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Viroqua

Viroqua is one of Wisconsin’s great small towns. It is the center of Vernon County’s commerce, industry, government, entertainment, and healthcare. The town’s humble beginnings can be traced back to 1846, when Moses Decker made his way—by ax—into the area. Several of the town’s original buildings are a source of his handiwork. In 1852, the town’s founding family donated 40 acres of land for the county seat.

The downtown district has been named to the Wisconsin and National Register of Historic Places. The restored Temple Theatre is a perfect place for plays and musical performances. Shopping is a treat, whether it is in a small local bookstore, a local cooperative artists’ gallery, a shop offering fair trade goods from all over the world, or a small booth in the lively Viroqua Public Market. And speaking of markets, the Saturday morning Farmers Market is not to be missed, with local, often organic, produce and foods, and Amish crafts.

Viroqua is home to many restaurants, from organic cafes to supper clubs to ethnic eateries. Lodging is equally varied, from motels to historic inns. There’s entertainment too, from an 18-hole golf course to bowling lanes to movie theaters to public parks. In July, the Gospel and Blues Festival draws music lovers. In August, Wild West Days takes Viroqua back to an 1880s boom town. And in September, the Vernon County Fair features five days of animals, exhibits, carnival rides, tractor pull, and harness racing, drawing people from all over the state.

For more information, call the Viroqua Tourism Committee—(608) 637-2575

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