Top 10 Scenic Small Towns in Wisconsin: Enchanting Stays and Delectable Eats

Wisconsin truly has everything, from epic natural wonders to dynamic cities and a thriving farm-to-table scene. However, what sets this Midwestern destination apart is its bevy of delightful small towns sprinkled across the state. We’ve rounded up the best small towns in Wisconsin — all with a population under 15,000 — that offer something for every type of traveler.

Stockholm

Pretty Stockholm is set on the Great River Road, a newly designated National Scenic Byway. This enclave, historically settled by Scandinavians, offers a plethora of cute shops and eateries that epitomize small-town charm. Stop for a fresh, locally grown meal at Hop Dish & Vine, which serves an ever-rotating menu based on the bounty of nearby farms. For a sweet treat, longtime favorite Stockholm Pie is sure to delight. On the souvenir front, consider Scandhihoo for sustainable Nordic-inspired wares, The Palate for foodie finds, and Iris & Oak for work from regional artists, including area favorite Stockholm Pottery.

Sister Bay

One of the best-known Midwest destinations is Wisconsin’s Door County, a jagged thumb of a peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan on the state’s eastern side. Although every village here has its own treasure trove of attractions, Sister Bay is an excellent small-town pick. Stay at The Dörr, a new Scandinavian-inspired hotel with a prime central location. From there, walk to the waterfront for weekly concerts or movies in the park, which guests can enjoy seasonally. Finally, don’t miss the famous rooftop goats at Al Johnson’s, where summertime visitors should try the lingonberry-forward Swedish Swirl ice cream.

Bayfield

As the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Bayfield is a must-visit small town in the Badger State. Visitors can discover sea caves, orchards organized into the aptly named Fruit Loop, and stellar paddling for all skill levels. Additionally, this area, known for its native culture, is home to the country’s first tribal national park, Frog Bay, and the nation’s first Indigenous-owned distillery, Copper Crow. For a cozy stay, consider the classic Bayfield bed-and-breakfast, the Old Rittenhouse Inn, which offers multiple private residences under one roof.

Prairie du Chien

The stunning beauty of western Wisconsin is epitomized in the small town of Prairie du Chien, set along the majestic Mississippi River Valley. Visitors can enjoy a traditional fish fry at The Barn, hike for breathtaking views at Wyalusing State Park, and pick up smoked fish and fresh cheese curds from Valley Fish & Cheese Market. After a day spent exploring this Driftless gem, lay your head at the family-owned Waterfront Hotel right downtown.

Elkhart Lake

Racing enthusiasts will recognize the village of Elkhart Lake, located on Wisconsin’s eastern flank. This small town is home to Road America, a historic racing track set on a 600-acre complex. Elkhart Lake itself is often ranked the cleanest in the state, renowned for its signature aqua color that resembles a slice of Caribbean paradise in the Midwest. For a perfect getaway, stay at the famed Osthoff Resort, dine at the Paddock Club or Lake Street Cafe, and enjoy a sunset beverage at Tiki Bar at The Shore Club.

Viroqua

Wisconsin’s agricultural bounty is well-known, and while it’s often identified as America’s Dairyland, there is so much more produced here. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Driftless Area, Viroqua boasts one of the highest concentrations of organic farms in the U.S. Sample some farm-to-table goodness at the James Beard-nominated Driftless Cafe, grab breakfast and a solar-powered cup from Wonderstate Coffee, and pop into the Viroqua Food Co-Op for some delicious edible souvenirs. For accommodations, enjoy the Victorian stylings of the Viroqua Heritage Inn or the rustic Scandinavian charm of the cabins at Driftless Creek.

Lake Geneva

A well-known southeastern Wisconsin locale, Lake Geneva hosts a storied collection of Gilded Age waterfront mansions. Unlike other upscale destinations, these properties are accessible via the 26-mile-long Geneva Lake Shore Path. After a hike, grab a bite at Lake City Social, then wash it down at Geneva Lake Distilling. Spend the night at the chic Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, a reimagined former Playboy Club.

Spring Green

Architecture enthusiasts will recognize Spring Green as Frank Lloyd Wright central. The architect’s 800-acre Taliesin estate is conveniently located south of town and is recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance. Highlights include the Taliesin home and Hillside Studio. Another quirky attraction, The House on the Rock, is also architecturally relevant. For a more natural experience, visit nearby Tower Hill State Park, famous for hiking, birding, and paddling.

Minocqua

Sometimes called the Island City due to its location on the pristine Lake Minocqua, this northern Wisconsin town offers abundant water recreation activities. It is home to the Min-Aqua Bats, one of the oldest water ski show teams in the country. Grab a lakeside beverage at the over-a-century-old Thirsty Whale and enjoy a meal at the Boathouse, before retiring to one of the area’s many rustic, lodge-style accommodations. Beer culture thrives here, so consider stopping at Rocky Reef Brewing Company, known for its craft beers with fun names like Staycation and Musky Bite.

Mount Horeb

For the quirkiest small town in Wisconsin, look no further than Mount Horeb. Roughly 25 miles west of Madison, this spot is renowned for its trolls. To spot the whimsical wooden creatures, check out the downtown Trollway guide, which includes maps of notable trolls. Other highlights include the Driftless Historium museum, Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts in equally charming Mineral Point, and Cave of the Mounds, a National Natural Landmark. Before leaving, don’t forget to stop by the tasting room at Brix Cider for a locally crafted beverage.