The DeForest Area, the "North Star of Dane County" is an area with all the peace and quiet of rural Wisconsin and the convenient proximity to some of Wisconsin's best attractions. Whether you plan to see the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison or would like to spend some time in the Dells, we are conveniently located to make both places pleasurable. Once in the "North Star" you will find scenic biking and walking trails, a full schedule of events at our new performing arts center, festivals, two annual runs, a variety of restaurants, 26 beautiful parks, retail stores, and plenty of hotels, inns, and camping sites for you to stay the night! Dane County is Wisconsin's second largest tourist attraction. Our location in the northeastern part of the county puts US in a place YOU want to be! The Arts: The Dragon Arts Group hosts 2 events per year. For a schedule of events in the area, see www.dragonartsgroup.org. Lakes: We are just minutes from Madison's lakes, Lake Wisconsin, and the lakes available at the State Parks listed below. Nature: There are many attractions for the nature enthusiast, including the Mackenzie Environmental Center, Culver Natural Springs Conservancy/Token Creek Watershed, Governor Nelson State Park, and Devil's Lake State Park. Recreation: In the summer enjoy the Vienna Tranquil 25 Mile Scenic Country Road Bike Ride, golf, frisbee golf, paintball, and more. Winter fun is just minutes away! Enjoy cross country skiing, snowboarding, and sledding at several nearby locations. History: The DeForest Area Historical Society The mission of the DeForest Area Historical Society is to preserve the historical heritage of the area and to make available to local patrons educational materials relating to this heritage. The society relies on a group of dedicated volunteers from the area who have an abiding interest in local history. The society is responsible for interpreting or maintaining four sites. The primary museum, the Hansen-Newell-Bennett House, is located at 119 East Elm Street in DeForest and presents a variety of permanent displays, including information on the schools, churches, and businesses of the area. A kitchen, parlor, and bedroom are interpreted from the early 1900's period. The museum is open on the second Sunday afternoon of each month, June through December, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m., or by special appointment. An ice cream social is held the first Saturday in June. For additional information, go to DeForest Area Historical Society (main page) or DeForest Area Historical Society (other page). Library: The recently built public library features unique architecture and provides the highest level of services in Dane County. Through a variety of resources and activities, the library helps to meets the educational, recreational and informational needs of the public. Have an idea for an event in our area? E-mail the DeForest Area Chamber of Commerce at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it |