7 Cozy Wisconsin Destinations To Visit In 2025

A part of the Union since 1848, Wisconsin, known as the "Badger State" for its beloved local mammal, has a bevy of cozy towns welcoming visitors in 2025. The state draws its identity, and the picturesque elements of its landscapes, from its position along two of North America's Great Lakes: Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. Its western border runs along the mighty Mississippi River, one of America's signature waterways. As a defining part of the United States' northern Midwest region, Wisconsin's hills, bucolic farmlands, and lakeside communities have welcomed travelers for centuries. These seven towns typify the state's charming destinations.

Bayfield

The town of Bayfield, population 600, on Wisconsin's northern shore and overlooking Lake Superior, offers a slew of reasons to visit—especially in winter. The town's ice caves make for a one-of-a-kind adventure in colder weather.

Bayfield is a gateway to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The largest of the islands, called Madeline Island, beckons visitors who take and interest in local Native American lore: the Lake Superior Chippewa tribe considers the place its spiritual home. Other winter activities available locally include skiing, snowshoeing, and even dog-sledding. A range of accommodations should meet every budget, from the Harbor's Edge Motel to the upscale options at Superior Rentals.

Cedarburg

Cedarburg, north of Milwaukee and with 12,500 residents, makes for a lovely stop in a larger town. The place has earned accolades as one of the prettiest towns in America, according to Forbes Magazine, and as one of the best destinations for holiday shopping, according to Midwest Living Magazine. Cedarburg's claim to culture extends back into history, too: the town's cultural center, and locations like the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts, make it a destination for lovers of past and present folkways. In warmer weather, the Summer Sounds festival has brought in Grammy award-winning musicians to celebrate the season. For discerning travelers, the Washington House Inn offers historic, classy digs since its opening in 1846.

Ephraim

North of Green Bay, on the Door Peninsula, the tiny town of Ephraim, population only 300, boasts an cultural double-whammy of Moravian and Norwegian heritage. Founded in 1853, the village offers still-standing examples of its settlers' home cultures, like the Moravian Church, built in 1858, and the Anderson Dock and Warehouse, where sailors once marked the walls to note their safe arrival after a journey on Lake Michigan. A sense of the past pervades the place's historic district, a zoned area welcoming tourists year-round. Visitors should seek out the Eagle Harbor Inn, or explore options among the abundant short-term rentals in town.

Hayward

The small town of Hayward, population 2,600, sits in northest Wisconsin, along Hayward Lake. Despite its modest size, the town serves as a base for adventure travel of diverse kinds. Fishermen can take to the lake on their own, or use the advantages of Hayward's guides and other angler-oriented services. Other outdoorsy types might prefer the town's biking, hiking, and other ideas, especially in the nearby Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Hayward offers an outsized menu of dining choices, from Mexican and Italian to upscale alternatives like the historic Chippewa Inn. For accommodations, the Flat Creek Lodge offers a full-service hotel option, while other possibilities include vacation rentals, motels, cabins, and camping.

Minocqua

In the heart of Wisconsin's northern lake country, Minocqua, with 5,100 souls, bills itself as an outdoor paradise. Hiking and biking fans can explore the Bearskin State Trail and the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest. Winter traditions include building "Snowmy Kromer," Minocqua's own twist on a snowman—and a 30 feet tall, a very large twist indeed. Warmer months bring tourists to Minocqua for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and family fun on the water. Places to stay here run the gamut, from the budget-friendly Aqua Aire Inn and Suites, to the Pointe Hotel and Suites, a luxury listing.

Baraboo

The town of Baraboo, population 12,600, has something of interest for every kind of traveler. Founded in 1838, the town became known as "Circus City," given that the Ringling Brothers, a successful circus company, made their winter quarters here from the 1880s to 1918; other circus companies soon followed. Sitting northwest of Madison, Baraboo today makes good on its roots as a place where big game entertained the masses; the Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue and Education Center operates nearby. The town's Ho-Chunk Gaming Center brings in shows and other talent, from comedy acts to rock bands and dance troupes. Even accommodation options make a nod to the town's circus history, like the Ringling House Bed and Breakfast, located downtown.

Stockholm

Unlike the capital city of Sweden of the same name, this western Wisconsin town, set on the Mississippi River just across from Minnesota, has a population of only about 300 people. But the place makes up for it with bold claims as "Coziest Small Town in America," with local treats like the Stockholm Pie and General Store. The establishment's baked goods include what some consider the "best pie on the Mississippi," and voted the best pie shop in the United States by USA Today. To walk off a sugar-and-carbs overload, head to the Stockholm Museum, a downtown fixture that celebrates the founding settlers, originally from Sweden, who helped bring this place into existence. For a place to rest, the Art Orchard and Guesthouse has art studios to rent, in a downtown setting.

Wisconsin's Best Attributes Await In Its Small Towns

For a look at Wisconsin's coziest and most interesting attractions, small towns like these promise a worthwhile visit for travelers of all tastes. Outdoors lovers should head to gems like Bayfield, with its celebrated ice caves and Apostle Islands, or to Hayward, where natural wonders like the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest hold family-friendly treasures. Culture buffs should not miss hotspots like Ephraim, which blends Moravian and Norwegian heritage, nor should they pass on Stockholm, which honors its Swedish roots to this day. Whatever a visitor's interests, small Wisconsin towns like these suggest a full slate of choices for first-time and returning tourists.