10 Best Downtowns In Wisconsin

Vibrant and interesting downtowns are not exclusive to big cities. In fact, some of the best downtown experiences Wisconsin has to offer are in smaller towns. Across the state, from Lake Superior to Lake Michigan to the Wisconsin River, downtowns are gathering spaces where history is visible in the architecture and midwestern kindness is easily seen on residents' faces. The amount of care poured into preserving the historic hearts of these downtowns while weaving in local businesses, gorgeous views, cultural traditions, and easy access to nature is truly awe-inspiring.

Bayfield

Bayfield is a quaint harbor village located on the Chequamegon Bay of Lake Superior. The town’s beautiful historic waterfront downtown is filled with cozy shops and restaurants, and it also sits at the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The downtown area is quite walkable and offers a variety of ways to enjoy the beauty of Bayfield. Grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant, such as the dog-friendly outdoor patio at the Pier Plaza Restaurant, before appreciating the views of ferries, and island lighthouses mark the horizon from the Bayfield Pier. For those who enjoy getting in the water, Washington Avenue Beach is a small, clean beach located just a short walk from the loading ramp for the Madeline Island Ferry. In the fall, Applefest celebrates local orchards and draws visitors from across the Midwest with an apple-peeling contest, a carnival, a grand parade, and more.

Mineral Point

One of Wisconsin’s oldest mining towns, Mineral Point, features a downtown with a timeless feeling thanks to its well-preserved 19th-century stone architecture. Mineral Point has transformed over the years to become a hotspot for creatives and artisans of all types. Instead of tearing down and replacing the old stone cottages and historic buildings, they now house lively art studios, galleries, and specialty shops, such as Artful Apparel, Hand Weaving Studio and Shop, and Prairie Oak Artisans. Like several others in town, these two shops sell the work of local artists and craftspeople, exemplifying the town’s creative spirit. Additionally, north of downtown at Brewery Pottery, a family-run studio located in an old limestone brewery, visitors can buy all sorts of pottery and crafts in a unique setting.

Cedarburg

North of Milwaukee, Cedarburg’s downtown is anchored by cream brick buildings and limestone streets. Originally built in the 19th century, the historic buildings of Cedarburg are now filled with boutiques, cafés, and art galleries. Cedar Creek runs directly through town, giving the town a creekside charm. Several wineries, restaurants, and public green spaces line the creek, giving downtown Cedarburg a special type of serenity. The Cedarburg Art Museum, located in a beautiful historic building, is also positioned by the creek, making it easy to plan an educational and fun afternoon without having to walk too far. While this town may be peaceful and charming, it is also busy and lively at times. Seasonal celebrations, including the Winter Festival in February and the Strawberry Festival in June, make this town feel alive year-round.

Fish Creek

Tucked in the heart of scenic Door County, Fish Creek has a lively downtown full of shops and eateries framed by beautiful views of Green Bay. As far as shopping goes, the stores in Fish Creek are perfect for finding unique gifts with a local quality. On Main Street, places like Nan & Jerry’s and City Sailor sell gifts and fashions that represent the “lake life” vibes of Fish Creek. Thanks to the beautiful views that surround Fish Creek, residents and visitors love spending time at the multiple public spaces that overlook the water, including Sunset Beach Park and Clark Park. The town also serves as a gateway to Peninsula State Park, where hiking and biking trails, as well as historic lighthouses, await.

Egg Harbor

Just south of Fish Creek on Door County’s shoreline is Egg Harbor, an elegant waterfront village with a small population (less than 400) and big personality. This picturesque town blends tree-lined streets, boutiques, wine shops, and restaurants with waterfront views and cool breezes. Though small in size, Egg Harbor’s downtown often hosts community events that are lively and welcoming. Examples include the Peg Egan Sunset Concert Series, which is a free event that takes place throughout the summer, and the Rhythm and Roots Marketplace, a combination farmer’s market and concert series. For those looking to enjoy the bay directly, Alpine Resort has a fleet of pontoon boats for rent, and there are multiple companies in town that offer kayak tours.

Sturgeon Bay

Sturgeon Bay’s downtown embraces its maritime heritage that centers around its canal and coastline. The town is split in half by the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal. This popular tourist town offers waterfront views and historical attractions. When going from one side of the peninsula to the other, the Historic Sturgeon Bay Bridge, also known as the Michigan Street Bridge, offers beautiful views and a historical feel. The Door County Maritime Museum celebrates the region’s nautical legacy, including the multiple shipwrecks that still lie below the water’s surface near the coast of Sturgeon Bay. Additionally, to the untrained eye, Bullhead Point looks like a peaceful city park; however, it is also the site where three abandoned ships were burned, and at low water, remnants of several shipwrecks are still visible. Because Sturgeon Bay draws in so many visitors year-round, there are plenty of lodges, resorts, and hotels that cater to out-of-towners.

Port Washington

Port Washington is a friendly harbor town on Lake Michigan with a cozy downtown that reflects its maritime roots. Walkable streets with waterfront views lead to local restaurants and shops, perfect for a lazy day of strolling and exploring. When you want to sit and relax, there are plenty of eateries and pubs downtown. The difficult part will be choosing which one to try first. If you just want a slow, casual drink, head to Cavelier Wine Bar, a beautiful spot on the lake that offers a wide variety of international wines, including many non-alcoholic options. Or, check out the menu featuring locally sourced ingredients at Twisted Willow Restaurant. When you visit downtown Port Washington, do not forget to visit Breakwater Lighthouse. Located at the end of a long pier, this historic lighthouse is a peaceful place to pause and enjoy the scenery of Port Washington.

Baraboo

Historic architecture and bustling local businesses frame Baraboo’s classic courthouse square. As the center of downtown, the Sauk County Courthouse, built in 1906, is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. In the summer, Concerts on the Square takes place in downtown Baraboo. Residents set up chairs and blankets on the courthouse lawn to enjoy lively musical performances. If you want to explore Baraboo in more depth, take a walking tour of the town. A guide from Baraboo Tours will take you on a haunted tour of the downtown area, and this company even offers free historic walking tours. Beyond the square, outdoor enthusiasts will find world-class scenery just minutes away at Devil’s Lake State Park.

New Glarus

New Glarus brings Old World charm to Wisconsin with Swiss-style façades and heritage festivals downtown. Since its founding in the 1840s by Swiss immigrants, New Glarus’ cultural identity has been tied to Switzerland, now making this small community a favorite stop for food lovers and history buffs alike. The pub culture in New Glarus is unmatched, as its downtown is home to numerous neighborhood bars and restaurants. New Glarus Brewing Company is a popular spot for residents and tourists to check out. The company, known locally for its beer ‘Spotted Cow’, sells its beer only in Wisconsin, making it a commodity for those outside the state. They even give brewery tours for those who want to see how the beloved drink is made. Another highlight of New Glarus is the Sugar River State Trail, which follows an abandoned railroad line from New Glarus to Brodhead. The trail contains covered bridges and passes by scenic farmlands.

Mazomanie

Surrounded by prairie lands and rolling hills, the town of Mazomanie exudes an easy-going charm. The compact downtown feels like a time capsule of 19th-century life thanks to the renovation and reuse of historic buildings. The oldest wooden train depot in the state, for example, is now the Mazomanie Free Library, which serves the community and even hosts book discussion groups. When it comes to natural beauty, Mazomanie does not fall short. Parks and green spaces, such as Mazomanie Bluff Park and Lake Marion Park, are situated close to downtown, and outside town, rolling prairie scenery and natural areas such as the Mazomanie Bottoms State Natural Area, located near the Wisconsin River, provide open-air escapes for those who want to spend even more time in nature.

Wisconsin's Best Downtowns

Exploring Wisconsin’s best downtowns is about appreciating the small details that hide in plain sight. Each of these wonderful communities has found a way to honor its past while staying vibrant in the present, whether through restored historic buildings, locally owned shops, or festivals that bring neighbors together. Despite the different landscapes and cultures, these small towns each encapsulate the vibrant spirit of this amazing midwestern state.