Most people are familiar with the offerings of big cities, like Madison and Milwaukee. However, the rural towns in Wisconsin have lots to offer, too. Need some convincing? We thought so! And so we set out to find some of the most charming small towns in Wisconsin, which, not coincidentally, double as some of the best day trips in Wisconsin.

1. Sister Bay

Sister Bay, WI, USA
LearningLark/Flickr
Located in Door County, Sister Bay is a haven for people who want to get away from it all. But there is still plenty to do, like browse one of the many small shops, eat at Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant (where goats walk on the grass roof), and go out in a kayak on Green Bay.

2. New Glarus

New Glarus, WI 53574, USA
Richie Diesterheft/Flickr
Known for its awesome beer, New Glarus is billed as America's Little Switzerland. The Swiss charm will win you over - and that's in addition to the museums, lodging, shops, and dining.

3. Stockholm

Stockholm, WI 54769, USA
Marc Kjerland/Flickr
Stockholm is a Swedish paradise with breathtaking views of Lake Pepin. This small Wisconsin town is plenty quaint, and you will love the shops, the pie, and the Maiden Rock Bluffs.

4. Cedarburg

Cedarburg, WI, USA
James Jordan/Flickr
This gorgeous town will wow you with its historic buildings, some of which date back to the 1800s. That's not all there is to love, though. There's also the town's famous covered bridge, which is undeniably romantic, a winery, and plenty for the lovers of the arts.

5. Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva, WI 53147, USA
atramos/Flickr
One of the most visited small towns in Wisconsin and a popular summer destination for Chicagoans, Lake Geneva is a beautiful community year-round. Of course, you are right on the lake and can go out on a boat or go tubing. There are also loads of little shops and restaurants to explore as you stroll down the streets.

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6. De Pere

De Pere, WI, USA
St. Norbert College/Facebook
Home to St. Norbert College, De Pere is truly a college town. That said, there are many little shops and restaurants all around that you will love. College life flows into the cafes and bars in town.

7. Mazomanie

Mazomanie, WI 53560, USA
Jerry Huddleston/Flickr
Step back in time in historic Mazomanie, where many new businesses have taken over old buildings. It is located alongside the beautiful Wisconsin River, offering many opportunities to walk, bike, and explore.

8. Port Washington

Port Washington, WI, USA
James Jordan/Flickr
Being right on the lake has its advantages, some of which are lakeside lodging and dining and beach access. The town is quaint and has that New England charm about it. Boutiques and specialty food shops make walking through town even more exciting.

9. Bayfield

Bayfield, WI, USA
ShaLynn Wren/Flickr
Right near the exquisite Apostle Islands, Bayfield has its share of tourists, who absolutely love the B&Bs, restaurants, and specialty shops. But what people really love is the opportunity to get out on the water.

10. Sheboygan

Sheboygan, WI, USA
C Hanchey/Flickr
Speaking of water, Sheboygan is the town you want to visit to appreciate Lake Michigan. You can get out on the water, and you definitely want to enjoy the beaches during the summer. On land, there are plenty of shops and places to eat, including a true Neapolitan pizza parlor.

With so many Wisconsin small towns to visit, you may want to make a road trip out of it and visit a few at a time!

So, what do you think? Do you agree that these are some of the most charming small towns in Wisconsin? Let us know in the comments.

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More to Explore

Beautiful Small Towns In Wisconsin

Daniella DiRienzo | August 13, 2021

What are the best small towns in Wisconsin?

Elkhart Lake is definitely one of the best small towns in Wisconsin. Nestled in the middle of the Kettle Moraine State Forest and centered around its namesake lake, it’s a resort town that’s come to be known for its amazing water activities and laidback vibe. Visitors to Elkhart Lake can enjoy everything from kayaking on a guided ecological tour to fly-fishing, hydro-biking, paddle boarding, and more. The town’s perks aren’t limited to the water, though. Elkhart Lake boasts great eateries, charming shops, an amazing spa, and lots more.

What are some other day trips in Wisconsin?

There are lots of options for day trips in Wisconsin, and one that shouldn’t be missed is Old World Wisconsin in Eagle. Offering a unique peek into the past, the 600-acre attraction boasts 60 restored buildings from the past. Guests can wander around the village and explore historic spaces, getting a taste of what life was like from the 1840s to the 1910s. A knowledgeable, costumed staff only adds to the fun.

Are there any other must-visit rural towns in Wisconsin?

There seems to be no shortage of rural towns in Wisconsin. There are a few standouts, though, and Viroqua is one of them. Boasting immense natural beauty, which comes in the form of lush valleys, as well as a charming downtown filled with entertainment, dining, and shopping, the small town of about 4,000 is just begging to be explored. The restaurant selection, in particular, is sure to impress. Believe it or not, Viroqua is known for its varied dining options, which include everything from farm-to-table cafés to ethnic eateries.

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