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.
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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
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For more information and current rates, please email PCHS Museum Educator Kimberly Kopplin at education@pchswi.org
Guided Tours
Heritage Park Guided Tours
Step into the past with Saturday Stroll Through History, a guided walking tour of Heritage Park at 11:00 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.
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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.
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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.
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Heritage Park is located at 2700 Madison Avenue, Plover, WI 54467
Admission: $5 - PCHS Members, $10 - Non-Members
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Upcoming Tour Dates (All Tours Start at 11 A.M.):
July 26 - BUY TICKETS
August 2 - BUY TICKETS
August 9 - BUY TICKETS
August 16 - BUY TICKETS
August 23 - BUY TICKETS
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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.​
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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.
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Upcoming Point Brewery History Tour Dates and Ticket Links:
Thursday, July 24 at 4pm - BUY TICKETS
Friday, August 1 at 4pm - BUY TICKETS
Monday, August 25 at 4pm - BUY TICKETS
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The Streets of Southside: A Stevens Point Walking Tour
When: July 27th, 2:00pm
Where: Meet at Historic Firehouse #2, 1949 Strongs Ave, Stevens Point
Step back in time and explore one of Stevens Point’s oldest and most storied neighborhoods on this guided walking tour of the Southside. Discover how this vibrant area developed in the shadow of the Wisconsin River and the rail lines, giving rise to working-class communities, diverse immigrant populations, and businesses that helped shape the city’s identity.
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Highlights include historic homes and businesses that reflect the architectural styles and cultural influences of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Along the way, your guide will share stories of Southside residents—factory workers, shopkeepers, and community leaders—whose lives helped define this side of town.
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Whether you’re a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, this tour offers a fresh perspective on the roots and resilience of Stevens Point’s Southside.
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Step Into the Past: A Historic Downtown Walking Tour of Stevens Point
When: August 3rd, August 17th
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Discover the rich heritage of downtown Stevens Point on this guided walking tour that brings local history to life! Starting at the front steps of the historic Temple Beth Israel Synagogue, this engaging journey will explore the stories, architecture, and people that shaped the heart of the city.
As we stroll through downtown, you’ll hear tales of early settlers, historic businesses, and significant landmarks that reflect Stevens Point’s diverse cultural roots. The tour will conclude with an exclusive guided tour of the Temple Beth Israel Synagogue, one of the oldest surviving synagogues in Wisconsin, offering a unique glimpse into the religious and cultural life of the Jewish community in Portage County.
Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, this tour is a perfect way to connect with the past and gain a deeper appreciation for the history that surrounds us.
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.
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To download this self-guided tour, CLICK HERE.