10 Fun Things To Do Near West Allis, Wisconsin (Local’s Guide)
If you’re planning a trip to
West Allis, Wisconsin in Milwaukee County, or you just moved to the area, you might be wondering:
What is there to do around here?
The short answer: a lot.
West Allis sits in a sweet spot just west of Milwaukee. You get that laid-back suburban feel, but you’re only a short drive from big-city attractions,
Lake Michigan, and some really cool local gems.
Below are
10 fun things to do in and around West Allis that are perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers.
1. Experience the Wisconsin State Fair Park
If you know West Allis, you know the
Wisconsin State Fair Park. It’s the city’s superstar.
During early August, the State Fair grounds explode with:
- Food-on-a-stick (you name it, they probably fry it)
- Live music on multiple stages
- Farm animals and agricultural exhibits
- Midway rides and games
Even if you don’t visit during the actual
Wisconsin State Fair, the park hosts events all year:
- Car shows
- Craft and home shows
- Consumer expos
It’s just minutes from anywhere in West Allis, so it’s an easy “go-to” thing to do.
2. Catch a Race at the Milwaukee Mile Speedway
Right inside the State Fair Park sits the
Milwaukee Mile Speedway, one of the oldest operating motor speedways in the world.
If you’re into:
- Auto racing
- Loud engines
- Classic American motorsports
…this is your spot.
Throughout the year, you’ll find:
- Stock car races
- Vintage racing events
- Special motorsport weekends
Even if you’re not a huge racing fan, the energy in the stands can be contagious. It’s a very “Midwest summer night” kind of vibe.
3. Stroll, Shop, and Eat on Greenfield Avenue
West Allis has a growing, walkable downtown centered around
West Greenfield Avenue.
Here you’ll find:
- Local restaurants and bars
- Cafés and bakeries
- Unique shops and salons
It’s great for:
- A casual date night
- Meeting friends for drinks
- A relaxed weekend stroll
On warm nights, you’ll see patios full of people, live music at some spots, and that cozy “small city” feeling that makes West Allis feel like home.
4. Explore the West Allis Farmers Market
If you enjoy fresh food and supporting local growers, don’t skip the
West Allis Farmers Market.
From spring through late fall, you’ll find:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Local honey and jams
- Plants and flowers
- Occasional specialty food vendors
It’s one of the oldest farmers markets in the Milwaukee area, and it has that classic open-air market charm. Go early on a Saturday, grab some produce, then head home to cook a big breakfast. It’s a simple but really satisfying way to start the day.
5. Relax at Greenfield Park and the Oak Leaf Trail
Just south of West Allis, in the Milwaukee County Parks system, is
Greenfield Park—a favorite local escape.
Here you can:
- Walk or bike on paths that connect to the Oak Leaf Trail
- Fish in the lagoon
- Let kids run at the playground
- Enjoy a picnic under tall, shady trees
On a nice summer day, you’ll see families grilling, people tossing frisbees, and cyclists cruising through. If you like to stay active, bring a bike or a pair of good walking shoes and explore several miles of trail.
6. Take the Short Drive to Downtown Milwaukee
One of the best things about staying in West Allis is how close you are to
downtown Milwaukee—usually around a 10–15 minute drive, depending on traffic.
Once you’re downtown, you can:
If you’re visiting from out of state, this is where you really feel the mix of “big city meets Midwest friendly.” You get skyline views, creative restaurants, and local breweries, but in a relaxed, easy-going environment.
7. Spend a Day on the Shores of Lake Michigan
From West Allis, you can reach the
Lake Michigan shoreline in about 15–20 minutes. For a lot of people, that’s the “wow” moment: one minute you’re in suburbia, and the next you’re looking at a lake that feels more like the ocean.
Top lakefront spots include:
Pack a light jacket if you go any time outside midsummer. The lake breeze can be cooler than you expect, even when it’s warm in West Allis.
8. Visit the Milwaukee County Zoo
A quick drive west lands you at the
Milwaukee County Zoo, one of the most popular family attractions near West Allis.
You’ll find:
- Lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants
- Indoor exhibits for rainy or cold days
- A train ride that kids absolutely love
It’s an easy half-day or full-day outing, especially if you’re traveling with children. Bring comfortable shoes—the grounds are big, and you’ll put in some steps without even noticing it.
9. Tour the Harley-Davidson Museum
Just a short drive from West Allis, near downtown Milwaukee, is the
Harley-Davidson Museum, a must-see for anyone who loves motorcycles, design, or American history.
Inside, you can:
- See vintage Harley motorcycles up close
- Learn how the company started in Milwaukee
- Walk through interactive exhibits and displays
Even if you’re not a rider, it’s fascinating to see how connected Harley-Davidson is to Milwaukee’s identity. The museum grounds also have a nice open feel, and the riverfront setting makes it easy to hang around for a bit after your visit.
10. Sample Local Flavor at West Allis Bars, Breweries, and Eateries
West Allis has been quietly building a strong local food and drink scene. It feels a bit like a younger cousin to Milwaukee’s bigger neighborhoods—less crowded, more relaxed, but still full of character.
Depending on what you like, you can:
- Try local craft beer at neighborhood bars and brewpubs
- Grab classic Wisconsin comfort food (yes, there will be cheese)
- Check out casual spots for burgers, pizza, and Friday fish fries
If you’re in town on a Friday, ask almost any local where they go for a
Friday fish fry. It’s a Wisconsin tradition, and West Allis has no shortage of spots with heaping plates of fried fish, coleslaw, and rye bread.
Why West Allis Makes a Great Base for Exploring Milwaukee
West Allis gives you:
- Easy access to downtown Milwaukee
- Quick drives to the zoo, lakefront, and museums
- Local character, without big-city prices
If you like staying in a place that feels more like a neighborhood than a tourist zone,
West Allis, Wisconsin is a smart choice. You can enjoy quiet residential streets at night and still be at major attractions in 10–20 minutes.
Share Your West Allis Experience
Have you visited
West Allis or the Milwaukee area?
Did you discover a favorite restaurant, park, or hidden gem that should be on this list?
Share your tips and stories in the comments—other travelers and locals will appreciate it.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to Wisconsin or looking for fun things to do near Milwaukee. Your share might be exactly what someone needs to plan their next getaway.
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