Small Town Shopping in Alma and Fountain City, WI

The neighboring communities of Alma and Fountain City offer a refreshing take on small-town shopping. Far removed from crowded malls and big-box stores, these river towns invite visitors to slow down and explore locally owned boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores—each with its own story and character. 

Whether you’re searching for one-of-a-kind gifts, handcrafted goods, or simply a leisurely afternoon of browsing, Alma and Fountain City deliver a unique and nostalgic experience.

Alma, WI 

In Alma, Wisconsin, shopping is part of the town’s historic setting, with many of the buildings dating back to the 19th century. Visitors will find unique shops filled with everything from weathered furniture and glassware to rare collectibles that reflect the region’s river heritage. 

Exploring the stores below is one of the best things to do in Alma, WI. 

The Gypsy Wagon Curiosity Shop

As the name suggests, this eccentric little shop is full of curiosities. Housed in the oldest building in the city, the structure was once used by French fur traders. Today, the shop features antiques, unique glassware, furniture, odd collectibles, paintings, and just about anything else that catches the owner’s eye. 

Visitors enjoy hunting through the collection of oddities to find their own bit of treasure. They also enjoy the fun and eclectic atmosphere that The Gypsy Wagon Curiosity Shop provides. 

Water Lily Gifts

Located in another of Alma’s historic buildings, Water Lily Gifts offers guests the opportunity to shop in a 19th century setting. This quaint store features a wide range of products that include jewelry, home decor, candles, antiques, collectibles, clothing, unique food items, garden decorations, and more. 

Water Lily is a favorite local shop for purchasing one-of-a-kind, thoughtful gifts. Its historic charm, large selection, and unique items make this the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

W Whiffs

W Whiffs is a handmade soy candle company that prides itself on creating scents that are light and pleasant rather than overpowering. These signature candles provide a “whiff” of fragrance to subtly enhance your surroundings and lighten your mood without becoming overwhelming. Hand-poured and individually crafted, each candle is unique.

The store also features a candle-making lab where visitors can craft their own candles. Reservations are required for this fun and creative experience.

Vintage Floral 

In addition to thoughtfully created fresh flower arrangements, Vintage Floral also offers a selection of gifts and novelty items. Candles, handmade vegan soaps, food items, creative drink mixes, unique lip balms, and home decor are all ready to purchase at this lovely shop. Visitors can enjoy an uplifting environment as they search for the perfect gift.

Vintage Floral also provides beautiful plants and flower arrangements for all occasions. Choose from pre-arranged selections or design your own.

Fountain City, WI 

Just a short drive south, Fountain City offers a similarly inviting but slightly more eclectic shopping atmosphere that makes it one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin. Known for its artistic spirit and bohemian flair, the town is home to an array of shops that blend creativity with a relaxed, river-town vibe. 

Some of our favorite shops in Fountain City include:

The Corner Store

As one of Buffalo County’s favorite stops, The Corner Store keeps the small town tradition alive. The store features an old-fashioned soda fountain and ice cream parlor and also serves handmade hot drinks like hot chocolate and espresso. Old-time candies, treats, and baked goods are also available and remind visitors of a simpler time.

The Corner Store also features a variety of clothing items and unique gifts that bring an extra layer of wonder and fun to this Fountain City staple. 

The Cat-Tail 

This fun and quirky shop features cat-themed items and gifts in a cozy and welcoming environment. Visitors to The Cat-Tail enjoy browsing through the clothing, jewelry, greeting cards, and other unique items to find the perfect gift or piece of decor. With colorful decorations and a quirky vibe, it’s easy to see why this is one of the city’s most memorable stores. 

The kitty-themed shop doesn’t just appeal to cat lovers, it’s also great for anyone wanting to find an interesting souvenir of their time in Fountain City.

Thunderstruck Fireworks

Thunderstruck Fireworks is the largest fireworks retailer in West Central Wisconsin. It offers more than 850 products guaranteed to awe and delight every spectator. With fireworks packages called “Raise the Dead,” “The Beast,” “The Deadly Dozen,” and “King of the Block,” it’s no wonder the store brings buyers from all over the state.

Thunderstruck Fireworks also provides family-friendly packs, themed packages for baby showers, and events and giveaways for the whole community.

After the Shopping: Stay With Dragonfly Fields 

Our vacation rentals in Alma and Fountain City, Wisconsin are conveniently located to be at the heart of the cities’ best attractions and restaurants. Our homes feature a variety of amenities that range from hot tubs and fire pits to pet-friendly stays and saunas. Each property has been thoughtfully prepared with comfortable bedrooms, welcoming gathering spaces, fully-equipped kitchens, and more to make your stay special.

Whether you’re here for a family reunion, special event, friends’ getaway, or a cozy Wisconsin vacation, we have a home you’re sure to love. Book your reservation with us today!