Frequently Asked Questions
I need more information! Who can I call?
Call the Wisconsin Rapids Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at (715) 422-4650 or (800) 554-4484, and our staff would be happy to help answer any questions you have about the area. If we miss your call, please leave us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!
_
Why are they called cranberries?
Early settlers thought cranberry blossom resembled the head of a crane, hence the name “crane berry,” which was later shortened to cranberry.
_
Is the Cranberry Highway available year-round?
Although the route is in place year-round, the best time to drive the Cranberry Highway is during the fall harvest season which is late-September through late-October. Depending on the time of day and what beds are currently producing, visitors may see harvesting from the roadside. However, we recommend a guided tour for visitors to ensure a true cranberry experience.
_
Why aren’t there any rapids in Wisconsin Rapids?
Prior to the Wisconsin River being dammed, this area held a treacherous stretch of water, which descended 45 feet as it passed through the community. The Indians gave to this place along the river the name of “Ad-dah-wah-gam,” meaning the “Two-sided Rapids,” as the rapids here was divided in two by a great boulder. After the river was dammed, the increase in water level covered most of the rocks and boulders and therefore, rapids, in the area.
Where is the your office located?
The Wisconsin Rapids Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is proud of the area we promote, and our location says it all! We are located in downtown Wisconsin Rapids in the historic Hamm Building. Our address is 131 2nd Street North, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494. Within the doors on 2nd Street, you'll find our friendly staff and area information. While located at the 1st Street entrance of the same building is Aaron’s Wines and Steins.
_
I heard Wisconsin Rapids used to be two cities. Is that true?
Yes it's true! The city is a consolidation of the two early towns of Grand Rapids and Centralia, the former lying on the east side of the Wisconsin River, the latter on the west. The consolidation was effected in the spring of 1900 and the city subsequently bore the name of Grand Rapids until 1920, when its name was changed because freight and mail intended for it was frequently sent by mistake to Grand Rapids, Michigan.
_
Was the Town of Rudolph named after the famous reindeer?
No, it was actually named after Rudolph Hecox, the first boy born in the town.