Wisconsin – Cities & Small Towns

Discover Wisconsin's Lively Cities and Small Towns

Visit Wisconsin’s welcoming cities and small towns to experience something special. Whether you’re looking to stroll through historic downtowns with unique shops and restaurants or paddle the Milwaukee River between skyscrapers, the options in Wisconsin are endless.  

Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s largest city, was recognized as one of National Geographic’s top 25 destinations for its annual Best Places of the World 2023 list. Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum that holds many famous artworks and is known for its iconic Quadracci Pavilion’s massive wing-like structures that open and close twice a day. Stop in the Harley-Davidson Museum, see a Milwaukee Bucks or Brewers Game and join the fun at a lakefront music or cultural festival. And be sure to sample a Wisconsin beer (or two) at one of the city’s many famous craft breweries. 

Just an hour and a half drive from Milwaukee is Madison, the state Capital. Full of lush nature trails and with five sparkling lakes to enjoy, this city offers a lively downtown full of award-winning restaurants and a variety of shops. Visit in the summer to experience the largest producer-only farmer’s market in the U.S. and get a taste of what the state is all about. 

More charming towns can be discovered by road tripping with your group on the All-American Great River Road National Scenic Byway, a 250-mile route along the scenic Mississippi River. You’ll find many interesting places to stop and explore along the way such as artisan cheese shops, wineries, orchards and picturesque natural areas. Plan your trip for autumn to see the bluffs and rolling hills light up with vibrant color unlike anywhere else.