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Watertown, Wisconsin
Watertown’s many historic districts showcase our rich history and unique architecture. Over 120 buildings within the downtown business district are eligible for the National Historic Register.


OUR RICH HERITAGE
The Octagon House Museum and the First Kindergarten in the U.S. (see pg 53) are open to visitors from May through October with guided tours daily on the hour from 10am-4pm.  Don’t miss the Octagon House Ice Cream Social with 1st Brigade Band Concert held every August.  The Dodge-Jefferson Counties Genealogical Society is located at 504 South 4th Street.

Five walking tour brochures guide you  through historic neighborhoods, commercial districts, and highlight the growing collection of murals which depict stories from the city’s past. The brochures, as well as commemorative postcards, are available through the Chamber of Commerce and area businesses.

MUSIC AND THEATER
The talented Watertown Players provide the city with theatrical productions including the unique “theater in the octagonal” presentations performed in the Octagon House several times a year.  There is always music in the air, with the Watertown Municipal Band  and the Watertown Chamber Orchestra playing seasonally, and the Watertown Community Concert Series hosting performers throughout the year. Watertown enjoys the privilege of being home base for The 1st Brigade Band, a nationally known Civil War era band which plays 19th century music on period instruments.

ART, ANTIQUES & SHOPPING GALORE!
Our downtown boasts something for everyone, making it a memorable shopping experience whether you fancy crafts, antiques, art, fine clothing or anything in between!

The Watertown Farmer’s Market, a tradition begun in 1860, is held in Riverside Park every Tuesday from May through mid-November from 7am to 1pm.

DINING
Watertown has a wide variety of restaurants  like Mullen’s Dairy and Eatery, an old-time ice cream parlor, to local restaurants like the Chalet Restaurant and La Finca De Adobe.  Many offer excellent facilities for groups and parties.  Be sure to visit the Cobblestone Restaurant located inside the Market Specialty Shopping Mall, a 150 year old renovated lumber mill with patio dining too!

RELAX & HAVE FUN
If fun is what you’re after, our Aquatic Center is second to none, featuring a water slide and other wet and wild activities for all ages. With over 27 city parks, covering 275 acres within the city limits, you can swim, bike, picnic, hike, play volleyball, cook-out, skateboard or simply hang out! Watertown has it all!

MAJOR EVENTS & FESTIVALS
Each year, Watertown is host to many major events and festivals.  Visit the calendar of events for more information about each of these and other events

Riverfest, a free four-day music festival is held annually the first full weekend of August.  It features nationally known entertainers, a carnival, classic car show, craft show, fireworks, and the popular “Taste of Watertown” food pavilion. 

Spend Father’s Day on an enchanted island.  Now in its 46th year, the Watertown Outdoor Arts Festival is held every year on Father’s Day at Riverside Park Island.  Admission is free.  Enjoy live music, food, free art activities for children, and a spectacular array of art. 

Don’t miss Watertown’s other events including Mother’s Day Tea (May), Downtown Street Dance (June), Fall Festival (Oct.), World’s Best Brat Festival (Oct.), and the Christmas Parade of Lights (Nov.).  Visit the calendar of events for details on these events and more.

GROUP TOURS
Take a walking tour of all the murals across town, experience a tour of one of our local businesses or plan an entire trip around one of the many events in town.  See pages 34-35 for these ideas and more.
  • Berres Brothers Coffee Roasters - Berres Brothers is opening its doors and production facility just for you!  Join us for “Behind the Beans,” our new coffee experience!
  • Calico Cottage Rock River Winery - One of the largest wine stores in the state, now featuring over 350 fine wines including those from 32 Wisconsin wineries.  We invite you to book wine tasting parties and have tons of fun!
  • Hat Creek Candle - Tantalize your senses with a Hat Creek Candle factory tour! Enjoy a candle pouring demonstration and learn about the candle making process.
  • Augie’s Elite Cuisine Cable Show - Be part of the audience of the live taping of a cooking show featuring Chef Augie and his delicious recipes.  The show is taped Tuesdays at 1pm at Watertown City Hall and admission is free. 
  • The Market Specialty Shopping Mall - Free, fun programs are available by appointment.  Personal style, home décor, and entertainment ideas to inspire.  Games and activities with prizes, too.
  • Octagon House - Tours are fully guided every hour, on the hour, in an air-conditioned museum.  From May 1st to October 31st .
  • Rosy - Lane Holsteins Farm - We regularly give tours to school children, community groups, US and international farmers and many others.
  • Wisconsin Aviation - Take off into the blue yonder for a bird’s eye view of the Watertown area from a whole different perspective!  A maximum of 3 passengers will enjoy an average flight time of 40 minutes.  Don’t forget your camera!
  • Ebert’s Greehouse Village - Ebert’s Greenhouse Village is sure to be an inspiring stop on your walking tour!  Our 30,000 sq. ft. showcase greenhouse is just the beginning of the beauty that is second to none.  Call for an appointment to see it for yourself!

SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOURS
  • Brewery Walking Tour
  • Clyman Street Walking Tour
  • Washington Street Walking Tour
  • Murals Walking Tour
  • Main Street Walking Tour
  • Parks Walking Tour
  • Churches Walking Tour


TRIP IDEAS


Fun for Active Family
LodgingSuper 8  Hotel
Breakfast
Expanded Continental Breakfast included with lodging
Morning Activity
Skate Express Roller Skating, Gymtastics,
Brandt Quirk Skateboard Park and Frisbee Golf
Lunch
Mullen’s Dairy & Eatery or Schuett’s Drive-In
Afternoon Activity  
Chamberland Playground and  the Aquatic Center
Dinner
Rock River Pizza or LaFinca De Adobe
Evening Activity
Bowling at area lanes and relaxing in the hotel pool and spa.

Girl's Day Out
LodgingHoliday Inn Express
Breakfast
Hot Breakfast included with Lodging  or the Chalet Restaurant
Morning Activity
Shopping at the Market Specialty Mall and downtown merchants.  
Wine Tasting at Calico Cottage Rock River Winery, Hat Creek Candle Tour
Lunch
Upper Krust or Perkins Restaurant and Bakery
Afternoon Activity
Day Spa pampering at Domani Salon and Spa or Oasis Creations
Dinner
El Mariachi’s, Bob & Karla’s Cobblestone at the Market
Evening Activity
Walking Tours of Historic Watertown and Towne Cinema

Time for Two
LodgingJesse Stone House Bed & Breakfast
Breakfast
Included with Lodging
Morning Activity
Octagon House Museum and Historical Society, Clara’s Antiques
Lunch
Beres Brothers Café
Afternoon Activity
Play a round of golf at Windwood of Watertown, visit Tivoli Island Nature Preserve, or take a sightseeing flight at Wisconsin Aviation
Dinner
Steakfire or Elias Inn
Evening Activity
Nite cap and snack at Lyons Pub,  Bismarcks, or Amado’s
and live music at area taverns.




FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Watertown Tourism Council
1-877-733-WTTN (9886)
www.watertowntourism.com



Jefferson County Tourism Council  •  The Official Guide 2010-2011  •  PO Box 243  •  Jefferson, Wisconsin 53549