10 Fun Things To Do In And Near Brookfield, Wisconsin (Waukesha County)
Looking for easy, laid-back things to do in
Brookfield, Wisconsin? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, visiting family, or just passing through
Waukesha County, Brookfield is a surprisingly fun spot with shopping, parks, food, and family-friendly activities.
Below are
10 things to do in and around Brookfield that locals love and visitors shouldn’t miss.
1. Spend an Afternoon at Brookfield Square Mall
If you’re new to Brookfield,
Brookfield Square is usually the first place people mention. This indoor mall is right off I‑94 and is one of the main shopping hubs in Waukesha County.
You’ll find:
It’s an easy spot to walk around, grab a bite, and people-watch. On cold Wisconsin winter days, wandering the mall with a warm drink feels pretty cozy.
Tip: Check the mall’s event calendar. Around the holidays, you’ll often find photos with Santa, seasonal pop-up shops, and special sales.
2. Explore The Corners of Brookfield
Just a short drive from Brookfield Square,
The Corners of Brookfield is a trendy open-air lifestyle center. Think of it as a mix of:
It’s walkable and modern, with plenty of places to sit outside when the weather is nice. On summer evenings, you might catch live music or outdoor movies.
If you like a “downtown” feel but don’t want to drive into
Milwaukee, The Corners gives you that small-city energy right in Brookfield.
3. Get Outside at Fox Brook Park
If you’re craving nature, head to
Fox Brook Park, one of Waukesha County’s most-loved outdoor spots near Brookfield.
This park offers:
- A spring-fed lake with a sandy swimming beach
- Walking and biking trails
- Stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals (seasonal)
- Picnic areas and open green space
On a warm summer day, the beach area is perfect for families. Kids can play in the sand while adults relax nearby. The loop trails are short and easy, great for a morning walk or an after-dinner stroll.
Local tip: Go early on hot weekends. The park can fill up and parking lots sometimes reach capacity.
4. Enjoy Family Time at Mitchell Park
For a more low-key park experience, check out
Mitchell Park in Brookfield. This large city park has:
- Walking paths and open fields
- Playgrounds for kids
- Soccer fields and sports areas
- Access to the Fox River Trail system
It’s the kind of place where you bring a blanket, toss a frisbee, or just sit and enjoy some quiet. If you like to run or bike, you can hop onto nearby trail connections for a longer route.
I’ve seen families set up full picnic spreads here on sunny days, with grandparents, kids, and even the family dog all hanging out together. It feels like a classic Midwestern park.
5. Sample Local Flavors at Brookfield Restaurants & Breweries
Brookfield has a growing food and drink scene, and it’s an easy base if you like to eat your way through a trip.
You’ll find:
- Local breweries and taprooms with Wisconsin craft beer
- Cozy supper-club-style spots serving fish fry and comfort food
- Casual burger joints and pizza places
- International options, from sushi to Italian
If you’re visiting on a Friday, look for a traditional Wisconsin
Friday fish fry. Many Brookfield-area restaurants serve fried or baked fish with coleslaw, fries, or potato pancakes. It’s a very “Wisconsin” thing to do.
Pro tip: Ask locals or your hotel staff for their favorite fish fry or burger place—you’ll get some passionate answers.
6. Shop Local at Farmer’s Markets & Seasonal Events
During the warmer months, the Brookfield area hosts
farmer’s markets and outdoor events where you can:
- Pick up fresh produce, baked goods, and cheese
- Support local makers and artisans
- Listen to live music
- Enjoy food trucks and outdoor snacks
These markets are a laid-back way to spend a morning, especially if you like to grab a coffee and wander. They’re also great for picking up small souvenirs from Wisconsin, like local honey or handmade crafts.
If you’re traveling with kids, farmer’s markets feel safe, casual, and not overwhelming—perfect for families.
7. Discover Nearby Waukesha’s Historic Downtown
Just a short drive southwest of Brookfield, you’ll find
downtown Waukesha, a charming riverside city with an artsy feel.
Here you can:
- Walk along the Fox River and its riverwalk
- Visit small galleries and local shops
- Check out murals and public art
- Grab coffee, ice cream, or a casual bite to eat
Waukesha often hosts
“Friday Night Live” events in the summer, with live music set up on street corners downtown. It’s fun to stroll, listen to different bands, and soak in the small-city vibe.
If you’re staying in Brookfield for a few days, spending an evening in downtown Waukesha is an easy add-on to your itinerary.
8. Take a Day Trip to Milwaukee (Just 20–25 Minutes Away)
One big advantage of staying in Brookfield is how close you are to
Milwaukee. In about 20–25 minutes by car, you can be downtown on the shores of Lake Michigan.
From Brookfield, you can easily plan a day trip to:
- The Milwaukee Art Museum and its famous wing-like architecture
- Lakefront trails and beaches
- Historic Third Ward for shopping, dining, and the Public Market
- Professional sports games, depending on the season
Then, at the end of the day, you can head back to quieter Brookfield to avoid the busier city traffic and higher parking costs.
If you like a more relaxed base but still want big-city attractions, Brookfield is a solid choice.
9. Play a Round at Local Golf Courses
Golfers will find several
golf courses in and around Brookfield and Waukesha County. Courses range from beginner-friendly to more challenging layouts.
Many local courses offer:
- 18-hole and 9-hole options
- Practice ranges and putting greens
- Clubhouse restaurants or bars
If you’re traveling with a group, a morning tee time followed by lunch on the patio can make for a perfect day. Even if you’re not a serious golfer, driving the cart and enjoying the views is half the fun.
Be sure to book ahead on nice weekends—tee times can fill up quickly, especially in late spring and summer.
10. Enjoy Winter Fun: Sledding, Skating & More
Brookfield is in Wisconsin, so yes—
winter is a big deal. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay inside the whole time.
In the colder months, you can often find:
There’s something memorable about bundling up, heading to a snowy hill, and just acting like a kid again for an hour. If you’re visiting family, this can be an easy multigenerational activity—kids on sleds, adults cheering (or joining in).
Travel tip: If you’re visiting in winter, pack layers, warm boots, and gloves. Wisconsin cold can feel extra sharp, especially with wind.
Is Brookfield, Wisconsin Worth a Visit?
If you’re looking for a place with:
- Easy access to Milwaukee
- Plenty of shopping and dining
- Relaxed parks and outdoor spaces
- Family-friendly activities in every season
…then
Brookfield in Waukesha County is absolutely worth considering. It’s not a flashy tourist town, but that’s part of its charm. It feels comfortable, safe, and easy to navigate—a great slice of everyday Wisconsin life with lots of options within a short drive.
Share Your Brookfield Experience
Have you spent time in Brookfield or elsewhere in Waukesha County?
- What are your favorite things to do near Brookfield?
- Do you have a go-to restaurant, park, or coffee shop?
- Any hidden gems visitors should know about?
Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments—your local knowledge can help other travelers plan a better trip.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a visit to Brookfield, Wisconsin or looking for easy day-trip ideas near Milwaukee.
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