Janesville, Wisconsin, delivers hands-on experiences

Janesville, Wisconsin, is the perfect location for a group’s next adventure. “If your group likes to engage in hands-on experiences and learn new things, Janesville is your ideal destination for a multi-day visit,” said Christine Rebout, executive director of the Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Commune with nature

Focus on hands-on experiences with nature on the first day in Janesville. A visit to K & W Greenery is the perfect blend of learning and shopping. Its classes can be customized for a group’s preferences, from a make-and-take project to a new skill set to incorporate at home.

Need more green-thumb options with a little shopping on the side? A customized class at Adorn or The Bodacious Shops of Block 42 and a visit to Skelly’s Farm Market fit the bill.

Round out the day of nature with a visit to Rotary Botanical Gardens, a 20-acre nonprofit botanical garden, home to many themed gardens. Much of the garden property is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, with wide, level paths and plenty of benches to sit on and take in the beauty. In December, the Rotary Botanical Gardens presents its spectacular Holiday Light Show.

Embrace history

Day two is all about experiencing history. Step back in time and try some real-life experiences from the 1800s at the Rock County Historical Society (RCHS).

“Their Help Wanted tours of the Lincoln-Tallman House have you descend the stairs and learn about Victorian life through the eyes of the servants,” Rebout said. “You’ll roll up your sleeves, put on an apron and join in a variety of 19th-century chores and activities.”

In addition to the Lincoln-Tallman House, the RCHS campus includes the RCHS Museum & Visitor Center, offering an artisans gift shop featuring local creators and a range of permanent and traveling exhibits from Pickard China to Parker pens and Rock County Legacies.

Learn how to prepare historical foods during a customized meal experience with a guest chef in the beautifully renovated Carriage House.

Next, it’s time for the group members to stretch their legs with a custom walking tour by Roam Around Tours. Roaming Rich will work with operators to craft a tour customized to each group. Tours can be created to the group’s interests and for all ages. Themes may include local history and architecture, food and outdoor experiences.

A visit to the Milton House Museum and Sterling North Home and Museum rounds out the day of historical adventures.

Top-notch tour planning services

“Janesville’s wide selection of dining and lodging options make it easy to extend your stay,” Rebout said. “The Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau’s goal is to provide you with an exceptional tour combined with warm hospitality. Our tour planning services include itinerary planning, lodging and restaurant assistance, videos and photos, FAM tours, escort notes, step-on guide services, customized maps and welcome receptions.”

To get started booking a tour, call Lori Johnson at 800-487-2757 or send an email to meetings@janesvillecvb.com. To learn more visit janesvillecvb.com/meeting/groups.