Introduction to Portage, Wisconsin
Portage, Wisconsin, in Columbia county, is 32 miles N of Madison, Wisconsin and 85 miles NW of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Portage History
Portage was originally inhabited by Native Americans. The city was named after the Fox-Wisconsin Waterway, which ran between the Wisconsin River and the Fox River. Early French fur traders called the area "le portage." In the 1780s, traders established posts and warehouses in this area. Fort Winnebago was built in 1828 by the federal government. Portage became the county seat of Columbia County in 1851. It was incorporated as a city in 1854.
Portage and nearby Attractions
- Northridge Mall Shopping Center
- Silver Lake Beach
- Fort Winnebago Surgeon's Quarters
- Circus World Museum
- Historic Indian Agency House
- Devils Lake State Park
Things To Do In Portage
The Fort Winnebago Surgeon's Quarters and the Historic Indian Agency House provides insight into the area’s history. Local parks include the Blue Star Park, Riverside Park, Sunset Park, Collipp-Worden Park, Sanborn Park, Lincoln Park and Hamilton Street Park. Shopping is available at the Northridge Mall Shopping Center. Local celebrations include the Columbia County Fair, the White Feather Inter-Tribal Pow-Wow, the Festival of Flowers and YesterFest.
Portage Transportation
Dane County Regional Airport is nearby.
Portage Higher Education
The University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Madison Area Technical College are the local colleges and universities.
