2 Quirkiest Wisconsin Towns You Didn`t Know Existed

Cheese, farmland, and Packers fans may dominate Wisconsin’s headlines, but a lesser-known side of the Badger State teems with playful eccentricities that defy every cliché. Away from the popular lakes and dairy barns lies a network of small towns marching to their own distinctive beat, towns that revel in troll statues, cling to steep river bluffs, and host weekly markets brimming with idiosyncratic treasures...

Stockholm

Stockholm sits gracefully on the banks of Lake Pepin in Pepin County. With a population hovering around 70, its vibrant artistic community contrasts sharply with its small size. This locality was founded in 1854 by immigrants from Sweden and has retained a distinct Scandinavian influence, evident in local crafts and cultural celebrations. Its remarkable attraction is the annual Stockholm Art Fair, drawing artists and enthusiasts from across the region to celebrate local and regional creativity.

Alma

Alma, Wisconsin, perched along the Mississippi River in Buffalo County, is noted for its dramatic setting on a narrow strip of land between river and bluff. This geographic quirk gives Alma its distinctive terraced layout, with buildings and streets adapting to the steep incline. Established in 1848, the town’s architecture and town planning reflect its adaptation to this challenging topography, making it a unique example of landscape-driven urban design. Alma’s motto, "Step into Living History," captures its preservation ethos and the feeling of stepping back in time amidst 19th-century buildings that line the streets.

For visitors, Alma offers a rich blend of cultural and natural attractions. The Wings Over Alma Nature & Art Center provides stunning river views and educational displays about local wildlife. Dining at Pier 4 Café & Smokehouse offers locally sourced dishes with scenic riverfront views. Cultural pursuits can be enjoyed at the Alma Area Museum, showcasing artifacts and stories from the town’s early days. For outdoor enthusiasts, Buena Vista Park offers the best vantage point for panoramic views of the river and surrounding bluffs, ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike...