Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Wauwatosa, WI

  • Published 2022/07/20

Wauwatosa is a city in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, and part of the Milwaukee metropolitan area.

It has a population of just over 48,000 people, according to the 2020 census.

The city’s name comes from the name of the Potawatomi chief, Wauwataesie, and from the Potawatomi word that means “firefly.”

Wauwatosa is a great place to visit for its many attractions and activities.

The city offers visitors a wide variety of things to do, including restaurants, museums, and parks.

There’s always something going on around here, whether it’s a new brewery opening, a local festival, or an art gallery opening.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon at the beach or a family outing packed with fun activities, Wauwatosa has something for everyone.

The best thing about visiting Wauwatosa is its location.

Since it’s next to Milwaukee, you can see plenty of things to do when you’re in town.

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Wauwatosa that won’t cost you much money or time!

The first thing you should do in Wauwatosa is review your list of must-see attractions to begin your adventure.

To help you, here are the best things to do in Wauwatosa, WI:

Visit the Kneeland-Walker House

Norman Kneeland and his wife, Carrie Baker Kneeland, built the home in 1890.

After the Kneeland family moved out of the house, Emery and Mabelle Scott Walker bought the house in 1917.

The Walkers lived there for many years.

Today, the Kneeland-Walker House is a National Historic Landmark in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

The Wauwatosa Historical Society purchased it in 1987.

The Kneeland-Walker House is an example of how people lived in Wisconsin during the early 19th century.

The city restored the house and turned it into a museum showcasing their lives and possessions.

You can take a tour around this three-story Queen Anne-style mansion and see its Victorian-era garden filled with plenty of colorful flowers.

The property features a beautiful garden with lots of flowers and trees, which makes it feel like you’re in a forest instead of a busy street.

When you enter the house, you can still see the fixtures used by the previous owners.

They retained the original look of the home to give an authentic feel.

The Kneeland-Walker House is one of the most beautiful houses in Wauwatosa, and it’s worth seeing.

Have a Good Time at Dave & Busters Arcade

If you’re looking for a fun place to go with friends or family, Dave & Busters Arcade is the spot.

They have a fantastic selection of games, which means you’ll find something that appeals to everyone.

There are classic arcade games that will take you back in time, such as Pac-Man, Pop-A-Shot, and Skee Ball.

You can also try other activities aside from their arcade games.

Likewise, you can play their new virtual reality games, pick up a cue stick and play billiards, or play bowling at one of their bowling lanes.

If you’re not in the mood to move, you can watch some sports on their gigantic televisions with your friends and other sports enthusiasts.

Dave & Buster’s also has a great menu full of delicious food items that you can order from.

You can get anything from burgers to nachos and everything else.

There are so many things that you can experience in Dave & Busters Arcade, and you better not miss it!

Spend Time Outdoors in Hart Park

Hart Park is a great place to go if you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax and take in nature.

It’s also the perfect setting for a picnic or family reunion.

Built in 1892, Hart Park is a 19.5-acre city park, used as a recreational area.

The area offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages, including picnic tables, tennis courts, a skate park, and walking paths.

If you like sports, you can find various sports here, including tennis courts, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and skating rinks.

If you want to learn about nature, then Hart Park has plenty of opportunities for that too.

There are several hiking trails available around the park, so it’s easy to get away from the crowds if you want some quiet time with nature.

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, Hart Park is a great destination.

Hit a Strike in AMF Bowlero Lanes

Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy some time with family and friends or are planning an event, AMF Bowlero Lanes is the perfect spot for you.

AMF Bowlero Lanes offer unique features and state-of-the-art equipment, making it easy for you to have fun.

The 72 bowling lanes are clean, spacious, and well-lit, with bright lights around each.

The bowling alley also has food and drinks available in its bar area, which makes it a great place to grab something to eat before heading back out to the lanes.

The food offerings include burgers, chicken sandwiches, pizza slices, nachos, and many other items.

There’s also an arcade area where you can play your favorite video game if you’re feeling too competitive after a game night with friends.

The bowling alley is a great spot for anyone who wants to bowl, play arcade games, or hang out with friends.

Get Creative in La Terraza

La Terraza is a paint-your-own pottery studio in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

It’s a unique experience for anyone who loves to paint and create.

With an extensive collection of colors and glazes, this is a great place to spend some time with the family or just have fun.

The studio features classes for all skill levels and an open studio where you can create your pieces.

The studio has operated for quite some time and has become quite popular among locals and visitors alike.

It’s no wonder why.

It’s an excellent way for people from all walks of life to spend time together while learning something new.

If you’re looking for something different than going out to dinner or shopping at the mall, La Terraza is worth checking out.

Sip and Create in Arte Wine and Paint

If you’re looking for new ideas for improving your art skills, this is the place for you.

Arte Wine and Paint is a gallery-like space with a large selection of wine, beer, and spirits, as well as an impressive array of art on display.

The owner of Arte Wine and Paint will help you learn new techniques and improve your skills to become an even better artist.

Arte Wine and Paint also offers classes where you can learn how to paint like a professional artist.

You can stop by to get some drinks in their full-service bar that offers wine, beer, and cocktail drinks with some snacks.

If you want to learn more about art, then this is one of the best places in Wauwatosa to go.

Shop ‘Til You Drop in Mayfair Mall

The Mayfair Mall in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, is a shopping destination that has something for everyone.

Opened in 1958, Mayfair Mall only features over 70 stores, but now, the mall has 175 stores where you can find whatever you need.

It has operated for many years and has become a popular place for families and people who enjoy shopping.

The mall has a wide selection of stores and restaurants, including Nordstrom, Sephora, Abercrombie & Fitch, and more.

There are many restaurantsif you ever get hungry from shopping.

Mayfair Mall is home to the Cheesecake Factory, Chinese Gourmet Express, Starbucks, Steak Express, and others.

In addition, the mall also has a movie theater where you can see your favorite movies in comfort and style.

Mayfair Mall is a great place to spend the day, from shopping to dining to visiting the movie theater.

There are plenty of things to do here.

Bring Your Canine Companions to Currie Dog Park

Dog parks are an excellent place for your dog to socialize with other dogs and play with toys.

Currie Dog Park in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, will help you get your dog outside and enjoy the great outdoor.

It’s also a great place to get some exercise, with plenty of trees and shade to keep you refreshed while you’re out with your pup.

There are plenty of fun activities for you and your dog to enjoy together in Currie Dog Park.

This dog park offers a place for all types of dogs to run free, play, and have fun.

The facility has picnic tables, benches, and tons of green space to keep your dog entertained.

Currie Dog Park is probably your best bet for letting your dog run around safely in the presence of other dogs.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth in Ultimate Confections

Wauwatosa is home to Ultimate Confections, a candy store that has sold candies since 1995.

It’s one of the oldest candy stores in Wisconsin and one of the best places to buy candy in Wauwatosa.

The store has operated for years and has become one of the most popular attractions in Wauwatosa.

You’ll find dozens of different flavors at this candy store that satisfy your sweet tooth.

If you’re looking for something specific, there’s a great selection of hard candies and chocolate bars available, too.

Ultimate Confections will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more once you’ve had a taste.

Unwind at Hoyt Park

Hoyt Park is a beautiful park with plenty of green space and open space for recreational activities.

You can enjoy many activities at the park, such as picnics, walking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and more.

When you arrive at Hoyt Park, you will see its iconic bridge, which serves as the entrance to the park.

Beyond the bridge, you will find yourself in the company of nature, where you can feel serenity and relaxation.

If you want to wander the park, there are several nature trails along the river that you can explore.

Take a closer look at the picturesque river that runs along Hoyt Park.

There are also plenty of picnic tables and grills at Hoyt Park, along with playgrounds for children and adults.

When you’re looking for a place to spend the day, you should consider visiting Hoyt Park in Wauwatosa.

This is also a great place to visit during the summer because it is home to Hoyt Park Pool, where you can splash around and cool down.

Buy Cheese from the Village Cheese Shop

The Village Cheese Shop has become a landmark in Wauwatosa for years.

It’s one of the few places you can go to get great cheese, a glass of wine, and high-quality meats, all in one place.

The Village Cheese Shop offers several different types of specialty cheeses, but their artisanal cheeses set them apart from other cheese shops.

Aside from cheese, there are gift boxes, fresh mozzarella, charcuterie boards, and cheese classes in the shop.

They also have an extensive wine list, including wines with local flavor profiles or varietals.

If you’re looking for a unique gift for that special someone in your life who enjoys a good cheese plate, then stop by the Village Cheese Shop while planning your next party.

See a Movie in Rosebud Cinema House

The Rosebud Cinema House is a classic movie theater with an elegant feel.

It has screened blockbusters for years and is still one of the best places to see a movie.

Located in the heart of Wauwatosa, Rosebud Cinema House is a movie theater that screens classic and contemporary films.

The Rosebud Cinema House opened its doors to the public in 1931 as the Tosa Theater.

Today, the cinema management has restored the theater to its former glory with new seats and sound systems that allow patrons to enjoy their favorite films in comfort.

The cinema house features a full menu of food and drinks, leathered covered seats, and a single-screen cinema.

It’s a nice place to spend an evening with friends or family, especially if you have kids who like going to the movies as much as you do.

If you’re looking for a unique experience while watching your favorite movies, you need to visit this theater.

Book Tee Time in Blue Mound Golf and Country Club

Located on 200 acres, Blue Mound Golf And Country Club offer a unique experience for anyone who wants to enjoy outdoor activities.

This course has operated in the city for more than 100 years.

Golfers have also named it one of the best courses in Wisconsin.

The golf course at Blue Mound Golf And Country Club is an 18-hole course with a design from Seth Graynor.

Blue Mound Golf and Country Club features challenging holes, fine dining, a clubhouse, and a welcoming atmosphere that gives a satisfying experience to the golfers.

The first thing you need to do when playing at Blue Mound Golf And Country Club is to get there early so that you don’t miss out on any fun activities.

There will be plenty of activities throughout the day, so everyone in your group needs to attend these activities for a wholesome experience.

If you want to play a challenging round of golf but don’t have time to travel too far from home, then Blue Mound Golf And Country Club may be just what you’re looking for.

Explore Sanctuary Woods

Sanctuary Woods is a 66-acre forest that was once the home of Milwaukee County Asylum, a mental hospital in the 80s.

Sanctuary Woods is a beautiful, secluded place with plenty of trees and open space.

It’s a great place to get away from the bustle of the city and enjoy nature.

The Sanctuary Woods offers several exciting things to do, including biking, walking, or simply relaxing while enjoying the beautiful scenery around you.

If you’re interested in leaving your car for a while, you can follow several hiking trails within Sanctuary Woods that lead out to other areas nearby.

As you roam around, you will find the remnants of the asylum, which are now part of the natural environment of Sanctuary Woods.

Sanctuary Woods is not your usual destination.

However, if you want to have a peaceful time with nature or explore the area, you should check out this hidden gem.

If you are looking for something different than the typical tourist attraction, consider visiting Sanctuary Woods in Wauwatosa.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Browse the Racks of Adams Toys and Collectibles

There’s no better way to spend your time than exploring the shelves of Adams Toys and Collectibles.

You can find it in Waukesha, Wisconsin, 18 minutes from Wauwatosa.

Adams Toys and Collectibles is a local vintage toy and collectible store that offers an array of fun and unique gifts.

They sell many classic items worth adding to your collection or giving as gifts to friends and family members.

The store’s inventory includes toys, games, collectibles, and more.

You can find anything from vintage Barbie dolls to action figures and everything in between.

If you are looking for something unique or hard to find, look no further than Adams Toys and Collectibles.

Final Thoughts

Wauwatosa is a beautiful place to live, work, and play.

There are many great things to do in this city.

From the excitement of the city’s main street to the abundant parks and recreational areas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.

When the day is done, you can relax at one of its many fine restaurants or enjoy a fun night out with friends.

You can’t try everything at once when you visit the city, though, especially if you’re only there for a weekend.

Why not try a selection of the best things to do in Wauwatosa to kickstart your adventure?

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