Wisconsin's Charming Riverfront Town Blends Outdoor Fun, Senior-Friendly Amenities, And Cozy Living

As a state, Wisconsin is known for a few things, such as top-tier cheese, the Green Bay Packers, and the bustling city of Milwaukee. However, the Badger State encompasses so much more than just the cities along Lake Michigan. In fact, everywhere you look, there are small towns full of Midwest charm and laid-back vibes. 

If you head closer to the state's western border, towards the Mississippi River, you'll run into the city of Whitehall. Although it may not have any world-famous attractions, it's a cozy spot along the Trempealeau River that's perfect for senior living and outdoor fun.Because Whitehall is so small, it can be hard to spot on a map. 

However, it's about 46 minutes south of Eau Claire, the up-and-coming artsy town some hail as the "Indie Capital of the Midwest." Whitehall is also about an hour east of Stockholm, one of America's coziest towns on the Mississippi River that's steeped in Swedish culture.But don't let Whitehall's diminutive size or attractive neighbors fool you; this city is still well worth a trip, especially if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy riverfront views and delightful green spaces. While the city caters to its senior citizens, the activities available are also engaging for visitors of all ages.

Since Whitehall is a riverside town, let's dive into the outdoor spaces you can explore during your visit. First, there's Larson Park, located on the northern edge of the city, which features a playground, a baseball field, and easy access to the river. There's even a small boat ramp if you want to launch a canoe or paddle boat into the water.

The park is located next to the Whitehall Aquatic Center, which boasts both indoor and outdoor pools, making it perfect for all ages. To enter the aquatic center, a day pass is only $5, and non-residents can purchase a season pass for $175. The season runs from June 7 to August 17, so if you're trying to get your laps in while visiting Whitehall, then plan accordingly. The center also offers a senior rate of $170. If you prefer golfing, there's a golf course next door: The Whitehall Golf & Pub. Here you can hit the links and then relax with a pint of your favorite beer afterward.

Another outdoor option is Melby Park, which is in the center of town. This park also has a playground and a baseball field, and is next to the Gundersen Tri-County Hospital. The hospital is one of several factors that make Whitehall such a fabulous retirement community, as older residents don't have to worry about traveling far for medical care. There's even a senior living facility across from Gundersen for added convenience and peace of mind.

Since Whitehall is such a small town, it's pretty far removed from any major cities or travel hubs. The closest international airport is the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport which is widely recognized as the best in North America. From there, it's about a two-hour drive to Whitehall. Another side effect of its small size is that there is only one hotel in the city limits, the Oak Park Inn. There are several vacation home rentals nearby, but none in town.

Overall, Whitehall is the perfect getaway if you're trying to relax and unwind. As one of the best retirement communities in Wisconsin, life moves a little slower, and residents focus on coziness and comfort, not tourism. In fact, if you like the vibe here, you may want to make Whitehall your own retirement oasis, as the median home price is around $233,000.

Outside of enjoying the parks, pools, and homey surroundings of the city, the dining options in town are also quaint and charming. There are two pubs, Shari's Bar and Grill and the Doghouse Bar and Grill, where you can munch on tavern food and sip on a beer. Whitehall also has international cuisine, with a Mexican restaurant in the heart of town and a Thai restaurant close to the river.