Wisconsin's 12 Most Underrated Towns to visit in 2024
Fondly known as “America’s Dairyland,” Wisconsin boasts a landscape characterized by rolling farmlands, thick forests, and shimmering lakes, earning its reputation as a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With over 5.9 million residents, the state’s diverse communities reflect its rare mix of cultures, traditions, and lifestyles.
Amidst the well-known destinations lie Wisconsin’s underrated towns, quietly waiting to be explored by curious travelers. Whether it is savoring the flavors of local cuisine, immersing oneself in rich history, or simply basking in the tranquility of small-town life, Wisconsin’s underrated towns promise unforgettable experiences for those willing to venture beyond the norm. Moreover, with culture seeping through events and festivals, 2024 is a great time to visit these towns.
New Glarus
Dubbed “America’s Little Switzerland,” this quaint town offers travelers a unique blend of Swiss heritage, cultural charm, and natural beauty. You can admire the beautiful natural allure and surrounding countryside along the eye-catching Sugar River Trail at New Glarus Woods State Park. This prevalent multi-use trail winds through diverse landscapes, including forests, farmland, and riverbanks, offering ample hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Visitors can dip their toes into the world of Swiss folklore and mythology at the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum. This unique museum showcases displays of Swiss immigration, crafts, and traditions, giving visitors insights into the unique heritage and customs that have shaped the identity of New Glarus over the centuries. Those visiting in 2024 are sure to enjoy the New Glarus Beer, Bacon, and Cheese Festival, which brings together local breweries, artisanal cheese makers, and savory bacon vendors for a day of tasting, pairing, and revelry. Meanwhile, the New Glarus Oktoberfest draws visitors from near and far to experience local beer, chainsaw carving, wagon rides, and live music in the heart of Wisconsin.
Ellison Bay
While it may be small, Ellison Bay boasts a range of tourist attractions that make it a gem awaiting discovery. You can soak in the captivating beauty of Ellison Bay’s rugged coastline at the Ellison Bluff State Natural Area. Comprising multiple limestone cliffs that provide gorgeous vistas of Lake Michigan, it is the ideal spot for travelers seeking solitude amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
Furthermore, Newport State Park encompasses an area of about 2,400 acres and pristine wilderness along the shores of Lake Michigan. Its secluded beaches, peaceful campgrounds, and stunning scenery make it perfect for an outdoor retreat. 2024 is another bustling year in town thanks to the annual Easter Egg Hunt, a beloved tradition where children can search for colorful eggs hidden amidst the blooming flowers and towering trees. The month of May delights with the Ellison Bay Arts-Spring Art Crawl, a premier event that takes visitors on a journey through the town's vibrant arts scene with stops that feature a diverse array of artwork.
Bayfield
Situated along the shores of Lake Superior, Bayfield beckons tourists with its beauty, maritime history, and art community. Housed in a historic building overlooking the harbor, Bayfield Maritime Museum puts exhibits on the region’s commercial fishing industry, shipbuilding heritage, and the role of lighthouses in navigation. Meanwhile, Bayfield Heritage Association Inc. includes guided walking tours of the town's historical district alongside lectures on the town's legacy.
Tourists can embark on a scenic boat tour with Apostle Islands Cruises. These guided tours let tourists admire rugged shorelines and pristine beaches and sometimes include glimpses of bald eagles and sea otters. Finally, visit the halls of Bayfield Artists Guild, whose galleries showcase a diverse range of artistic mediums like sculptures and paintings. In the summer of 2024, Bayfield is set to come alive with the sounds of music during the popular Concerts by the Lake series. Held in the picturesque Memorial Park overlooking Lake Superior, these free outdoor concerts entail diverse musical acts spanning genres such as folk, blues, jazz, and more.
Fish Creek
About 70 miles from Green Bay, Fish Creek provides a faultless getaway to tourists looking for a date with Mother Nature. Peninsula State Park is a perfect sanctuary for the nature lover, with overlooks and campgrounds for creating long-lasting memories. The park also encompasses Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, an iconic structure with breathtaking views of nearby Green Bay and Nicolet Beach.
Relax and soak up the sun at Fish Creek Beach. Visitors can spread out a picnic blanket or unwind with a good book while taking in the panoramic sights of the bay. Alexander Noble House Museum provides an insight into life in Fish Creek in the 19th Century. Constructed in 1875 by one of the area’s earliest settlers, history buffs can learn about the life of Alexander Noble and marvel at past architectural designs.
For a more lively time in Fish Creek, the Fish Creek Winterfest hosts an incredible array of winter-themed attractions and activities. From ice carving demonstrations to snow sculpting competitions, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the snowy landscapes of Fish Creek.
Hayward
Hayward, a destination in Sawyer County, is a town that is loud and proud of its fishing legacy. Delve into the fascinating history of Hayward and Sawyer County at the Sawyer County Historical Society. Located along beautiful greenspace, visitors can explore displays on local industries, pioneer life, and cultural traditions, gaining knowledge on the trials and tribulations of generations past.
Hayward Lake is a popular recreation area with boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities. Anglers can also test their hand, catching panfish, walleye, bass, and musky. Speaking of anglers, the Musky Festival is a vibrant tribute to Hayward’s status as the “Musky Capital of the world” and pays homage to the mighty muskellunge, a prized game fish revered for its elusive nature. Anglers from far and wide compete in the annual Musky Open, vying to reel in the biggest catch and claim bragging rights.
Cedarburg
Cedarburg is a charming destination with well-preserved 19th-century architecture, scenic parks, and a thriving arts scene. Step back in time and uncover intriguing history at the Cedarburg History Museum. The historic building, dating back to the mid-1800s, reveals compelling stories of the town's past, from its origins as a bustling mill town to its evolution into a thriving arts community.
Cedarburg Covered Bridge is a beloved landmark of the town and one of the state's last remaining covered bridges. Visitors can stroll across the historic bridge or capture photos of this picturesque setting. After the static attractions, visitors in 2024 are delighted by the events held in town. For example, the Strawberry Festival lets guests wander through the charming streets of downtown Cedarburg, where vendors offer a variety of strawberry-themed treats like strawberry shortcakes. On the flip side, as the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the Wine and Harvest festival offers a chance to celebrate the autumn harvest, bringing together wineries and breweries.
Sister Bay
Sister Bay invites visitors to experience the beauty of the Great Lakes Region and the warmth of small-town hospitality in Door County. Guests can sink their toes into the soft sand and soak up the sunshine at Sister Bay Beach, a beautiful stretch of shoreline offering incredible views of the Green Bay. With its calm waters and gentle waves, this family-friendly beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Experience the beauty of Sister Bay from a new perspective aboard Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours. Visitors can choose from various tour options, including narrated sightseeing cruises, sunset cruises, and private charters. Get acclimated to the boating prestige of the area at Sister Bay Marina, which features docking and mooring services for boats of all sizes. After all the fun, savor the sweet taste of Scandinavian cuisine at AI Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant and browse the Nor Door Gift shop for gifts and souvenirs after your meal.
While these attractions are always available, 2024 is a great time to visit Sister Bay. The Sister Bay Fall Fest is a multi-day celebration showcasing the best of Door County’s vibrant community spirit and rich cultural heritage. One of the highlights is the renowned Arts and Crafts Fair, which invites peopleto browse through booths, chat with artists, and find unique treasures to take home as souvenirs of their time in Sister Bay.
Minocqua
In the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, Minocqua is known for its captivating array of lakes, diverse wildlife, and northern pines. Torpy Park is a beautiful oasis offering a wide range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors of all ages. With its sandy beaches, playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas, it is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and family outings.
Dive into the adrenaline and excitement of the Min-Aqua Bats Water Ski Show, a thrilling spectacle of water skiing stunts, tricks, and performances on Lake Minocqua. For family-filled fun, visitors can work together to unravel clues, solve puzzles, and unlock hidden secrets within a themed room at The Key To Escape. In September this year, meat lovers unite in Minocqua for the much-anticipated Beef-a-Rama Festival. This beloved event boasts many beef-themed activities and attractions, including a mouth-watering beef cook-off competition where local chefs express their culinary skills in creating delectable beef dishes.
Monroe
Famed as the “Swiss Cheese Capital of the USA,” Monroe boasts a proud tradition of cheese-making and agricultural excellence. Founded in the 19th Century by Swiss immigrants, Turner Hall of Monroe serves as a cultural and community center preserving the town’s Swiss Heritage and traditions. With memorabilia related to the town’s Swiss Immigration to its ornate ballroom and garden, it is a blast to the past for history enthusiasts. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Green County Courthouse, a grand Greek Revival-style building that has served as the seat of government in Monroe since 1891. Visitors can take guided tours of the courthouse and learn about the legal and political history of Green County.
Lace those hiking boots or hop on that bike and discover the beauty of the Badger State Trail. Stretching 40 miles from Madison to Illinois, it follows a former railroad line route and offers stunning views of rolling hills, meandering streams, and expansive forests. Visitors in 2024 can also experience the immense cheese heritage through Monroe’s Green County Cheese Days Festival, which traces its roots back to the 1900s. One of the standouts of the spectacle is undoubtedly the Cheese Market, where guests can sample an array of cheeses, including the famous Swiss cheese that Monroe is renowned for.
Baraboo
More commonly called the “Circus City,” Baraboo is where the Ringling Brothers Circus established their winter quarters and offers a fascinating glimpse into the colorful world of the Big Top. Those interested in this side of town will adore visiting this year, as there is often a lively circus show in town. If not enjoying the circus, one can learn about the industry at the Circus World Museum, a collection of circus history.
Baraboo is also an abode of outdoor scenery, especially at Mirror Lake State Park. This 2,000-acre park highlights Mirror Lake, a tranquil body of water surrounded by wooded shores and towering bluffs. With its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and lovely trails, Mirror Lake State Park offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation in the heart of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area. There is hardly a better way to experience nature than visiting one of the state’s most popular destinations, Devil’s Lake State Park. The stunning park boasts towering quartzite bluffs, pristine lakes, and dense forests, providing a picturesque backdrop for hiking, rock climbing, picnicking, and swimming. Nearby, Pewit’s Nest is a hidden gem tucked away in the Wisconsin Wilderness and is a natural gorge renowned for its stunning rock formations and crystal-clear pools.
Sturgeon Bay
Sturgeon Bay is the county seat of Door County and an underrated gem perfect for 2024 travelers. Located along the waterfront, the Door County Maritime Museum proposes glimpses into the town's maritime history with shipbuilding and commercial fishing exhibits alongside stories of the locale’s evolution from a bustling shipyard town to a renowned naval destination. Meanwhile, the Door County Historical Museum showcases the best of the region’s Native American Heritage, archival materials of its early settlers, and traditions.
Visitors can sneak in some outdoor fun at the Potawatomi State Park, which supplies hiking trails through rugged bluffs and forested terrains, with beautiful glimpses of the iconic Green Bay being among the highlights. Combining history and nature, the Historic Sturgeon Bay Bridge tells a captivating story of the engineering and transportation history of the area. It also sets the scene for a perfect photo opportunity.
In March, Sturgeon Bay transforms into a sea of green as residents and revelers celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in grand style. This momentous occasion starts with a spirited parade that includes colorful floats, marching bands, and Irish dancers winding its way through the streets of downtown Sturgeon Bay.
Lake Geneva
Claiming the spot as a premier destination for outdoor recreation, with opportunities for lazy strolls along a picturesque shoreline and numerous historic structures, Lake Geneva offers something for every traveler. The Lake Geneva Shore Path is an expansive trail that stretches over 20 miles and offers breathtaking views of crystal-clear water and elegant lakeside estates that dot the shoreline. Visitors can jog, stroll, or bike along the trail, taking in the sights and sounds of this idyllic lakeside setting.
Geneva Lake Museum is where guests can get educated on the past triumphs of this lovely town, from its origins as a resort town to its role as a popular vacation destination. You can also embark on a memorable journey across the sparkling waters of Lake Geneva aboard the Lake Geneva Cruise Line. Visitors experience a unique perspective of the lake's beauty through various cruises and narrated tours.
For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience, Lake Geneva’s Balloon Company grants the opportunity to take the skies and soar above the clouds in a majestic hot air balloon. Available throughout the year, weather permitting, this thrilling adventure allows participants to enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding countryside from a unique vantage point.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Wisconsin’s undervalued towns store a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered by travelers. From the charming streets of New Glarus to the calm shores of Lake Geneva, each destination captivates with its unique character and allure. These hidden gems showcase the best of Wisconsin’s landscapes, heritage, and hospitality, inviting guests this year with extraordinary events and festivals. So, get ready to venture off the beaten path and uncover the beauty and charm of the Badger State’s lesser-known destinations.
