villa louis

Marianna287

Villa Louis is an historic home on Saint Feriole Island. It is beautifully restored and would be an experience just to walk through but with out guide, Susan, it was an outstanding experience. She not only answered all of our questions but allowed us plenty of time to explore thing of personal interest. Unfortunately it was bitterly cold so exploring the grounds and other buildings under restoration was not advisable. I have toured many historic sights but I think she was the best, most knowledgeable and personable guide I have ever had. If you are in the area, make it a point to stop. Well worth your time.

CDRKMP

This is the best and most complete example of a 1990's Victorian house I have seen in my travels across the USA. Approximately 90% of the furniture and fixtures that the owners possessed were preserved... pictures from the era helped restore the Villa to its 1990s grandeur. The guides are very helpful and knowledgeable. A "must see"!

254cheryla

BE there in time for a tour on the hour starting around 9:30. Mary was very informative about the home and the family, allowing for our own exploring when necessary.

hanjna76

Tour guide was very knowlegable, descriptive and Thorough. So cool to see everything in its Original look and feel.

lovethebayarea

We have visited many historical homes. The tour guide was excellent and the home lovely. Villa Louise is more than just the magnificent homes, there are several other buildings on the site and the mighty Mississippi.

BJCate

The guided tour lasted about 1&1/2 to 2 hours and included the mansion, grounds, and a few out buildings. The guide was knowledgeable and informative. The mansion is located in a very interesting waterfront district with other attractions.

TillieMToiler

A great visit to a truly beautiful restored house and grounds. The guided tour is at least an hour long and then you will want to spend time in the out building.

katheef

Mary was our tour guide. She gave us a great history lesson on this site. The house is gorgeous; and, I can just see chosen guests going in the front door at Christmas. Was treat that must have been. I would recommend this tour to everyone!

mslinda07

Interesting tour of elegant mansion and beautiful grounds. Tout guide was quite knowlegeable and really took us back in time. Very interesting story of families rise to wealth personal tragedies and resilience. Decor and tour continuity made me feel like I was almost there with the family.

bradk221

The mansion and grounds are beautiful. Our guide was very knowledgeable. The carriage classic was also going on so that was an added bonus.

DelmarM_13

If you are in Prairie du Chien you must visit Villa Louis. Tour guide knew her stuff. Nicely restored.

MaryAliceH_12

We were visiting extended family in Prairie du Chien to enjoy some time on the Mississippi. I had heard good things about Villa Louis and we decided to check it out before heading back to our home in central Iowa. My husband and I are both history buffs and our tour guide, Mattie, brought the home and other buildings to life. She knew all about the Dousman family, the beautiful furnishings and the traditions of the era when the property was bustling with activity. It's amazing that 90% of the furnishings are original to the buildings -- many historic sites include period-appropriate pieces but not ones that were originally part of those dwellings. There are many photos and the life-sized photo art of family members and pets in various areas make you feel like you were right there with them. Great job preserving this priceless piece of history, Wisconsin Historical Society!

Zhgma

Mary was a GREAT guide - obviously loves the house and grounds as if they were her own! Very informative.

nancym562

The tour of the house was ok, Wish we could have seen more buildings, but something to do to kill time

ltravelerforfun

I didn't expect such a lovely mansion so far north on the Mississippi. The tour explained the history of the family and the house and grounds. It is restored very beautifully and very authentically. Photos along the way show how faithful the restoration is. The guide was very informative. for us history lovers-a great stop!