There’s just something undeniably alluring about small towns. Perhaps it’s the friendly folks who live in them, or their ability to make you feel right at home no matter where you’re traveling from. Or, perhaps it’s something else entirely, like the picturesque storefronts and time-tested restaurants. Whatever the reason may be, small towns have captured our hearts. Visit any of these Wisconsin destinations, and you’ll find an abundance of peace, quiet, and charm. Here are some of the best small towns in Wisconsin, whether you’re looking for a delightful day trip destination or a new place to put down roots.
Our list of some of the best small towns in Wisconsin starts with Osceola. People settled here in the 1840s, and there are buildings here from the 1880s that form the downtown area. That certainly adds to the charm of the town! It also has some stunning views, as it is located along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Needless to say, this town makes for an excellent day trip destination in Wisconsin.
This is a small river town, with its shops and downtown area facing the river. It also is home to Lock and Dam #4, one of the absolute best places to see bald eagles. In fact, some have called Alma the friendliest town in Wisconsin. Stop by and see if you agree!
Viroqua is nestled among gorgeous valleys. And the downtown is a blend of old and new. There are vineyards and plenty of places to fish. It sounds like a great place to relax. And, if you're hungry, you'll be glad to hear that the town of Viroqua, Wisconsin is a foodie's paradise!
This is known as the troll capital of the world. But other than the trolls, it is your classic small town. There is a nice downtown area with cafes, bakeries and restaurants. For a delightful and unforgettable weekend getaway in Wisconsin, you can't go wrong with a trip to Mount Horeb.
Next up on our list of unique small towns in Wisconsin is Ripon. This historic downtown is a reflection of an established community. Eclectic buildings inhabit Italianite architecture structures. During the winter, there is an outdoor ice skating rink.
The town of Oconomowoc was named after a beautiful waterfall in Wisconsin. A tight-knit community and a quaint downtown area are some of the highlights here. It is surrounded by lakes, making it great for those who just want to fish.
This town is known for its great beer. And while you can go to the New Glarus brewery, there are many other things to do as well. It's referred to as "Little Switzerland," with buildings and festivals reflecting that name. Would you pay a visit to Wisconsin's Little Switzerland?
You can see how the beauty of this place inspired Frank Lloyd Wright, born here in the 1860s. Looking just as it was then, rolling hillsides dotted with cattle greet you. A small downtown with some unique shops is also here. While you're in the area, be sure to check out this fascinating bridge to nowhere in Wisconsin.
There are numerous towns in Door County, one of the most heavily toured parts of Wisconsin. But Ephraim tends to escape a lot of the traffic. Nevertheless, it offers one of the best views of Green Bay. A few restaurants and a great ice cream shop are about all that's going on here, and we like it that way. Ephraim might just be one of the most beautiful towns in Wisconsin.
This small town gets some foot traffic, being the gateway to the famed Apostle Islands. But for the most part, this town on the water is nothing but peaceful. A downtown with some quaint shops, filled with locals, makes for a great community. Whether you love outdoor attractions or small-town charm, you'll love making a trip to Bayfield, Wisconsin.
Well, there you have it, folks — some of the most peaceful and quiet towns in the state. Do you agree that these are some of the most charming and best small towns in Wisconsin? Which would you add to the list? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For related content, check out some more of our favorite small towns in Wisconsin.
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best small towns in Wisconsin
Beth C. |September 16, 2022
What are some other charming small towns in Wisconsin?
Whether you're looking for a historic small town in Wisconsin or a cool small town in Wisconsin, you'll quickly discover there is no shortage of either. You've probably gathered by now that the Badger State is filled with must-visit towns. One of our favorites is Sturgeon Bay, another Door County favorite that's become a tourist destination over the years. It started as a shipbuilding town, and its canal and gorgeous skyline are postcard-perfect. Other towns in Wisconsin worth visiting include Mineral Point, La Crosse, and Stoughton.
