7 Adorable Small Towns In Wisconsin
The State of Wisconsin is America’s 20th most populous, and today is the home of various ethnic communities making it one of the most diverse places in the country. Affectionately known as “America’s Dairyland”, the splendid and charming small towns of Wisconsin are indeed great places of discovery. From stunning views of the Great Lakes, beautiful natural surroundings, and loads of fascinating local history, Wisconsin and its small towns are ideal destinations for the traveller of any age and the perfect place to further encounter true American culture.
Bayfield
With a history dating back to 1856, the town of Bayfield boasts the distinction of having the smallest population in all of Wisconsin. Home to just under 600 residents, the picturesque Bayfield is situated on the shores of Lake Superior and is lovingly known as the “Gateway to the Apostle Islands”. Indeed with easy access to the Lake and these stunning Islands, the town is a very popular destination for outdoor activities. Enjoy the sunshine along the beachside, take a sail on the Lake or around the Apostle Islands, or explore a hidden cave, when in Bayfield there is always something intriguing to discover.
Meanwhile in town proper one can visit a number of art galleries and other fascinating museums like the Bayfield Maritime Museum, and then take in a tasty meal at any of a number of locally run restaurants. And of course the fall Apple Fest is a cannot miss. Here some of the best of local orchards and wineries can be sampled and purchased in an event that attracts up to 60,000 visitors annually.
Elkhart Lake
Situated in Sheboygan County, the small and picturesque town of Elkhart Lake is home to just over 1,000 residents. With its beautiful lake side vistas and lush green surroundings, the town’s natural beauty is only rivalled by the excitement brought on by several motorsport events in the area. Spend a day at the Road America Raceway (in operation since 1955) where some of the very best in NASCAR, Indy Car and GT have raced and continue to delight audiences of all ages.
Meanwhile Elkhart Lake also offers several fascinating museum stops including the Henschel’s Indian Museum chronicling the growth of early America. And of course any time spent on the lake with activities like swimming, sailing, and even camping in the area are always beautiful ways to make the most of the special Wisconsin town.
Lake Geneva
The town of Lake Geneva is one of Wisconsin’s most popular summer tourist destinations, as well as one of its most alluring. With a population of just over 8,000 inhabitants, the town lies along the shoreline of Geneva Lake and is conveniently located just some 50 miles from the city of Milwaukee. Indeed with many activities like swimming, tubing, fishing, and even sailing it is not difficult to see why this charming place is so sought after.
Meanwhile when not on the water, an assortment of great local restaurants, cute storefronts, historic points of interest, and loads of welcoming hospitality make Lake Geneva a most pleasant place of discovery. And so whether its taking in the sights of the lovely Main Street or spending time alongside or on the water, this splendid Wisconsin town will surely create many new fans.
Ashland
Nearly 8,000 people call the beautiful town of Ashland home which is situated right on the splendid shores of Lake Superior. Near the mouth of Chequamegon Bay, the picturesque Ashland is a haven for small town charm and wonderful natural beauty. Enjoy day trips to Bayview Park or the Apostle Islands where opportunities for picnicking, fishing, swimming, and of course sunbathing are always popular excursions.
Meanwhile back in town proper, visitors can enjoy an assortment of locally run diners, welcoming boutique shops, and intriguing galleries and museums like the Ashland Historical Museum. And for the golf lover a game at the Chequamegon Bay Golf Course is surely not to be missed, where stunning panoramas make for quite the unique backdrop while on the fairway.
Stockholm
Established by Swedish immigrants in the 1850s, the village of Stockholm is indeed a most special and charming Wisconsin destination. Home to a population of just some 80 permanent residents, Stockholm hosts one of the State’s most vibrant cultural communities and a number of restaurants, shops, and architectural designs transport visitors back to Sweden and Northern Europe. Meanwhile the area’s natural beauty is too not to be missed, with stunning natural bluffs creating a most special and idyllic framing. And at the nearby Lake Pepin great opportunities for fun on the water, including water skiing make Stockholm a true gem waiting to be discovered.
Cedarburg
First settled in the 1840s, the charming town of Cedarburg retains its special German immigrant character and today is the home of just over 12,000 residents. Situated on Lake Michigan’s shores and just 23 miles from Milwaukee, this once wool mill town is indeed a great place to find stunning natural beauty and fascinating American history. Explore a number of lovingly preserved 19th century and early 20th century buildings (many of which are included on the National Register of Historic Places) in the historic district or spend time at the wonderful Ozaukee Interurban Trail.
For the wine aficionados the Cedar Creek Winery is surely not to be missed while the Cedarburg History Museum offers insightful lessons into the State’s past. And with an assortment of great local restaurants and other cute shopping outlets, Cedarburg really does give the sense of welcoming so associated with idyllic small town USA.
Fish Creek
Located right on Green Bay of Lake Michigan, the community of Fish Creek is indeed a place where the simple life is celebrated. With a population of just under 1,000 inhabitants, the town has historically been a haven for all outdoor lovers and workers, and numerous farmers, lumberjacks and anglers have called Fish Creek home. Today visitors and residents alike still enjoy awesome opportunities for swimming, fishing, and sailing, while at the adjacent Peninsula State Park a slice of 19th century life and views of the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse make for a most special excursion. In addition Fish Creek enjoys a large arts scene, and several galleries, studios, and even an arts school can be found here, giving a spotlight on local Wisconsin talent and their creative process.
Home to stunning natural surroundings and fascinating history, “America’s Dairyland” of Wisconsin is surely a place of wonder. Within its charming and friendly towns invite all who visit with an abundance of geographic splendor and intriguing historical tales, all while offering the comforts of modern day life. From the shores of Bayfield on Lake Michigan to the slice of Europe in the town of Stockholm, these friendly Wisconsin towns are indeed great places for any traveller to experience firsthand. So pack your bags, hit the road and see why the best of the USA may just be found in beautiful Wisconsin.
