7 Best Small Towns in Wisconsin for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Most travelers to Wisconsin have big cities like Green Bay and Milwaukee at the top of their itinerary. But there is more to America’s Dairyland than its most famous destinations, and you’ll have to take a detour from the main highways to discover its hidden gems. The small, often overlooked towns are the true lifeblood of the state, offering a glimpse into Wisconsin’s history, culture, and scenic natural beauty.
From the majestic Great Lakes and the meandering Mississippi River to the vast Northlands, Wisconsin is home to gorgeous natural landscapes, presenting the perfect playground for the outdoorsy traveler. There are infinite adventures to indulge in the open spaces, including hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. Fortunately, these towns are spread across the state, each with a distinct flair, and offer a fresh experience wherever you go. Here are the best small towns in Wisconsin if you’re after outdoor thrills and spills.
Fish Creek
An adventurer's dream come true, Fish Creek delights with a quiet, pastoral setting and an array of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Despite its diminutive profile, with a population of about 1,000, the town packs a punch of attractions, especially for the outdoor inclined. Peninsula State Park is easily Fish Creek’s crowning jewel, and harbors countless adventures. Boasting eight miles of Green Bay shoreline, sandy beaches, limestone bluffs, and a dense forest, the unique nature space beckons hikers, bikers, campers, and anglers to make the most of its opportunities. To truly appreciate the majesty of the park, you can scale Eagle Tower, which rises 70 feet above the highest point, and soak in the breathtaking views.
There is just as much fun on the water as there is on land, and Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours allow you to explore the town from the water. Among the noteworthy landmarks to check out when moving about Fish Creek is Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. This 1886 landmark stands on a bluff overlooking the Strawberry Channel, providing sweeping vistas of the glistening Green Bay waters.
Minocqua
This Oneida County town is home to over 45 lakes and numerous water bodies in the larger Minocqua area, which is part of one of the world’s largest clusters of freshwater bodies. Dubbed “Nature’s Original Water Park,” Minocqua is a haven for outdoor lovers. You can enjoy some water fun at the Min-Aqua Bats Water Ski Show by watching an enthralling performance. The excitement intensifies at Northwoods Zipline Adventure Tours, where you will experience an adrenaline rush as you zip above the lake's waters on 13 different ziplines.
The entertainment in Minocqua doesn’t stop, even in the winter months. When it starts to snow, tourists flock to Minocqua Winter Park, a recreational hub with trails for skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, snowshoeing, and skating. After a day full of adventure, consider stopping by Bosacki’s Chocolates & More to replenish your energy with some dark chocolate or to warm up with a hot cup of coffee.
Sheboygan
Known for its excellent freshwater surfing opportunities, Sheboygan sits on the shores of Lake Michigan and is graced with some of the best waves of the Great Lake. The town offers endless outdoor activities in the multiple parklands that dot the area. Kohler-Andrae State Park is an excellent starting point, presenting adventurers with 2.5 miles of sandy beach shores, over 150 campsites, and natural hiking trails. You can immerse yourself in nature at the 135-acre Maywood Park, an evergreen oasis in Sheboygan with picturesque skiing and hiking trails, and bird watching spots.
While exploring the open spaces, you also have an opportunity to discover several historical gems in the town. The Lottie Cooper, a famous area landmark, features the shipwreck remains of a 19th-century schooner that capsized in 1896, offering a glimpse into the maritime history of the area. Meanwhile, the Sheboygan County Historical Museum, an impressive six-building complex, houses over 30,000 artifacts, offering a vivid glimpse into the town’s storied past.
Spring Green
Often overlooked by travelers, even among the small towns in Wisconsin, Spring Green offers a charming mix of adventures on land and on the water. Located in Sauk County, this village boasts beautiful natural spaces like the Spring Green Preserve, where visitors can explore diverse ecological zones including a sand prairie, forest, and black oak barrens, each hosting unique flora and fauna. Spring Green is also home to Tower Hill State Park, a site on the National Register of Historic Places known for its iconic Helena Shot Tower, scenic river views, and lovely bluff trails.
Water enthusiasts can head to Peck’s Landing for boating, kayaking, or canoeing along the Wisconsin River. The area also offers abundant camping, hunting, and horseback riding opportunities. Spring Green is renowned for its vibrant art scene, housing several artistic venues. The American Players Theater is a highlight, where visitors can enjoy live performances, including some of Shakespeare’s most renowned plays.
Stockholm
With a permanent population of less than 100, the tiny village of Stockholm in Pepin County offers ample space to explore its outdoor treasures. Established by Swedish immigrants, the village's name and character are deeply influenced by its Swedish heritage. A must-visit is the Maiden Rock Bluff State Natural Area, a beautiful preserve overlooking Lake Pepin and the Mississippi River, surrounded by dense forests for an immersive nature experience.
A hidden gem in Stockholm is the Little House Wayside Cabin, the birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the 'Little House On the Prairie' series. For art enthusiasts, a visit to Indigo Swan Jewelry & Fine Art is recommended. This quaint store showcases a variety of jewelry pieces, both professional and amateur, making it an ideal place to find a unique gift or souvenir while in Stockholm.
Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva, a scenic resort town on the shores of its namesake lake, developed significantly after the American Civil War. The town is known for its 19th-century estate of summer mansions built by wealthy Chicago businessmen, which can be admired along the 21-mile Lake Geneva Shore Path. For a deeper dive into local history, the Geneva Lake Museum offers an interactive collection of exhibits, showcasing relics and memorabilia from the town’s formative years. Nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers can explore Big Foot Beach State Park, named after a historical leader from the Potawatomi Native American tribe, which offers swimming, camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
For thrill-seekers, Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures provides an exhilarating experience with 9 different ziplines over the town’s wilderness. Alternatively, the Lake Geneva Cruise Line offers a more relaxed tour on the water, complete with a knowledgeable narrator."
Elkhart Lake
Elkhart Lake, a small village in northeastern Wisconsin, is nestled in the heart of the state’s glacier-carved landscape. With a population of less than 1,000, it is characterized by its glistening waters and lush woodlands. Firemans Park is a local favorite, offering beach activities, picnic spots, and sand volleyball. The village is renowned for Road America, an iconic racetrack known as the “National Park of Speed,” attracting racing fans for thrilling events.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Ice Age Trail, which winds through the town, offering scenic views of the Wisconsin backcountry. Downtown Elkhart Lake is a charming and walkable area, home to quaint shops and cozy eateries. A notable stop is Vintage Elkhart Lake, where visitors can sample a fine selection of spirits, wines, and beers, along with gourmet treats.
Final Thought
America’s Dairyland promises more than just its milky delights. It is an exciting destination endowed with unrivaled natural beauty, featuring sparkling lake waters and green forest canopies. Wisconsin is the ideal spot for nature lovers and outdoor adventures, and the small towns in Wisconsin are proof that you can never run out of fun things to do in the state’s backcountry.
