10 Most Unconventional Towns In Wisconsin
Wisconsin has more than 1,200 small towns spread across its territory, and while each has a unique personality, some stand out for their unusual twists, like these 10 most unconventional towns. From peculiar locations and quirky attractions to weird traditions and haunted places, this touch of extraordinary captures the attention of thrill seekers after a novel experience. They serve as an excellent escape for some people to live their fantasies in real-life situations. From a whimsical community of trolls living alongside humans in Mount Horeb to a herd of rooftop goats in Sister Bay, these unconventional towns in Wisconsin leave many first-timers scratching their legs. If your concept of adventure tends toward the odd and unexpected, be sure to include these towns in your next itinerary.
Sister Bay
This small town in Door County is famous for its lively restaurant scene offering a variety of flavors. However, Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant often surprises first-time visitors with its small herds of goats grazing on its grass roof. This unusual feature attracts tourists eager to enjoy genuine Swedish dishes like pancakes and meatballs. A Viking ship replica outside further highlights the Swedish theme.
After a satisfying meal, unwind on the soft sands of Sister Bay Beach and enjoy the view of boats sailing past. Or, you might want to hop aboard Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours to take in the beautiful outdoor scenery. This relaxing cruise gently follows the Sister Bay shoreline and highlights some of the area's most interesting landmarks, all while a friendly and knowledgeable narrator shares interesting facts about them.
La Pointe
This secluded retreat on Lake Superior offers an ideal starting point to discover the stunning Apostle Islands. Reachable via the Madeline Island Ferry Line, La Pointe is known for its underwater sea caves, which become even more spectacular during winter when the lake freezes. In colder months, the caves are covered with dramatic icicles and formations, turning into a winter wonderland. The Casper Trail is a great option for exploring La Pointe on foot, accessible year-round and suitable for hikers, bikers, and cross-country skiers. For a more relaxing experience, Joni's Beach with its sandy shores provides a perfect spot to unwind.
Sparta
Sparta delightfully surprises visitors with its unique collection of hundreds of discarded fiberglass molds at Fiberglass Animals, Shapes, and Trademark. Fondly known as the FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard, this charming sculpture park features fun shapes of giant skulls, shark heads, and animals, creating a whimsically surreal and slightly mysterious atmosphere that feels like a delightful, quirky experiment gone creatively awry. Many visitors enjoy a relaxing stroll through the park, discovering the amusing figures along the way. Sparta also takes pride in hosting "Ben Bikin," the world's largest bicycle statue at 32 feet, celebrating the town's proud nickname as the "Bicycling Capital of America." Additionally, the Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bicycle Museum offers a wonderful collection of over 70 bikes, NASA artifacts, and other captivating items that beautifully tell the story of transportation’s fascinating history.
Washington Island
Washington Island offers a wonderful escape from mainland Wisconsin, celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and welcoming vibe. A short 30-minute ferry ride across Lake Michigan will take you to this charming island, home to the unique Schoolhouse Beach Park. This special spot is one of only five in the world, famous for its beautifully smooth, rounded pebbles that look like they were hand-carved. Remember, removing any rocks is illegal and can lead to a fine, so be sure to enjoy their natural beauty without taking any. Hidden in the island's backcountry is a true historical treasure—the Stavkirke, or Church of Staves, which feels like stepping into a Viking story. Inspired by an ancient Norwegian Borgund church, its medieval appearance showcases outstanding traditional craftsmanship. If your schedule allows, don’t miss the chance to see a lively play at the Trueblood Performing Arts Center for some extra entertainment.
Blue Mounds
This hidden gem in Dane County offers visitors a distinctive underground experience at Cave of the Mounds, famous for its stunning speleothems. The striking stalactites and stalagmites form a breathtaking display that is sure to impress. If caves aren't your thing, you can explore the spacious Brigham County Park, a 232-acre area full of dense forests, meadows, and charming views of the Wisconsin River Valley, perfect for hiking, camping, picnicking, and outdoor activities. When hunger strikes, the family-friendly Hooterville Inn is the place to go for hearty comfort foods like cheeseburgers and sandwiches.
Mount Horeb
Mount Horeb leaves its visitors startled by the series of wooden trolls and themes dominating businesses and many community areas, making it one of the most unconventional towns in Wisconsin. These sophisticated sculptures reflect Mt. Horeb's Norwegian heritage and are inspired by Scandinavian folklore. The town even calls its main street "Trollway." There is much to uncover about local heritage at the Mount Horeb Area Historical Society. It has a lovely selection of materials, documents, and archives depicting both human and natural history in the region. Natives and visitors alike often camp at Stewart Lake County Park for the best moments in the great outdoors. This nearly 200-acre space fuels a number of fun recreational activities, including swimming, kayaking, and swimming in the lake. The pleasant hiking trails also turn into accessible snowshoeing trails when it snows. Visitors might also enjoy hiking part of the 40-mile Military Ridge State Trail, which connects Mount Horeb with other communities, including Blue Mounds.
Shullsburg
Founded in 1827, Shullsburg boasts a rich history linked to the mining industries. Yet, it also captivates visitors with a stretch of road where the laws of physics seem to break down. At the enigmatic Gravity Hill, cars roll uphill when parked in neutral on a slope, prompting visitors to question their perceptions. The Water Street Commercial Historic District offers a glimpse into the past with numerous historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Brewster House Hotel, built in 1855, exemplifies the town's pioneer era. Additionally, the Roelli Cheese Haus preserves Shullsburg's long-standing cheese-making tradition, inviting holidaymakers to enjoy handcrafted cheeses from traditional recipes, including baby Swiss and sharp cheddar.
Wisconsin Dells
Nicknamed the "Waterpark Capital of the World," Wisconsin Dells is a delightful destination full of family-friendly fun. It's famous for its amazing amusement parks like Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park Resort. One interesting spot is Wizard Quest, which offers a magical experience where kids can become little wizards exploring a fun maze with secret passages, traps, obstacles, and puzzles—a truly enchanting adventure! Kalahari Resorts gives visitors the classic Wisconsin Dells experience at the largest indoor waterpark in America. There, you’ll find everything from exciting waterslides and lively arcades to a golf course and a relaxing spa, making sure everyone in the family has a fantastic time. For a hands-on science adventure, the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory is perfect, featuring over 175 interactive science displays, including a unique Russian Space Station MIR core module. Your trip to Wisconsin Dells truly combines excitement, magic, and learning for a memorable family getaway.
Wauwatosa
Wauwatosa is a lively and welcoming community just west of Milwaukee, offering visitors a charming small-town vibe combined with all the comforts of a bustling city. It features a beautiful collection of Victorian buildings, but the standout is definitely the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. Designed by the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright, this chapel features a unique, UFO-inspired shape with smooth, alien-like curves that set it apart from any other church in the nation. For shoppers and food lovers, Mayfair is a must-visit, boasting over 150 shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including popular brands like Ann Taylor and Loft. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, Hoyt Park provides a quiet escape from the crowds, offering a lovely green space where you can unwind. The park includes a 1.9-mile loop walking trail along the Menomonee River and a charming seasonal beer garden, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
New Glarus
Known affectionately as "Little Switzerland," New Glarus welcomes visitors with the charm of a traditional Swiss village. Founded in 1845 by Swiss immigrants, the community proudly preserves its cultural roots through lively events like the Swiss Volksfest. This celebration honors its pioneers and showcases delightful Swiss entertainment such as yodeling, accordion music, flag tossing, and folk songs. The European heritage shines through the charming Swiss Alps chalet-style architecture seen downtown at the Chalet of Golden Fleece Museum. Inside, you'll find a delightful mix of crafts, art, antiques, and artifacts from around the world, lovingly collected by Edwin Barlow. To truly enjoy the cultural flavor, don’t miss tasting the town's authentic Swiss treats—delicious wiener schnitzel at Glarner Stube and savory Swiss croquettes at the New Glarus Bakery.
Sometimes, a break from the normal is just what you need to add a spark to your adventure, and these 10 most unconventional towns in Wisconsin prove their unique charm by embracing their oddities. Whether you want to get lost in a distant Swiss village by traveling to New Glarus or explore otherworldly winter caves in La Pointe, you are guaranteed a unique experience almost impossible to replicate elsewhere in the United States. So, skip the normal and indulge your fantasies in these hidden gems of the Badger State.
