Arts & Culture

The heart of Monroe County lies within it’s art and culture, from the heritage of the Ho-Chunk Nation Museum and Cultural Center, where history intertwines with today’s narratives, to the diverse array of art galleries showcasing local talent, and the bustling community theaters—each location offers a unique glimpse into the region.

Tomah Area Community Theater

The Tomah Area Community Theater is a dynamic center for arts and culture in Tomah, WI. Established in 1991, the Tomah Area Community Theater hosts a wide range of theatrical performances and educational programs, showcasing local talent and providing a platform for creative expression. Whether it’s classic plays or contemporary musicals, the Theatre offers entertainment for all ages, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among participants and audience members.

The Ho-Chunk Nation Museum and Cultural Center

The Ho-Chunk Nation Museum and Cultural Center offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage and cultural traditions of the Ho-Chunk Nation. Through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs, the museum provides insight into the history, customs, and contemporary life of the Ho-Chunk people.

The Wildes Art Gallery

The Wildes Art Gallery, located within the Antique Mall of Tomah, offers a journey through various forms of art. Showcasing a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more, the gallery provides visitors with an immersive experience into the world of visual arts. With a focus on promoting local and regional artists, the gallery serves as a platform for creative expression and appreciation. 

The Sparta Area Theatre & Arts Guild

The Sparta Area Theatre & Arts Guild is a vibrant cultural hub nestled in Sparta, Wisconsin, dedicated to fostering creativity and artistic expression within the community. Since its inception, the guild has been committed to enriching the local arts scene through a diverse range of theatrical productions, with a focus on inclusivity and collaboration, the guild provides a platform for both seasoned artists and aspiring talents to showcase their skills and share their passion for the arts.

Monroe County Local History Room and Museum

The Monroe County Local History Room's purpose is to connect people to the past in a meaningful way. Come and engage, explore, and encounter history at the Monroe County Local History Room & Museum!

The Monroe County Museum offers a number of interactive and multi-generational exhibits on the history of the County. Both permanent exhibits and regularly changing displays help bring the past to life and engage visitors by illustrating the past lives and experiences of Monroe County.

Wegner Grotto County Park

Ten miles north of Sparta you will find the Wegner Grotto County Park—a fantastic landscape of concrete sculptures decorated with thousands of glittering glass shards and found objects, such as seashells, china dishes, and arrowheads. The Wegner Grotto is named for its creators, Paul and Matilda Wegner, the German-born couple who constructed these ambitious patriotic and religious monuments on their property from 1929 to 1942. Since 1987 the Grotto has been an official Monroe County park.