The Most Beautiful Town in Wisconsin: A Stunning Destination Filled with Natural Charm

Voting rules: Choose the town you think is the most beautiful!

Jun 16, 2023 10:17 (Updated on Dec 7, 2023 05:56)

Discover the hidden gems of Wisconsin's picturesque towns as we embark on a quest to unveil the most beautiful town in this charming state! At StrawPoll, we've curated a list of stunning destinations, each boasting its own unique charm and allure, but we need your help to determine the ultimate winner. Be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes, quaint downtowns, and rich cultural offerings as you explore our carefully selected contenders. Will it be the serene Door County, the historic Cedarburg, or perhaps an undiscovered paradise tucked away in the heart of Wisconsin? Cast your vote now and make your voice heard! If your favorite town isn't listed, don't hesitate to suggest a missing option—we're excited to uncover more enchanting escapes. Join the ranks and celebrate the beauty of Wisconsin with StrawPoll today!

What Is the Most Beautiful Town in Wisconsin?

1

65
votes
Bayfield

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Bayfield is known for its picturesque views, quaint shops, and historic buildings. It's also the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Description

Bayfield is a picturesque small town located on the shores of Lake Huron in Ontario, Canada. Known for its natural beauty and charming atmosphere, Bayfield is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The town combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Scenic Location: Situated along the shores of Lake Huron, Bayfield offers stunning views and opportunities for outdoor recreational activities.

Historic Charm: Bayfield is home to well-preserved historic buildings and architecture, showcasing its rich history.

Unique Shops and Boutiques: The town is dotted with charming shops, galleries, and boutiques, offering a variety of locally made crafts and artisanal goods.

Culinary Delights: Bayfield boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a range of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries serving delicious local cuisine.

Quaint Accommodations: Visitors can enjoy staying in cozy bed and breakfasts, cottages, or boutique hotels, providing a comfortable and relaxing retreat.
2

33
votes
Cedarburg

This charming town is filled with historic buildings, art galleries, and unique shops. It's also home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Strawberry Festival and Wine and Harvest Festival.
Description

Cedarburg is a charming town located in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin. With its rich history and well-preserved architecture, it is often regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in the state. The town offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and scenic beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors.

Population: Approximately 11,500 people

Historical Significance: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Architecture: Well-preserved 19th-century buildings showcasing Germanic and Victorian styles

Cedar Creek: A picturesque creek running through the town, offering scenic views and outdoor activities

Art Scene: A thriving community of artists with numerous galleries, art festivals, and events
3

25
votes
Royalbroil · CC BY-SA 3.0

Door County

Geologists, glacial activity

While not a town, Door County is a beautiful area filled with charming small towns, stunning coastline, and plenty of outdoor activities. It's a popular tourist destination in Wisconsin.
Description

Door County is a charming peninsula located in the eastern part of Wisconsin, USA. Known as the 'Cape Cod of the Midwest,' this picturesque county offers breathtaking natural scenery, idyllic shoreline, and a rich cultural heritage. Door County is a popular destination for tourists who seek a peaceful retreat and outdoor activities.

Natural Beauty: Door County is characterized by its stunning natural landscapes, encompassing lush forests, vibrant orchards, and crystal-clear waters.

Coastline: The county is surrounded by 300 miles of beautiful coastline, providing visitors with opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, and scenic walks along pristine beaches.

State Parks: Door County boasts five state parks, including Peninsula State Park, which offers panoramic views of Lake Michigan, hiking trails, and camping sites.

Lighthouses: There are eleven lighthouses scattered throughout Door County, each with its own unique charm and historical significance.

Cherry Orchards: The county is famous for its cherry orchards, with cherry blossoms painting the landscape in beautiful hues during springtime.
Door County in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful place in Wisconsin
4

17
votes
Ephraim

One of the towns in Door County, Ephraim is known for its picturesque waterfront and historic buildings. It's also home to several parks and nature preserves.
Description

Ephraim is a charming town located in Door County, Wisconsin. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, picturesque setting, and rich historical and cultural heritage. The town is nestled along the shores of Eagle Harbor, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding lush landscapes.

Population: Approximately 300 residents

Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by stunning landscapes and views of Lake Michigan

Historical Significance: Home to several preserved historic buildings and landmarks

Cultural Heritage: Strong Scandinavian and Moravian influence reflected in its architecture and traditions

Outdoor Activities: Abundance of opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and biking
5

20
votes
Teemu08 · CC BY-SA 3.0

Lake Geneva

This resort town is known for its beautiful lakefront properties, golf courses, and historic mansions. It's a popular destination for tourists and has been since the late 1800s.
Description

Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Léman, is a stunning body of water located on the borders of Switzerland and France. This natural wonder offers mesmerizing views and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and charming towns. Created by the gradual melting of alpine glaciers over thousands of years, Lake Geneva has become a popular tourist destination and a cherished gem of Switzerland.

Location: Borders Switzerland and France

Area: Approximately 581.3 square kilometers

Max Depth: 310 meters

Length: 73 kilometers

Width: 14 kilometers
Lake Geneva in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most beautiful lake in Switzerland
- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful area in Switzerland
- Position 4 of 10 in Most beautiful place in Wisconsin
6

18
votes
14aarram · CC BY-SA 4.0

La Crosse

Located on the Mississippi River, La Crosse is known for its stunning bluffs, historic downtown, and vibrant arts scene. It's also home to several outdoor recreational areas.
Description

La Crosse is a picturesque town nestled in western Wisconsin along the Mississippi River. It is known for its natural beauty, vibrant downtown, and rich history. The town offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and a thriving community spirit.

Location: La Crosse is located in western Wisconsin, bordered by the Mississippi River and surrounded by scenic bluffs.

Natural Beauty: The town is renowned for its stunning natural landscape, with numerous parks, hiking trails, and beautiful views of the Mississippi River.

Riverside Charm: La Crosse is known for its charming riverfront, where visitors can enjoy boat rides, kayaking, or simply take in the serene views.

Historic Downtown: The town features a vibrant downtown area filled with historic buildings, specialty shops, delicious restaurants, and lively nightlife.

Universities: La Crosse is home to several universities, including the renowned University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, adding a youthful energy to the town.
La Crosse in other rankings
- Position 9 of 10 in Most popular city in Wisconsin
7

8
votes
JeremyA · CC BY-SA 3.0

Mineral Point

This small town in southwest Wisconsin is known for its historic buildings and art galleries. It's a popular destination for artists and history buffs.
Description

Mineral Point is a picturesque town located in Iowa County, Wisconsin. It is renowned for its historic architecture, charming streets, and thriving arts community. The town is nestled among rolling hills and scenic countryside, offering breathtaking views to visitors and residents alike.

Population: Approximately 2,500

Architecture: Known for its well-preserved stone buildings, including beautiful limestone structures from the 1800s.

Artistic Community: Mineral Point has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous art galleries, studios, and workshops.

Pendarvis Historic Site: A remarkable historic site showcasing restored Cornish miners' cottages from the 1800s.

Shake Rag Alley: A creative arts center hosting workshops, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.
8

6
votes
Spring Green

Herbert Fritz

This town is home to Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin estate and several other historic buildings. It's also located in the beautiful Driftless Region of Wisconsin.
Description

Spring Green is a charming town located in Sauk County, Wisconsin. Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant arts community, it is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in the state. Surrounded by rolling green hills and the stunning Wisconsin River, Spring Green offers a tranquil escape from city life. The town is particularly famous for attracting architects and artists, making it a cultural hub for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Population: around 1,600

Acreage: approximately 1.49 square miles

Location: Sauk County, Wisconsin

Nearby City: Madison (40 miles)

Arts Community: Home to the renowned American Players Theatre and Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin
9

2
votes
christine · CC BY-SA 2.0

Sturgeon Bay

Another town in Door County, Sturgeon Bay is known for its charming downtown, waterfront, and historic buildings. It's also home to several parks and nature preserves.
Description

Sturgeon Bay is a charming town located in Door County, Wisconsin. It is often regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in the state, attracting visitors with its scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere. Nestled on the shores of Sturgeon Bay, a large natural bay off Lake Michigan, this town offers a unique blend of natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.

Population: Approximately 9,000 residents

Geography: Situated on a narrow peninsula between Sturgeon Bay and the bay of Green Bay

Waterfront: Features a picturesque waterfront area with a scenic harbor and marina

Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by stunning landscapes, including pristine beaches, rolling hills, and vibrant orchards

Outdoor Recreation: Abundance of outdoor activities, such as fishing, kayaking, sailing, hiking, and biking
10

8
votes
Washburn

This small town on the shores of Lake Superior is known for its stunning views, outdoor recreational activities, and historic buildings. It's also the gateway to the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
Description

Washburn is a charming town located in Bayfield County, Wisconsin. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, it is often referred to as the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Washburn offers a harmonious blend of small-town charm, rich history, and outdoor recreational opportunities that make it one of the most beautiful towns in Wisconsin.

Population: approximately 2,000

Location: Bayfield County, Wisconsin

Geography: Situated on the shores of Lake Superior

Proximity to Apostle Islands: Gateway to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Natural Beauty: Surrounded by scenic landscapes and stunning Lake Superior views

Missing your favorite town?

Graphs

Discussion

Ranking factors for beautiful town

Natural beauty

Consider the surrounding landscape, such as lakes, rivers, forests, or rolling hills and how well the town is integrated into its environment.
Architecture and historic charm

Look for well-preserved historic buildings, distinctive local architectural styles, or notable landmarks that give the town a unique and charming character.
Cleanliness and well-maintained appearance

A clean and well-kept town will always be more attractive and inviting to visitors.
Green spaces and parks

Parks, gardens, and well-maintained green spaces can greatly enhance the beauty of a town and provide residents and visitors with relaxing and enjoyable outdoor areas.
Vibrant and thriving downtown/main street area

A lively downtown area with a good mix of businesses, restaurants, shops, and cultural institutions can make a town more attractive and enjoyable to visit.
Cultural and recreational opportunities

Consider the arts, music, and entertainment scene, as well as recreational amenities such as bike paths, hiking trails, and public sports facilities.
Sense of community

A friendly, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere can make a town more appealing and beautiful to residents and visitors alike.
Seasonal beauty

Consider how the town's beauty might change or be enhanced throughout the year with seasonal events, decorations, or natural occurrences (such as autumn foliage or winter snow).
Well-planned infrastructure and transportation

A town that is easy to navigate, with well-planned streets, sidewalks, and public transport options will be more attractive and user-friendly.
Overall ambiance and atmosphere

Finally, take into account the general feeling and ambiance of the town, as this can greatly influence the perception of beauty.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful town in Wisconsin. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or town is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1414 views
202 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each town once every 24 hours. The rank of each town is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful town in wisconsin

Wisconsin is home to some of the most picturesque towns in the United States. Nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes, these towns offer a unique blend of history, culture, and charm. From the bustling cities of Milwaukee and Madison to the quaint villages of Door County and Spring Green, Wisconsin has something to offer everyone. When it comes to the most beautiful towns in Wisconsin, there are countless contenders. However, some towns stand out for their scenic beauty, rich history, and unique character. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or art enthusiast, there's a town in Wisconsin that's sure to capture your heart. So, without further ado, let's explore some of the most beautiful towns in Wisconsin and what makes them so special.