5 Tiny Towns in Wisconsin That Come Alive in the Summertime

For big summer fun, think small. While there are plenty of good times to be had in cities like Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee, some of the best summer memories are made in the state’s small towns and cities. Here are five tiny towns in Wisconsin that don’t have a lot of residents, but still deliver a big, oversized summer experience. Are you ready for some fun this summer?

1. New Glarus

When you arrive in this tiny community with a population of 2,172, you might think you’ve arrived in Switzerland. New Glarus, Wisconsin, was founded in 1845 by Swiss immigrants, and it has never forgotten how to have a good time in the Swiss style. Enjoy one of the town’s lively festivals, eat some authentic Swiss food, and savor one of the town’s famously refreshing beers. This is one place you'll want to be this summer in Wisconsin.

2. Lake Geneva

With a population of 8,100, this small Wisconsin town has long been a summer escape. In the 1800s, wealthy Chicago residents built opulent summer homes along the lake’s shore. Many took refuge here after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 wiped out many urban residents. Several stately homes still stand and can be viewed via a lakefront footpath. Take in the architecture, then enjoy a boat tour or head to the center of town for some shopping or ice cream. Take your time—Lake Geneva is a place you can enjoy at your own pace. It's also one of the best small towns in Wisconsin to enjoy on a summer day.

3. Wisconsin Dells

Head to the Waterpark Capital of the World if you're craving summer thrills. While the community has only 2,600 residents, the population temporarily explodes in the summer, as sun and fun lovers flock to the community’s world-class waterparks. Head down a thrilling waterslide or refreshing wave pool in the Wisconsin Dells; you’ll wish summer in Wisconsin would last forever.

4. Sister Bay

This little village with a population of 873 sits on the Door County peninsula and is the perfect place to experience the county on foot. A short stroll will take you past a vibrant collection of shops, a gorgeous marina, a tranquil swimming beach, an outdoor beer garden, and a few surprises. Are those goats up on the roof? Head to Sister Bay and see for yourself!

5. Hayward

Thousands of snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, and ice fishermen head to Hayward, a small town with a population of 2,400, for frozen fun each winter. But Hayward has you covered if the kind of ice you enjoy can be found in a glass on a summer day. It’s an excellent place for summer hiking, biking, and water fun, and at the end of the day, a bartender will serve you a Northwoods sunset in a glass—if you can ever pull yourself off the water! You should also check out a few of Hayward's must-see roadside attractions while you're in town.

These tiny towns in Wisconsin are just the start of the summer fun you can experience. Here are some other destinations that are ideal for an unforgettable day trip.