These Small Towns in Wisconsin Come Alive in Summer
Although the state of Wisconsin is known for its cold winters, many of its small cottage towns come to life during the warm summer months of June, July, and August. Once-frozen lakes thaw out to become water playgrounds for swimmers, boaters, and skiers, and wildflowers dot the gently rolling landscape. No matter what type of summertime adventure you crave, from exploring forests to sipping cold local craft beer, you'll find it in one of these small Wisconsin towns.
Lake Geneva
A summer vacation in Lake Geneva is an idyllic escape from the stress of every day. Known as a resort city, Lake Geneva sits in the southeastern portion of the state, near the Illinois border. Spend a few days or weeks exploring this waterfront city, taking time to go fishing, boating, swimming, or skiing on the 5,262-acre Lake Geneva, which is the jewel of the city. Bring your own watercraft, such as a kayak, canoe, or motor boat, or rent one from a local shop. If you love animals, go horseback riding at Dan Patch Stables or get up close to giraffes and other wildlife at Safari Lake Geneva. Rainy summer days won't be wasted in Lake Geneva, as you can learn all about local lore and check out Potawatomi Indian artifacts at the Geneva Lake Museum.
Minocqua
Nicknamed "The Island City" as it sits on a peninsula on scenic Lake Minocqua, Minocqua rests in the heart of Wisconsin's beautiful Northwoods. Although visitors flock to this resort town year-round, its population really explodes during the summer months. Several sandy beaches, such as Brandy Lake Park and Torpy Park, situated right downtown, beckon visitors to soak up the sun or fish from the docks. Minocqua is in the North Highland-American Legion State Forest, giving visitors easy access to more than 900 lakes, which they can explore by kayak, canoe, paddleboat, pontoon, fishing vessel, or any other type of personal or rented watercraft. Check out the Serengeti Giraffe habitat at the Minocqua Zoo, soar high among the trees on the Northwoods Zip Line, or see a Fred Scheer's Lumberjack Show. For a uniquely Minocqua experience, catch a Min-Aqua Bat water ski show downtown.
Hayward
Also located in Wisconsin's great Northwoods, Hayward is a summer outdoor recreational enthusiast's dream. Nestled in the 858,400-acre Chequamegon National Forest, Hayward boasts pristine woodlands, crystal-clear lakes, and sandy beaches. Hayward hosts the Annual Musky Festival, the Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival, and the Annual Lumberjack World Championships, among several other special events. Try out your luck at the Sevenwinds Casino, Lodge, and Conference Center, or discover the area's past at the Sawyer County Historical Museum. The Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame is a Hayward landmark and is easily recognizable by its 143-foot-long climbable musky sculpture, which visitors can climb up for a panoramic view of Lake Hayward.
Sturgeon Bay
The county seat of Door County, a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Sturgeon Bay is one of the best places to spend summer in Wisconsin. Anglers delight in this "fisherman's mecca," where you can catch bass, northern pike, walleye, musky, and other types of fish from docks, personal watercraft, or guided boats. Your entire family will enjoy a visit to the Cave Point County Park, which features underwater caves, several hiking trails, and views of Lake Michigan from limestone cliffs. Experience the local culture by taking a trip to the Door County Maritime Museum or the Jim Kress Maritime Lighthouse Tower, which offers stunning views of Sturgeon Bay. If you are in town on a Saturday morning throughout summer and early fall, stop in at the Sturgeon Bay Farmers Market, located downtown.
New Glarus
Dubbed "America's Little Switzerland" due to its many Swiss influences, New Glarus experiences a surge in population during the summertime. Visitors can enjoy sipping handcrafted wine and eating gourmet goodies al fresco at Bailey's Run Vineyard and Winery or golf at the Edelweiss Chalet Country Club. History buffs won't want to miss a trip to the Chamber Depot, a restored 1887 Railroad Depot and visitors center, or the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum. The New Glarus Brewing Company, which produces award-winning, Wisconsin-themed brews using fresh, seasonal ingredients, offers a free self-guided tour and a quaint tasting room. Hit up one of the area's several outdoor attractions, such as the Badger State Trail or the New Glarus Woods State Park, to get up close and personal with local wildlife.
Cambridge
A small town near Madison, Cambridge, comes to life in the summer due to its proximity to the 420-acre Lake Ripley. Known for its quaint downtown filled with unique shops and boutiques, as well as its outdoor recreational opportunities, Cambridge is the perfect place to "get away from it all" for a day, a weekend, a week, or more. Check out Rowe Pottery in downtown to pick up a few handmade pieces to add to your collection, and stop at the Dancing Goat Distillery. The distillery makes its whiskey using Wisconsin-grown grain and has a tasting room featuring complimentary samples. Enjoy the beautiful summer weather by going boating or swimming in Lake Ripley. There is a public boat landing, as well as a public beach, on the lake.
Boulder Junction
Another Northwoods town, Boulder Junction is a sportsman's paradise that springs to life each summer. The town is within easy driving distance of more than 200 pristine lakes, many of which offer public boat landings and beaches for visitors' enjoyment. Explore hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, and relax with craft beer or cocktails at one of the Northwoods' famous Friday night fish fry. Gear up for an outdoor adventure at Northern Highland Sports, which offers fishing licenses, bait, sporting goods, and even gifts.
For the perfect Midwestern state to spend your summer vacation in, you can't go wrong with Wisconsin. Leave big city hassles behind you by booking a room, cabin, or campsites in one of the state's charming small towns, and experience all of the natural and cultural attractions they offer. Whether you want to fish, boat, sunbathe, or explore local wineries, distilleries, and breweries, you'll find it all during summertime in Wisconsin.
