Fort Atkinson: History, Theater, and River

The Rock River flows through Fort Atkinson. Museums and historic tours, theater, and seasonal events offer different ways to shape your stay. There are also trails for cycling and walking. Whether you are especially interested in local history, a theatrical production, or time outdoors can guide your plans.

Experience Local History

The Hoard Historical Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; admission is free. Since opening hours may change, check visiting hours in advance.

At the 1841 Foster House, visitors can learn how Fort Atkinson residents lived in the 19th century and how the community developed. A friendly guide shows visitors the first and second floors of the house. Reservations are required in advance.

A brochure for self-guided historic tours of the Downtown Historic District is available at the Fort Atkinson Area Chamber of Commerce and the Hoard Historical Museum. Availability may change. This gives you the choice between a guided tour of the house and a tour you can take on your own.

Theater and Seasonal Events

Since 1964, the Fireside Dinner Theatre has presented musicals featuring Broadway performers, along with fine dining and boutiques in a distinctive event setting. Productions and schedules vary. Check which program is being offered on your visit date.

The Fort Atkinson Farmers Market runs from May through October, from 8 a.m. to noon. It features free live music and crafts for children. The market’s seasonal schedule may also change.

Public tours of the Historic 1901 Water Tower take place on the first Saturday of each month from June through October, between 10 a.m. and noon. Since dates and possible restrictions may change, check the information before your visit.

The Hoard Museum also offers free tours of the historic downtown on the last weekend of each month from June through October. They begin and end in the Farmers Market area, with start times at 8:30 and 10 a.m. The tours are wheelchair-accessible and suitable for strollers and leashed dogs. The seasonal schedule may change, so checking the dates in advance is recommended.

The two tour offerings have different focuses: the monthly tour goes through the historic downtown, while the public Water Tower tour focuses on the building itself.

Cycling, the River, and Nearby Destinations

The 31.5-mile Glacial River Bike Trail runs through downtown and crosses a covered wooden bridge. Trail conditions and access may change seasonally; check current conditions before your ride.

Paddling is possible on the Rock River in Fort Atkinson. Cycling on the trail and paddling on the river are two different ways to spend time outdoors.

South of Fort Atkinson is Jefferson County Indian Mounds & Trail Park. A woodland trail on the five-acre site leads to eleven effigy mounds that visitors can see. As another nearby destination, the park complements the attractions within the city with a trail through wooded terrain.

Discover more destinations: Lake Mills, Johnson Creek.

To the main travel overview: Jefferson County.