Cities and Towns in Walworth County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1836, Walworth County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Walworth County was formed from Milwaukee County. The city of Elkhorn is the county seat. With FIPS code of 127, Walworth County has a population of 106,799 and area of 555.13 square miles (1,438 km²).
List of all cities in Walworth County, WI alphabetically
- Darien, WI
- Delavan, WI
- East Troy, WI
- Elkhorn, WI
- Fontana, WI
- Genoa City, WI
- Lake Geneva, WI
- Lyons, WI
- Pell Lake, WI
- Sharon, WI
- Springfield, WI
- Walworth, WI
- Whitewater, WI
- Williams Bay, WI
- Zenda, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Walworth County, Wisconsin
1. Elkhorn
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 8.40 square miles
- Population: 10,519 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 53121
- Latitude: 42.6720° N
- Longitude: 88.5417° W
Location and History
Elkhorn, the county seat of Walworth County, is located in the southeastern part of Wisconsin, about 40 miles southwest of Milwaukee. The city was founded in 1836 by Colonel Samuel Phoenix, who named it after discovering elk antlers in a tree, which became a symbol for the town. Elkhorn grew as an agricultural hub, particularly known for its fertile land and dairy farming. It was incorporated as a city in 1906 and has since developed into a vibrant community with a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Elkhorn is also known as the “Christmas Card Town” due to its picturesque winter scenes, which have been featured on holiday cards.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elkhorn is served by the Elkhorn Area School District, which includes Elkhorn Area High School, Middle School, and Elementary Schools. Major landmarks include the Walworth County Fairgrounds, which hosts one of the largest county fairs in the state, drawing visitors from across the region. The Elkhorn Opera House, a historic building dating back to 1893, is another key cultural site. The city’s downtown area, with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, adds to Elkhorn’s historical appeal. Elkhorn also offers outdoor activities, with nearby Lauderdale Lakes and Alpine Valley Resort providing opportunities for boating, fishing, skiing, and golfing.
2. Lake Geneva
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 6.55 square miles
- Population: 8,277 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 53147
- Latitude: 42.5917° N
- Longitude: 88.4334° W
Location and History
Lake Geneva is a resort city located in the southeastern part of Walworth County, situated on the shores of Geneva Lake. The city was originally established as a retreat for wealthy Chicago families following the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Lake Geneva quickly became known for its grand mansions and luxurious resorts, earning the nickname “Newport of the West.” The city’s tourism industry grew rapidly, with visitors attracted by the lake’s beauty, recreational opportunities, and the opulence of its estates. Lake Geneva was officially incorporated as a city in 1886 and remains one of Wisconsin’s premier vacation destinations.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lake Geneva is served by the Lake Geneva School District, which includes Badger High School and Lake Geneva Middle School. Major landmarks include the Geneva Lake Shore Path, a 21-mile walking path that offers stunning views of the lake and the historic mansions that line its shores. The Riviera Ballroom, a historic venue on the lakefront, is another key site, often used for events and weddings. Lake Geneva is also home to several resorts and spas, such as the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, which provide luxury accommodations and a range of recreational activities. The city hosts numerous annual events, including Winterfest, which features the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition.
3. Delavan
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 7.22 square miles
- Population: 8,463 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 53115
- Latitude: 42.6342° N
- Longitude: 88.6440° W
Location and History
Delavan is located in the southwestern part of Walworth County, near Delavan Lake. The city was founded in 1836 by a group of New York settlers and was named after Edward C. Delavan, a temperance leader. Delavan has a unique history as the birthplace of the American circus industry; it was home to the Mabie Brothers U.S. Olympic Circus, one of the first organized circuses in America, in the mid-19th century. The city grew as a center for agriculture, particularly dairy farming, and as a transportation hub due to its proximity to major rail lines. Delavan was incorporated as a city in 1897 and has since developed into a thriving community with a rich historical heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Delavan is served by the Delavan-Darien School District, which includes Delavan-Darien High School, Phoenix Middle School, and several elementary schools. Major landmarks include the Delavan Lake, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and recreation, and the historic downtown area, which features several buildings dating back to the 19th century. The city also boasts the Circus Historical Marker, commemorating Delavan’s role in circus history. Another significant site is the Lake Lawn Resort, one of Wisconsin’s oldest resorts, offering a range of activities including golf, water sports, and dining. Delavan hosts the annual Heritage Festival, celebrating the city’s unique history and culture.
4. Whitewater
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 8.76 square miles
- Population: 14,889 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 53190
- Latitude: 42.8330° N
- Longitude: 88.7346° W
Location and History
Whitewater is located in the northeastern corner of Walworth County, with portions extending into Jefferson County. The city was established in 1837 and quickly became a center for education, industry, and commerce. Whitewater is home to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, founded in 1868 as a normal school for teacher training, which has since grown into a major public university known for its business, education, and arts programs. The city’s economy was historically based on agriculture and manufacturing, but it has increasingly become a college town with a vibrant cultural scene and a diverse population.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Whitewater is served by the Whitewater Unified School District, which includes Whitewater High School and Whitewater Middle School. The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is the city’s most significant educational institution, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Major landmarks include the Birge Fountain, a historic fountain located in the heart of downtown, and the Whitewater Effigy Mounds Preserve, a site preserving Native American burial mounds. The city also features Cravath Lakefront Park, which hosts community events and provides recreational opportunities. Whitewater’s combination of historical charm, educational opportunities, and outdoor activities make it a dynamic and appealing place to live and visit.
5. East Troy
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 4.33 square miles
- Population: 4,301 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 53120
- Latitude: 42.7850° N
- Longitude: 88.4048° W
Location and History
East Troy is located in the northeastern part of Walworth County, about 35 miles southwest of Milwaukee. The village was founded in 1836 and was named after Troy, New York. East Troy developed as an agricultural community, benefiting from its fertile land and proximity to transportation routes. The village is historically significant for its connection to the electric railway system; it was a key stop on the Milwaukee Electric Railway & Light Company’s interurban line, which connected East Troy to Milwaukee and other nearby cities. The East Troy Electric Railroad, now a heritage railroad, is a remnant of this era and remains a popular attraction.
Major Schools and Landmarks
East Troy is served by the East Troy Community School District, which includes East Troy High School and East Troy Middle School. Major landmarks include the East Troy Electric Railroad Museum, which operates historic trolley cars on a seven-mile stretch of track between East Troy and Mukwonago. The village square, with its historic buildings and local shops, is a focal point of the community. East Troy is also home to Alpine Valley Music Theatre, one of the largest outdoor amphitheaters in the country, which hosts major concerts and events during the summer. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and skiing at the nearby Alpine Valley Resort.
6. Walworth
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.95 square miles
- Population: 2,816 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 53184
- Latitude: 42.5314° N
- Longitude: 88.5995° W
Location and History
Walworth is a small village located in the southwestern part of Walworth County, near the Illinois border. The village was founded in the mid-19th century and was named after the county. Walworth developed as a farming community, with dairy farming being particularly important to the local economy. The village has maintained much of its rural charm while also developing a close-knit community with a strong sense of local identity. Walworth serves as a gateway to the surrounding agricultural areas and offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with easy access to larger nearby cities like Lake Geneva and Delavan.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Walworth is part of the Walworth Joint School District, which includes Big Foot High School, serving students from Walworth and surrounding communities. Major landmarks include the Walworth County Historical Society Museum, located in a historic building that preserves the history of the village and county. The village is also home to Devils Lane Park, a popular local park with sports facilities, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Walworth hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Walworth County Fair and the Big Foot Lions Club’s annual Corn & Brat Festival. The village’s rural setting, community spirit, and proximity to recreational areas make it an appealing place to live and visit.
