Prairie du Chien, in the far south-west of Wisconsin at the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, was founded in 1673 by the Frenchman Marquette and Joliet and was for a long time an important fur trading post. Today it is a river station for the big Mississippi paddle steamers, with the added attraction of the Kickapoo Indian Caverns and the Villa Louis Mansion, former home of a wealthy fur trader.
The Fort Crawford Museum is located in Prairie du Chien and is a delight to visit. The museum has over 50 exhibits spread across 3 buildings. One of the museum's main exhibits is dedicated to Dr. William Beaumont. Pack a picnic lunch, there are wonderful facilities on site for this type of activity.
One of Prairie du Chein's more notable attractions is Villa Louis. This restored mansion from the late 19th Century features period pieces along with historical items from the Dousman family. The house is lavishly decorated in Victorian fashions. Each year the property hosts the Villa Louis Carriage Classic.
Address: Villa Louis Historic Site, 521 North Villa Louis Road, Prairie Du Chien, WI 53821-1333, United States
Phone: 1 (608) 326-2721, Fax: 1 (608) 326-5507
Hours:
April 30 to October 31: 10am-5pm
Disability Access: Partial facilities for persons with disabilities.
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