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Cities and Towns in Marathon County, Wisconsin

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Founded in 1850, Marathon County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Marathon County was formed from Portage County. The city of Wausau is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Marathon County has a population of 137,648 and area of 1,544.98 square miles (4,001 km²).

 

List of all cities in Marathon County, WI alphabetically

  • Aniwa, WI
  • Athens, WI
  • Brokaw, WI
  • Edgar, WI
  • Eland, WI
  • Elderon, WI
  • Galloway, WI
  • Hatley, WI
  • Marathon, WI
  • Mosinee, WI
  • Ringle, WI
  • Rothschild, WI
  • Schofield, WI
  • Spencer, WI
  • Stratford, WI
  • Unity, WI
  • Wausau, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Marathon County, Wisconsin

Wausau

  • Area: 20.33 square miles
  • Population: 39,994 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54401, 54403
  • Latitude and Longitude: 44.9591° N, 89.6301° W

Location and History

Wausau, the county seat and largest city in Marathon County, is situated along the Wisconsin River in the central part of the county. The city was founded in the mid-19th century and grew rapidly due to its strategic location in the heart of Wisconsin’s lumber industry. Wausau became a hub for logging and milling, with the Wisconsin River providing a crucial transportation route for timber. As the logging industry declined, Wausau diversified its economy, becoming a center for insurance, manufacturing, and healthcare. Today, Wausau is known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic downtown, and access to outdoor recreational activities in the nearby Rib Mountain State Park.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wausau is served by the Wausau School District, with Wausau West High School and Wausau East High School being the primary educational institutions. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Grand Theater, a historic performing arts venue, and the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, known for its annual “Birds in Art” exhibition. Rib Mountain State Park, featuring one of the highest points in the state and the Granite Peak Ski Area, is a major outdoor attraction offering hiking, skiing, and scenic views. Wausau’s downtown area, with its mix of historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, serves as the cultural and commercial heart of the city.

Weston

  • Area: 21.56 square miles
  • Population: 15,723 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54476
  • Latitude and Longitude: 44.8914° N, 89.5365° W

Location and History

Weston is a rapidly growing village located just southeast of Wausau. The area that is now Weston was originally part of the Town of Weston, which was established in the 1850s as a farming community. The village itself was incorporated in 1996, and since then, it has seen significant residential and commercial development, benefiting from its proximity to Wausau. Weston has become a suburban hub, offering a blend of modern amenities and a family-friendly atmosphere while maintaining its agricultural roots in some areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Weston is served by the D.C. Everest School District, with D.C. Everest Senior High School being the main educational institution. A key landmark in the village is the Yellow Banks Park, located along the Eau Claire River, which offers recreational facilities such as trails, picnic areas, and a disc golf course. Another significant site is the Weston Aquatic Center, a popular destination for families during the summer months. The village’s commercial areas, including the Weston Town Center, feature a variety of shops, restaurants, and services that cater to residents and visitors alike. Weston’s annual events, such as the Farmers Market and community festivals, contribute to the village’s active and engaged community life.

Mosinee

  • Area: 8.54 square miles
  • Population: 4,063 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54455
  • Latitude and Longitude: 44.7933° N, 89.7037° W

Location and History

Mosinee is a small city located along the Wisconsin River, south of Wausau. The city was founded in the mid-19th century and was originally a logging and milling community, taking advantage of the river’s power to drive sawmills and paper mills. Mosinee’s history is also marked by its strategic location along the river, which made it a key transportation hub during the logging boom. Over time, Mosinee diversified its economy, with manufacturing, agriculture, and services becoming important sectors. The city is known for its historic downtown and strong community spirit, reflected in its many local events and traditions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Mosinee is served by the Mosinee School District, with Mosinee High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Mosinee Mill, which has been a central part of the local economy for over a century. The Wisconsin River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities, with River Park offering scenic views and picnic areas along the riverbank. The city’s historic downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, adding to Mosinee’s charm. The annual Mosinee LogJam festival celebrates the city’s logging heritage with parades, live music, and family-friendly activities.

Rothschild

  • Area: 6.75 square miles
  • Population: 5,295 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54474
  • Latitude and Longitude: 44.8619° N, 89.6188° W

Location and History

Rothschild is a village located just south of Wausau, along the Wisconsin River. The village was founded in the early 20th century and was named after Edward Rothschild, a prominent businessman who played a key role in the area’s industrial development. Rothschild grew as a mill town, with the construction of a paper mill in the early 1900s serving as the cornerstone of its economy. The village has maintained its industrial roots while also developing residential and commercial areas, making it a well-rounded community that offers both economic opportunities and quality of life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rothschild is part of the D.C. Everest School District, with students typically attending D.C. Everest Senior High School. The village is home to the Rothschild Pavilion, a historic event venue that hosts a variety of community events, including weddings, dances, and local festivals. The nearby Cedar Creek Mall offers shopping and entertainment options for residents and visitors. The Wisconsin River and the adjacent parks provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and picnicking. Rothschild’s proximity to both Wausau and major transportation routes makes it an attractive location for businesses and residents alike.

Marathon City

  • Area: 1.54 square miles
  • Population: 1,624 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54448
  • Latitude and Longitude: 44.9308° N, 89.8387° W

Location and History

Marathon City is a small village located in the western part of Marathon County, along the scenic Rib River. The village was established in the mid-19th century and named after Marathon County. It developed primarily as an agricultural community, with dairy farming and cheese production playing significant roles in its economy. Over the years, Marathon City has maintained its rural charm while also becoming a hub for local businesses and services, serving the surrounding farming communities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Marathon City is served by the Marathon School District, with Marathon High School being the primary educational institution. A key landmark in the village is the Marathon City Historical Society Museum, which preserves the history of the village and the surrounding area, with exhibits on early settlers, agriculture, and local industry. The Rib River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The village’s annual Cheese Festival celebrates its agricultural heritage with parades, cheese tastings, and various community events. Marathon City’s small-town atmosphere, combined with its rich history and strong community spirit, makes it a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.

Edgar

  • Area: 1.49 square miles
  • Population: 1,386 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 54426
  • Latitude and Longitude: 44.9236° N, 89.9648° W

Location and History

Edgar is a small village located in the western part of Marathon County, known for its strong agricultural base and close-knit community. The village was founded in the late 19th century and grew as a center for farming and local commerce. Edgar has retained its rural character over the years, with agriculture remaining a central part of the local economy. The village is known for its peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained neighborhoods, and active community involvement.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Edgar is served by the Edgar School District, with Edgar High School being the main educational institution. The village is home to several local landmarks, including Oak Street Park, which offers recreational facilities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The village’s historic downtown area features a mix of local businesses, shops, and services that cater to the needs of the community. Edgar’s annual events, such as the Edgar Steam Show and the village’s Fourth of July celebration, bring residents together to celebrate local traditions and enjoy time with neighbors. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling fields and farms, provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities and contributes to Edgar’s reputation as a welcoming and family-friendly community.

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