10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Waukesha, Wisconsin
Looking for a laid‑back getaway that’s still close to
Milwaukee?
Waukesha, Wisconsin is a friendly city in
Waukesha County with plenty to do for families, couples, and solo travelers.
From peaceful river walks to craft beer, this area has that classic small‑city Midwest feel with big‑city perks just a short drive away. Let’s dive into some of the best
things to do in Waukesha and around Waukesha County.
1. Stroll the Fox River and Downtown Waukesha Riverwalk
One of the nicest ways to get to know Waukesha is simply by walking along the
Fox River.
The
Riverwalk runs right through
downtown Waukesha, with paths, small bridges, and spots to sit and watch the water. On a summer evening, you’ll see people walking dogs, pushing strollers, or just relaxing on benches.
- Easy, flat walking path
- Beautiful river views and public art
- Close to coffee shops and restaurants
If you like photography, go around sunset. The light on the river and old buildings makes for some great shots. I once spent an hour there just people‑watching and grabbing photos, and I barely noticed the time pass.
2. Explore Frame Park and Its Beautiful Formal Gardens
Right along the Fox River, you’ll find
Frame Park, one of Waukesha’s favorite green spaces.
This park has:
- Paved walking and biking paths
- A large playground for kids
- The Formal Gardens with colorful flowers in warmer months
- Open grassy areas perfect for a picnic blanket
If you’re visiting in late spring or summer, make time to walk through the gardens. The flowers are carefully arranged, and it feels a bit like stepping into a postcard.
Want a relaxing morning? Grab a coffee from downtown, then walk the loop around Frame Park. It’s simple, free, and one of the most peaceful
things to do in Waukesha.
3. Discover Waukesha’s Guitars and Murals – The Les Paul Connection
Did you know Waukesha is the hometown of guitar legend
Les Paul? If you love music, this is a fun piece of history to explore.
Around downtown you’ll notice:
- Colorful guitar statues and art installations
- Murals and public art celebrating music and local culture
- Historic markers telling the story of Les Paul’s life
Pop into a local café or shop and you’ll often spot more guitar‑themed décor. It’s like a mini treasure hunt through the city.
If you’re into Instagram or just like taking fun photos, wandering around and finding all the guitars and murals is an easy, low‑cost adventure.
4. Sample Local Flavor at Raised Grain Brewing Company
Craft beer fans, this one’s for you.
Raised Grain Brewing Company, right in Waukesha, is a popular local brewery with a relaxed taproom vibe.
What you can expect:
- A wide range of beers – IPAs, stouts, lagers, and seasonal brews
- Indoor and often outdoor seating
- Food trucks on certain days (check their schedule)
Even if you’re not a beer expert, the staff is usually happy to help you pick something based on what you like. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring Waukesha.
Traveling with someone who doesn’t drink? Many breweries, including this one, also offer soda or non‑alcoholic options, plus a fun social atmosphere.
5. Shop, Sip, and Snack Your Way Through Downtown Waukesha
Downtown Waukesha has a cozy, walkable feel with a mix of old‑school charm and modern touches. It’s a nice place to spend a few hours just wandering around.
You’ll find:
- Locally owned coffee shops and bakeries
- Vintage and antique stores
- Boutiques with clothing, gifts, and home décor
- Art galleries and studios
If you enjoy people‑watching, grab a cup of coffee, find a window seat, and just watch the city move. On weekends, downtown often feels especially lively, with events or live music during certain times of the year.
Looking for
things to do near Milwaukee that feel more relaxed and local? Downtown Waukesha is an easy choice.
6. Get Outside at Minooka Park – Hiking, Swimming, and More
A short drive from the city center,
Minooka Park is one of Waukesha County’s most popular parks. It’s big, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the outdoors.
Depending on the season, you can:
- Walk or hike wooded trails
- Swim at the man‑made beach area in summer
- Have a picnic at one of the shelters
- Let your dog run at the off‑leash dog exercise area (check rules and fees)
- Cross‑country ski or sled in winter (when conditions allow)
If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place to let them burn off some energy. If you’re solo, it’s perfect for a quiet walk in nature. Bring good walking shoes; some trails can be a little uneven.
7. Hit the Golf Course – Waukesha County Has Options
If golf is your thing, the Waukesha area has several courses worth checking out. Within Waukesha County, you’ll find
county‑run courses that are popular with locals.
A few well‑known choices in the county include:
Tee times can book up on nice weekends, so it’s smart to reserve in advance, especially during summer and early fall.
Even if you’re not a serious golfer, hitting a bucket of balls at the range with friends can be a fun, low‑pressure activity.
8. Explore Nearby Pewaukee Lake for Beach Time and Water Fun
Just north of Waukesha, in Pewaukee, you’ll find
Pewaukee Lake – one of the most popular lakes in Waukesha County.
Along the lakefront you can:
- Relax on the public beach
- Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or other water gear (in season)
- Walk the lakeside strip with restaurants and bars
- Enjoy live music or events on summer evenings
If you’re visiting in July or August, pack a swimsuit and towel. The lakefront has that classic Wisconsin summer feel – families, boats, and the smell of sunscreen and grilled food in the air.
Looking for
things to do near Waukesha for families? A half‑day at Pewaukee Lake is an easy win.
9. Spend a Day at Retzer Nature Center
A short drive west of downtown Waukesha, the
Retzer Nature Center offers a quieter, more natural side of the area.
Here you’ll find:
- Walking trails through prairies and woods
- Nature programs and events throughout the year
- Bird‑watching spots and scenic overlooks
In fall, the colors can be stunning. Think golden fields, red and orange leaves, and clear blue skies. It’s a great place to slow down and unplug for a couple of hours.
If you’re traveling with kids who love animals and nature, check the schedule for family‑friendly programs or guided hikes.
10. Take a Quick Trip to Milwaukee for Big‑City Attractions
One of the perks of staying in Waukesha is how close you are to
Milwaukee – usually about a 25–30 minute drive, depending on traffic.
You can easily use Waukesha as your home base and spend a day checking out:
Then, head back to quieter Waukesha in the evening. It’s a nice balance: big‑city fun during the day, small‑city comfort at night.
Tips for Visiting Waukesha, Wisconsin
To make your trip smoother, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for outdoor activities; winter if you enjoy snow sports and cozy indoor spots.
- Getting around: A car makes it much easier to reach parks, lakes, and nearby towns.
- Weather: Summers can be warm and humid; winters can be cold and snowy. Pack layers.
- Events: Check local event calendars for festivals, concerts, and farmers markets in Waukesha and Waukesha County.
Have You Been to Waukesha?
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for
things to do near Milwaukee that feel a bit more relaxed,
Waukesha and Waukesha County offer a nice mix of nature, local flavor, and small‑city charm.
Have you visited Waukesha, Wisconsin before?
- Which park, brewery, or lake was your favorite?
- Did I miss a local gem that more travelers should know about?
Share your thoughts in the comments and let other readers know your best tips for visiting Waukesha.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who might be planning a trip to Wisconsin or searching for new weekend ideas near Milwaukee.
Comments
Post a Comment