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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. 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 Zwieg’s Grill and Chalet Restaurant. Many offer excellent facilities for groups and parties. Be sure to visit the Upper Krust for lunch or dinner and taste some of the best pies and don’t forget to stop at Tribeca GalleryCafe & Books to browse the art and shop for books while you get a bite to eat. 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 and Festivals Each year, Watertown is host to many major events and festivals. Riverfest, a free four-day music festival is held annually in August. It features nationally known entertainers, a carnival, classic car show, craft show, fireworks, and the popular “Taste of Watertown” food pavilion. A cook-off competition between sausage makers will determine the winner of the “World’s Best Brat” on October 1st. In addition to the brat competition, there will be live music, children’s activities and of course a beer tent with local micro breweries like Potosi Brewery and New Glarus Brewing Company. Watertown is the new host of the Amateur Athletic Union State Boxing Tournament, taking place at Historic Turner Hall. These exciting boxing matches feature the best amateur boxes from the State and winners go on to prestigious Regional, National and Olympic events. Visit our website for Amateur Boxing Events held throughout the year. Spend Father’s Day on an enchanted island. Now in its 47th 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. Visit our online calendar for details on even more events throughout the year. 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.
SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOURS
TRIP IDEAS Fun for Active Family
Girl's Day Out
Time for Two
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Watertown Tourism Council 1-877-733-WTTN (9886) www.watertowntourism.com |
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| Jefferson County Tourism Council • The Official Guide 2012-2013 • PO Box 243 • Jefferson, Wisconsin 53549 |