"Monroe County is full of history, adventure, and places waiting to be discovered. Continuing the More Than You Know campaign, we’re again inviting residents, first-time visitors, and returning travelers to share what makes our communities special. Whether it’s a favorite local spot, a cherished tradition, or a unique story, we still want to hear from you—share what makes Monroe County special to you! Connect with us through social media, our website, or email." – Adrian Lockington, Executive Assistant, Monroe County Administration Department

Monroe County encourages locals and visitors alike to engage with the "More Than You Know" campaign again by sharing their favorite county highlights, hidden gems, and historical tidbits. You can participate through social media (Facebook & Instagram), the campaign website, or by emailing hello@exploremonroecounty.org.

Here are just a few of the unique attractions that set Monroe County apart:

• A Trailblazer’s Legacy: The Elroy-Sparta State Trail holds the distinction of being the first rail-to-trail conversion in the United States, drawing over 60,000 cyclists annually to experience its historic tunnels and picturesque scenery.
• Wisconsin’s Amish Heartland: Cashton is home to the state’s largest Amish settlement, offering visitors a glimpse into a way of life that remains deeply rooted in tradition.
• Honoring a Space Pioneer: The Deke Slayton Memorial Bike and Space Museum pays tribute to Monroe County native Deke Slayton, one of America’s earliest astronauts.
• Roadside Curiosities: The Fiberglass Graveyard is a quirky attraction featuring a collection of discarded fiberglass figures, making for a unique roadside stop.
• Cranberry Country’s Biggest Celebration: Warrens Cranberry Festival, the nation’s largest cranberry-themed event, attracts more than 145,000 visitors annually with its 1,200 booths, parades, and entertainment.
• High-Powered Excitement: The Budweiser Dairyland National Truck & Tractor Pull roars to life each year, bringing in crowds of over 60,000 fans and offering prize money exceeding $200,000.
• A Marathon Like No Other: Norwalk’s Rails to Trails Marathon, a Boston Marathon qualifying race, takes runners through stunning countryside and features a breathtaking 3/4-mile tunnel.
• A Festival Born from a Misprint: Leon’s Gatorfest was inspired by a humorous mix-up in USA Today, leading to an annual event celebrating the town’s unexpected alligator association.
• The Cranberry Capital of the World: Wisconsin, recognized as the global leader in cranberry production, officially declared the cranberry as its state fruit in 2004.
• Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise: Monroe County offers over 300 miles of state-funded snowmobile trails and 450 miles of top-tier trout streams, making it a premier destination for outdoor recreation.

Discover Our Communities

Each town in Monroe County offers its own distinctive charm:

• Sparta holds the title of “Bicycling Capital of America.”
• Tomah is at the heart of Wisconsin’s cranberry-growing region.
• Cashton boasts rolling hills and scenic countryside.
• Norwalk serves as the gateway to the famous Elroy-Sparta Trail tunnels.
• Kendall is home to the trail’s headquarters.
• Wilton blends small-town charm with rich farming traditions.
• Warrens is the official Cranberry Capital of Wisconsin.
• Melvina celebrates Frog Days each August.
• Leon hosts the unique Gatorfest.
• Wyeville preserves a fascinating railroad history.
• Cataract is known for the Wegner Grotto and community events.

Explore all that Monroe County has to offer at https://exploremonroecounty.org.

DONT FORGET TO VISIT OUR Monroe County Libraries