12 Storybook Towns In Wisconsin
Between the sandy coastline of Lake Superior and the scenic banks of the Mississippi River to the dark forests in the Northwoods, Wisconsin is a charming Midwestern state with beautiful and diverse ecosystems. Scattered throughout its territory are several small towns straight out of a storybook. These precious gems boast a relaxed atmosphere tailored for a carefree vacation and delight tourists with their pristine natural landscapes, unexplored local history, and colorful traditions.
With access to endless outdoor adventures, opportunities abound for those seeking a break from their daily routine, allowing relaxation and rejuvenation in a tranquil environment. Whether admiring picturesque coastal bluffs against the sprawling waters of Lake Superior in Bayfield or exploring gorgeous Swiss architecture in the quaint streets of downtown New Glarus, uncover the prettiest towns in Wisconsin.
Burlington
This adorable city on the Fox River is known for its serene nature spaces and a vibrant downtown district that serves as the ultimate cultural hub. The Fox River Trail provides a popular escape for nature lovers. It runs about 11 miles along the waterway, inviting lazy strollers to enjoy majestic river views and a serene atmosphere. Downtown Burlington hosts an eclectic cluster of historic buildings with museums, galleries, and restaurants. At the Burlington Historical Society, various documents and artifacts narrate how the first European settlers arrived in the town in the early 19th century and chronicle its evolution over the years.
Meanwhile, the Malt House Theatre presents an intimate getaway for culture connoisseurs who gather at the 99-seat venue to delight in compelling theatrical performances at its pleasant riverside setting.
Richland Center
This quaint little community of Richland County boasts a photogenic collection of historic structures with unique architecture in the downtown area. Insightful exhibits at the Richland County History Room reveal that the town was founded in 1851 by Vermont native, Sherwin Hazeltine. These feature images, archives, and memorabilia of people and places that have called the region home throughout its existence.
The Albert D. German Warehouse is an excellent representation of the town's architectural splendor. This rustic brick building was constructed in 1921 and showcases distinct Mayan Revival architecture designed by the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright. Movie lovers will also find the ideal pastime at Center Cinema, a popular movie house that has been screening quality movies since the 1930s.
Stoughton
Located on the Yahara River, about 20 miles southeast of Madison, Stoughton is celebrated for its Nordic heritage and lively arts and entertainment district. According to the Norwegian Heritage Center, droves of Scandinavian immigrants settled in the town between the mid-1800s and the early 1900s. The facility preserves Stoughton's cultural identity by sharing fascinating stories from individual immigrants.
Art enthusiasts have much to expect from the community, which invites them to a lineup of riveting musicals and concerts at the Stoughton Opera House. In addition to browsing fine art exhibitions at the Abel Contemporary Gallery, the local cultural scene comes to a head during the annual Art Walk Stoughton festival.
Fontana-On-Geneva Lake
This photogenic waterfront getaway on the shores of Geneva Lake has the perfect atmosphere for those looking to let loose and put their hair down. It allows vacationers to take it easy on the smooth sands of Fontana Beach while reveling in the spectacular views of Lake Geneva's deep blue waters. The serene environment and grassy picnic area make for a romantic spot where you can bring a date or family. Several local outfitters, such as Jerry's Majestic Marine Rental, take tourists on nonchalant boating cruises on the lake, providing a relaxing way to explore Fontana-on-Geneva Lake from the water.
But if you are not planning to venture on the water, the Waterfront Restaurant at The Abbey Resort has a lovely little space where you can sit by the water and watch the ongoings. While at it, the eatery serves tasty American classics, including sandwiches and BBQ alongside a Bloody Mary, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.
Fish Creek
Fish Creek is a haven for ardent outdoorsmen, providing all the adventures they can think of for their recreational pleasure. This is thanks to Peninsula State Park, whose over 3,700 acres have boundless opportunities for hikers, campers, beachgoers, boaters, anglers, skiers, snowmobilers, snowshoers, and more. It also boasts an isolated 18-hole golf course and you can scale over 250 feet to the summit of Eagle Tower for sweeping panoramas of the reserve's dense wilderness and Green Bay.
One of the best ways to witness and appreciate the community's natural bounty is to book a trip with Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tour. This easygoing excursion places newcomers at a vantage to see some of the region's top sights, including dramatic shoreline bluffs, steep cliffs, dense forests, and a postcard-worthy lighthouse.
Port Washington
This port community on Lake Michigan's western shore has maintained an enduring maritime heritage with various sailing and fishing expeditions. The Port Washington Historical Society Resource Center preserves a great deal of notable local events over 190 years of history. It displays artifacts, relics, and memorabilia inside a rustic building built in 1852. Today, the nautical culture persists at the Port Washington Marina, where boat tour agencies like Angry Fin Charter Fishing introduce first-timers to the thrill of getting their first catch.
Away from the water, Port Washington has sprawling open spaces with little to no crowds, where you can spend quality alone time. If you love watching birds, the Port Washington Avian Sanctuary has beautiful wooded trails you can explore to spot native birds, gentle butterflies, and colorful wildflowers.
Bayfield
Bayfield is easily one of the most beautiful towns in Wisconsin and a gem promising travelers an opportunity to witness the magic of Lake Superior. As a gateway to the Apostle Islands, it boasts a slew of exotic adventures. The Apostle Islands Cruises are a sought-after pursuit in Bayfield, featuring unforgettable boat excursions to explore the 21 spectacular Apostle Islands. Some of the top sights during the trip include coastline bluffs, underwater sea caves, pristine islands, and iconic lighthouses.
The West Rim Trail, which cuts through the Big Ravine Nature Reserve, provides a perfect avenue to discover Bayfield's beauty on foot. Looping approximately 2 miles, it delivers a remarkable hiking experience in the midst of undisturbed woodland and along the scenic rim of the big ravine. Meanwhile, those who just want to lay low and revel in the serene waterfront atmosphere can head to the Bayfield Lakeside Pavilion to chill out and take in exceptional vistas of Lake Superior.
New Glarus
The storybook village of New Glarus was nicknamed "Little Switzerland" owing to its Swiss founders and distinct culture. Its heritage manifests through the gorgeous chalet-style buildings downtown, highlighted by the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum. New Glarus offers an engrossing lesson in Swiss culture, especially when you visit during one of its many festivals. This includes the Swiss Volksfest, a highly anticipated affair featuring traditional Swiss entertainment like yodeling, folklore music, accordion playing, flag throwing, and other family-friendly activities.
Guests can indulge in exotic Swiss cuisine at the Glarner Stube before downing the meal with tasty craft beer from the New Glarus Brewing Company, culminating in the complete cultural experience.
Chippewa Falls
Set along the scenic banks of the Chippewa River, this waterfront city charms newcomers with its stupefying natural landscapes. Dozens of lakes propel fun aquatic adventures, whereas the Old Abe State Trail provides an avenue to discover the great outdoors, running over 19 miles along the Chippewa River. The scenic route connects Lake Wissota State Park to Brunet Island State Park and is open to bikers, trekkers, horseback riders, and snowmobilers. At the Irvine Park Zoo, guests enjoy wholesome wildlife encounters by interacting with species like cougars, bobcats, bison, black bears, and tigers.
Since its incorporation in 1869, Chippewa Falls has accumulated an enduring and colorful heritage as showcased by the Chippewa Falls Museum of Industry and Technology. Its interactive exhibits provide an educational experience shedding light on past and present milestones in the fields of industry and technology along the Chippewa Valley.
Minocqua
Minocqua is a gem in the Northwoods of Wisconsin with no shortage of beautiful lakes, spell-binding scenery, and epic outdoor adventures. Its waterfront setting means endless opportunities to get on the water courtesy of Minocqua Pontoon Cruises & Rentals, which treats tourists to relaxing and informative cruises on the calm waters of the Minocqua chain of lakes. The Northwoods Wildlife Center promises remarkable encounters with rare wildlife species.
Elsewhere, winter travelers can access the Minocqua Winter Park and Nordic Center to indulge in all their favorite snow sports. Groomed trails cut through the heart of the Northwoods, serving as the ultimate playground for skiers, snowshoers, tubers, and snowboarders.
Lake Geneva
A combination of small-town charm and a relaxed waterfront setting has allowed Lake Geneva to maintain its reputation as a popular resort community for over 150 years. It lies on the shores of Geneva Lake, whose sandy shores cultivate carefree picnicking, sunbathing, and swimming sessions at Riviera Beach. Nearby, the Geneva Lake Shore Path offers a 21-mile pathway along the lake with unprecedented water views. The route passes through historic estates with elaborate Gilded Age mansions and expertly manicured gardens.
A great way to explore the region is to book a trip on the Lake Geneva Cruise Line. This mellow-paced excursion features a neat perspective of the town's architectural and scenic beauty from the water, with a resourceful narrator providing invaluable information about points of interest.
Cambridge
This quaint village in southern Wisconsin is known for its pristine park spaces that allow holidayers to unwind through gentle outdoor recreation. CamRock County Park beckons with a 575-acre adventure hub along Koshkonong Creek, harboring activities like hiking, biking kayaking, fishing, and cross-country skiing. Additionally, Ripley Park has a more family-friendly atmosphere, with amenities ranging from tennis courts and playscapes to a 9-hole disc course. A sandy beach on the shores of Lake Ripley provides the perfect pad to just sit back and enjoy the views.
The Cambridge community sees pride in its vibrant distillery and winery culture. It welcomes first-timers to partake in tasty craft spirits and wines at Dancing Goat Distillery and Cambridge Winery, where premium alcoholic drinks are produced.
Whether you choose to sail the calm waters of Lake Superior in Bayfield or hike the rugged wilderness trails of Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek, each of these storybook towns in Wisconsin guarantees a fresh experience as no two places are the same in the United States. They set the stage for a riveting rendezvous in rural Wisconsin, with a prime opportunity to discover state history, local culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes for an unforgettable experience in the Badger State.
