City History & Growth
Situated along the Wisconsin River in Wood County, Wisconsin Rapids was originally settled as two distinct towns, Grand Rapids and Centralia, which merged in 1900 under the name Grand Rapids before being renamed Wisconsin Rapids in 1920. Driven by the river's timber power, the city grew into a world-renowned paper manufacturing center and a premier hub for Wisconsin's thriving cranberry agricultural industry.
Outdoor & Recreation Guide
● Municipal Parks & Trails OpenWisconsin Rapids offers scenic riverfront recreation along the Wisconsin River, including the popular Ahdawagam Trails, Robinson Park, and South Wood County Park at Lake Wazeecha. Visitors and residents also enjoy paddling, fishing, golfing, and exploring nearby cranberry marshes during peak harvest season.