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:
-
Historic Downtown Stevens Point Walking Tour
-
Point Brewery History Tour
-
History Pub Crawl
-
UWSP Campus History Tour
-
Heritage Park Guided Tour
-
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
.png)
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.​
Portage County by Pontoon: A Wisconsin River History Tour
Experience the Wisconsin River like never before on this exclusive Portage County Historical Society History Pontoon Tour. Led by longtime resident and local history enthusiast Scott Rifleman, this intimate three-hour guided tour explores the rich history of Portage County's most important waterway.
​
Departing from the Bukolt Park boat landing, you'll cruise downstream to the Clark Street Bridge before heading upriver to the Highway 10 West overpass, with a stop at Bahamas On the River. As you travel, Scott will share fascinating stories, from the Indigenous peoples who first navigated these waters to the river's role in shaping the region through the lumber era and into modern times.
​
Along the journey, you'll uncover tales of infamous establishments, elegant retreats where the area's wealthy once gathered, and the people and events that made the Wisconsin River a vital part of Portage County's history.
​
Each tour is limited to just six passengers, so get your tickets today! Life jackets will be provided. In the event of inclement weather, the rain date for this event is August 31st.
​
Step aboard and discover the hidden history flowing through Portage County.
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.