These 12 Charming Small Towns in Wisconsin Will Steal Your Heart
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Nicole
Author
Summer is the perfect time to plan an impromptu day trip, and Wisconsin is full of adorable and quaint small towns just waiting for you to explore. These towns are full of charm and that unique quality that makes you feel welcomed. These 12 towns are just a few of the amazing places all across Wisconsin that you just to visit to appreciate.
This is a great Up North option for the whole family because there's plenty of lakes and outdoor activities if that's your thing, but there's also an amazing town with shops, the Wilderness Walk Zoo and the Sawyer County Historical Society. Everyone will love a relaxing break here.
This quirky little spot makes you feel like you've been transplanted to Scandinavia with the way it has embraced its roots. You'll love all the silly little troll statues, as well as a beautiful main street with lots of shops to discover. Fill up at the Grumpy Troll Brewery or find some authentic chocolate and sweets.
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A great option away from the craziness of Door County in the summer, Algoma is right on Lake Michigan. This beautiful and historic small town has a winery you have to try, plus sandy beaches and a boardwalk. It's easy to while away a day or two here.
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Wisconsin's last frontier before you take the interstate into Minnesota, Hudson is a beautiful and historic spot right on the St. Croix River. A summer paradise, check out Willow River State Park or relax at Lakefront Park.
These two complement each other well. Manitowoc is more city-like, and you should definitely check out the Maritime Museum and waterfront area. Then use the paved shore path to head to Two Rivers for a more relaxed, small-town experience. There are lighthouses to explore and beautiful beaches. Both places have great restaurants. You won't leave here hungry or unhappy.
Green Lake feels like textbook, quintessential Wisconsin. It's lake life and supper clubs, but just a little bit closer to home. Located about 30 miles west of Fond du Lac, it's a taste of Up North life with a lot less driving involved, making it perfect for a day trip.
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Nearly all the way down in the far southwest corner of the state Potosi is a gorgeous little down nestled in a valley just steps from the Mississippi River. Take time to eat and imbibe at Potosi Brewery as well as nosing around the Breweriana Museum. There's also wineries, the Dickeyville Grotto and all kinds of exploring to do.
You know you can head here for House on the Rock or Taliesin, but it's also a really awesome place to use as a home base to explore the Wisconsin River. Take in a show at the American Players Theater or decorate your house with crafts from the little artist colony that's taken up here. Spring Green is an idyllic little town in the middle of the state.
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Just beyond Green Lake, Princeton is home to one of the best flea markets in the country. You'll start early finding the deals and then head on to the antique stores. There's some great small-town eateries here to keep your energy up, as well.
It's no surprise that towns perched on the shore of Lake Michigan are popular stops, and Port Washington is no exception. This little fishing village is as picturesque as they come. Have tea downtown or discover the stellar bakery as you stroll through historic streets.
The Great River Road along the Mississippi River is a spectacular place to find some hidden gem small towns. The views here are always stunning and the pace is just a bit more relaxed. There are tons of vineyards in this area, so maybe plan to stay the night and then drive home safely the next day.
No Door County town is under the radar, but I do love Fish Creek's vibe. It's a bit artsy and a bit more chill than some of the others and I really love strolling the streets here seeing what I can discover.
Looking for other summer day trip ideas? Check out this to-do list and start checking things off!
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