Everyone who has heard of Wisconsin has probably heard of Milwaukee and Green Bay. Most people know Madison. But Wisconsin is so much more than just those few places. There are loads of towns that Wisconsin should be known for, but few people know about them or appreciate them. Here are ten underrated Wisconsin towns that you should definitely make a point to check out:
1. Sturgeon Bay
As a tourist, I was told that the better part of Door County was up north. Hello, people, you were wrong. Sturgeon Bay is an incredible place to vacation or live. If visiting, make sure to visit The Farm, especially when new baby animals have arrived. Kids and adults love to hold and pet the tiny animals. Consider staying at the Chanticleer, a wonderful bed and breakfast. Cave Point County Park is another wonderful park to visit.
2. Bayfield
When you think of a place with water views, you probably think California or Florida. What about Bayfield? Check out that view of Lake Superior. There are plenty of historic lighthouses for you to fall in love with. The kayak tours of the sea caves here (yes, sea caves) are amazing.
3. Mineral Point
This quaint town has charm and historical charm at that. It was settled by Cornish persons in the 1800s. Pendarvis, which is a Wisconsin historical site, is an historically accurate preservation of some of these structures.
4. Appleton
If you want to visit a nice town with all the shopping you could ever want, Appleton is your place. The large mall has been a destination in Wisconsin since the 1980s. There are some great restaurants in town, too.
5. Eagle River
Up in Wisconsin's Northwoods, among the towering pines, is a town called Eagle River. It is surrounded by the largest chain of inland lakes in the world. Yeah! Check out the Northern Highland–American Legion State Forest while you're in town. Had enough of nature? There are plenty of cute shops and delicious restaurants.
6. Kohler
With the PGA, the world got to see a little bit of Kohler through Whistling Straits. But while the golf in Kohler is good..okay, really good..there is more to this town than 18 holes. The Kohler design center is an excellent place to visit. Want to relax? Check out the Kohlers Water Spa. You will be so happy you did.
7. Menomonee Falls
Well, those falls were exactly as advertised. Beyond being Kohls' corporate headquarters, Menomonee Falls offers some really nice restaurants. Locals and tourists alike rave about Purloin Studio, a gallery and coffee house.
8. La Crosse
Off the Mississippi River, La Crosse looks lush. Grandad Bluff offers a phenomenal view. If you're a car guy (or gal), you'll really appreciate the Dahl Auto Museum.
9. Spring Green
Frank Lloyd Wright is probably Spring Green's most famous citizen, and his mark on the town continues today as people from all over the world flock to see Taliesin, Wright's Wisconsin home. A large artisan community exists. You'll want to check out the American Players Theatre for a truly nice night out.
10. Germantown
Whoa...doesn't this picture ALMOST make you wish it was winter. But it's a gorgeous view. Germantown has been recognized before, having been rated one of the most appealing places to live in Money Magazine. It's a great place to raise children. And, yes, there's German influence. Make sure to visit Von Rothernburg Bier Stube. You'll feel like you are in south Germany.
What other Wisconsin towns do you consider underrated?
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