Tours
The Portage County Historical Society offers tours on various local history topics throughout the year, some of which are free to attend and some which require paid tickets.
Additionally, you may charter a private tour in advance for a minimum of 10 people. Chartered tour reservation requests must be made at least two weeks in advance and depend on the availability of tour guides.
Tours that you may charter include:
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Historic Downtown Stevens Point Walking Tour
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Point Brewery History Tour
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History Pub Crawl
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UWSP Campus History Tour
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Heritage Park Guided Tour
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Bus Tour of History Highlights in Portage County
For more information and current rates, please email PCHS Museum Educator Kimberly Kopplin at education@pchswi.org
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Point Brewery History Tours
Learn about the history of one of the nation's oldest breweries as you tour the brewery itself! This is not your regular Point Brewery tour. This tour brings you deep into the brewery where you will see spaces not included on the regular tour. Includes complimentary Point Beer and Soda samples and a free history gift. This is a 21+ tour.
Please note:
o Closed-toe shoes, such as sneakers, are required for the tour. No flip flops, sandals, Crocs, or other open-toe shoes will be allowed.
o Please note, Point Brewery is an operating brewery. If you have any hearing sensitivities, they do not recommend going on tour. The tour goes near operating machinery that may expose guests to loud noises.
o The tour explores several areas of the brewery. Many of these areas are only reachable via stairs. If you have any difficulty with stairs or long walking distances, we do not recommend going on tour.
Forest Cemetery Twilight Tour:
Lessons from Long Ago - Stories of Education
Join PCHS and local cemetery researcher Jen Brilowski at Forest Cemetery in Stevens Point for an evening stroll through the second-largest cemetery in Portage County. Each tour shares unique tales of tragedy and loss, as well as eternal love and triumph. You’ll be reminded of stories you might have heard before and hear untold tales you’ll never forget.
These twilight tours begin at 7:00pm, starting during daylight and ending at dusk. Tickets are $20. Space for these tours is extremely limited, and the tickets sell out fast. The entrance to Forest Cemetery is just south of the Rogers cinema parking lot on Church Street.
August 28 - Lessons from Long Ago: Stories of Education - As a new school year approaches, we pay tribute to those who dedicated their lives promoting the education of others. Whether in the classroom or outside of it, the residents of Stevens Point have shown their dedication to lifelong learning in many ways. Hear the stories of those who made an educational impact and learn how even the smallest act still ripples through our community today. Current and former educators are invited to attend at a discounted rate!
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Rising Star Mill Guided Tour
Step back in time and discover one of Wisconsin’s best hidden historic landmarks on a guided tour of the Rising Star Mill in Nelsonville.
Join the Portage County Historical Society on Wednesday, September 2nd at 6:30 p.m. for an exclusive look at this beautifully preserved 1868 flour mill, one of the few remaining mills of this kind in the state. Built by village founder Jerome Nelson, the mill played a vital role in the agricultural and economic development of the region and remained in operation for more than a century.
Led by local expert Jay Gordan, this special tour will explore the mill’s fascinating history, unique machinery, and enduring legacy within Portage County.
Tickets are $15 for PCHS members and $20 for non-members. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!
Saturday Stroll Through History: A Docent Led Tour of Heritage Park
Step into the past with Saturday Stroll Through History, a guided walking tour of Heritage Park at 10:30 AM. The tour begins at the General Store, where your docent will introduce you to the park’s rich history before leading you through 11 historic buildings—including a one-room schoolhouse, railroad depot, barn, and more—each offering a unique glimpse into life in Portage County's past.
The 90-minute tour concludes with our special exhibit, Rhythms of the River: The History of Music in Portage County, which celebrates the songs, sounds, and musical traditions that have shaped our community.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local history buff, this immersive experience offers something for everyone—all included with your ticket. Come stroll with us and discover the rhythms of the past that still echo today.
Self-Guided Tours
The Portage County Historical Society currently offers a self-guided walking tour of downtown Stevens Point. This tour takes around one hour to complete and touches on some of the highlights of the downtown neighborhood.
To download this self-guided tour, CLICK HERE.