovered in 1859, Panther Intaglio is a ground depression that has the shape of a panther or a lizard. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, this 2-foot-deep (61-centimeter) intaglio was engraved in the ground by American Indians for ceremonial purposes in AD 1000. A number of other intaglios existed in the area, but Panther Intaglio is the only one remaining. Undoubtedly, this rare place makes it to the top of must-see sites for Native American history enthusiasts.
Panther Intaglio
Address: 1230 WI-106, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
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4. Enjoy a few drinks at Paddy Coughlin's Pub
If you want to enjoy an Irish meal with some beer in Fort Atkinson, hop on to Paddy Coughlin’s Club. This place can give you a taste of delicious and authentic Irish sandwiches and pies. The beverages at the pub are extremely unique and refreshing. The menu also has vegetarian and gluten-free options. Paddy’s goal is very simple, and that is to see the customers satisfied and happy. Also, the staff believes in promoting the local produce, so the food here is completely made of fresh local ingredients.
Paddy Coughlin's Pub
Address: 14 E Sherman Ave, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Website: Paddy Coughlin’s Pub
Opening hours: Mon - Wed & Fri - Sat: 11am - 12am (closed on Thur & Sun)
5. Visit Jones Park
Go spend some time with your kids at Jones Park, which is also a historic baseball field of Fort Atkinson. The field dates back to the early 19th century and is home to several men’s teams—such as Fort VFW Teeners, Home Talent League, High School Blackhawks, and more. The place has all the necessary arrangements for the comfort of visitors, including restrooms, concession stands, playgrounds, easy parking, drinking fountains, and more.
Jones Park
Address: 600 Janesville Ave, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
6. Go camping with friends at Blackhawk Club
If you love spending some time in nature, pack your bags and head straight away to Blackhawk Club. This place can help you get the perfect break, far from city life and amidst the refreshing nature. Fort Atkinson is one of the best places if you love swimming outdoors, going boating or paddling, playing golf, or fishing. You’ll be trained by skilled personnel so that you can enjoy the activities best. You can also visit Aztalan State Park or Lions Beach. This area literally has everything you would need to spend some time in serenity.
Blackhawk Club
Address: W7766 Blackhawk Island Rd, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
7. Spend a relaxing evening at Dorothy Carnes County Park
Dorothy Carnes County Park is regarded as one of the most spectacular places in Fort Atkinson by both travelers and locals. The lush greenery and the captivating Rose Lake is sure to refresh your mind and body after a long tiring day. The park has all the necessary amenities such as restrooms, shelters, kiosks, parking, water, and a huge tower that overlooks the lake. The trails of this park look pretty as they’re made of limestone. This place is perfect for a family visit as well.
Dorothy Carnes County Park
Address: N3220 Radloff Ln, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
8. Go for dinner at Fort Atkinson Family Restaurant
If you want to enjoy a typical American meal in Fort Atkinson, do visit Fort Atkinson Family Restaurant. It is famed for good food at affordable prices. Due to its amazing meals, ambiance, and service, this eatery has become one of the top picks for tourists and locals alike. Some of the most popular delicacies are fried shrimp and homemade rolls. Do not miss out on this wonderful spot when in Fort Atkinson.
Fort Atkinson Family Restaurant
Address: 1620 Janesville Ave, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Website: Fort Atkinson Family Restaurant
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 5am - 8pm; Sun - Tue: 5am - 3pm
9. Visit Rose Lake State Natural Area
Enjoy some time in the breathtaking Rose Lake State Natural Area. This place is a must-visit when in the city of Fort Atkinson. It has a charming lighthouse and some beautiful trails, making it one of the most relaxing spots in the city. It is also home to some unusual flora such as the blue joint grass, woolly fruit sedge, and Dutchman’s breeches. You can also spot a variety of birds such as solitary sandpiper, pectoral sandpiper, American white pelicans, sandhill crane, and more while here.
Rose Lake State Natural Area
Address: W6509 Jones Ln, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
10. Challenge your friends to a game of bowling at Rock River Lanes
For all the games and adventure freaks out there, Fort Atkinson has this exciting place—Rock River Lanes—where you can go bowling and golfing. This place is perfect for kids, teens, and adults, so you can come with your family and friends. Apart from games, the establishment also serves delicious food. Also, the staff can host birthday parties of kids and adults here. This thrilling spot needs to be on your bucket list if you happen to be in the area.
Rock River Lanes
Address: 1010 Larsen Rd, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Website: Rock River Lanes
Opening hours: Tue: 11am - 9pm; Wed - Thur: 9am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 2am; Sun: 11am - 9pm (closed on Mon)
11. Try fishing at Burnt Village Park
One of the most mesmerizing locations in Fort Atkinson is Burnt Village Park. It is a small park of about less than a hectare (2.5 acres) on the banks of Bark River. This spot is one of the greenest places in the city and perfect for fishing, boating, canoeing, and other water activities. The management has proper arrangements for grills, as well as shelters and benches so that you can enjoy picnicking with family and friends.
Burnt Village Park
Address: County Rd N, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
12. Pamper yourself at Crimson Salon & Spa
Daily work and travel can be very stressful and overwhelming. This is why the city has one of the best salon and spa services at Crimson Salon and Spa. This spot is perfect for a treat day for both men and women. The place has an entire range of grooming collection for the clients so that they can look and feel the best. Also, there are numerous spa options, and you can pick according to your needs. Do visit this salon and spa when in Fort Atkinson for a day of pampering.
Crimson Salon & Spa
Address: 736 Madison Ave, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Website: Crimson Salon & Spa
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 9am - 8pm; Fri: 9am - 3pm; Sat: 9am - 2pm (closed on Thur & Sun)
13. Pet farm animals at Busy Barns Adventure Farm LLC
If you haven’t visited Busy Barns Adventure Farms LLC, then you’re missing out on one of the most fun places in Fort Atkinson. As the name suggests, this place is a beautiful farm that is designed especially for children. The farm is open in September and October. Kids gather here for numerous activities and fun interactive sessions. They are also taken for field trips. Some activities conducted by the farm owners are watching different farm crops and playing with farm animals and birds.
Busy Barns Adventure Farm LLC
Address: W7675 US-12, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Website: Busy Barns Adventure Farm LLC
14. Spend a memorable family day at Jellystone Park Fort Atkinson
Posted by Jellystone Park of Fort Atkinson on Friday, 8 November 2019
This Yogi Bear-themed amusement park and camping area is perfect if you want to spend a fun-filled day with your children. Go for a splash in the swimming pool, play mini-golf, or go fishing—Jellystone Park Fort Atkinson has it all. Most importantly, don’t forget to click an Instagrammable pic with Yogi Bear and family. This place offers a number of camping options for the ideal camping experience for you and your family.
Jellystone Park Fort Atkinson
Address: N551 Wishing Well Ln, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Website: Jellystone Park Fort Atkinson
15. Find an interesting book at Dwight Foster Library
If you’re a lover of books, history, and architecture, Dwight Foster Library has it all in store for you. It is not only one of the oldest libraries in Fort Atkinson but also among the oldest buildings in this city. This library is a treasure trove for book lovers and has books for all age groups and from many genres. Also, there are research-based and scientific books for advanced reading. Do not miss out on this wonderful place when touring the mesmerizing city.
Dwight Foster Library
Address: 209 Merchants Ave, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538
Website: Dwight Foster Library
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 8am - 8pm; Fri: 8am - 6pm; Sat: 9am - 2pm (closed on Thur & Sun)
Enjoy a fun-filled holiday in Fort Atkinson
Take a walk along Rock River or go shopping downtown—Fort Atkinson has a lot of activities and attractions to ensure you don’t get bored. If you are a biking enthusiast, then don’t miss exploring Glacial River Bike Trail. These are just some of the numerous things to do while in the city. Try to indulge in as many as you can for an exciting vacation.
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