Fun and adventure are just a tank of gas away! Wisconsin is filled with charming small towns that offer it all – delicious local restaurants, historic sights, scenic natural areas, and more. These little towns are ideal spots for a weekend getaway. Here are some of your wonderful cool small towns in Wisconsin you ought to add to your Wisconsin bucket list ASAP:

1. Stoughton

Step into the old country with a visit to Stoughton. Located just south of Madison, this charming town wears its Norwegian roots on its sleeve. You’ll see this heritage in the community's charming shops, galleries, restaurants, and museums. Each May, everyone is Norwegian for a day here during the community’s annual Norwegian Syttende Mai celebration. Join the fun!

2. Ripon

Budget Travel magazine named Ripon one of the "Coolest Small Towns in America" and when you arrive you’ll understand why. The town has tons of history – it's home to a 150+-year-old college and the Republican Party was founded here. The downtown is filled with lively pubs, restaurants, and coffee shops. It’s the perfect small-town Wisconsin getaway.

3. Baraboo

This little town is the gateway to some great things. Baraboo is located next to Wisconsin’s most popular state park, Devil’s Lake State Park. It’s also home to the amazing Circus World Museum and the International Crane Foundation. It’s a wonderful place for a family escape.

4. Sparta

Cyclists: Sparta has your ticket to ride. This little town is known as the "Bicycling Capital of America." Load up your bike and explore several nationally known bike trails, including the Elroy-Sparta State Trail which was the first rails-to-trails bicycle route in the country.

5. Waupaca

Water lovers need to look no further than Waupaca for a summer getaway. This town is located in the Chain O' Lakes – it’s an awesome spot for boating, swimming, kayaking, touring, and fishing. While Wauapca is not as well known as some of the destinations in the Northwoods, it’s an easier drive from places like Milwaukee and Chicago so you can get on the water sooner.

6. Merrill

A lot of vacationers pass this town on their way north but they would be wise to stop. The community along the Wisconsin River has it all – charming historic homes, picturesque stone arch bridges, and scenic outdoor recreation areas. Merrill is an ideal place for a weekend getaway.

7. Richland Center

This picturesque town is surrounded by dairy farms and tree-covered hillsides. Richland Center is tucked in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin and it's the perfect base to explore the scenic southwest area of the state. You’ll find everything from historic architecture to local wineries and hiking spots.

Are you ready to explore one of these cool small towns in Wisconsin? What other small towns would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments!

If you’re looking for some more fantastic road trip ideas, take a look at these unforgettable destinations in Wisconsin.