Beloit City Guide

Local food favorites include Wisconsin cheese curds, bratwurst, and Friday fish fries. Some Mexican, Italian, and Asian restaurants exist. Vegetarian and vegan options are increasing but limited. Late-night food is mostly fast food and bars.

Nightlife is low-key, with bars and pubs like The Rock Bar and Grand Avenue Pub. Live music and clubs are few.

A growing coffee scene with spots like Blue Collar Coffee Co. and Bagels & More. Specialty roasters are limited.

Tipping is expected in service industries. 15-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis and rideshares, 15-20% for hairdressers and delivery. Optional in counter service.

Local SIMs are sold at AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile stores, and Best Buy. All major carriers have good coverage and offer eSIM options. Prepaid plans usually do not need ID registration.

The city is generally clean, especially downtown and neighborhoods. Standard waste and recycling services are active.

Limited 24/7 services. Some convenience stores open all night. Pharmacies often close early or have limited hours. Emergency rooms provide after-hours care.

Main supermarkets include Pick 'n Save, Schnucks, and ALDI. International products are available mainly at larger or specialty stores. Stores usually open 7 AM to 9 or 10 PM, including Sundays with reduced hours.

Most places accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover cards. Cash is accepted everywhere, but cards are preferred for convenience.

ATMs are easy to find at banks like First National Bank and Blackhawk Community Credit Union, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees commonly range $2.50 to $5 plus your bank's fees.

Local schools include Beloit Memorial High School and other district schools. Beloit College is a notable liberal arts college. Instruction is primarily in English.

Beloit lacks a strong digital nomad community. Remote groups are informal or online.

Parks like Riverside, Big Hill, and Krueger offer good green space and shaded areas for walking or running.

Running routes include the Beloit Riverwalk and city parks. These areas are well lit and generally safe.

Gyms are available along with recreational sports leagues through the parks department.

Public tennis courts are available at Riverside and Big Hill Parks.

Padel courts are not available in Beloit.

Yoga studios like The Body & Soul Studio and the YMCA offer drop-in classes.

Local dojos offer Taekwondo, Karate, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with varying drop-in policies.

Ski resorts like Alpine Valley and Wilmot Mountain are about 45 minutes to 1 hour away. They offer terrain for all levels and equipment rentals. Ski season runs December to March.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on the Rock River, with rentals at Rotary River Center and Riverside Park.

No surfing is available here.

No diving or snorkeling nearby.

Mercyhealth Hospital has English-speaking staff and good quality care. Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS are common with many offering drive-thru. OTC meds are widely available.

Tap water meets federal and state standards and is generally safe to drink.

Playgrounds are in city parks like Riverside and Big Hill. Family attractions include the Beloit Children's Museum and minor league baseball games. Baby supplies are easy to find at supermarkets.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is moderate. Beloit College is inclusive, but there are few specific venues. State-level protections exist.

Pet policies vary; many outdoor patios allow pets. There’s a dog park and veterinary clinics. Pet supplies are easy to find.