On April 24-26, Green Bay will be hosting the NFL Draft for the first time ever. Hundreds of thousands of fans are expected to travel to Wisconsin to experience this annual event as new players are selected for your favorite teams.
You might be surprised that Janesville has an interesting connection to the storied Green Bay Packers football franchise just 168 miles away.
If you’re an out-of-state fan traveling to the draft, make a stop in Janesville as you cross state lines into Wisconsin. Keep reading for Green Bay Packers lore, spots to sip on local beer, and where to find the best cheese curds in town before continuing on to Green Bay. And if you’re a Wisconsin resident with a lifetime love for the Packers, you might just learn something new or find a local spot to add to your list for your next visit to Janesville!
Iconic Green Bay Logo
In 1961, Gerald “Dad” Braisher was the beloved equipment manager for the Packers. Coach Vince Lombardi tasked Dad with creating a new design for the team’s helmets. According to Packers lore, he worked closely with John Gordon, a St. Norbert College art student, to perfect the iconic logo we see today. After his passing in 1982, Dad was buried in Janesville’s Oak Hill Cemetery with the iconic “G” engraved right on his headstone. Check out this Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article from a few years ago that dives deeper into the story.
Bart Starr’s First Packers Touchdown Pass
Just starting his rookie year with the Packers in 1956, Bart Starr was a 17th-round draft pick out of Alabama. In August, the Packers visited Janesville for an intra-squad game at Monterey Stadium. Thousands crowded to the stadium to watch the game and what would ultimately be Bart Starr’s first touchdown pass as part of the Packers. There’s even a plaque in the stadium to commemorate the start of this historic Packers legend! He returned in 1982 and again in 2010 to support local fundraisers for a community that held a special place in his heart.
Best Spots for Local Beer
Rock County Brewing Company is a nano brewery offering hand-crafted beers made in small batches in Janesville’s historic downtown. Their menu is always changing, so stop in for a taste of their latest brew.
Janesville is also home to many sports bars ready with cold beer and lots of appetizers. Check out local favorites like Bogey’s, drafthouse, Riley’s Sports Bar and Grill, Sidelines Sports Pub and Grill, Sneakers Sports Bar & Grill, and Wiggy’s Saloon.
Grab a six-pack of Gray’s Brewing Company beer from a local grocery store like Woodman’s Markets, Hy-Vee, or Festival Foods. Try a Blood Orange Radler or Busted Knuckle from this fifth-generation, oldest family-owned bottling company.
Best Spots for Fried & Fresh Cheese Curds
Looking to try the best fried cheese curds? Here are some spots to try that are backed by locals: The Looking Glass, Barkley’s Burgers, Brews, & Dawgs, GameDay Sports Bar and Grill, Sandwich Bar, and GR’s Sandwich Shoppe.
Next up, fresh cheese! Wisconsin is known for its cheese and here are a few spots with a great variety of fresh options: Lark Market Wine Bar, Hy-Vee, Basics Cooperative, and Brodhead’s very own prize-winning cheese from Decatur Dairy.
Green Bay Packers Collection at Kryptonite Kollectibles
If you’re a Packers fan, or just looking to get some pretty cool memorabilia, Kryptonite Kollectibles is a must-visit destination in Janesville.
From jerseys and hoodies to t-shirts and hats, there’s a piece of apparel for every fan to show off their team spirit. Looking to complete your outfit? Check out their selection of accessories, including socks, scarves, and even jewelry for a stylish touch.
For the youngest fans, Kryptonite Kollectibles offers a variety of Packers toys, like plush figures and collectibles, perfect for growing that team pride early.
And for those who want to bring Lambeau vibes home, the Packers home decor section is packed with options like themed bedding, wall art, and kitchen accessories.
