With Wisconsin’s frigid wintertime temps and snowfall, we’re all looking for ways to get out of the house and out of the cold.
Here’s your guide to some of the best indoor experiences in Janesville!
Janesville Performing Arts Center
Step in from the cold and into the warmth of the beautiful Janesville Performing Arts Center. Located inside the historic building of Janesville’s very first high school, this 637-seat theatre was first built in 1923. Since its start in 2004, the Janesville Performing Arts Center has welcomed everything from toe-tapping musicals to hilarious stand-up comedy to its stage. Check out their schedule for the rest of the season!
The Performing Arts Center Gallery also hosts revolving Janesville Art League exhibits that are free to visit and feature the works of local artists. Themes include Light in the Darkness which explores the use of light in art (on display now-March 9), with Birds & Blooms on the horizon celebrating the start of spring (on display March 11-April 21).
Indoor Playgrounds
No matter the weather, the fun never stops at Kidtopia Indoor Playground & Party Place! This all-indoor play space is packed with fun—featuring playgrounds, inflatable bounce houses, a mini ball pit, and endless toys to keep little ones entertained. With open play hours and a daily admission price that covers a full day of fun, kids can stay and play as long as they’d like. Plus, caregivers get in free, making it an affordable and hassle-free way to let kids burn off energy all day long!
Nestled in the heart of downtown inside the historic post office building, SPACE Autastic is a one-of-a-kind indoor play space thoughtfully designed for individuals with Autism and other special needs. This welcoming and inclusive environment offers a truly ageless experience, featuring sensory and therapeutic equipment, calming rooms, and swings and hammock chairs for exploration.
To provide the best experience for all visitors, advanced registration and a scheduled playtime are required, as play schedules are based on volunteer availability and may vary from week to week. If it’s your first time visiting, here’s what to know: All individuals must be registered before their first visit, which includes providing documentation of a special need that would benefit from the sensory gym. This is a one-time requirement. Play sessions are priced per individual, while adult caregivers and infants under 12 months are free.
Axe Throwing
Add a little friendly competition to your next night out with a visit to Papa Docs Axe Throwing in downtown Janesville. Whether you’re planning a fun date night or a group outing with friends, this unique experience is sure to hit the mark.
Here’s what to know before you go: Book your lane online in advance—reservations are for one hour, and each lane accommodates up to six people. This isn’t just traditional axe throwing. Games like Tic-Tac-Toe and Zombie Hunter are projected onto the wood for an extra fun twist. It’s also a great activity for teens! Throwers must be at least 12 years old and accompanied by an adult. Never thrown an axe before? No worries! A trained axe-throwing coach will be there to guide you through the basics when you first get there.
Bowling
Bowling is a classic way to stay entertained indoors, and Janesville has two great spots to keep the good times rolling!
On weekends, the 24-lane RiversEdge Bowl transforms into an epic glow party, making every strike and spare even more exciting! Inside, the 11th Frame Bar & Grille keeps the energy up with homemade pizzas, favorite appetizers, and more.
With 16 lanes and a unique Spark Bowling experience on Friday and Saturday nights, El-Ra Bowl takes the game to the next level. Pick a themed game to be projected onto your lane and watch as interactive graphics respond to your bowling ball in real-time! Plus, there’s a pro shop for serious bowlers and a cocktail lounge with a full grill menu for those who just want to sit back and enjoy the fun.
Golf Simulators
No need to wait for warmer weather to golf—head to Riley’s on the Green in downtown Janesville or 59er Bar & Grill located between Edgerton and Milton for indoor golf simulators that keep the game going even with winter’s temps.
