13 Small Towns In Rural Wisconsin That Are Downright Delightful
There are tons of charming small towns in Wisconsin. And while all have something to offer, some just stand out more than others. Need proof? We thought so, which is why we scoured the state for the best small towns in Wisconsin. Small in size only, the following towns are easily the most charming small towns in Wisconsin!
The seat of Vernon county, Viroqua is a slightly larger town with a population of 4,362. Visit the delightful main street and shop at their famous local businesses. For more information, click here.
This northwoods town is near a lot of the bustle of life up there, but just far enough away to provide some peace and quiet. The town's paved bike and hike path helps visitors explore the area. For more information, click here.
This small town of 1,000 residents is the center of Wisconsin's cranberry growing region. Wisconsin grows more than half the cranberries grown in the world. They host the largest cranberry festival in the world. For more information, click here.
Boscobel is a great place to make your home-base as you check out Wisconsin's driftless area. They have some of the best wild turkey hunting in the state, 90 class A trout streams, and more than a century of history to explore. For more information, click here.
A charming and quaint town located on the tip of the Horicon Marsh, you'll love the small town feel when you stay here to explore the different flora and fauna the marsh has to offer. For more information, click here.
Wisconsin's third-oldest city has a rich mining past. Our first territorial governor was inaugurated here. The Cornish history of those that first settled here is well celebrated and embraced. Come for a pasty, stay to enjoy this beautiful town. For more information, click here.
Located on the northeast edge of Lake Winnebago and home to High Cliff State Park, Sherwood gives you access to all the Fox Valley has to offer, but with the charm and quietness of a small town. For more information, click here.
Located due west of Madison, Richland Center is a great place to explore the lower Wisconsin River valley as well as the rolling hills of this part of the state. Birthplace of Frank Lloyd Wright and important in Wisconsin's suffrage movement, there's a ton of history to discover here as well. For more information, click here.
Stockbridge is home to just 634 people on the eastern edge of Lake Winnebago. They call themselves the Sturgeon Center of the World, and it's possible there's not one store in town that doesn't sell bait. This is small town Wisconsin at its finest. For more information, click here.
A town of 800 right on the edge of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in far northern Wisconsin, Cable is an outdoorsman's paradise. From snowmobiling and cross-country skiing to mountain biking and hiking, this town makes use of its natural resources. For more information, click here.
A rural oasis just a little north of Milwaukee, Belgium is home to the gorgeous Harrington Beach State Park as well as quaint, old-world charm. For more information, click here.
With the Flambeau River winding through it and a charming downtown district, Ladysmith is a gorgeous place to make your base as you explore northern Wisconsin. For more information, click here.
So, do you agree? Are these the most charming small towns in Wisconsin? What other towns are among the best small towns in Wisconsin? Tell us!
These aren’t the only charming small towns in Wisconsin. Click here to read about some of the most picturesque small towns in the Badger State.
Address: Viroqua, WI 54665, USA
Address: Saint Germain, St Germain, WI 54558, USA
Address: Warrens, WI 54666, USA
Address: Boscobel, WI 53805, USA
Address: Horicon, WI 53032, USA
Address: Mineral Point, WI 53565, USA
Address: Sherwood, WI, USA
Address: Richland Center, WI 53581, USA
Address: Stockbridge, WI, USA
Address: Cable, WI 54821, USA
Address: Belgium, WI, USA
Address: Ladysmith, WI 54848, USA
Address: Tomahawk, WI 54487, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Charming Small Towns In Wisconsin
August 26, 2021
Daniella DiRienzo
What are the best small towns in Wisconsin?
When it comes to the best small towns in Wisconsin, New Glarus definitely fits the bill. It was established as a Swiss Colony in 1845. And though many years have passed, it’s retained its Swiss charm. Living up to its nickname, “America’s Little Switzerland,” it boasts everything from Alpine-style architecture to ethnic festivals and Swiss-inspired eateries. And if that’s not enough to transport you straight to the Alps, the Swiss music that’s piped downtown should do the trick. When visiting, make sure to stop by the Swiss Historical Village Museum to learn all about the history of New Glarus.
Are there any other must-visit rural towns in Wisconsin?
No list of must-visit rural towns in Wisconsin would be complete without Princeton. The town has just 1,200 residents, yet it draws crowds of savvy shoppers every Saturday mid-April through mid-October, as it’s home to the state’s largest outdoor flea market. In addition to the massive market, the charming town boasts several antique shops as well as boutiques and eateries.
What are the best day trips in Wisconsin?
There are lots of options for day trips in Wisconsin. One destination that shouldn’t be missed is Lake Geneva. Situated on Geneva Lake, it’s a resort town that’s brimming with things to see and do. A great way to take in the sights is the Geneva Lake Shore Path, which offers up-close views of the historic homes and beautifully landscaped gardens that line the lake’s shore. Lake Geneva Cruise Line is another way to enjoy the town’s scenic beauty. The cruise line offers sightseeing cruises as well as ice cream social tours and meal and cocktail cruises. If pampering is more your speed, you’ll love Lake Geneva’s acclaimed spas and posh resorts. Unique shops and award-winning restaurants are also plentiful in Lake Geneva.
Address: Viroqua, WI 54665, USA
Address: Saint Germain, St Germain, WI 54558, USA
Address: Warrens, WI 54666, USA
Address: Boscobel, WI 53805, USA
Address: Horicon, WI 53032, USA
Address: Mineral Point, WI 53565, USA
Address: Sherwood, WI, USA
Address: Richland Center, WI 53581, USA
Address: Stockbridge, WI, USA
Address: Cable, WI 54821, USA
Address: Belgium, WI, USA
Address: Ladysmith, WI 54848, USA
Address: Tomahawk, WI 54487, USA
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