Discover Middleton’s secrets

Middleton has a rich history – it dates back 200 years, to when a fur trader set up shop on the west shore of Lake Mendota. Today Middleton is a vibrant community filled with stores, recreation areas and restaurants but it still retains a historic charm. It’s a fascinating place to explore on foot or by car. Here’s a quick guide to some of Middleton’s top historic sights.

• Before you start your trip into the past, explore this interactive map of historic sites and the printable Visit Middleton Walking Tour Map.
• Take a stroll past the Palmer House, 6707 Century Ave. This private home was built in 1858 and is one of the oldest continuously occupied houses in the Middleton area.
• Enjoy a meal at 1847 at The Stamm House, 6625 Century Ave. This building, which dates to 1847, held Middleton’s first inn.
• Go shopping in the Opera House, 1827 Parmenter St. Once home to a hotel, saloon and second floor opera house, this building now houses several charming stores.
• Get visitor information at the Middleton Visitor Center located in the historic depot. Built in 1895, this historic building serves as a visitor center and home of Visit Middleton’s offices. There is also a curated collection of historic artifacts, provided by the Middleton Area Historical Society – which is housed in the Rowley House Museum.