Wisconsin’s Midwest setting has made it a sought-after place to live for years. Great scenery, vibrant big cities and small towns, friendly locals, and some of the best breweries in the country—what’s not to love?
Wisconsin houses excellent places to settle down, with each community offering something unique to its residents. Many provide access to scenic nature, bustling downtowns, and other unique perks. Let’s look at some of the communities in the Badger State that stand out for buyers with their lifestyle attractions and prime locations.
Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is a scenic city named for the body of water around which it is centered. It is a popular resort destination due to Lake Geneva’s sparkling blue waters and sandy beaches along the waterfront, as well as the surrounding forests that offer terrific hiking destinations. While this is a small town with a population of less than 9,000, its bustling downtown provides residents all the liveliness and amenities they could want.
Lake Geneva has a quaint Main Street lined with several boutiques and locally-owned stores that sell everything from clothes to antiques. The downtown also has interesting museums, including several preserved Gilded Age homes, and provides a lively nightlife scene with its many entertainment venues and bars. Lake Geneva also boasts a fantastic food scene, with delicious local eateries that offer lakefront views and several wineries and breweries.
Sheboygan
Sheboygan is a pleasant city along the shores of Lake Michigan. Its waterfront location and picturesque beaches provide ample recreational fun for residents. Known for surprisingly good surf, it is considered one of the country’s best places for freshwater surfing. It is also a popular hotspot for boaters and houses the year-round, full-service Sheboygan Yacht Club, which hosts racing events throughout the summer.
Sheboygan’s downtown is a significant part of its appeal. It boasts distinct neighborhoods with top-notch shops and many delicious restaurants covering an array of cuisines and styles, along with beer gardens, pubs, bars, and cafes.
Port Washington
Port Washington is on the western shores of Lake Michigan. This scenic city offers a small-town, laid-back pace of life and is only a short drive to the big city of Milwaukee. Its picturesque waterfront includes parks, shops, a famed lighthouse built in the 19th century, and a marina, which accommodates many residents’ watercraft during the warmer months.
Port Washington’s downtown is along the lake, and many of its stores are housed in historic buildings, giving it a charming atmosphere. This small town is defined by its local businesses, which include a farmer’s market, farm-to-table restaurants, laid-back cafes, and many local shops that offer everything from natural pet supplies to handmade artisan goods.
