Birthplace of the ice cream sundae, Two Rivers might just be the sweetest Midwestern city to call home. Just don't tell that to the residents of Ithaca, New York, which also claims the title!
Named for the East and West Twin Rivers that meet near its center, Twin Rivers is a thriving Wisconsin town surrounded by scenic shorelines. Located along Lake Michigan, Two Rivers is a maritime Midwestern town boasting seven miles of white sandy beaches and miles of prime fishing coastline. Both residents and tourists enjoy a variety of water sports in spring and summer while the winter season brings weather far milder than inland Wisconsin cities. If you're looking for a town that blends prairie and maritime small-town ambiance, look no further than Twin Rivers.
Moving to Two Rivers
Worried About Moving in the Winter?
This Midwestern town might surprise you. Its close proximity to Lake Michigan modifies the notoriously blustery climate of the Midwest. You'll find your Septembers are warmer and your Marches cooler than in other areas of the state. But that's not all. The climate of Two Rivers is decidedly less extreme with milder summers and winters. So while moving in the winter still may not be your preferred season, you won't need your parka and snow pants on as you lug furniture into your new home. And if you happen to be moving in September, expect it to feel a lot like June. At 60 degrees and sunny, you've got an extra month of perfect moving weather.
Say Hello to Maritime Metro Transit
Two Rivers is a city in Manitowoc County which, among other sundries, means that it is accessible via Manitowoc County's Maritime Metro Transit busing system. With routes that run between Two Rivers and the entirety of Manitowoc's larger metropolis, you may want to consider trading in your car for this more scenic and stress free option. Let someone else worry about the commute as you take in panoramic views of beautiful Lake Michigan and the surrounding shoreline.
Welcome to a Rental Smorgasbord!
If your assumption was that a small Wisconsin town couldn't possibly offer variety in rental housing, then prepare to be pleasantly surprised. Tourism has enlivened Two Rivers and brought with it developers. You'll find a variety of rental apartment options ranging from the rustic to the contemporary. If a duplex for rent or a detached rental house is more your speed, Twin Rivers offers both options. Just make sure you visit before getting too excited. A picture can't show you everything. You may also want to consider location. Do you want to live along one of Two Rivers three different water ways? Are you looking to live more local or is a back country cabin your idea of a rental paradise? Before you start your search, try to begin with some specific rental desires in mind. While you won't find many all bills paid apartments or skyscraper penthouses, the Two Rivers' rental scene offers almost everything in between.
Don't Expect to Fight with Fellow Renters Over Rental Properties
The rental market in Two Rivers just isn't that competitive. Instead, it remains steady with natural ebbs and flows mirroring the tides along the Lake Michigan Shores. You can hire a realtor but you probably don't need one. Two Rivers' rental industry has embraced the 21st century with style, offering a variety of information readily available to you online. Of course visiting is always a good idea. In fact, Two Rivers offers some unique options for visitors who are job hunting and/or house hunting: rental apartments and condominiums that double as vacation homes and short stay hotels. While these may be in higher demand during the summer tourism season, renting one of these short term properties is a great way to get a feel for Two Rivers and where you do and don't want to make your more permanent rental home.
Neighborhoods of Two Rivers
Two Rivers is a diverse small town with a quiet and lovely atmosphere. Not too big and not too small, locals claims it's the perfect size. It doesn't boast many distinct neighborhoods but there are a few areas of special interest to newcomers.
Two Rivers Main Street: Don't let the name fool you. Two Rivers Main Street refers to an area rather than a single street of shops. Monroe, Washington, 16th and 17th Streets comprise the majority of the Two Rivers Main Street area. Here you'll find a variety of coffee shops, eateries and the Farmer's & Crafter's Market that opens during the summer months. While Berner's Soda Fountain, the birthplace of either the first or almost-first ice-cream sundae, no longer exists, Connie's Diner offers a 1950s take on soda fountain ambiance. For great coffee, stop by the local Red Bank Coffeehouse located on Washington Street.
Shoreline Row: While this is not an official census designation, it makes sense that a variety of apartment buildings and complexes have sprung up along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan. If you happen to be touring rental properties in the summer, this is a great time to relax while you browse. Enjoy the sand and sun while you scout out rental locales. Who knows? You might just find the perfect place to call home. Keep an eye out for apartments with balconies. You don't want to let these gorgeous views go to waste.
Living in Two Rivers
Two Rivers is a growing town nestled among the lakeshore, river country, forests and farmlands. Residents enjoy its close proximity to larger cities like Appleton and Milwaukee while taking full advantage of the variety of outdoor activities offered by Two Rivers spectacular location.
Truly a water lovers paradise, locals enjoy boating, sailing, swimming and even surfing in Lake Michigan. Bike trails, jogging paths and footpaths crisscross this pedestrian friendly town. While you may want to a car for weekend excursions to Milwaukee or Chicago, a bike can easily get you to beautiful Neshotah Park home to those infamous sandy beaches. Blending urban amenities with a relaxed maritime atmosphere, Two Rivers has a lot to offer.