Idyllic Family-Friendly Communities in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Dells | Steven Van Elk

Several Wisconsin communities provide the perfect blend of qualities that families seek. The towns and cities below have renowned school districts, excellent safety ratings, and desirable family-friendly attractions. 

Burlington

Burlington is a serene city with a population of just over 11,000. This delightful community offers picturesque public parks, surrounding scenic lakes, family-friendly museums, historic buildings, and terrific safety ratings. The renowned Burlington Area School District comprises eight schools that cater to a student population of several thousand. 

Waunakee

Waunakee is a suburb just a short drive from the scenery of Wisconsin Dells and Madison’s amenities. Also, the town’s scenic parks and outdoor green spaces offer perfect settings for families to relax, and its school district ranks competitively among the best in the state. In particular, Waunakee High School stands out with an exceptional national ranking.

New Berlin

New Berlin, a laid-back suburb of Milwaukee, is home to just over 40,000 residents.  With a quick commute into the city – just a 20-minute drive – New Berlin is an appealing choice for professionals seeking a family-friendly suburb. The New Berlin School District offers the ideal environment for nurturing young minds with a quality education. And with six schools in the community, the district provides parents with plenty of options. 

De Pere

De Pere presents families with access to endless outdoor recreation. A Green Bay suburb along the Fox River, De Pere provides convenient proximity to the shores of Green Bay. Families can enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking along the water in the summer, while in the winter, they can engage in cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Also, De Pere’s two school districts hold plenty of appealing options for families. 

Brookfield

Brookfield, a large suburb of Milwaukee, has plenty to offer families, from quality local golf courses and busy shopping destinations to delicious restaurants and major city events. Also, Brookfield’s Elmbrook School District is considered one of the top districts in the state. 

Verona

Verona, a Madison suburb, holds the title of Hometown U.S.A., thanks to its classic all-American atmosphere. Residents of this lovely community benefit from remarkable safety ratings, top-notch schools, and proximity to Madison’s thriving job market. Verona’s outdoor recreation options offer families an abundance of ways to enjoy a day outside, such as golfing at renowned golf courses, hiking famous nature trails, or paddling along the Sugar River.

Onalaska

Onalaska is a charming city near La Crosse in Western Wisconsin. Formerly an industrial hub, Onalaska is now a growing community along the Black River and Lake Onalaska. It is a haven for ice fishing and snowmobiling during the cold winters and kayaking, golfing, and camping during the summer. Onalaska’s public school district, serving around 3,000 students, is considered one of the top districts in the area.