10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Mequon, Wisconsin (Ozaukee County)
If you’re looking for a relaxing Midwest getaway that still has plenty to do,
Mequon, Wisconsin is a quiet gem just north of Milwaukee. Tucked along Lake Michigan in
Ozaukee County, this small city mixes countryside charm, lakeshore beauty, and easy access to big-city fun.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from Chicago, a day trip from Milwaukee, or you’re new to the area, here are
10 things to do in and around Mequon that locals and visitors both love.
1. Stroll, Shop, and Eat at Mequon’s Town Center
Mequon doesn’t have a huge downtown, but its growing
Town Center area around Mequon Road and Cedarburg Road is a great starting point.
You’ll find:
- Casual restaurants and coffee shops
- Locally owned boutiques
- Seasonal outdoor events and markets
Grab a coffee, walk a few blocks, and just take in the laid-back vibe. On summer evenings, it’s common to see families out for ice cream, couples walking dogs, and cyclists stopping for a quick bite.
If you like low-key, easygoing places where you don’t need a plan, this area is your spot.
2. Explore Nature at the Mequon Rotary Park & Sports Complex
If you want to stretch your legs or let the kids run around,
Rotary Park is a local favorite. It’s a large park with:
- Walking and jogging paths
- Baseball and soccer fields
- Playgrounds and open grassy areas
- Picnic tables and shelters
On a sunny afternoon, bring a picnic, a frisbee, and just enjoy the fresh Wisconsin air. In the evenings, you might catch a local baseball game or community event.
The park is easy to get to and has plenty of parking, which is always a plus when you’re visiting a new place.
3. Enjoy Wine Tasting at Local Wineries
Yes, you can go wine tasting in Mequon. The rolling countryside around town is home to a few cozy spots that are perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
One popular option in the area offers:
- Wisconsin-made wines
- Indoor and outdoor seating
- Beautiful farm-country views
Picture this: you’re sitting outside, sipping a chilled glass of white wine, looking over green fields, and listening to birds instead of traffic. That’s the kind of peaceful experience you’ll find just minutes from Mequon’s main roads.
If you enjoy wine, consider planning a mini “wine day” and visiting more than one spot nearby. Always check hours first—many smaller wineries have limited days or seasonal schedules.
4. Bike or Hike Along the Ozaukee Interurban Trail
The
Ozaukee Interurban Trail is one of the best ways to explore the county. It’s a paved trail that runs through
Mequon, Thiensville, Cedarburg, Grafton, and beyond.
You can:
- Bike for miles on a mostly flat path
- Go for a long walk or run
- Hop on and off between towns for coffee, lunch, or shopping
The trail follows an old railway line, so it’s smooth and easy to navigate. Families with strollers, serious cyclists, and casual walkers all share this route.
If you’re visiting from out of town, think of the Interurban Trail as your “backbone” for exploring Ozaukee County: you can park in Mequon, hop on the trail, and end up in a totally different cute town in under an hour.
5. Step Back in Time in Nearby Cedarburg
Just a short drive north of Mequon (about 10–15 minutes),
Cedarburg feels like a small-town movie set in the best way. It’s one of the most charming places in Wisconsin and an easy add-on to your Mequon getaway.
In downtown Cedarburg, you’ll find:
- Stone and brick buildings from the 1800s
- Art galleries and specialty shops
- Cozy cafes and pubs
- A historic mill and scenic creek
On weekends, Cedarburg often hosts festivals—wine festivals, strawberry festivals, holiday markets, and more. If you like historic main streets with character, don’t skip this stop.
You can easily spend a half-day here, then head back to Mequon for a quieter evening.
6. Relax by Lake Michigan at nearby Port Washington
While Mequon itself isn’t a huge beach town, you’re not far from the shore. Drive about 20–25 minutes north and you’ll reach
Port Washington, a classic Lake Michigan harbor town.
Here you can:
- Walk along the marina and watch the boats
- Stroll out toward the lighthouse
- Grab fresh fish or a casual meal near the water
- Fish off the pier (with the right license)
Lake Michigan feels almost like the ocean—wide, blue, and breezy—but without the salt. On a clear day, sunrise over the lake is beautiful. If you’re an early riser, consider heading up from Mequon to catch the colors over the water.
7. Tee Off at One of Mequon’s Golf Courses
If you’re a golfer, Mequon is a surprisingly good base. The area has several
golf courses and country clubs, some public and some private, tucked into the rolling landscape.
You’ll find:
- 18-hole courses with tree-lined fairways
- Practice ranges and putting greens
- Clubhouses where you can grab a drink or burger after your round
Golf in Mequon feels calm and uncrowded compared to busier city courses. It’s a nice way to spend a morning before lunch in town or a drive along the lake.
If you’re visiting, check ahead for public tee times and dress codes.
8. Visit Local Farms and Seasonal Markets
Ozaukee County still has a strong rural side, and that really shows in its farms and produce stands. Depending on the season, you’ll find:
- Farmers markets with fresh fruits, veggies, cheese, and baked goods
- U-pick farms for berries, apples, or pumpkins
- Roadside stands selling sweet corn and local honey
If you’re traveling in late summer or fall, this is a perfect family activity. You might spend a morning picking apples, then head back to your rental kitchen and bake a pie or crisp. It’s simple, but it creates the kind of memory that sticks.
Check local listings for Mequon and Thiensville farmers markets, as days and locations can change year to year.
9. Discover Milwaukee’s North Shore Culture (Just Minutes Away)
One of the best things about Mequon is how close it is to Milwaukee—usually about a 20–30 minute drive, depending on where you’re headed. That means you can enjoy Mequon’s quiet at night but still dip into city life during the day.
From Mequon, it’s easy to reach:
- Milwaukee Art Museum with its famous “wings” by the lakefront
- Downtown Milwaukee’s restaurants and breweries
- Fiserv Forum for concerts and Milwaukee Bucks games
- The lakefront parks and beaches along Lincoln Memorial Drive
Think of Mequon as your calm home base, and Milwaukee as your “big city playground” just down the road.
10. Enjoy Local Dining, From Supper Clubs to Casual Spots
You can’t talk about Wisconsin without talking about food. In and around Mequon, you’ll find a mix of:
- Classic Wisconsin supper clubs (think Friday fish fry, old fashioneds, and big portions)
- Family-friendly diners and grills
- Newer spots with farm-to-table influence
- Cafes perfect for a slow morning coffee and pastry
If you’re from out of state, don’t leave without trying:
- Cheese curds (fried or fresh)
- A Friday night fish fry
- A Wisconsin-style brandy old fashioned
Each meal is a chance to taste a little more of local life. Ask your server what’s popular with regulars—you’ll often get better recommendations than any guidebook.
Planning Your Visit to Mequon, Wisconsin
Here are a few quick tips to make your trip smoother:
- Getting there: Mequon is just north of Milwaukee, right off I-43. It’s easy to reach by car.
- Best time to visit: Late spring through fall offers the most outdoor options. Fall colors can be especially beautiful.
- Where to stay: You’ll find a mix of hotels, inns, and vacation rentals in Mequon and nearby towns.
- Getting around: A car is helpful. Many of the best things to do in Ozaukee County are spread out.
Mequon is perfect if you want a slower pace—quiet evenings, starry skies, and easy drives to nature, small towns, and the city.
Share Your Mequon Favorites
Have you been to
Mequon or Ozaukee County before?
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you discover a great trail, farm, or restaurant?
- Would you come back in a different season?
Drop your tips, questions, and experiences in the comments—they help other travelers plan better trips.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who loves discovering quieter Midwest towns or is planning a trip to Wisconsin. The more we share our real experiences, the easier it is for others to enjoy this beautiful corner of the state.
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