Cottage Grove, WI

Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, is a small village located in Dane County. The history of Cottage Grove dates back to the mid-19th century when the first settlers arrived in the area.

The land that would become Cottage Grove was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ho-Chunk (Winnebago) and the Menominee. European settlers began to arrive in the 1840s, attracted by the fertile soil and abundant timber resources. The first settler in the area was Samuel Marshall, who arrived in 1843.

The village of Cottage Grove was officially established on August 7, 1849, and was initially named Winneshiek. However, in 1850, the name was changed to Cottage Grove due to the presence of a post office named Cottage Grove. The name "Cottage Grove" is believed to have been inspired by the cottage-like appearance of the nearby grove of trees.

The early economy of Cottage Grove was primarily agricultural, with farmers cultivating crops such as wheat, corn, and oats. The growth of the village was also stimulated by the construction of the Madison and Watertown Railway in 1854, which provided improved transportation and access to markets.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Cottage Grove experienced steady growth, with the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses. The village's population continued to grow, reaching 1,123 residents by 1960.

In recent years, Cottage Grove has seen significant residential and commercial development, thanks to its proximity to Madison, the state capital. The village has transformed from a primarily agricultural community into a suburban community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Today, Cottage Grove is known for its small-town charm, picturesque landscapes, and community-oriented spirit. The village offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, trails, and lakes, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking a balance between rural and urban lifestyles.

In summary, Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, has a rich history as an agricultural community that has grown and developed over the years. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement to its present-day status as a thriving village, Cottage Grove continues to evolve while maintaining its historical roots.

Glacial Drumlin State Trail

This scenic trail offers hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing opportunities along a former railroad corridor.

Lake Kegonsa State Park

Located on the shores of Lake Kegonsa, this park offers camping, swimming, fishing, and boating activities.

Capital Springs State Recreation Area

A beautiful park with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pier on Lake Waubesa.

Winncrest Falls

A picturesque waterfall located in Lake View Park, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.

Door Creek Golf Course

A well-maintained golf course with challenging holes and beautiful views.

The Rodeo Drive-In Theater

A nostalgic drive-in movie theater showcasing the latest releases.

Liliana's Restaurant

A popular eatery known for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, live music, and vibrant atmosphere.

Quivey's Grove

A historic restaurant and event venue housed in a restored stone barn, offering traditional American fare and a rustic ambiance.

Glacial Drumlin Bike Trailhead

A great starting point for biking enthusiasts looking to explore the scenic Drumlin State Trail.

Capital Brewery

A local brewery offering tours, tastings, and events featuring craft beers made in Wisconsin.

Cottage Grove, Wisconsin has a humid continental climate. The region experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.

Summer (June to August) in Cottage Grove is warm and relatively humid. Average daytime temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s Celsius), occasionally reaching the 90s Fahrenheit (mid-30s Celsius). Overnight temperatures generally drop into the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (mid-teens Celsius). The area receives moderate to high levels of precipitation during this season, with occasional thunderstorms.

Fall (September to November) in Cottage Grove is mild and generally pleasant. Average temperatures start to cool down, with daytime highs in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (high teens to low 20s Celsius), and overnight lows drop to the 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (single digits Celsius). Autumn foliage colors are vibrant, creating picturesque scenes. Precipitation levels remain moderate during the fall, but there may be an increase in rainy days and occasional storms.

Winter (December to February) in Cottage Grove is cold, snowy, and often cloudy. Average highs during this season range from the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (-4 to 0 degrees Celsius), while overnight lows drop to the teens to low 20s Fahrenheit (-9 to -6 degrees Celsius). The region receives a significant amount of snowfall throughout the winter, with an average annual snowfall of around 50 inches. Winter winds can also be quite strong, leading to wind chills below freezing.

Spring (March to May) in Cottage Grove is cool and gradually becomes milder. Average daytime temperatures range from the mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (single digits to high teens Celsius), and overnight temperatures range from the 30s to the 40s Fahrenheit (0 to single digits Celsius). Precipitation levels remain moderate, with a mix of rainstorms and occasional snow showers.

Overall, Cottage Grove, WI experiences a typical Midwest climate with distinct seasons, providing a variety of weather patterns throughout the year.

Cottage Grove is a small village located in Dane County, Wisconsin. It offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Cottage Grove:

Northlawn Estates

Situated in the northern part of Cottage Grove, Northlawn Estates is a well-established neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes. It offers spacious lots, tree-lined streets, and a quiet suburban atmosphere. The neighborhood is close to several parks, including Northlawn Park and Coyle Park, providing ample outdoor recreation opportunities.

Westlawn Estates

Located in the western part of Cottage Grove, Westlawn Estates is another popular neighborhood. It features a mix of single-family homes, many of which were built in the 1990s. The neighborhood offers a friendly community environment and is known for its well-maintained yards and family-oriented atmosphere.

Arrowwood Hills

Situated in the southeastern part of Cottage Grove, Arrowwood Hills is a newer development known for its modern homes and amenities. The neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, giving residents a variety of options. Arrowwood Hills also has a neighborhood park and is conveniently located near Interstate 90/94 for easy commuting.

Quarry Ridge

Located in the northern part of Cottage Grove, Quarry Ridge is a newer neighborhood known for its larger, custom-built homes. The neighborhood offers a more rural feel, with larger lots and plenty of green space. Quarry Ridge is surrounded by natural beauty, including the beautiful Quarry Ridge Recreation Area, which offers hiking trails and scenic views.

Southlawn Estates

Situated in the southern part of Cottage Grove, Southlawn Estates is a small neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes. It offers a close-knit community feel and a quieter, more rural atmosphere. Southlawn Estates is conveniently located near several schools, making it a popular choice for families.

These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods you can find in Cottage Grove, WI. Each neighborhood has its own unique charm and amenities, contributing to the overall appeal of the village as a residential area.