Parade participants wave to the crowd during the Syttende Mai Folk Festival.
Stoughton streets feature historic buildings and unique architecture.
Nestled in a bend of the Yahara River, Stoughton celebrates its roots with four historic districts including a historic Main Street. A highlight of this stroll back in time is a tour of the Stoughton Opera House, the city’s 100-year-old restored Victorian theatre. The downtown reflects the community’s Norwegian heritage with gift and specialty shops, antiques, and art galleries. This rich heritage comes to life each May with the community’s annual Norwegian Syttende Mai celebration. Just north of the city, Lake Kegonsa offers 3,800 acres of boating, swimming and fishing fun. Lake Kegonsa State Park is a popular choice; its 80 campsites, 6 miles of trails, boat launch and beach are a great way to beat the summer heat. In the winter the trails are open for cross-country skiing as well.
Must see attractions:
Stoughton's meticulously restored Opera House, one of Wisconsin's premier live music theaters available for tours and performances
Charming, historic downtown, with artist galleries, unique shops and food opportunities
Victorian Architecture - pick up a walking tour guide from the Chamber of Commerce and step back into a beautiful age gone by
Norwegian culture is everywhere in Stoughton! Take a picture by the troll on the banks of the Yahara River, visit our shops with Norwegian goods, or try lefse from Cheesers on Main Street
Don't leave without tasting...
Lefse and squeeky, fresh, cheese curds from Cheesers
A hearty breakfast from Koffee Kup restaurant, the oldest continually operating diner in southern Wisconsin
A Kringle or a doughnut from Fosdal's Bakery
Sample a fish fry from a number of restaurants
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