Wisconsin, in the Midwest, is known as the “Badger State,” a reference to the miners who once lived in the state. Wisconsin has 5.9 million people. Madison is the capital, while Milwaukee, a major city on Lake Michigan, is the largest city.
10 Largest Cities in Wisconsin
1. Milwaukee (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Milwaukee County
- Area: 96.18 square miles
- Population: 569,330 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 414
- Zip Codes: 53201-53228
- Latitude: 43.038902
- Longitude: -87.906474
Location and History:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s largest city, is located on the western shore of Lake Michigan in southeastern Wisconsin. Founded in 1846, Milwaukee grew rapidly due to its strategic location for trade along the Great Lakes and its development as a brewing hub. Immigrants from Germany, Poland, and other European nations helped shape the city’s culture, earning it the nickname “Cream City” due to its distinctive cream-colored bricks. Milwaukee’s industrial roots, notably in beer production, manufacturing, and shipping, have played a significant role in its development. Over time, the city has diversified into education, health services, and finance, while maintaining its cultural heritage.
Major Landmarks:
- Milwaukee Art Museum: Known for its stunning architecture and vast collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Harley-Davidson Museum: Celebrating the iconic American motorcycle brand founded in Milwaukee.
- Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes): A trio of dome-shaped botanical gardens showcasing plants from around the world.
- Pabst Mansion: Historic mansion of Captain Frederick Pabst, showcasing the city’s brewing history.
Major Highways:
Milwaukee is intersected by several major highways, including Interstate 94 and Interstate 43, which connect the city to Madison, Chicago, and Green Bay. Interstate 894 serves as a bypass around the city, while U.S. Highway 41 runs north-south. These highways play a crucial role in the city’s transportation network, linking it to other parts of Wisconsin and the Midwest.
2. Madison (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Dane County
- Area: 101.53 square miles
- Population: 277,166 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 608
- Zip Codes: 53701-53794
- Latitude: 43.073051
- Longitude: -89.401230
Location and History:
Madison, Wisconsin’s capital city, is located in the south-central part of the state, nestled between Lakes Mendota and Monona. Founded in 1836 as a planned capital city, Madison was named after President James Madison. It developed rapidly after the University of Wisconsin-Madison was established in 1848, cementing its role as an educational and political hub. Madison’s unique location on an isthmus gives it a distinctive geography, while its reputation as a progressive, academic city has grown in recent decades. The city boasts a high quality of life, with strong sectors in technology, healthcare, and research.
Major Landmarks:
- Wisconsin State Capitol: An architectural marvel, the seat of Wisconsin’s government and the tallest building in Madison.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison: One of the top public universities in the U.S., with a sprawling campus and a rich academic tradition.
- Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Beautiful gardens featuring plants from around the world, including a Thai Pavilion.
- Henry Vilas Zoo: A free-admission zoo featuring animals from diverse habitats.
Major Highways:
Madison is connected by Interstate 90 and Interstate 94, which run east-west, linking the city to Milwaukee and Minneapolis. U.S. Highway 151 runs southeast toward Iowa, while U.S. Highway 12 circles the city, providing local access. These highways make Madison a central hub for transportation within Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest.
3. Green Bay (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Brown County
- Area: 55.96 square miles
- Population: 107,015 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 920
- Zip Codes: 54301-54344
- Latitude: 44.519159
- Longitude: -88.019826
Location and History:
Green Bay is located in northeastern Wisconsin, at the mouth of the Fox River on Lake Michigan’s Green Bay. Established in 1634 as a French fur trading post, Green Bay is one of the oldest European settlements in the United States. The city grew through the fur trade and later became an industrial and shipping hub. Known for its strong sense of community and for being the home of the Green Bay Packers, the NFL’s oldest continuously operating team, Green Bay has a rich history steeped in sports, industry, and Great Lakes commerce.
Major Landmarks:
- Lambeau Field: Home of the Green Bay Packers and a must-see destination for football fans.
- National Railroad Museum: Featuring a collection of historic trains and exhibits on railroad history.
- Bay Beach Amusement Park: A family-friendly park with rides and attractions located near the waterfront.
- Green Bay Botanical Garden: Showcasing a variety of plant species and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Major Highways:
Green Bay is served by Interstate 41, which runs north-south and connects the city to Appleton and Milwaukee. U.S. Highway 141 runs along the east side of the city, while U.S. Highway 29 provides an east-west connection to Wausau. These highways link Green Bay to the broader region and facilitate its role as a regional commercial and transportation hub.
4. Kenosha (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Kenosha County
- Area: 27.03 square miles
- Population: 100,804 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 262
- Zip Codes: 53140-53144
- Latitude: 42.584742
- Longitude: -87.821185
Location and History:
Kenosha is located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, just north of the Illinois border. Founded in 1835 as a port city, Kenosha originally served as a hub for trade and shipping, particularly agricultural products. Over time, it became an industrial center, with automobile manufacturing playing a major role in the city’s development. Today, Kenosha’s economy is more diversified, with healthcare, education, and retail sectors contributing to its growth. Its lakeside location, historic downtown, and proximity to both Milwaukee and Chicago make it an attractive place to live and visit.
Major Landmarks:
- Kenosha Public Museum: Featuring exhibits on natural history, fine art, and local archaeology.
- Dinosaur Discovery Museum: Focused on the connection between dinosaurs and modern birds.
- Southport Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan.
- Kenosha Harbor Market: A bustling outdoor market featuring local vendors and artisans.
Major Highways:
Kenosha is located along Interstate 94, a major north-south route connecting it to Milwaukee and Chicago. U.S. Highway 41 runs parallel to I-94, providing additional access through the city. Wisconsin Highway 50 runs westward, linking Kenosha to inland communities, making it a vital transportation route for local and regional traffic.
5. Racine (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Racine County
- Area: 15.48 square miles
- Population: 77,818 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 262
- Zip Codes: 53401-53408
- Latitude: 42.726131
- Longitude: -87.782852
Location and History:
Racine is located on the shore of Lake Michigan in southeastern Wisconsin, south of Milwaukee. Founded in 1834, Racine quickly became an industrial center, with manufacturing dominating its economy. Racine’s history is intertwined with the rise of companies like J.I. Case, which produced agricultural equipment, and S.C. Johnson, known for cleaning products. Racine has a strong industrial heritage but has also diversified into healthcare, education, and retail. Its rich history and location along Lake Michigan give the city a unique identity.
Major Landmarks:
- Wind Point Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse located on the shores of Lake Michigan.
- Racine Art Museum: Featuring one of the largest collections of contemporary craft in the U.S.
- SC Johnson Headquarters: Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this iconic building showcases modern architecture.
- North Beach: A popular beach on Lake Michigan known for its clean sand and recreational opportunities.
Major Highways:
Racine is served by Interstate 94 and U.S. Highway 41, providing north-south connections to Milwaukee and Chicago. Wisconsin Highway 20 runs westward from the city, offering access to other parts of southeastern Wisconsin. These highways help facilitate Racine’s role as a key industrial and transportation hub in the region.
6. Appleton (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Outagamie County
- Area: 24.83 square miles
- Population: 75,644 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 920
- Zip Codes: 54911-54915
- Latitude: 44.261930
- Longitude: -88.415384
Location and History:
Appleton is located in northeastern Wisconsin along the Fox River. Founded in 1847, the city grew around Lawrence University, one of Wisconsin’s oldest institutions of higher learning. Appleton played a key role in the state’s paper industry, thanks to its location on the river, which provided ample water power for mills. Over time, Appleton developed into a regional center for education, technology, and healthcare. The city’s vibrant downtown and strong educational institutions make it a cultural hub in the Fox Valley region.
Major Landmarks:
- Lawrence University: A prestigious liberal arts college with a beautiful campus along the Fox River.
- Hearthstone Historic House Museum: The first house in the world to be powered by hydroelectricity.
- The Building for Kids: A popular children’s museum offering interactive exhibits.
- Fox Cities Performing Arts Center: A cultural hub for music, theater, and performances in the region.
Major Highways:
Appleton is intersected by U.S. Highway 41, which runs north-south through the Fox Valley region, connecting it to Green Bay and Oshkosh. U.S. Highway 10 and Wisconsin Highway 47 provide east-west access, making Appleton a transportation hub in northeastern Wisconsin.
7. Waukesha (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Waukesha County
- Area: 25.98 square miles
- Population: 72,443 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 262
- Zip Codes: 53186-53189
- Latitude: 43.011678
- Longitude: -88.231481
Location and History:
Waukesha is located in southeastern Wisconsin, just west of Milwaukee. Originally settled in the 1830s, Waukesha was known for its natural springs and became a popular health and spa destination in the late 19th century. Over time, the city evolved into a suburban area with a strong industrial base, including manufacturing and electronics. Its proximity to Milwaukee has made it a vital part of the metropolitan area, contributing to its growth. Today, Waukesha balances its rich history with a modern economy focused on healthcare, education, and retail.
Major Landmarks:
- Waukesha County Museum: Showcasing exhibits on local history, including the region’s famous spring water spas.
- Les Paul Performance Center: Dedicated to Les Paul, the legendary guitarist and inventor who was born in Waukesha.
- Fox River Park: A large recreational area with trails, picnic areas, and river access.
- Retzer Nature Center: Offering environmental education and hiking trails through natural landscapes.
Major Highways:
Waukesha is served by Interstate 94, which runs east-west and connects the city to Milwaukee and Madison. Wisconsin Highway 59 provides a major route into the downtown area, while U.S. Highway 18 offers local access across southeastern Wisconsin. These highways facilitate easy travel for commuters and visitors alike, contributing to Waukesha’s suburban appeal.
8. Eau Claire (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Eau Claire County
- Area: 34.14 square miles
- Population: 69,528 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 715, 534
- Zip Codes: 54701-54703
- Latitude: 44.811349
- Longitude: -91.498494
Location and History:
Eau Claire is located in western Wisconsin, at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers. Founded in 1856 as a logging town, Eau Claire’s economy was initially driven by the lumber industry. As the city developed, it diversified into manufacturing and education, with the establishment of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Today, Eau Claire is known for its vibrant arts scene, including its music festivals and arts organizations. It is a regional center for healthcare, retail, and education, drawing residents and visitors from across western Wisconsin.
Major Landmarks:
- Carson Park: A historic park located on an island in the Chippewa River, featuring baseball fields and a local history museum.
- Pablo Center at the Confluence: A modern arts and performance venue hosting concerts, theater, and art exhibitions.
- Phoenix Park: A popular park along the river, featuring walking trails, a farmers market, and outdoor events.
- Chippewa Valley Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Chippewa Valley region.
Major Highways:
Eau Claire is connected by Interstate 94, which runs east-west through the city, linking it to Madison and Minneapolis. U.S. Highway 53 runs north-south, connecting Eau Claire to Chippewa Falls and La Crosse. Wisconsin Highway 93 provides a route south toward rural areas and smaller towns. These highways make Eau Claire a key transportation hub in western Wisconsin.
9. Oshkosh (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Winnebago County
- Area: 26.61 square miles
- Population: 67,408 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 920
- Zip Codes: 54901-54904
- Latitude: 44.024706
- Longitude: -88.542614
Location and History:
Oshkosh is located in northeastern Wisconsin on the shores of Lake Winnebago. Established in 1853, Oshkosh grew rapidly due to its strategic location for the lumber industry. The city became a major center for logging, with logs floated down the Fox River from northern Wisconsin forests. In the late 19th century, Oshkosh transitioned into manufacturing, particularly for clothing and trucks. Today, Oshkosh is known for hosting the annual EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the largest aviation event in the world, and for its role as a regional center for education, healthcare, and industry.
Major Landmarks:
- EAA Aviation Museum: Dedicated to the history of aviation, featuring historic planes and exhibits.
- Menominee Park: A large park on the shores of Lake Winnebago, with a zoo, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
- Oshkosh Public Museum: Showcasing local history, housed in a historic mansion.
- Paine Art Center and Gardens: A beautiful estate with art exhibits and landscaped gardens.
Major Highways:
Oshkosh is located along Interstate 41, a major north-south route connecting the city to Appleton and Milwaukee. U.S. Highway 45 runs through the city, offering a north-south connection to Fond du Lac and the surrounding rural areas. Wisconsin Highway 21 provides access to communities further west, making Oshkosh a key transportation center in northeastern Wisconsin.
10. Janesville (Wisconsin)
City Facts
- County: Rock County
- Area: 34.03 square miles
- Population: 65,964 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 608
- Zip Codes: 53545-53548
- Latitude: 42.682789
- Longitude: -89.018722
Location and History:
Janesville, located in south-central Wisconsin, along the Rock River, was founded in 1835. It quickly grew into a key agricultural and manufacturing hub, especially with the arrival of the Milwaukee Road Railroad in the mid-19th century. Janesville became known as “Wisconsin’s Park Place” due to its many parks and green spaces. The city’s economy was historically driven by General Motors, which operated a large plant in the city for over 80 years before closing in 2008. Today, Janesville has diversified its economy with a focus on healthcare, retail, and education.
Major Landmarks:
- Rotary Botanical Gardens: A stunning 20-acre garden with themed areas and seasonal displays.
- Lincoln-Tallman House: A historic mansion where President Abraham Lincoln once stayed.
- Rock River Park: Offering riverfront recreation, including boat launches and hiking trails.
- Janesville Performing Arts Center: Hosting live performances, including theater and music.
Major Highways:
Janesville is served by Interstate 90, which runs north-south and connects the city to Madison and the Illinois border. U.S. Highway 14 runs east-west through Janesville, providing access to smaller communities in the region. U.S. Highway 51 and Wisconsin Highway 26 also serve the area, making Janesville a key transportation hub in southern Wisconsin.