Viroqua, (Vi-row’-kwa) is located on a ridge in the Ocooch Mountains of Southwestern Wisconsin. It is an area known as the ‘driftless region,’ meaning never glaciated and therefore has spectacular ridges, majestic bluffs, lush green valleys, and gorgeous rolling hills.

Viroqua is one of the most beautiful cities in the area and is the center for commerce, industry, government and entertainment in Vernon County. Since Viroqua became a Main Street City in 1989, there have been many changes. Dozens of new businesses have expanded or relocated here, creating many new jobs. More than 20 buildings have been renovated while 40 facades have been improved. There have also been many public improvement projects, including a 96-foot community mural, new street lamps and brickwork, and roofs outlined with white lights for the holidays.

The Temple Theater, located in the heart of downtown, is undergoing major restoration thanks to an outstanding volunteer effort, the mark of a strong, progressive community. The once abandoned Vaudeville theater is now used several times a year for productions.

Viroqua is proud of its heritage, enterprising spirit, and community-wide accomplishments. This thriving spirit will propel Viroqua into the 21st century and ensure its reputation as a premier Wisconsin community.

Discover for yourself why the Wall Street Journal, CBS Evening News, Smithsonian Magazine, Reader’s Digest, the Chicago Tribune, and Trout Unlimited all have picked Viroqua to show small town America at its best!

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The Viroqua Revitalization Association was formed in 1989 to improve the business district and community life. In August of 1989, Viroqua was honorably chosen as a Wisconsin Main Street City. On January 1, 1995, The Viroqua Revitalization Association and the Viroqua Chamber of Commerce joined forces and merged into one organization, The Viroqua Chamber ~ A Main Street City, also known as the Viroqua Partners.

The Viroqua Partners is an organization whose goal is to enhance the quality of life of all citizens. The key to the success of Viroqua’s Main Street Program is its integration of four areas into a practical city management strategy known as the "Four-Point Approach." Organization, Promotion, Design, and Economic Restructuring combine to work with both the public and private sectors to upgrade the quality of services and variety of goods offered in the Viroqua area. It will also work to encourage further growth and economic development of the entire community by promoting industrial development, tourism, and cooperation with agriculture.

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Viroqua is conveniently located in Southwestern Wisconsin’s Vernon County at the intersection of State Highways 14, 27, 61, & 56. Interstate I-90 lies 30 miles north of town. Viroqua has its own airport with a 3500-ft. paved runway capable of handling twin-engine aircraft and smaller planes. Regularly scheduled air passenger service is available only 45 minutes away in LaCrosse. Car rentals can be arranged at Jim Olson Ford and Peterson Motors. The Viroqua Cab Company offers the community’s taxi service while the Greyhound Bus Line serves Viroqua daily.

 

 

 

 

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The Viroqua Industrial Park is located on the northeast side of town, adjacent to State Hwys. 14-61 and just 35 minutes from the I-90 Interstate system. There are approximately 70 acres available for development in the Industrial Park. Already occupying sites in the park are G&F Distributors, Delaval, NCR, Nelson Industries, VARC, and Toman Tool.

The Viroqua Development Association is a local organization that works closely with the city and financing institutions to recruit industry to Viroqua. They offer assistance to local businesses in need of expansion and attractive incentives, flexible development plans, and competitive land prices to those looking to relocate to Viroqua’s Industrial Park.

 

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In 1993, the historic Temple Theater in downtown Viroqua was threatened by the demolition ball. In 1995, hundreds of hours were spent to restore the theater and soon, the historic structure’s marquee was brightly flashing once again. In 1996, the city held a Sesquicentennial Pageant and filled the house to capacity. Other live performances, including jazz concerts and film festivals, pack the house as well.

Viroqua is fortunate to have an abundance of talented artisans. In May, Court Street is the home of the annual May Visions Arts Fair and Chalkdust Festival. Children draw on the sidewalks and streets while musicians play melodies. Artists and artisans sell their work and demonstrate their crafts. In August, the north side of Viroqua turns into an 1880’s Boom Town, with a furtraders rendezvous, an Indian Village, Civil War reenactments, and a PRCA Rodeo. Viroqua also celebrates its annual Wild West Days the third weekend of August.

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