The city of Beloit, Wisconsin, is located in Rock County and has a population of 36,657. You can find a variety of fun things to do in Beloit and nearby areas. The city has a few attractions, including the Apple Hut, the Riverside Corridor Trail, Big Hill Park, Music at Harry’s Place, and more.
The Apple Hut
When you visit The Apple Hut in Beloit, you’re guaranteed to come away laden with apples and apple products. The store is open daily from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., with the exception of Monday. The store sells a variety of apple products, including apples by the peck or 1/2 peck. There are also U-Pick options for those who would prefer to pick their own apples.
The Riverside Corridor Trail
If you’re looking for a great way to get outdoors and exercise, the Riverside Corridor Trail in Beloit is the perfect choice. It’s a nine-mile paved loop that offers scenic views of the riverfront. Along the way, you can explore local prairie flowers, 17 varieties of apples, and public art.
The trail winds along both sides of the Rock River. There are several places along the trail where you can take a break. You’ll find prairie plantings, public art, and restrooms. You can also ride your bike or paddleboat on the trails. If you’re interested in biking and walking, the Riverside Corridor also intersects with the Rock River Trail, a 320-mile bike path that parallels the river.
This multifaceted city is located at the intersection of the Rock River and the Wisconsin-Illinois state line. It is often referred to as the “Gateway to Wisconsin.” Its diverse history includes Native American nations who called the area home. Later, French trappers and fur traders traveled the area. During the nineteenth century, emigrants from New Hampshire settled here.
The Riverside Corridor Trail runs through downtown Beloit and includes paved pathways along the banks of the Rock River. It also has several access paths through residential neighborhoods. The Riverside Corridor Trail extends north of downtown Beloit along the Rock River, connecting Riverside Park to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. At the north end of the golf course, the trail becomes a footpath that circles the river.
Nearby, you can find the Angel Museum, which is certified by Guinness World Records as the largest angel collection in the world. The collection began when Joyce Berg, a resident of Beloit, purchased an angel figurine in Florida. In the mid-1990s, she learned that the St. Paul’s Catholic Church was scheduled to be demolished. She and other local residents worked to save it.
While downtown Beloit has a vibrant cultural scene, you can also take the time to explore the Wright Museum of Art. Its permanent collection includes more than 300,000 objects from around the world. Adding the Wright Museum of Art to the landscape in Beloit has turned it into a popular destination for artists, students, and museum goers alike.
Big Hill Park
Big Hill Park is a riverside park with dramatic views and numerous trails. There is a playground, a shelter, and many ways to enjoy this large, shady park. Families will love spending time here with their children. The park is open year-round.
Located on the west bank of the Rock River, Big Hill Park is home to two playgrounds and the Welty Environmental Center. It also hosts nature-themed events for kids. The playgrounds are designed with nature-themed themes and feature a bouncing rubber bridge, faux rocks, two slides, and a swing set. It’s the perfect place for a picnic and to explore nature.
A staff member for the Beloit Parks and Recreation Department saw the cougar in Big Hill Park on Monday and reported it to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. When you see a large mammal, fill out a large mammal observation form. This information helps the state’s wildlife agency keep track of cougar populations in Wisconsin.
The city of Beloit rents a room in the Big Hill Park building. The center offers wonderful views of the prairie and hiking trails. The building is located on the left as you enter the park. In addition, the Welty Environmental Center rents upper level space. The Big Hill Center is located on the left side of the park.
Music at Harry’s Place
The annual Music at Harry’s Place festival is held every Friday in Beloit, Wisconsin, and features free concerts on the riverfront. The event is hosted by the city of Beloit’s Cultural Arts Community, and it is open to the public. This concert series features local artists and a variety of musical performances. It is a fun way to experience the riverfront community and learn about the local arts scene.
Beloit has several cultural events and weekly farmers’ markets. The city also hosts the Beloit Fine Art Center, Beloit Civic Theatre, and Beloit Historical Society. It is also home to a 19th century grist mill, which is open for tours. In addition, the town is home to the Apple Hut, which has some of the best cider donuts in Wisconsin. Downtown Beloit is also home to several wonderful restaurants.
The Double B Farm is an excellent location for lunch or dinner. There are many options for vegetarians and those looking for a farm-to-table dining experience. For sweets, try the Duck Butt Muffins, which are made with duck eggs and bourbon. Another good downtown Beloit spot is Lucy’s #7, which is known for its juicy Lucy’s burgers. The restaurant has a retro atmosphere and an open kitchen.