Janesville is a fun-loving city with a passion for the outdoors. Explore more than 800 hectares of green space and discover why the city is nicknamed “Wisconsin's Park Place”. Stroll around the lively downtown district, relax at riverside breweries and learn about the city’s connection to Abraham Lincoln.
Things to do in Janesville
The Rock River flows through Downtown Janesville and is lined with breezy parks and walking trails. Many of the city’s beautiful historic buildings are reimagined as cafes, boutiques and breweries. Colourful street murals and sculptures showcase the city’s creative side.
The Rotary Botanical Gardens draws inspiration from around the world. Admire purple hollyhocks in the English cottage garden and enjoy a moment of quiet contemplation in the Japanese garden. The French and Italian formal gardens feature perfectly clipped hedges and bubbling fountains. Join guided garden tours to learn more about the unique collection of flora. Enjoy a picnic on the lawn or dine at the elegant restaurant. Seasonal events like outdoor concerts, classic car shows, spring plant sales and holiday light displays run throughout the year.
Let the kids burn off steam in Palmer Park. It’s one of the largest in Janesville and features a wheelchair-friendly playground and a mini zipline. Cool off in the shallow splash pool, fire up lunch on the public BBQs. Several trailheads start at the park, including the popular Ice Age Trail.
Learn about the city’s link to the 16th US President at the Lincoln-Tallman House. The handsome Italianate-style mansion was built by a wealthy local family and celebrates the unique people, places and events that have shaped Rock County over the centuries. There’s a special focus on Abraham Lincoln, who visited the home in the 1850s.
Getting around Janesville
Downtown Janesville is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore Rock County at your own pace. The city is a 1.5-hour drive from Milwaukee and two hours from Chicago.