Cities and Towns in Adams County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1848, Adams County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Adams County was formed from Portage County. The city of Friendship is the county seat. With FIPS code of 1, Adams County has a population of 20,875 and area of 645.65 square miles (1,672 km²).
List of all cities in Adams County, WI alphabetically
- Adams, WI
- Arkdale, WI
- Dellwood, WI
- Friendship, WI
- Grand Marsh, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Adams County, Wisconsin
City of Adams
Overview
- Area: 2.18 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,900
- ZIP Code: 53910
- Latitude: 43.9575° N
- Longitude: 89.8185° W
The City of Adams, located in the central part of Adams County, was established in the late 19th century with the arrival of the Chicago and North Western Railway. The city was initially named South Friendship, as it was south of the village of Friendship, the county seat. The name was later changed to Adams in honor of John Quincy Adams, the sixth president of the United States. The city grew as a hub for agriculture and transportation, with the railroad playing a significant role in its development. Adams continues to serve as a small, tight-knit community with a focus on agriculture and small businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Adams is served by the Adams-Friendship Area School District, with Adams-Friendship High School being the primary educational institution. Notable landmarks include the Adams County Historical Society Museum, which preserves the region’s history, and Roche-A-Cri State Park, located just a few miles outside the city, known for its ancient Native American petroglyphs and stunning views from the park’s observation tower.
City of Friendship
Overview
- Area: 1.47 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700
- ZIP Code: 53934
- Latitude: 43.9722° N
- Longitude: 89.8190° W
Friendship, the county seat of Adams County, is a small city located just north of Adams. Established in 1857, Friendship was named to reflect the close ties among the early settlers. The city grew slowly, maintaining its status as the administrative center of the county. Friendship has retained much of its historic character, with several buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries still standing. The city is known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings, including the nearby Roche-A-Cri State Park.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Friendship shares its school district with the neighboring City of Adams, with Adams-Friendship High School serving students from both communities. Landmarks in Friendship include the historic Adams County Courthouse, a beautiful example of Romanesque Revival architecture, and the Friendship Mound, a prominent natural feature that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The city’s proximity to Roche-A-Cri State Park also makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Village of Grand Marsh
Overview
- Area: 1.5 square miles (approximate)
- Population: Approximately 125
- ZIP Code: 53936
- Latitude: 43.8700° N
- Longitude: 89.6145° W
Grand Marsh is a small village located in the southeastern part of Adams County. Established in the mid-19th century, the village was named for the expansive marshlands that surround the area. Grand Marsh’s economy has historically been based on agriculture, with cranberry and potato farming playing significant roles. The village is characterized by its rural charm and strong sense of community. Grand Marsh is also known for its annual Corn N’ Tater Festival, which celebrates the local agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The village is part of the Adams-Friendship Area School District, with students attending schools in nearby communities. Major landmarks include the Grand Marsh State Wildlife Area, which offers opportunities for hunting, birdwatching, and hiking, and the historic Grand Marsh Store, a local gathering place that has been in operation for over a century. The Corn N’ Tater Festival is a significant event that draws visitors from across the region to enjoy parades, music, and traditional fair activities.
Town of Rome
Overview
- Area: 62.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,700
- ZIP Code: 54457
- Latitude: 44.2061° N
- Longitude: 89.8080° W
The Town of Rome, located in the northern part of Adams County, is known for its extensive recreational opportunities, particularly its lakes and golf courses. Founded in the mid-19th century, Rome has evolved from a small agricultural community into a popular vacation destination. The town is home to several lakes, including Lake Petenwell, Wisconsin’s second-largest lake, which attracts visitors for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The development of golf resorts in the area has further boosted Rome’s status as a recreational hub.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rome is part of the Nekoosa School District, with students attending schools in nearby Nekoosa. Significant landmarks in Rome include the Sand Valley Golf Resort, renowned for its world-class golf courses and stunning natural scenery, and the Lake Arrowhead community, which offers a variety of recreational amenities. The nearby Petenwell Rock, a towering rock formation overlooking Lake Petenwell, is another popular landmark, offering hiking and panoramic views.
Town of Dell Prairie
Overview
- Area: 35.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,600
- ZIP Codes: 53965, 53937
- Latitude: 43.6811° N
- Longitude: 89.7434° W
Dell Prairie is a rural town located in the southwestern part of Adams County. Established in the mid-19th century, the town was named for its scenic prairies and the Dells of the Wisconsin River, a popular natural attraction nearby. Dell Prairie’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with dairy farming playing a significant role. The town’s location near the Wisconsin Dells has also influenced its development, with tourism becoming increasingly important in recent years.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dell Prairie is served by the Wisconsin Dells School District, with students attending schools in nearby Wisconsin Dells. Notable landmarks include the Dells of the Wisconsin River, known for its striking rock formations and recreational opportunities, and the Dell Prairie Town Hall, a historic building that serves as the center of local government. The town’s rural character and proximity to the Dells make it a desirable location for those seeking a quiet, countryside lifestyle with access to nearby attractions.
Town of Springville
Overview
- Area: 34.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200
- ZIP Codes: 53934, 53965
- Latitude: 43.7200° N
- Longitude: 89.7867° W
Springville is a small town located in the southern part of Adams County. The town was established in the mid-19th century and has maintained its rural character over the years. Springville’s economy is largely agricultural, with dairy farming and crop production being the mainstay of the local economy. The town is known for its peaceful, rural environment and its close-knit community. Springville’s location near the Wisconsin Dells provides residents with easy access to the region’s recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Springville is part of the Wisconsin Dells School District, with students attending schools in the nearby Wisconsin Dells area. Key landmarks include the Springville Cemetery, which dates back to the town’s early settlement, and the Springville Town Hall, a historic building that hosts local government meetings and community events. The town’s scenic countryside and proximity to the Wisconsin Dells make it a popular area for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.