Historic Main Street in the Driftless Area
Evansville is a small Rock County community within the rolling landscape of southern Wisconsin’s agricultural heartland. Located about 23 miles south of Madison, Evansville is part of the broader region known as the Driftless Area and is recognized for its strong agricultural roots, including tobacco, wheat and dairy farming. The city’s historic Main Street and surrounding neighborhoods reflect a legacy stretching back to the 1830s, when the area was first settled by New Englanders drawn to the wooded groves and the gentle flow of Allen Creek. Evansville grew as a hub for stagecoach and later railroad travelers between northern Illinois and Madison. Today, Evansville is home to around 6,000 residents and is known for its well-preserved historic districts, vibrant downtown and active community life. "There are no department stores and no big shopping centers," says Roger Berg, local Realtor with Berg Real Estate Rentals. "Most people head north to Madison for shopping, but they live here because they want open fields and farms to raise livestock on."
Main Street and Garfield Avenue historic homes
The Main Street residential district, along with side streets like Garfield Avenue and Liberty Street, features nearly 300 historic structures, including Greek Revival, High Victorian Gothic, Italianate and Queen Anne homes. Many of these houses have been carefully restored and maintained, contributing to the city’s distinctive character. Housing options here range from stately 19th-century homes to more modest bungalows and newer builds on the city’s outskirts, and the median sales price here is $350,000. Beyond its historic core, Evansville also offers a variety of ranch-style and split-level homes, most built between the 1990s and early 2000s, typically priced from $200,000 to $500,000. Popular neighborhoods and subdivisions include Historic Standpipe Point, which surrounds the community’s 1901 water tower, and Settlers Grove, known for offering rentable homes near the Aquatic Center.
Evansville Community School District with Levi Leonard Elementary
Evansville is served by the Evansville Community School District, which includes Levi Leonard Elementary, J.C. McKenna Middle School, and Evansville High School. The district is known for its strong academic programs, supportive staff, and a range of extracurricular activities in the arts, athletics, and STEM. The schools are centrally located, making them accessible for families throughout the city. Community involvement in the schools is high, with frequent partnerships between local organizations and the district.
Leonard-Leota Park and Lake Leota recreation
Leonard-Leota Park is Evansville’s largest public green space and a centerpiece of local recreation. The park is home to Lake Leota, a 40-acre lake popular for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The grounds include five picnic pavilions, a public outdoor swimming pool, baseball and softball diamonds, tennis and basketball courts, four playgrounds, a skate park, footbridge and hiking trails. The historic Baker Office Building at the park entrance now serves as a museum with rotating exhibits on local history. A restored 1930s tourist cabin and a disc golf course add to the park’s attractions. Evansville Golf Club, located just north of the city, offers an 18-hole public course, clubhouse lounge, and a well-known Friday fish fry. West Side Park opened a new aquatic center in 2024, featuring an aqua climbing wall and water slides, expanding summer recreation options for residents.
Walkable Main Street and Just Beyond the Willows
The city’s walkable Main Street is lined with boutiques, galleries and cafes. Just Beyond the Willow sells both coffee and candles from a restored gas station, while Double P Western Store & Boutique offers a large collection of men's and women's attire. Main Street Cafe is a go-to spot for classic American breakfast staples like pancakes, eggs and bacon. The Evansville Farmers’ Market, held on Sundays from spring through fall, features local produce, baked goods, honey, and fire-roasted pizza, supporting area growers and artisans. The downtown area regularly hosts art shows and pop-up events, adding to the community’s creative energy.
U.S. Highway 14 access to Madison and Janesville
Evansville is accessible via U.S. Highway 14, which connects to Madison and Janesville. Lack of public transit options here mean that many residents rely on cars to get around. Mercyhealth Behavioral Health Clinic is the closest healthcare facility, and Dane County Regional Airport is about 30 miles from Evansville.
