These Small Towns in Wisconsin Have the Best Historic Districts

The Midwestern state of Wisconsin is home to many charming small towns with rich histories just waiting to be explored. And the good news is you don’t have to venture too far beyond the bustle of its major cities to find them.

Together, these communities illustrate key elements of the state’s past, showcasing these pivotal moments through their attractive old architecture, cultural treasures, and important well-preserved historic landmarks. From the maritime traditions of Sturgeon Bay to the industry and mining in places like Mineral Point, each of these fascinating places to visit in Wisconsin have historic districts you’ll want to discover.

Mineral Point  

Located in southwestern Wisconsin, Mineral Point, as its name suggests, owes much to its role in the state's early mining industry. Once a bustling hub for lead and zinc mining, this quaint town with its attractive limestone buildings has transformed itself into an artist's enclave that draws inspiration from its historical roots.

Among the most significant landmarks in Mineral Point is Pendarvis, a historic site that preserves a collection of early Cornish miners' cottages. These stone and log buildings date back to the 19th century and offer insights into the lives of the many immigrants from Cornwall in England who once dominated the local mining scene. Shake Rag Alley, another popular historic spot, encompasses nine buildings spread across 2.5 acres and showcases a mix of workshops, gardens, and galleries.

Prairie du Chien

Located d on the banks of the Mississippi River in southwestern Wisconsin, Prairie du Chien was established as a European trading post in the late 17th century and is one of the state's oldest communities. This strategic position led to its being home to many interesting landmarks, including Villa Louis, an elegant Victorian mansion that was once the residence of the affluent Dousman family. Today, this impressive estate offers a snapshot of life during the 19th century, with its setting against the riverfront making it a picturesque spot for a selfie or two.

Another historic landmark to visit is Fort Crawford. This important military installation dates back to the early 1800s and witnessed many significant events, including the Black Hawk War. It now houses a museum detailing the region's medical and military history.

Hudson

Hudson is another town that served as an important trading post in Wisconsin’s early days. Built up along the St. Croix River, this charming town was once a vital port for steamboats, with one of its most distinctive landmarks, the Octagon House Museum, dating from this period. Set in an exquisite octagonal home built in the 1800s, this architectural wonder offers insights into Victorian-era life and features intricate design details and original furnishings.

Downtown Hudson is another must for history buffs. Here, beautifully preserved historic buildings create a unique old-world ambiance, making it a great place for a stroll. Stop in at the First Presbyterian Church, a Gothic Revival landmark constructed in the late 1800s.

Sturgeon Bay  

Sturgeon Bay, the county seat of Door County in Wisconsin, is a charming waterfront community that serves as a gateway to the Door Peninsula in the eastern part of the state, a strip of land that separates Lake Michigan from Green Bay. Iconic structures here include Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light, a lovely red lighthouse erected in the late 19th century that still guides boat traffic safely through the canal.

Close by, the Door County Maritime Museum pays homage to the region's shipbuilding and maritime legacy and offers a deep dive into the area's nautical past. The historic Third Avenue is another must-see and is home to other architecturally significant buildings, including Third Avenue Playworks.

Cedarburg

Located just 20 miles north of Milwaukee, Cedarburg perfectly captures the spirit of the Midwest's bygone era. The heart of Cedarburg is its historic downtown. Here, you’ll find many important old buildings from the 19th century, including Cream City. These attractive limestone brick buildings now house a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and eateries and are fun to explore.

The Cedar Creek Settlement is another important Cedarburg attraction. Built in the 1860s, this former woolen mill has been repurposed into an assortment of specialty shops and wineries. The town’s covered bridge, another significant historical attraction, is Wisconsin's last remaining covered bridge. Built in 1876, it attracts visitors looking for a great photo opp.

Rhinelander

The northern Wisconsin town of Rhinelander is widely known for its legendary creature, the "Hodag," a mythical beast that continues to symbolize the community’s unique character. You’ll see the Hodag in various forms around town, including a giant sculpture that is a popular attraction overlooking the Wisconsin River on the Rhinelander Riverwalk.

The Rhinelander Logging Museum Complex is another significant landmark. Located in Pioneer Park, this fascinating museum complex provides a glimpse into the town’s logging days of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, complete with historic buildings and authentic artifacts. Another noteworthy site is the Rhinelander Railroad Depot, a Romanesque Revival structure dating back to 1892, which once connected the town to major Midwestern cities.

Port Washington

One of Wisconsin's most picturesque lakeside towns, Port Washington radiates a distinctive maritime charm that makes it a perfect getaway destination. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this once bustling port town served the fishing and shipping industries and was an important place of trade for the Great Lakes.

Among its most important landmarks is the Port Washington Breakwater Lighthouse, built in the late 19th century and overlooking the harbor. Another significant site is Judge Eghart House, a Victorian-era home that provides a glimpse into the daily life of Port Washington residents in the late 1800s.

Evansville  

Located in the southern part of the state, Evansville has an impressive collection of historic structures that have earned it recognition for its well-preserved historic district. Here, you’ll find over 260 historic buildings, many of them dotted along Evansville's Main Street, where you’ll see a variety of architectural styles from Greek Revival to Queen Anne.

One of the most attractive is the Eager Free Public Library, an early 20th-century neoclassical building. Also noteworthy is the Baker Manufacturing Company Water Tower, a unique landmark built in 1908. And be sure to take a stroll along Evansville’s residential streets with their many beautifully restored homes.

The Final Word

Each destination included on our list of small towns in Wisconsin with the best historic Districts boasts a distinct identity that shines a light on the state’s past. Whether it's the allure of classy old Victorian-era homes or the maritime heritage of a once bustling port, these locations give adventurous travelers no end to unforgettable experiences.