Looking for a relaxing lake town escape in Wisconsin? Head to Oconomowoc! Surrounded by scenic lakes, historic downtown charm, and recreational opportunities, Oconomowoc is a hidden gem in southeastern Wisconsin. Whether you're boating, dining on the water, or enjoying local events, this small city delivers big-time leisure and beauty.
Oconomowoc, WI Highlights:
- For Lake Lovers: Relax or paddle on Lac La Belle and Fowler Lake – Swim, kayak, or boat in calm, beautiful waters right in town.
- For History Buffs: Discover the roots of summer resort culture – Explore Victorian-era homes and learn about the town’s Gilded Age past.
- For Shoppers: Stroll Downtown Oconomowoc – Browse boutiques, galleries, and cafés along charming brick-lined streets.
- For Art & Theater Fans: Visit the Oconomowoc Arts Center – Catch community performances, live music, and cultural events year-round.
- For Walkers & Bikers: Explore the Lake Country Trail – Enjoy this scenic, paved trail that runs through forests and farmlands.
Best Time to Visit Oconomowoc, WI
The best time to visit Oconomowoc is from late spring through early fall (May–October). The lakes come alive with boating, festivals, and farmers markets. Fall brings crisp air and stunning foliage. Winters are snowy and quieter, but perfect for cozy retreats.
How to Get to Oconomowoc, WI
- If you are traveling by car: Located just off I-94, Oconomowoc is about 35 minutes from Milwaukee and 1 hour from Madison.
- By Plane: Fly into General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) in Milwaukee or Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in Madison, then drive.
- By Train/Bus: No direct train service, but nearby cities like Milwaukee and Waukesha offer transit connections.
Where to Stay in Oconomowoc, WI
- Recommended for Families: Staybridge Suites Oconomowoc – Spacious suites with kitchenettes, free breakfast, and a pool.
- For Couples: The Inn at Pine Terrace – Historic 19th-century mansion turned elegant bed and breakfast with lake views.
- For Convenience: Hilton Garden Inn Oconomowoc – Modern amenities with easy access to downtown and highways.
Best Things to Do in Oconomowoc, WI
⮕ Veterans Memorial Park
Walk by the lake, see memorials, and enjoy an easy, family-friendly outing.
© City of Oconomowoc
Veterans Memorial Park was established to honor veterans from all past wars and all branches of the service. It is located in downtown Oconomowoc, Wisconsin on Lac LaBelle, in a tranquil setting on the waterfront. The site used to be a boat causeway and lock for boats traveling from Lac LaBelle to Fowler Lake and then on to Oconomowoc Lake. The park is located next to the old Oconomowoc Library and for a while the locals called it Library Park. There are benches all over the park where the visitors can rest and reflect on the bravery of men and women who have fallen for our freedom. The memorial Wall has the name of fallen veterans from the Oconomowoc area who served all Armed Forces. The park was established and is managed by the Oconomowoc Area Veterans Group.
Address: N Lake Rd, Oconomowoc, WI 53066, Phone: 262-569-2199
⮕ Lac La Belle
Swim, boat, or relax lakeside on a fun, affordable summer weekend trip.
© Roman/stock.adobe.com
Lac La Bellec is a beautiful 1154-acre lake in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. Its maximum depth is 45 feet. Visitors can access the lake from a public boat landing. The lake is popular with fishermen who come searching for panfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike and walleye. The lake is considered a trophy lake so fishermen can only keep very large fish and have to release the rest. The lake's water is fairly clear and is great for playing in the water – it has several shallow areas only waste-deep with firm sandy bottom. Boating is also fun and safe since the lake is free of weeds.
⮕ Oconomowoc Historical Society and Museum
Discover local stories and explore exhibits on a quick, cheap cultural visit.
© Oconomowoc Historical Society and Museum
Oconomowoc Historical Society and Museum is located inside the former National Guard Armory in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. Housing a collection dating back to the 1920's, the exhibits at the museum vary from the pre-settlement era to the more contemporary times. Originally constructed using the Spanish Colonial architectural style and dedicated in December of 1921, the building has been used for many purposes over the years. The Armory building itself was added to the National Register of Historic Buildings in December of 1984 and the Oconomowoc Historical Society and Museum opened its doors to the community in June of 1991.
Address: 103 W Jefferson St, Oconomowoc, WI 53066, 262-569-0740
Oconomowoc for Foodies
⮕ Wine Maniacs Wine Bar and Bistro
Sip bold wines and savor small plates on a romantic evening or couples trip.
© Wine Maniacs Wine Bar and Bistro
Wine Maniacs Wine Bar and Bistro is Oconomowoc’s first locally owned and operated wine bar, bistro, caterer and wine market. Their goal is to provide the area with exceptional wines and the best food that accompanies them. Their wine selections is continually growing and being refined. Their dining room is charming and cozy, with a fireplace and art on the walls, a sophisticated environment without being stuffy where guests can enjoy some spectacular wines and great food. The menu is ‘farm to fork’, using as many local ingredients as possible, to create delectable dishes such as Shrumy Duck - ground duck sliders on grilled brioche bun with house made tangy yogurt mustard and mushroom compote or Where’s Walleye- pan fried walleye, house made caper mayo, fresh greens and veggie du jour. Their sandwiches and salads are also exceptional.
Address: W359N5002 Brown St #105, Oconomowoc, WI 53066, Phone: 262-244-0385
Where to Eat in Oconomowoc, WI
⮕ Roots Coffee Bar
Grab fresh coffee and relax with friends on a cozy, affordable morning stop.
© Roots Coffee Bar
Roots Coffee Bar is a very popular spot in downtown Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, where folks come for a cup of fair-trade coffee and stay for a slice of pizza, a hot soup and a chat with total strangers. The place has the atmosphere of a comfy club, with sofas and armchairs, a fireplace and a real gallery of local artworks. Wifi connection is free so many young people come to do some studying or a bit of work, or just to check their facebook. The smell of coffee is delicious. There are plenty of specialty coffee drinks, teas, smoothies but also craft beer and wine. The pastry and cake display is tantalizing. There are board games and space for a conference or book club meetings. Roots Coffee Bar can easily become your home away from home.
Address: 124 E Wisconsin Ave, Oconomowoc, WI 53066, Phone: 262-354-0705
⮕ Twisted Fire
Enjoy wood-fired dishes and sip craft drinks on a lively, exciting dinner outing.
© Twisted Fire
Twisted Fire is a new, modern, spacious restaurant in Ocoomowoc, Wisonsin, with cool industrial vibe and open kitchen as the main attraction. There are chairs around the counter from which you can watch the kitchen magic at work. Cooking with wood in the six-foot high oven is what Twisted Fire is about. Wood fired cooking offers delicious charred texture and smoky flavor to everything: chicken, fish, steak, burger, bell peppers and just about anything else. They cook everything from scratch, from their delicious sourdough flatbread, roasted side dishes, ice cream, pasta, and everything else. They use fresh ingredients purchased from local companies and farmers. Their twelve beer taps offer the best Wisconsin craft breweries have to offer. The wine selection is not large but is meticulous.
Address: 515 E Wisconsin Ave, Oconomowoc, WI 53066, Phone: 262-354-3150
⮕ Sobie's Restaurant
Savor seasonal meals and unwind in style on a romantic or retirement-friendly night out.
© Sobie's Restaurant
Sobie's Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, a small space with just a few cozy private nooks, warm and pleasant, featuring dishes made with locally sourced, sustainably grown ingredients. Sobie's menu is small but expertly crafted by chef/owner Michael Sobol. Lunch and dinner specials change daily, so you never know what you are going to find. If you are lucky, they will have pistachio encrusted salmon with lemon creme, seasonal vegetables and herbed basmati rice. Or one of their fabulous small plates such as Pommes frites topped with tender duck confit, smothered in duck gravy, with a sunny-side-up duck egg on top.
Address: 123 E Wisconsin Ave, Oconomowoc, WI 53066, Phone: 262-354-0812
If you are interested in local events:
- For Summer Fun: Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts (August) – A juried fine arts show with music, food, and local vendors in Fowler Park.
- For Holiday Spirit: German Christmas Market (November) – Experience Bavarian charm, gifts, and glühwein under twinkling lights.
- For Families: Moonlit Movies in the Park (Summer) – Free outdoor movies at night with snacks and kid-friendly fun.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Oconomowoc, WI:
- For Hikers: Lapham Peak State Park (20–25 min) – Climb the observation tower or hike forested trails with panoramic views.
- For Art & Shopping: Delafield (15–20 min) – Explore boutique shops, historic charm, and lakeside dining nearby.
- For History Buffs: Old World Wisconsin (30 min) – Step back in time at this living history museum with 19th-century buildings and costumed interpreters.
- For Nature Lovers: Nashotah Park (15–20 min) – Trails, picnic areas, and peaceful lake vistas in a natural preserve.
- For Golfers: The Club at Lac La Belle (5–10 min) – Historic and beautifully maintained golf course perfect for a leisurely round.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Oconomowoc located?
- Oconomowoc is a city in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, on the banks of Oconomowoc Lake and Lac La Belle, which give the area the name "Lake Country."
- How did Oconomowoc become a resort town?
- Starting as a trading post, Oconomowoc became a summer resort town in the 1870s, attracting wealthy families from the Midwest who built large houses by the lakes.
- Those houses are now part of a popular walking tour of the city.
- What historical attractions can visitors explore in Oconomowoc?
- Learn about the city's history at the charming Oconomowoc Historical Society and Museum.
- Visit Veterans Memorial Park, which honors Oconomowoc veterans from all branches of the service.
- Where can visitors dine in Oconomowoc?
- For a small city, Oconomowoc has a surprising number of superb restaurants.
- How far is Oconomowoc from Milwaukee?
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