Cities and Towns in Vernon County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1851, Vernon County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Vernon County was formed from Richland and Crawford Counties. The city of Viroqua is the county seat. With FIPS code of 123, Vernon County has a population of 30,915 and area of 791.58 square miles (2,050 km²).
List of all cities in Vernon County, WI alphabetically
- Chaseburg, WI
- Coon Valley, WI
- De Soto, WI
- Genoa, WI
- Hillsboro, WI
- La Farge, WI
- Ontario, WI
- Readstown, WI
- Stoddard, WI
- Viroqua, WI
- Westby, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Vernon County, Wisconsin
1. Viroqua
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.81 square miles
- Population: 4,504 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54665
- Latitude: 43.5564° N
- Longitude: 90.8887° W
Location and History
Viroqua is the county seat of Vernon County, located in the Driftless Area of southwestern Wisconsin. The city was founded in the mid-19th century and named after Viroqua, a Native American woman from a novel by Robert Montgomery Bird. Viroqua developed as an agricultural center, with dairy farming and tobacco growing playing significant roles in its early economy. The city’s location in the Driftless Area, characterized by its rolling hills and valleys untouched by glaciers, gives it a unique topography compared to other parts of Wisconsin. Over the years, Viroqua has become known for its vibrant arts scene, local food movement, and commitment to sustainability, making it a hub for organic farming and eco-tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Viroqua is served by the Viroqua Area School District, which includes Viroqua High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Major landmarks include the historic Fortney Underground Theater, which hosts live performances and community events, and the Vernon County Historical Museum, which offers exhibits on the region’s history. The Viroqua Public Market and the Driftless Books and Music store are popular local attractions, reflecting the city’s focus on local arts and culture. The surrounding countryside, with its numerous hiking trails, trout streams, and scenic vistas, makes Viroqua a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Westby
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.58 square miles
- Population: 2,229 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54667
- Latitude: 43.6558° N
- Longitude: 90.8540° W
Location and History
Westby is located just north of Viroqua in Vernon County and is known for its strong Norwegian heritage. The town was settled in the 19th century by Norwegian immigrants, and it was named after Ole T. Westby, one of the area’s early settlers. Westby quickly became a center for Norwegian culture in Wisconsin, a legacy that continues to this day with the town’s many cultural events and institutions. Dairy farming has long been a cornerstone of Westby’s economy, and the town is home to the Westby Cooperative Creamery, one of the oldest dairy cooperatives in the state. Westby’s scenic location in the Driftless Area adds to its charm, attracting visitors interested in both its cultural and natural offerings.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Westby is served by the Westby Area School District, which includes Westby Area High School and Middle School. Major landmarks include the Westby Ski Jump, an iconic site that hosts the annual Snowflake Ski Jumping Tournament, attracting competitors from around the world. The town also features the Bekkum Memorial Library and the historic Old Towne Westby, which offers a glimpse into the town’s past with preserved buildings and exhibits. Westby’s Syttende Mai Festival, celebrating Norwegian Constitution Day, is a major event that draws crowds for parades, traditional foods, and cultural displays, showcasing the town’s deep Norwegian roots.
3. La Farge
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.21 square miles
- Population: 718 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54639
- Latitude: 43.5761° N
- Longitude: 90.6407° W
Location and History
La Farge is a small village located in the northeastern part of Vernon County, along the Kickapoo River. The village was established in the late 19th century and was named after John La Farge, an artist and designer who contributed to the construction of the local church. La Farge developed as a farming community, with agriculture being the primary economic activity. The village is perhaps best known for its proximity to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, a vast natural area created after a failed dam project in the mid-20th century. The Reserve, along with the Organic Valley cooperative headquartered nearby, has shaped La Farge’s identity as a center for sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
La Farge is served by the La Farge School District, which includes La Farge High School and Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, which offers extensive opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and canoeing in a pristine natural environment. The village is also home to the Driftless Area Education and Visitor Center, which provides educational programs and exhibits on the region’s unique geology, ecology, and history. The nearby Organic Valley cooperative headquarters underscores La Farge’s role in the organic farming movement, and the village hosts several events throughout the year, including the Kickapoo Country Fair, celebrating local food and sustainability.
4. Hillsboro
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.34 square miles
- Population: 1,417 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54634
- Latitude: 43.6508° N
- Longitude: 90.3385° W
Location and History
Hillsboro is located in the eastern part of Vernon County, often referred to as the “Czech Capital of Wisconsin” due to its strong Czech heritage. The town was settled in the mid-19th century by Czech immigrants, who brought with them their customs, language, and traditions. Hillsboro developed as a farming community, with dairy farming being a key part of the local economy. The town’s location in the Baraboo Range, part of the Driftless Area, provides it with a scenic landscape of hills and valleys. Hillsboro’s Czech heritage is still evident in its cultural celebrations, community events, and local cuisine, making it a unique cultural enclave in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hillsboro is served by the School District of Hillsboro, which includes Hillsboro High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Czech Museum, which preserves the history and culture of the Czech immigrants who settled in the area. The Hillsboro Brewing Company, located in a historic building, is another key site, offering craft beer and hosting community events. Hillsboro also features scenic parks and outdoor areas, such as Field Veterans Memorial Park and the nearby Wildcat Mountain State Park, which offers hiking, camping, and stunning views of the Kickapoo River Valley. The annual Cesky Den (Czech Day) Festival is a major event that celebrates the town’s Czech heritage with traditional music, food, and dance.
5. Ontario
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.78 square miles
- Population: 487 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54651
- Latitude: 43.7150° N
- Longitude: 90.5896° W
Location and History
Ontario is a small village located in the northern part of Vernon County, nestled along the Kickapoo River. The village was established in the late 19th century and developed as a small farming community. Ontario’s location at the heart of the Driftless Area makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in canoeing and kayaking along the Kickapoo River. The village has a rich natural setting, with the surrounding hills, valleys, and waterways providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities. Ontario has maintained its small-town charm while benefiting from its proximity to natural attractions like Wildcat Mountain State Park.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ontario is served by the Norwalk-Ontario-Wilton (NOW) School District, with students attending Brookwood High School and Middle School. Major landmarks include the Kickapoo River, which is renowned for its winding path through the Driftless Area and is a favorite spot for canoeing and kayaking. Wildcat Mountain State Park, located just outside the village, offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and panoramic views of the Kickapoo River Valley. Ontario’s small downtown area features local shops and restaurants, contributing to its quaint and welcoming atmosphere. The village hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Kickapoo River Fest, which celebrates the river and the outdoor activities it supports.
6. Readstown
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.17 square miles
- Population: 395 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54652
- Latitude: 43.4469° N
- Longitude: 90.7595° W
Location and History
Readstown is a small village located along the Kickapoo River in southwestern Vernon County. The village was founded in the mid-19th century and named after John Read, one of its early settlers. Readstown developed as a trading post and agricultural center, benefiting from its location along the river, which was an important transportation route in the early days. The village’s history is closely tied to the Kickapoo River, which has shaped both its economy and its landscape. Today, Readstown is a quiet community that retains much of its historical character, with a focus on agriculture and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Readstown is part of the Kickapoo Area School District, with students attending Kickapoo High School in nearby Viola. Major landmarks include the Kickapoo River, which offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and bird-watching. The village’s historic downtown features several 19th-century buildings, including the old general store and post office, which reflect Readstown’s past as a rural trading center. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and farmlands, provides a picturesque setting for hiking and exploring. Readstown’s annual Fourth of July celebration is a key community event, featuring a parade, fireworks, and various family-friendly activities that bring together residents and visitors alike.