12 Most Scenic Small Towns in Wisconsin
Aptly nicknamed “America’s Dairyland,” Wisconsin is known for its sprawling farmlands and a once-thriving dairy industry. But there is more drawing visitors to this charming state beyond its milky offerings. The Badger State is home to picturesque natural beauty, captivating history, hospitable locals, and countless adventures in the open spaces. While many tourists rush to experience famous cities like Milwaukee, the small, off-the-beaten-path towns in the countryside truly are the heart and soul of the state.
From scenic riparian villages and cute lakeside towns to relaxed suburban communities, they offer a slowed pace of life ideal for a relaxing vacation to recharge and rejuvenate. Whether you are seeking outdoor thrills, looking to discover local history, or yearning to sample traditional delicacies, these are some of the most scenic small towns in Wisconsin to visit.
Mineral Point
The discovery of lead and zinc deposits attracted a group of Cornish miners to Mineral Point in the 1800s, helping to establish a rich mining heritage that comes alive at the Mineral Point Railroad Museum. This former depot dates back to 1856 and exhibits excellent mining artifacts in Wisconsin’s oldest structure. Walking along the quiet downtown streets reveals a mix of old-world buildings with historic Cornish architecture. Among these, you will come across multiple galleries and theater venues, hinting at the town's thriving arts scene. A stop by the Mineral Point Opera House lets you enjoy a lovely live show in an upbeat atmosphere.
Outdoor-minded travelers can explore the serene open spaces at Soldiers Memorial Park, and take advantage of diverse sports facilities. Alternatively, take it easy to perfect your swing during a relaxed game of golf at the Dodge Point Country Club.
New Glarus
America’s Little Switzerland, as it is popularly referred to, is a charming community of about 2,300 steeped in Swiss heritage. The town was established in the mid-1800s when Swedish immigrants decided to make it a permanent home, and it retains its cultural influences through architecture, traditional cuisine, and interesting cultural centers. A tour of the Swiss Historical Village Museum offers a glimpse of an authentic Swiss settlement in Victorian-era New Glarus. A more luscious cultural experience awaits at the Glarner Stube, a family-friendly restaurant serving the best of traditional Swiss cuisine.
The outdoors is a great place to be in New Glarus, and it doesn’t get more alluring than the New Glarus State Park. This idyllic nature space straddles more than 430 acres, housing a combination of forests and prairies in an undulating landscape. It is a recreation hub that invites hikers, campers, birders, and campers to revel in its serene atmosphere.
Lake Geneva
This waterfront town delivers respite from the rigors of daily life, promising tourists a laid-back vacation with all kinds of fun experiences. Outdoor attractions take precedence in Lake Geneva, inviting visitors to sunbathe on a sandy beach, pitch a tent in quiet campgrounds, and hike isolated trails in the sprawling Big Foot Beach State Park. But the experience is not complete without getting on the water, and Lake Geneva Cruise Line provides the opportunity to discover the town’s beauty from the water. You can join a group of fellow tourists on an easygoing sightseeing boat trip with insightful narrations about the top sites.
Thrill seekers get their adrenaline flowing on a wild zipline tour, whizzing above the dense canopy of Lake Geneva’s wilderness, thanks to Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures. But if this sounds too unnerving for you, you can opt for something subtle with a tour of the Geneva Lake Museum.
Fish Creek
The ultimate stop for an outdoor enthusiast, Fish Creek introduces tourists to the unprecedented natural beauty of Wisconsin’s backcountry. This lovely Door County town takes pride in the 3,776-acre Peninsula State Park, a hub for all types of outdoor recreation. The site draws about one million annual visitors, keen to explore its expanse through hiking, camping, sightseeing, boating, swimming, and more. Many visitors make a point of signing up for a remarkable trip with the Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours.
Beyond its adorable outdoors, Fish Creek hosts a couple of historical treasures. The Alexander Noble House Museum is an ideal stop for those who fancy a trip back in time. Built in 1875, it delights with a gorgeous Greek Revival façade and harbors a rich legacy that earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Chippewa Falls
This relaxed riparian community in Chippewa County excites all types of travelers with its rich mix of attractions. Lying along the picturesque Chippewa River, it has a suburban atmosphere with serene natural surroundings. Lake Wissota State Park is where tourists go to revel in Mother Nature’s bounty, providing scenic hiking and biking trails, secluded camping spots, peaceful picnic areas, and fishing sites. History enthusiasts can explore the town’s progression through the years by browsing a vast artifact collection at the Chippewa Falls Museum of Industry & Technology.
Elsewhere, artistically inclined tourists will fancy the local arts landscape at the Heyde Center for the Arts, which stages a variety of live performances, from music and theater to art shows. But if you are not for any of that, why not resort to sampling freshly crafted beer at Brewster Bros. Brewing Co.
Stockholm
Stockholm beckons travelers to appreciate Wisconsin’s Scandinavian connection in the modest village of Pepin County. Tracing its beginnings to 1854, when it was founded by Swedish immigrants, the Stockholm community stays true to its roots by showcasing its beautiful heritage through delicious dishes and interesting festivals. Passing by the Stockholm Pie and General Store allows you to savor tasty Swedish snacks and desserts in a friendly atmosphere. For the outdoor inclined, Stockholm Village Park Campground presents an idyllic natural escape along the shores of Lake Pepin, perfect for unwinding and meditating.
Meanwhile, souvenir hunters and treasure enthusiasts can explore a fantastic exhibit of neat items at Sandy’s Clothing & Art, specializing in artisan accessories, authentic wardrobe pieces, shoes, and other gift items.
Hayward
If you fancy relaxed riverfront retreats to escape the chaos and commotion of city living, this laidback community on the Namekagon River is an excellent refuge. The town has a range of easygoing attractions that reflect its slowed-down pace of life. Out of the Woods Winery is a favorite for oenophiles in Hayward for freshly crafted wines and ciders. Alternatively, sit down to catch artistic performances, from musicals and concerts, inside the soothing setting of The Park Center.
Tourists with a sweet tooth are in for a pleasant surprise in Hayward. The town hosts multiple sweet shops that let you curb your cravings for delicious treats. You can choose between Tremblay’s Sweet Shop and Lynne Marie’s Candies to live out those luscious childhood memories with a taste of hand-dipped chocolates and homemade fudge.
Sturgeon Bay
The seat of Door County harbors a wealth of maritime heritage that draws tourists to explore this modest community of about 10,000. Thanks to historical sites like the Door County Maritime Museum, the region’s nautical history is well-preserved through artifact exhibits like shipwrecks, lighthouses, and model vessels. But for a broader perspective of Door County’s past, you can visit the Door County Historical Museum, which chronicles the region’s agricultural, ecological, and cultural heritage through interactive demonstrations.
History isn’t the only attraction in Sturgeon Bay; the town has a thriving arts scene, and visitors can check this out inside the Third Avenue PlayWorks. Better yet, several state parks in the town assure travelers of endless outdoor adventures. Whitefish Dunes State Park has beautiful nature trails along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, while Potawatomi State Park impresses with lovely fishing spots.
Bayfield
If you have ever wanted to experience the beauty of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Bayfield is one of the best towns in Wisconsin to visit. This tiny community of around 600 promises remarkable excursions into the iconic region with the Apostle Islands Cruises Boat Tour. On this exciting boat trip, guests explore 55 miles of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, with rare sightings of all its natural wonders, including the Raspberry & Devils Islands. But if you don’t want to venture onto the water, you can learn about the nautical exploits around Bayfield and the Apostle Islands inside the Bayfield Maritime Museum.
Alternatively, consider browsing intricate pottery art at Eckels Pottery and Fine Craft Gallery, then learn the amazing technique that goes into their creation. Finally, guests keen on the open spaces can take on the West Rim Trail inside the Big Ravine Nature Preserve.
Port Washington
Port Washington is a popular summer spot on the western shores of Lake Michigan. This suburban community in Ozaukee County delights newcomers with its small-town atmosphere and spectacular water views. The beautiful scenery is best embodied by the Port Washington South Beach Park, favored by beachgoers and sunbathers looking to spend quality time outdoors. Birders in town prefer to visit the Port Washington Avian Sanctuary, which, besides offering unparalleled views of Lake Michigan, provides front-seat views of different species of migratory birds.
A couple of historical markers present historians with something to look forward to, including the Port Washington Historical Society. The site houses an iconic lighthouse built in 1860 and a small cabin for its lightkeeper.
Cedarburg
A mix of German and Irish heritage comes alive in this tiny village in Ozaukee County, promising tourists a cultural experience. Incorporated in 1885, the town boasts a bubbly arts scene that has evolved through the years, offering several visual and performance art venues. The Cedarburg Art Museum is a must-visit for connoisseurs eager to inspect local creations, whereas the Cedarburg Performing Arts Center entertains audiences with plays, musicals, comedy, and other theatrical performances in a state-of-the-art facility.
For culture vultures, you can pass by the Cedarburg Cultural Center to find out more about the town’s European heritage, and follow this up with a trip to the Cedarburg History Museum for a deeper look into the town’s history. Finally, you should not leave the town without experiencing Cedarburg’s wine culture. At Cedar Creek Winery, enjoy tasting fresh wine varieties during vineyard tours.
Sister Bay
Sister Bay is a quintessential small town in Door County with a reputation for featuring on lists of the prettiest towns in the country. Located on the scenic shores of Green Bay, it spoils sightseers with some of the best views in the Great Lakes region. Outdoors enthusiasts love to gather at the sandy and pebbly shores of Sister Bay Beach for a soothing sunbathing session or dip in the warm waters. One of the best experiences here features taking a trip with Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours.
This narrated excursion on the water offers an interesting look into the town, with a focus on all its top points of interest. Away from the water, dog owners can take their furry friends for a fun day of play at the Sister Bay Dog Park. And when you work up an appetite, be sure to pop into the trendy Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant & Butik for some scrumptious Swedish fare.
Small-town Wisconsin harbors a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural gems that can only be explored if you venture outside the major metro areas. With its mix of laidback scenery, beautiful outdoors, and friendly local communities, tourists can look forward to a relaxed experience tailored to rejuvenate after months of fast-paced lifestyle in the city. If you are planning to visit the Badger State anytime soon, remember to prioritize the small towns in Wisconsin for an unforgettable experience.
