Villa Louis General Admission

Villa Louis served as a comfortable and stylish country estate for three generations of the Dousman family—a family that built its fortune from early American frontier opportunities such as land and transportation investments. Hercules L. Dousman began development of the site during the 1840s on the banks of the Mississippi River in Prairie du Chien. The property has since expanded into a 25-acre complex complete with historic structures and archaeological remains that reference the early history of the site. Upon the death of Hercules in 1868, widow Jane Dousman and son H. Louis Dousman contracted Milwaukee architect E. Townsend Mix to build the stately mansion that now rests at the heart of the property. In addition to the new residence, H. Louis expanded the site to include a farm for breeding and racing horses. After Louis’ death, Nina Dousman raised their children at Villa Louis, and the property remained under family ownership until it was given to the City of Prairie du Chien in 1935. In 1950, Villa Louis became property of the Wisconsin Historical Society and opened to the public in 1952.

Prior to Dousman ownership, Indigenous natives lived on the Villa Louis grounds over 2000 years ago. For centuries, Native Nations of the upper Mississippi gathered upon the island to trade among themselves until the fur trade brought French-speaking traders in contact with Indigenous tribesmen and women. The trade also attracted free Black settlers to Prairie du Chien. Additionally, officers and agents of the United States brought enslaved men and women to the prairie, some of whom lived at Fort Crawford and other structures that once stood on land that is now part of Villa Louis State Historic Site. Research and restorations continue to fully expand the story of these early residents and events.

May 21 – November 3, 2025 | Wednesday – Monday | 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.*

Tours at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., Noon, 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. (Capacity is limited for each tour time).

ADMISSION PRICING

Adult (18-64): $15
Teen (13-17): $15
Senior (65+): $13.50
Child (5-12): $8
Child (under 5): Free

Members: Free

Tickets may also be purchased onsite.