Written by: Ava Sterbin
Back to school is just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Make the most of the last fleeting moments of summer!
1: Splash in The Bubbler
What better way to beat the heat than by making a splash at the Bubbler! Located in downtown Janesville, this interactive splash pad is fun for getting your feet wet during August’s hottest days.
2: Play games at Retro City Rockade
Travel back to the 80s at Retro City Rockade. This arcade is home to 50 classic games including ones from Atari, Nintendo, and Sega. Admission includes free play on all games and 25 cent pinball. Perfect for a rainy day!
3: Tour the Lincoln Tallman Museum or Milton House Museum
Step back to Victorian times and walk the halls Abraham Lincoln did during his stay in Janesville prior to being elected president. There’s a little something for everyone at the Lincoln-Tallman House. Lovers of history, art, fashion, politics, architecture, and more are sure to enjoy the tour.
Go back in time and tour this national historic landmark. Learn about the Milton House and its purpose on the Underground Railroad. Learn about the site’s groundbreaking history and tour both levels of the Milton House, the Pioneer Cabin, and the underground tunnel connecting the house to the cabin.
4: Picnic in Palmer Park
Soak up the sun and have a delicious picnic with a beautiful natural setting at Palmer Park. While in Palmer Park, check out the splash pad, Camden Playground, or kid-friendly zipline is Janesville’s second largest park.
5: Walk the Ice Age Trail
Janesville is home to the most Ice Age Trail miles within city limits than any other community in Wisconsin. This 1,000-mile, national scenic trail criss-crosses the state following the path of a glacier that covered part of the state 12,000 years ago. The natural beauty of The Ice Age trail is perfect for those looking to stay active and enjoy nature’s beauty. Large sections of the trail are paved for optimal accessibility.
6: Watch a Rock Aqua Jays Water Ski Show
Watch our city’s nationally accredited and world renowned Rock Aqua Jays water ski team perform their Ghostbuster’s themed show on the Rock River in Traxler Park. Shows happen every Wednesday and Sunday through Labor Day weekend.
7: Get a scoop of your favorite ice cream
Check out another of our recent blog posts featuring ice cream shops around our community. Order everything from an ice cream flight or chocolate sundae to a banana split or pint of your favorite flavor.
8: See a show at the Janesville Performing Arts Center
Sit back and enjoy a show at the Janesville Performing Arts Center where hosting outstanding entertainment is their specialty.
Check out these must-see titles happening in August:
August 9 & 10 | Comedian Pete Lee
August 15-18 | Mean Girls the Musical – High School Edition
August 23 | Improv Night with Steadily Improv’ing
August 24 & 25 | Bound: A Dance Drama
9: Walk the Public Art Trail
Take a walk and experience the beauty in artistry with our Public Art Trail. Perfect for sightseers and those who appreciate incredible works of art. Download the printable trail guide and see 27 amazing murals along the way, plus sculptures, statues, historical markers and monuments throughout Janesville, with a concentration downtown.
10: Bike the Janesville Trail System
Take a thrilling bike ride in our very own Janesville Trail System. With over 30 miles of trails, it’s a perfect activity for those looking to ride all year round.
11: Play a round of disc golf
Are you a sports lover looking to spend more time outdoors? Disc golf is great for staying active and appreciating nature’s beauty.
Check out these must-visit courses!
12: Rent watercraft on Lake Koshkonong
Rent a pontoon boat or wave runners from Floating Toy or kayaks or paddleboards from Drift Away Paddle Co. for a beautiful day on the lake and under the sun.
13: Pickleball at Riverside Park
Pickleball is the new athletic craze, we’re here to tell you the rumor is true! Spend your day playing a leisurely game of pickleball at Riverside Park.
14: Axe throwing at Papa Docs
Nothing like a good time with friends and trying something new! Axe throwing at Papa Docs is great for a night of friendly competition with friends and family.
15: Plan a spa day
Take a day to relax, you deserve it! Plan a day of pampering with facials, massages, manicures or pedicures at our local spas to get you feeling and looking good.
Check out a few favorites:
16: Shop the Janesville Farmers Market
The Janesville Farmers Market offers a variety of Wisconsin producer-only vendors for everyone to enjoy. Located on both sides of the Town Square on Saturday mornings from 8 AM to 1 PM, this outdoor market features local vendors selling a variety of goods including fresh produce, cut flowers, artisanal products, and more.
17: See a concert at Music at the Marv
Listen to all of your favorite genres and go to a live concert at Music at the Marv. Show your Janesville pride and support regional artists with great music and amazing food.
18: Swim at Rockport Pool
Cool off and beat the summer heat at Rockport Pool. Perfect for a day out with the family or working on your high dive splash!
19: Take a river side walk in Town Square
Take a walk in historical downtown Janesville along the riverwalk path overlooking the Rock River.
20: Go thrifting
Update your wardrobe before fall arrives and rock your style with these local vintage spots.
21: Plan a camping trip
Relieve your stress and plan an end-of-summer night under the stars! Whether your bring friends, family, or are riding solo, a weekend in nature is perfect for relaxation, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. Check out these beautiful campground spots!
22: Go paint balling
Paint balling is fun for any thrill seeker looking for some friendly competition. Plan a day for a game of paint ball at The Edge Paintball and Airsoft on the outskirts of Janesville!
23: Play a round of golf
Nothing like a round of golf to end your summer the right way. Check out these amazing golf spots for summer loving, great competition, and fun!
24: Dine al fresco at a local restaurant
Dine al fresco and savor the flavors of Janesville under the sun and stars! Check out our Restaurant Guide for a full list of establishments with patio seating.
25: Admire the late summer blooms at Rotary Botanical Gardens
Stroll through acres of breathtaking themed gardens, vibrant flower blooms, and peaceful water features at Rotary Botanical Gardens. Perfect for a relaxing day out in Janesville, Wisconsin’s Great Outside!
Be sure to check our website and events calendar for more Janesville events and experiences!
