Home to just under 3,000 people, Osceola is a village stretched along the bluffs of the St. Croix River in western Wisconsin. Recognized for its history, charm, and natural beauty, Osceola is a perfect destination for a small town day trip in Wisconsin. But first, a little background.

Situated at the confluence of Osceola Creek and the St. Croix River, Osceola was founded in 1844 as a logging camp on what had been land occupied by the Ojibwe people. Ready access to the St. Croix River made the site ideal for taking advantage of the area's timber resources, and as people moved to the area, Osceola grew into a vibrant community. Now a well-preserved village - its downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places - the community is one of our favorite day trip destinations in the Badger State, and here are a few things we think you need to see and do while you're there.

1. Go chasing waterfalls

There are two waterfalls right in historic downtown Osceola, both on Osceola Creek as it tumbles its way down to the St. Croix. The smaller of the two, Geiger Falls, is slightly upstream and closer to 1st Ave., the main drag through town. Lovely, 25-foot Cascade Falls is just downstream and accessible by a wooden staircase that leads to a viewing platform. Continue along the trail for bluff top views of the St. Croix River.

2. Explore the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

The section of the St. Croix River that flows past Osceola is actually part of a National Park Service unit, the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. This means that the river, for the most part, is in a natural state that's perfect for paddling, fishing, or simply strolling along. You can access several trails that lace the river bluffs right from downtown Osceola, or head a few minutes north of town to Interstate State Park, where you can view the river from the billion-year-old Dalles of the St. Croix.

3. Take a train to Minnesota

Although operated by the Minnesota Transportation Museum, the Osceola and St. Croix Valley Railway departs from Osceola's historic depot and meanders through the St. Croix valley on its way to and from the charming town of Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota. It's a wonderful way to put a cherry on top of a fantastic day trip to this charming Wisconsin town.

If you'd like to spend more than a day in the area - and there's certainly plenty more to do should you decide to stay - we recommend booking Dr. Combacker's Historic 1880s Home on Airbnb. This property is charming, perfectly located, and affordable - you won't be disappointed. What are some other charming communities that would make perfect small town day trip destinations in Wisconsin? Let us know on our nominations page!