Cities and Towns in Portage County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1836, Portage County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Portage County was formed from Brown, Crawford, Iowa, and Milwaukee Counties. The city of Stevens Point is the county seat. With FIPS code of 97, Portage County has a population of 70,468 and area of 800.68 square miles (2,074 km²).
List of all cities in Portage County, WI alphabetically
- Almond, WI
- Amherst, WI
- Amherst Junction, WI
- Bancroft, WI
- Custer, WI
- Junction City, WI
- Nelsonville, WI
- Plover, WI
- Rosholt, WI
- Stevens Point, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Portage County, Wisconsin
Stevens Point
- Area: 17.2 square miles
- Population: 26,717 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54481, 54482
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.5236° N, 89.5746° W
Location and History
Stevens Point is the county seat and largest city in Portage County, located in central Wisconsin along the Wisconsin River. The city was founded in 1858 and named after George Stevens, a lumberer who operated a stopping point for river traffic. Stevens Point quickly developed into a hub for the lumber industry due to its prime location on the river, which facilitated the transport of logs. The city later expanded its economy to include agriculture and manufacturing. In the 1890s, Stevens Point became home to what is now the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, a key educational institution in the region. Today, Stevens Point is known for its vibrant downtown, rich cultural scene, and strong connection to the surrounding natural environment.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stevens Point is served by the Stevens Point Area Public School District, with Stevens Point Area Senior High School (SPASH) being the main high school. The city is also home to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Notable landmarks in the city include the Green Circle Trail, a 26-mile loop that encircles the city and offers scenic views for walking, biking, and running. Another significant site is the historic Pfiffner Pioneer Park, located along the river, which hosts numerous community events and concerts. The city also boasts the Stevens Point Sculpture Park, featuring a collection of outdoor artworks in a natural setting.
Plover
- Area: 11.7 square miles
- Population: 13,519 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54467
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.4550° N, 89.5448° W
Location and History
Plover is located just south of Stevens Point in central Portage County. The village was first established in the 1840s as a trading post and quickly grew due to its location on the Wisconsin River, which made it a convenient stop for travelers and traders. Plover briefly served as the county seat in the mid-19th century before the title was transferred to Stevens Point. The village has seen significant growth in recent decades, transitioning from a small agricultural community to a suburban area with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial development. Plover is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, numerous parks, and proximity to larger urban centers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Plover is part of the Stevens Point Area Public School District, with students attending schools in nearby Stevens Point, including SPASH. A major landmark in Plover is the Wisconsin Korean War Veterans Memorial, located in Worzella Pines Park, which honors the service of Wisconsin veterans. The village is also home to the Plover River, which offers recreational opportunities such as kayaking and fishing. Lake Pacawa, another key landmark, is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and community events, including the annual Celebrate Plover festival. The village’s rapid growth has also seen the development of several shopping centers, contributing to its status as a retail hub in the region.
Amherst
- Area: 1.87 square miles
- Population: 1,049 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54406
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.4500° N, 89.2837° W
Location and History
Amherst is a small village located in the eastern part of Portage County, along the Tomorrow River. The village was settled in the 1850s by European immigrants, primarily from Poland and Germany. Amherst developed as a small agricultural community, with farming remaining an important part of the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped boost the village’s growth, making it a key point for shipping agricultural products. Amherst has retained much of its historic charm, with a quaint downtown area and a strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Amherst is served by the Tomorrow River School District, which includes Amherst High School. The village is known for its historic downtown, where visitors can find locally-owned shops and cafes. A major landmark in Amherst is the Amherst Opera House, a historic building that hosts cultural events, performances, and community gatherings. The nearby Tomorrow River State Trail is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a scenic route for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. Additionally, Amherst is home to several annual events, including the Amherst Fair, which celebrates the village’s agricultural heritage with livestock shows, parades, and family-friendly activities.
Almond
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: 448 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54909
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.2619° N, 89.4148° W
Location and History
Almond is a small village located in the southwestern part of Portage County. The village was established in the mid-19th century and named after Almond Grove, New York, the hometown of some of its early settlers. Almond grew as a rural agricultural community, with a focus on dairy farming and crop production. The village has maintained its small-town character, with agriculture continuing to play a central role in the local economy. Almond’s location near the edge of the Central Sands region makes it an important area for potato farming, which is a key industry in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Almond is part of the Almond-Bancroft School District, with Almond-Bancroft High School serving the local student population. The village is known for its peaceful, rural setting and community-oriented atmosphere. Key landmarks include the Almond Historical Society Museum, which preserves artifacts and documents related to the village’s history. The nearby Buena Vista Marsh is a significant natural area, offering opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and nature study. Almond also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Almond Lions Club Picnic, which features a parade, games, and live entertainment.
Rosholt
- Area: 1.52 square miles
- Population: 510 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54473
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.6286° N, 89.3090° W
Location and History
Rosholt is a village located in the northeastern part of Portage County. The village was founded in the early 20th century by Norwegian immigrants and was named after a local settler, Edward Rosholt. Rosholt developed as an agricultural community, with dairy farming and potato growing being the primary industries. The village’s growth was supported by the arrival of the railroad, which facilitated the transport of agricultural products. Rosholt has remained a small, close-knit community, with a strong emphasis on preserving its cultural heritage and rural character.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rosholt is served by the Rosholt School District, which includes Rosholt High School. A significant landmark in the village is the Rosholt Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Portage County Fair, a major event featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, and entertainment. The nearby Lake Helen is another key attraction, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The village is also known for its historic buildings, including the St. Adalbert Catholic Church, which reflects the community’s deep-rooted cultural and religious traditions. Rosholt’s natural surroundings, with its forests and lakes, make it a popular destination for outdoor activities and nature enthusiasts.