I need more information! Who can I call?
Call us at 800-554-4484! Our Visitor Services staff would be happy to answer any questions you have about the area. Our phones are open from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri. If you call on the weekend, leave a message and we'll get right back to you!

Where is the Visitor Center located?
Our Visitor Center is located at 841 Goodnow Ave. Suite 103. Across from Staples. We're open Mon.-Fri. from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Why aren't there any rapids in Wisconsin Rapids?
Prior to the Wisconsin River being dammed, this area held a treacherous stretch of water, which descended 45 feet as it passed through the community. The Indians gave to this place along the river the name of "Ad-dah-wah-gam", meaning the "two-sided rapids", as the rapids here was divided in two by a great boulder. After the river was dammed, the increase in water level covered most of the rocks and boulders and therefore, rapids, in the area.

I heard Wisconsin Rapids used to be two cities...is that true?
Yes. The city is a consolidation of the two early towns of Grand Rapids and Centralia; the former lying on the east side of the Wisconsin River, the latter on the west. The consolidation was effected in the spring of 1900 and the city subsequently bore the name of Grand Rapids until 1920, when its name was changed because freight and mail intended for it was frequently sent by mistake to Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Is the Cranberry Highway available year-round?
No. Although the route is in place year-round, the best time to drive the Cranberry Highway is during the fall harvest season (late September-early November). Depending on the time of day (early morning is best) and where beds are currently producing, visitors may see harvesting from the roadside. We recommend, however, a guided tour for visitors to ensure a true cranberry adventure. A tour, coupled with a stop at a local cafe for a slice of cranberry pie and a visit to one of our many stores featuring cranberry related products (soaps, foods, lotions, etc), provides visitors the best possible experience.

Was the Town of Rudolph named after the famous reindeer?
No. It was named after Rudolph Hecox, the first boy born in the town (which, subsequently, was the second town to be established in Wood County). The Town of Rudolph will celebrate 150 years as a community in 2006, the same year as Wood County's sesquecentenial.

How many cranberries does Wood County produce each year?
Wood County holds more than 2500 acres of cranberry beds.

I've just relocated to the Wisconsin Rapids Area. Where can I find more information on my community?
The Heart of Wisconsin Business & Economic Alliance can help you and your family settle into our community. Call 715-423-1830 for a relocation packet and don't forget to stop by our Visitor Center at 2507 8th Street South to pick up information on things to do!