Linda Schenk

Since the center’s establishment 20 years ago, it has served as a beacon for travelers and locals alike, offering interpretive exhibits, wildlife-viewing opportunities, and access to panoramic views that capture the natural beauty of the region. It is recognized as a National Park Service partner site, Audubon Birding Trail location, and Watchable Wildlife site, roles that underscore its importance to tourism and environmental stewardship.
Looking forward, the center’s impact is expected to grow not just as a scenic stop but as a community resource. Staff and volunteers are inviting more residents to get involved this year through service opportunities ranging from welcome desk duties to garden stewardship and event support. Seasonal programming continues to expand, too, from educational activities like planting mini pots with pollinator seeds and library readings to more structured nature and history programs designed to engage visitors year-round. We are proud of the fact that The Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center at Freedom Park draws a significant number of visitors to Prescott every year.

Prescott’s parks and riverfront future
Prescott’s long-term comprehensive park plans highlight the importance of park spaces in attracting tourists and enhancing quality of life for residents. The continual work of the Coulee River Trails (CRT) group has produced significant improvements to parks such Magee and the Pine Coulee nature reserve. The group’s diligent work on connecting trail systems in the town is seeing much progress every month.

Freedom Park’s continual bluff line restoration and park maintenance projects are of top priority to the center. By exercising environmental stewardship and properly caring for the bluff line, town residents and travelers will benefit from its beauty for years to come.

Additionally, Prescott’s riverfront improvement projects, including new boat docks, parking enhancements, enjoyable recreation areas, and trail connectivity, will amplify the appeal of Freedom Park as a destination for continued scenic exploration, birding, and hiking.

Celebrating a milestone
Plans are in motion to celebrate the Visitor & Learning Center’s 20th anniversary in 2026, with festival-style programming and greater effort to highlight the center’s contribution to local heritage as well as tourism along the Great River Road. For more information on the upcoming activities go to the website at: www.freedomparkwi.org/events

As global and local travelers seek deeper connections with nature and culture, the center aims to remain a vital first stop for visitors embarking on the winding Scenic Byway. Its mission to provide environmental education, meaningful interpretive experiences, and community engagement opportunities ensures that, in years to come, the Visitor & Learning Center will continue to be both a landmark and a living part of Prescott’s story. Here’s to a successful 2026 for our town of Prescott!

Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center at Freedom Park is located at 200 Monroe St. in Prescott. Visit

www.freedomparkwi.org for more information.