Located on the Great River Road at the headwaters of Lake Pepin, Pierce County’s Bay City takes its name from the lake’s large bay. Home to Pierce County’s History Center and the historic Conlin cabin. Hidden away in Bay City, visitors are surprised to find a culinary gem downtown. Chef Shack is a four-star restaurant featuring an eclectic upscale menu using fresh, local, organic ingredients.

The county seat, Ellsworth’s historic courthouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is the focal point of the downtown. However, it’s the Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery that put Ellsworth on the map as the official Cheese Curd Capital of WI. The community hosts an annual Cheese Curd Festival, which attracts a cult-following of 30,000 fans.

Known as the UFO Capital of Wisconsin, Elmwood is Pierce County’s Area 51. A series of unexplained sightings in the 1970s led to a federal government UFO working group investigation. The community commemorates their claim to fame annually during UFO Days and attendees beckon extraterrestrials to come and join in.

On the shores of Lake Pepin and surrounded by stunning views, you’ll find historic Maiden Rock. The community is experiencing a renaissance—once vacant storefronts and residences have become art galleries and shops. Artists’ studios and you-pick farms dot the countryside. Local flavor abounds!

The picturesque farming community of Plum City is known for its downtown trout pond. According to local lore, the spring-fed pond was built and stocked by early French traders. No fishing, but feeding the fish is absolutely encouraged! Visitors will also find 752 acres of semi-wilderness, camping and year-round recreation knowns as Nugget Lake County Park.

Located at the convergence of the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers, Prescott is the gateway to the Great River Road. You’ll find quaint river town charm and the Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center at Freedom Park, featuring exhibits, native plant gardens, cultural experiences and displays, and some amazing river views.

River Falls is known as the City on the Kinni–the Kinnickinnic River, a class-one trout stream, flows through the heart of the downtown. Home to the University of Wisconsin River Falls campus, visitors will find the university’s cultural influences along with historic small-town charm and many shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and recreation options.

This quaint farming community is home to Crystal Cave, a popular tourist destination 485 million years in the making! Also known as home of the Midwest’s largest earthen dam, the Eau Galle Recreational Area offers camping, fishing, and miles of hiking and equestrian trails for year-round enjoyment.