Contact Us
American Players Theatre
5950 Golf Course Road
P.O. Box 819
Spring Green, WI 53588
(Map)
Box Office: 608-588-2361
Administration: 608-588-7401
Fax: 608-588-7085
Area Guide Spotlight: Brisbane House
Posted April 19, 2024
Our Area Guide Spotlight series is back for 2024, and we couldn't be more excited to share these local stops and shops as you begin to plan your APT adventures for this summer.
For those who love discovering historic hidden gems, look no further than Brisbane House just down the road in Arena, Wisconsin. This stately stone home has lived many lives since being built by American abolitionist William Henry Brisbane in 1868. Following an impressive restoration process, this registered local and national landmark is now ready to welcome visitors to stay the night and be inspired by the building’s history and the lush landscape that surrounds it. An ideal lodging spot for larger parties looking to escape for a long weekend away.
Brisbane House
7050 Reimann Road, Arena, WI | (608) 576-6696
Tell us a little about Brisbane House!
Have a joyful, awe-inspiring stay at the Brisbane House, just eight short miles east of APT. The house sleeps up to six, and the adjacent former summer kitchen sleeps an additional four, with two full bathrooms. You can rent it as a couple or bring your family and friends while you binge on APT! Brewhaha Coffee (from Spring Green!), tea from Hedge Meadow (from Mazomanie), and kringle for breakfast.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Brisbane House is made of stone carved out of the nearby bluff and is surprisingly tall and skinny. William Henry Brisbane, an ardent abolitionist from South Carolina, built it in 1868. We’re honoring his legacy by showcasing museum-worthy fine art by internationally-known artists of color. Twice-awarded for its exceptional restoration, there’s no other place like it in Wisconsin, and we’re sharing it all with you!
Please share a little more about the House!
The Brisbane House is the only building in Arena, Wisconsin listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. It is a valuable piece of Arena's history, the limestone was carved from its overlooking bluff, and the house has been a well-loved place by many community members for over 150 years. Many families in the area have relatives who lived there and has been affectionally known as the Stone House Farm, the pencil house, the Thudium place, and the house that splits raindrops. Its new iteration of a guest house has been warmly received by the town and its community, and it's meant to be shared!
What do people lodging at Brisbane House enjoy most about their stay?
The drive from Hwy 14 is super picturesque, it sets the tone for a relaxing stay in the woods. At first glimpse, the tall, skinny building is breathtaking! There's plenty of room to spread out, as Brisbane House is surprisingly spacious inside and there's room to wander the yard and trails (managed by The Prairie Enthusiasts) on our 18 acres and beyond. You can set up a game of croquet on the lawn, hang out on the screen porch, and hike up to the restored prairie and Rattlesnake Ridge overlooking the Wisconsin River Valley.
Heritage tourists will love it here, especially the beautifully restored 1868 stone home featuring warm wood floors, 24" thick stone walls, re-plated ornate hinges, and heirloom quilts. No tired décor here! Modern luxuries include new bathrooms and kitchen, contemporary art, USB outlets and dimmer switches, great climate control and WIFI, and general gorgeousness.
Why is Brisbane House a good fit for those visiting APT and Spring Green?
The Brisbane House is great place to stay for those who love to binge on APT! Pick three or four plays over the course of a long weekend and stay overnight here, only about 10 minutes away. No long drives in the dark back to your big city plus you'd have time to explore the neighboring towns if you stayed. Picnic on the APT grounds or grill out at Brisbane before-hand (gas grill). In late June and early July, black raspberry bushes ring our property for all-you-can-eat berry picking sessions! Fun fact: the former owners used to house APT actors up on the third floor! She also taught ballet in the kitchen and had a theater camp.