Nestled in the rolling hills of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area, Grant County is a place where river bluffs meet small-town charm, and every bend in the road offers a story worth hearing. Steeped in history, rich in natural beauty, and alive with local traditions, it’s a destination that rewards curious travelers year-round.

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A Journey Through Time

Grant County’s roots run deep, shaped by Native American heritage, early mining, agriculture, and river trade. In Lancaster, the Grant County History Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the county’s past, including exhibits on the African American Pleasant Ridge settlement and the lead-zinc mining boom. Platteville, the county’s largest city, is home to the Mining & Rollo Jamison Museum and the historic Mitchell-Rountree Stone Cottage, built in 1838. Architecture lovers will be drawn to the red sandstone Grant County Courthouse, an early 20th-century gem adorned with stained glass and murals.

 

One of the county’s most unusual and beloved landmarks is the Dickeyville Grotto. Built between 1920 and 1930 by Father Mathius Wernerus, this elaborate collection of shrines is crafted from an eclectic mix of stones, gems, glass, and seashells—attracting visitors from around the globe.

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Nature’s Playground

Outdoor enthusiasts will find Grant County a paradise of rivers, trails, and scenic overlooks. Wyalusing State Park offers panoramic views from 500-foot bluffs overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, along with ancient Native American burial mounds. Nelson Dewey State Park, once the estate of Wisconsin’s first governor, features peaceful hiking trails and campsites with spectacular river vistas.

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The Great River Road, an All-American Scenic Byway, winds along the Mississippi, passing through picturesque small towns and offering endless opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, and photography. For a one-of-a-kind experience, take the Cassville Car Ferry across the river—a nostalgic throwback to simpler times.

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Festivals That Bring the County to Life
Grant County’s calendar is dotted with festivals that celebrate its heritage, flavors, and community spirit. Each May, Muscoda hosts the Morel Mushroom Festival, honoring the prized wild fungi with tastings, crafts, and live music. In August, Lancaster’s Grant County Fair delivers all the hallmarks of a classic county fair—livestock shows, carnival rides, grandstand entertainment, and plenty of local food.

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Other can’t-miss events include Potosi’s Catfish Festival and Brewfest, as well as Platteville’s Dairy Days. Whether you’re sampling local brews, enjoying a parade, or cheering at a rodeo, these celebrations capture the county’s friendly, welcoming spirit.

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Why Visit?
Here, history isn’t tucked away in books—it’s etched into limestone walls, displayed in quirky roadside art, and celebrated in annual traditions. Nature isn’t just scenery—it’s a place to hike, fish, paddle, and explore. And the people? They’re the heartbeat of every small town you’ll visit.

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From its rich past to its vibrant present, Grant County offers a slice of Wisconsin that’s authentic, inviting, and unforgettable. Pack your curiosity—and maybe an appetite for mushrooms—and come see why this corner of the Driftless is worth the trip.