Polk County, Administrative county in northwestern Wisconsin, US.
Description
Polk County is an administrative division in northwestern Wisconsin featuring extensive water bodies and shoreline. The area centers around Balsam Lake, which serves as the main community hub and economic focus.
History
The county was established in 1853 and initially grew through agriculture and timber industries. These activities shaped settlement patterns and economic development across the region for generations.
Culture
The Polk County Museum in Balsam Lake displays exhibits about how local communities developed and changed over time. The collections show how people lived and worked here, from the earliest settlers onward.
Practical
The county offers easy access to amenities and services concentrated around Balsam Lake for visitors. Food, shopping, and lodging options are spread throughout the area, making it convenient to explore.
Did you know?
Balsam Lake's name comes from the Ojibwe word Innenehinduc, meaning Place of the Evergreen. This name reflects the dense forest landscape that characterizes the region.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Wisconsin).
Wild River State Park
22.3 km
Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
18.7 km
William O'Brien State Park
37 km
Franconia Sculpture Park
22.5 km
Straight Lake State Park
16.2 km
Marine Mill
38.9 km
Folsom House
18 kmCylon Wildlife Area
32.4 km
Taylors Falls Public Library
17.8 km
O'Brien Observatory
40.6 km
Johannes Erickson House
39.2 km
Hay Lake School
39 km
Moody Barn
38 km
Center City Historic District
30.3 km
First Baptist Church
25.8 km
Polk County Courthouse
1.3 km
First English Lutheran Church
37.7 km
Osceola and St. Croix Valley Railway
26.3 km
John Copas House
35.9 km
Thomas Henry Thompson House
16.9 km
Daniels Town Hall
34.5 km
River Valley Inn & Suites
24.5 km
Interstate State Park WPA/Rustic Style Historic Resources
17.8 km
Interstate Park
17.8 km
Auditorium Theatre
16.9 km
Angel's Hill Historic District
18.1 km
Interstate State Park CCC/WPA/Rustic Style Campground
19.4 km
Marine on St. Croix Historic District
38.9 km
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes