Imagine yourself in the rolling hills of Green County in southern Wisconsin, and you'll find yourself in Monticello, the Heart of Green County. This friendly community lies in the southwestern part of the state between New Glarus, America's Little Switzerland, and Monroe, the Green County seat.  A getaway located thirty miles south of Madison, Wisconsin's capital, Monticello offers the closeness to the city and the wonders of the country.  Monticello is a community with heart.  That heart reaches out to visitors, as well as, to recent and longtime residents.  Stepping onto Main Street, you're greeted with warm hospitality.  There's a feeling of home.

Lake Montesian and Gardens

When you enter Monticello from Highway 69, the limestone monument and beautiful Lake Montesian herald your arrival. Ducks and geese greet visitors with their antics. Beyond the curved footbridge, the lake's island features picnicking facilities and is the scenic setting for many weddings. An octagon shelter house provides additional facilities on the lake's east side. Near Lake Montesian, two rows of over one hundred flowering crab trees on Memory Lane line the entry into the village. On the north side, the Green County Vietnam Veterans Memorial stands along the Little Sugar River near a large shelter house. By taking the walking path from Main Street, you can stroll over a covered footbridge and along the park to Montesian Gardens. This community garden features individual flowerbeds that bloom continually from spring until frost.

Recreation

In Monticello's large park setting near the Little Sugar River are the community swimming pool, playgrounds, and volleyball and basketball courts. Like biking or snowmobiling? Or how about hiking through rock cut areas that the glaciers missed? Monticello offers easy access to the 23-mile Sugar River Recreational Trail. Fishing is available year round at Lake Montesian, which sports everything from bluegills to northerns. Lodging can be found at one of the family friendly motels or Bed & Breakfasts in the area, or your group can experience a special night at the Cheese Warehouse, a primitive hostel near the Sugar River Trail. This building, featuring l2.inch stonewalls, was restored for overnight and reception rental.

Picturesque Village

Whether you explore Lake Montesian Park, walk along Main Street with its circa 1900s storefronts, or stop on the way along the Sugar River Recreational Trail, Monticello offers you a place of rest and refreshment. In the picturesque village, you will find the M&M Cafe' on the little Sugar River, The Monticello House, a turn of the century supper club which features American entrees, and The Dining Room at 209 Main, an award winning gourmet restaurant. For a quick meal break any day of the week, visit the very special deli at Gempeler's Supermarket or stop, at any one of the unique pubs along Main Street. Plan to browse in the assorted shops, and feel free to visit local businesses, churches, the school and the public library.