Cities and Towns in Pierce County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1853, Pierce County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Pierce County was formed from Saint Croix County. The city of Ellsworth is the county seat. With FIPS code of 93, Pierce County has a population of 42,587 and area of 573.75 square miles (1,486 km²).
List of all cities in Pierce County, WI alphabetically
- Bay City, WI
- Beldenville, WI
- East Ellsworth, WI
- Ellsworth, WI
- Elmwood, WI
- Hager City, WI
- Maiden Rock, WI
- Plum City, WI
- Prescott, WI
- River Falls, WI
- Spring Valley, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Pierce County, Wisconsin
River Falls
- Area: 6.60 square miles
- Population: 16,182 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54022
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.8644° N, 92.6252° W
Location and History
River Falls is located in the northeastern part of Pierce County, straddling the Kinnickinnic River, which provides a picturesque backdrop for the city. Founded in 1848, River Falls initially developed as a lumbering and milling community, with the river serving as a vital resource for powering mills and transporting logs. The city was named for the scenic falls on the Kinnickinnic River, which remain a central feature of the community. Over time, River Falls grew into a regional hub, particularly with the establishment of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls in 1874, which has had a significant impact on the city’s growth and culture. Today, River Falls is known for its blend of small-town charm, educational excellence, and natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
River Falls is served by the River Falls School District, which includes River Falls High School. The city is also home to the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, a key educational institution that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and contributes to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Notable landmarks in River Falls include Glen Park, a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and outdoor recreation, and the Kinnickinnic River, which is a renowned trout stream and a focal point for local conservation efforts. The city’s historic downtown features a mix of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, reflecting its rich history and dynamic community.
Ellsworth
- Area: 3.67 square miles
- Population: 3,348 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54011
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.7314° N, 92.4855° W
Location and History
Ellsworth, the county seat of Pierce County, is located near the center of the county. The village was established in 1862 and was named after Colonel Elmer E. Ellsworth, the first Union officer killed in the Civil War. Ellsworth quickly developed as an agricultural community, with dairy farming playing a central role in its economy. The village is known as the “Cheese Curd Capital of Wisconsin,” a title that reflects its strong dairy heritage and the local production of cheese curds, a popular regional delicacy. Ellsworth’s strategic location at the crossroads of several major highways has helped it maintain its status as a key community in Pierce County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ellsworth is served by the Ellsworth Community School District, which includes Ellsworth High School. The village is home to several key landmarks, including the Pierce County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Pierce County Fair, a major event that showcases the area’s agricultural roots with livestock shows, exhibits, and entertainment. Another significant site is Summit Park, a popular location for outdoor activities and community gatherings. Ellsworth also boasts a historic downtown area with shops, restaurants, and the Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery, which is famous for producing some of the best cheese curds in Wisconsin.
Prescott
- Area: 2.88 square miles
- Population: 4,329 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54021
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.7494° N, 92.8024° W
Location and History
Prescott is located at the confluence of the St. Croix River and the Mississippi River in the southwestern part of Pierce County. The city was established in 1840, making it one of the oldest settlements in the region. Prescott’s strategic location at the meeting point of two major rivers made it an important hub for river transportation, trade, and commerce in the 19th century. The city was named after Philander Prescott, an early settler and fur trader who played a significant role in the development of the area. Today, Prescott is known for its scenic river views, historic charm, and vibrant community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Prescott is served by the Prescott School District, with Prescott High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center at Freedom Park, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and educational exhibits about the river’s natural and cultural history. Prescott’s historic downtown features a variety of shops, restaurants, and well-preserved buildings from the 19th century. The city also hosts the annual Prescott Daze festival, which celebrates the community with parades, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Spring Valley
- Area: 2.81 square miles
- Population: 1,291 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54767
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.8475° N, 92.2416° W
Location and History
Spring Valley is located in the eastern part of Pierce County, nestled in a valley along the Eau Galle River. The village was established in the late 19th century and was named for the natural springs and valleys that characterize the area. Spring Valley developed as a small agricultural community, with farming and milling being the primary industries. The construction of the Eau Galle Dam in the 1940s, one of the largest earthen dams in the Midwest, helped shape the village’s landscape and provided flood control for the area. The resulting Eau Galle Lake has become a focal point for recreation and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Spring Valley is part of the Spring Valley School District, which includes Spring Valley High School. The village is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly at Eau Galle Recreation Area, which features hiking trails, camping sites, and a beach along Eau Galle Lake. Another key landmark is Crystal Cave, Wisconsin’s longest known cave, which offers guided tours and has been a popular tourist attraction for decades. The village also celebrates its heritage with the annual Spring Valley Dam Days, a community festival that includes a parade, carnival, and various entertainment options.
Bay City
- Area: 1.44 square miles
- Population: 490 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54723
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.5903° N, 92.4535° W
Location and History
Bay City is a small village located in the western part of Pierce County, along the banks of the Mississippi River. The village was established in the mid-19th century and was originally known as Saratoga. It was later renamed Bay City, reflecting its location on the river and its scenic bay. Bay City developed primarily as a river town, with its economy centered around shipping, fishing, and trade along the Mississippi River. The village’s location on the river also made it a popular spot for recreation and tourism, particularly for those interested in boating and fishing.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bay City is part of the Ellsworth Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Ellsworth. The village is known for its peaceful, rural atmosphere and its close proximity to the Mississippi River, which offers numerous opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. A key landmark in Bay City is the Bay City Campground, which provides facilities for camping and picnicking along the river. The village also features several historic buildings that reflect its river town heritage. Each year, Bay City hosts the River City Days festival, which includes boat races, parades, and other community events that celebrate the village’s connection to the Mississippi River.
