Big surprises come in small packages. That’s the motto of Pepin County, the second smallest county in Wisconsin. Visitors and those looking to start or expand their business will be pleasantly surprised by this picturesque area that is gradually evolving from one of the state’s best kept secrets to a popular tourist destination. The 28-mile-long, 3-mile-wide Lake Pepin along with scenic bluffs, lush valleys, and historic buildings provide inspiration and the perfect setting for artisan entrepreneurs looking to set up a business or studio.
Art galleries, antique shops, wineries and collectible boutiques line the streets of the county’s key communities: Durand, Arkansaw, Pepin and Stockholm. Public, private and Amish schools educate the area’s youth, while technical colleges and universities in nearby counties hone the skills of a future workforce.
The schools, along with county government and the Chippewa Valley Hospital & Oakview Care Center are major employers in Pepin County. Commercial tire provider and manufacturer, Bauer Built Inc. is another major employer along with Durand Builders and other construction firms.
Main street vacancies in Pepin and Durand as well as open sites in the county’s industrial park off state Highway 25 call to businesses and artisans to join the good life in Pepin County.
The county provides an abundance of outdoor recreation and activities. As the birthplace of Laura Ingles Wilder, the city of Pepin pays tribute to the famous Little House author with an annual celebration and a museum. The Stockholm Art Fair, Arkansaw Park Creek Days, Durand Funfest, Pepin County Fair and Blues on the Chippewa are just a few of the many other events in Pepin County.
For more information contact:
LeAnna Bender, Community Resource Coordinator
Pepin County
lbender@co.pepin.wi.us
Education/Arts
Pepin County is located on the Minnesota, Wisconsin boarder along Lake Pepin which is fed by the Mississippi River. The pure environment, unique & exciting history, world class restaurants, and prosperous business districts, create a vibrant atmosphere for visitors and residents alike. There are great outdoor activities like Maiden Rock Bluff which is one of Wisconsin’s most notable limestone cliff faces on a bluff high above the Mississippi River overlooking Lake Pepin making it a gorgeous place to view fall colors and take some amazing hikes. Many who are familiar with the stories and adventures of Laura Ingalls Wilder enjoy visiting the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum and many who enjoy the arts enjoy catching a drama or music performance at the Wide Spot Performing Arts Center in Stockholm. Come to Pepin to enjoy music, food, fairs, tours, nature and more!
