Need a charming suburban escape near Milwaukee? Head to Wauwatosa! Explore tree-lined streets, a vibrant village center, beautiful parks, and a thriving dining scene. Whether you're looking for boutique shopping, scenic strolls, or lively local flavors, Wauwatosa (or "Tosa") blends small-town charm with city convenience.

Wauwatosa, WI Highlights:

  • The Village of Wauwatosa: Stroll the historic heart of the city filled with cafés, boutiques, restaurants, and a riverwalk.
  • Hart Park: Relax by the river, play sports, attend festivals, or walk scenic trails in this sprawling urban park.
  • Milwaukee County Zoo: Visit one of the country’s best zoos, located right next door in neighboring Milwaukee.
  • Mayfair Mall: Shop top brands, dine, or catch a movie at one of the largest malls in Wisconsin.
  • Menomonee River Parkway: Bike or hike beautiful green trails winding through the heart of Wauwatosa.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Wauwatosa is during spring through fall (May through October). Warm weather is ideal for outdoor dining, shopping strolls, and festivals, while fall brings beautiful Midwestern foliage.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Wauwatosa is easily accessible via Interstate 94 and U.S. Route 45, about 10 minutes west of downtown Milwaukee.
  • By Air: General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is about a 20–25 minute drive from Wauwatosa.
  • By Train: Amtrak’s Milwaukee Intermodal Station connects nearby with regional bus and rideshare options into Wauwatosa.

Where to Stay

  • Renaissance Milwaukee West Hotel – Stylish, upscale hotel located near Mayfair Mall and convenient to the Village.
  • Residence Inn Milwaukee West – Family-friendly suites with kitchens, free breakfast, and easy access to shops and parks.
  • Radisson Hotel Milwaukee West – Comfortable option perfect for business or leisure travelers looking to stay near shopping and dining.

Best Things to Do

Shop, Stroll, and Indulge at Mayfair Mall

Shop, Stroll, and Indulge at Mayfair Mall

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  • What is Mayfair Mall?
    • Mayfair Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in Wisconsin, offering more than 160 retail stores and food outlets. It is a great destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
  • What types of stores can be found at Mayfair Mall?
    • The mall features a diverse range of stores, including Williams-Sonoma, Apple, and The LEGO Store. It is anchored by Nordstrom and Macy’s.
  • Does Mayfair Mall have a movie theater?
    • Yes, visitors can enjoy a film in a state-of-the-art theater located within the mall.
  • Are there amenities available for shoppers?
    • The mall provides complimentary Wi-Fi and comfortable seating areas throughout the building for guests to relax.
  • Are wheelchairs and strollers available for rent?
    • Yes, wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent to accommodate visitors who need them.
  • What is the address and contact information?
    • 2500 N Mayfair Rd, Wauwatosa, WI 53226, Phone: 414-771-1300.

If You Love Historic Homes and Hidden Stories, Tour the Kneeland-Walker House

If You Love Historic Homes and Hidden Stories, Tour the Kneeland-Walker House

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  • What is the Kneeland-Walker House?
    • The Kneeland-Walker House is a beautiful Queen Anne-style mansion built in 1890. It is now a charming house museum owned and operated by the Wauwatosa Historical Society.
  • When did the Wauwatosa Historical Society acquire the house?
    • The house remained in the Walker family until 1987, when it was purchased by the Wauwatosa Historical Society.
  • How is the house decorated?
    • All rooms are furnished in an authentic Victorian style that reflects the time in which the house was built. The home also retains its original woodwork.
  • Can the property be rented for events?
    • Yes, the Kneeland-Walker House can be booked for weddings and other special events.
  • Does the property have gardens?
    • Visitors are welcome to explore the 1.5-acre Victorian-style garden surrounding the property, which adds to the home’s historic charm.
  • What is the address and contact information?
    • 7406 Hillcrest Dr, Wauwatosa, WI 53213-2226, Phone: 414-774-8672.

Satisfy Every Sweet Craving at Ultimate Confections

Satisfy Every Sweet Craving at Ultimate Confections

© Ultimate Confections

  • What is Ultimate Confections?
    • Ultimate Confections specializes in handmade treats dipped in chocolate, making it the perfect destination for anyone with a sweet tooth.
  • How did Ultimate Confections start?
    • The owner began by making chocolate-dipped peanut brittle in the early 1990s, and over the years, the selection has expanded to include a variety of chocolate-covered treats.
  • What types of treats are available?
    • The store offers a delicious selection, including turtle popcorn, chocolate-covered potato chips, and many other irresistible sweets.
  • Can I purchase chocolates as gifts?
    • Yes, Ultimate Confections provides a great selection of gift boxes and bags, perfect for taking home or giving to someone special.
  • When is the store open?
    • The store is open seven days a week, making it easy to visit whenever you’re craving a sweet treat.
  • Where else can I buy their products?
    • In addition to the store, their products can be ordered online or purchased at local craft fairs and festivals.
  • What is the address and contact information?
    • 820 N 68th St, Wauwatosa, WI 53213, Phone: 414-778-0636.

Bowl, Play, and Celebrate Good Times at AMF Bowlero Lanes

Bowl, Play, and Celebrate Good Times at AMF Bowlero Lanes

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  • What is AMF Bowlero Lanes?
    • AMF Bowlero Lanes is a world-class bowling alley in Wauwatosa, featuring 72 bowling lanes with black lights and video walls, offering fun for all ages.
  • What activities are available besides bowling?
    • In addition to bowling, visitors can enjoy the arcade with video games, order burgers and beers, or relax and chat with friends in the lounge area.
  • Can private rooms be booked for events?
    • Yes, AMF Bowlero Lanes offers private rooms that can be booked for birthdays and other special events.
  • Are there any special deals?
    • Yes, the venue offers specials on food, drinks, and games most days of the week, with highlights including Taco Tuesdays and late-night unlimited bowling on Fridays.
  • What is the address and contact information?
    • 11737 W Burleigh St, Wauwatosa, WI 53222, Phone: 414-258-9000.

Where to Eat

If You Want Games and Grub Under One Roof, Head to Dave and Buster’s

If You Want Games and Grub Under One Roof, Head to Dave and Buster’s

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  • What is Dave and Buster’s?
    • Dave and Buster's is a fun and exciting destination offering delicious food, arcade games, and a great place to watch live sports.
  • What kind of drinks are available?
    • Dave and Buster’s serves a variety of drinks, including beer, handcrafted cocktails, and mocktails for non-alcoholic options.
  • What food options are on the menu?
    • The menu includes everything from burgers and bar snacks to healthy salads and zucchini noodles, catering to a wide range of tastes.
  • How can guests watch sports at Dave and Buster’s?
    • The venue features 40-foot-wide TV screens that can display up to six games at once. The bar also hosts sports viewing parties for major events.
  • Are there any happy hour specials?
    • Yes, happy hour specials on food and drinks are available every weekday between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m..
  • Are there any special deals on games?
    • Guests can enjoy half-price games all day on Wednesdays, making it a great time to visit for arcade fun.
  • What is the address and contact information?
    • 2201 N Mayfair Rd, Wauwatosa, WI 53226, Phone: 414-454-0100.

Savor European Flavors and Lively Vibes at Cafe Hollander

Savor European Flavors and Lively Vibes at Cafe Hollander

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  • What is Café Hollander?
    • Café Hollander is a European-style coffee shop inspired by the grand cafés of Belgium and the Netherlands. It offers a cozy atmosphere, a diverse food menu, and a carefully curated selection of Belgian beers and craft brews.
  • How is the café decorated?
    • The space is decorated with vintage bicycles, reflecting the café's dedication to Dutch culture.
  • Where does Café Hollander source its ingredients?
    • Many ingredients are sourced locally, including meat, dairy, and artisan bread, which is served Belgian-style with Parmesan and chive butter.
  • What meals are served at Café Hollander?
    • The café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week. On weekends, there is also a special brunch menu.
  • What types of drinks are available?
    • The café has an extensive list of Belgian beers as well as a variety of craft brews to complement its food offerings.
  • What is the address and contact information?
    • 7677 W State St, Wauwatosa, WI 53213, Phone: 414-475-6771.

Treat Yourself to Legendary Sweets at The Cheesecake Factory

Treat Yourself to Legendary Sweets at The Cheesecake Factory

© The Cheesecake Factory

  • What is The Cheesecake Factory?
    • The Cheesecake Factory is a popular restaurant in Wauwatosa, known for its extensive menu and delicious selection of cheesecakes.
  • What types of food are on the menu?
    • The menu features classic comfort foods like burgers and lasagna, as well as lighter fare such as salads and grilled meats.
  • What desserts are available?
    • Guests can choose from indulgent options like caramel apple cheesecake, chocolate chip cookie dough cheesecake, and specialty desserts such as strawberry shortcake and Italian tiramisu.
  • What are the restaurant’s hours?
    • The Cheesecake Factory is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m..
  • Are lunch specials available?
    • Yes, lunch specials are available every day until 5 p.m..
  • What is the address and contact information?
    • 2350 N Mayfair Rd, Wauwatosa, WI 53226, Phone: 414-257-2300.

Gather, Feast, and Feel at Home at Maggiano’s Little Italy

Gather, Feast, and Feel at Home at Maggiano’s Little Italy

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  • What is Maggiano's Little Italy?
    • Maggiano's Little Italy is a casual Italian-American restaurant located inside Mayfair Mall in Wauwatosa, offering a wide selection of classic Italian dishes.
  • What kind of food does Maggiano’s serve?
    • The menu features a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches perfect for lunch, as well as heartier dinner entrees like homemade chicken Parmesan and baked ziti.
  • What are the restaurant’s hours?
    • Maggiano’s serves lunch and dinner seven days a week. A special brunch menu is available on weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m..
  • Does Maggiano’s offer outdoor dining?
    • Yes, guests can choose between indoor and outdoor dining areas to enjoy their meal.
  • Is takeout available?
    • Yes, takeout is available for guests who prefer to enjoy their meal at home.
  • What is the address and contact information?
    • 2500 N Mayfair Rd, Wauwatosa, WI 53226, Phone: 414-978-1000.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Tosa Tonight Summer Concert Series (June–August) – Free outdoor concerts held at Hart Park’s Rotary Performance Pavilion.
  • Tosa Farmers Market (May–October) – Saturday morning market featuring fresh produce, artisan goods, and live music.
  • Tosa Fest (September) – A two-day street festival celebrating the community with food, music, games, and fun for all ages.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin:

  • Milwaukee Art Museum (15–20 min) – Explore world-class art exhibits and the stunning Calatrava-designed architecture along Lake Michigan.
  • Harley-Davidson Museum (20–25 min) – Learn about an American icon and see historic motorcycles and exhibits.
  • Mitchell Park Domes (15–20 min) – Visit three giant glass domes showcasing desert, tropical, and floral ecosystems.
  • Milwaukee Public Market (20–25 min) – Browse local vendors, food stands, and specialty goods in the trendy Third Ward district.
  • Lakefront Brewery (20–25 min) – Take a fun and lively brewery tour followed by riverfront dining and craft beer tasting.
  • Greenfield Park (15–20 min) – Spend time at this expansive park offering golf, a lagoon, trails, and picnic areas nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Wauwatosa located?
    • Only 15 minutes outside of downtown Milwaukee, Wauwatosa has a charming small-town atmosphere combined with big-city conveniences.
  • What shopping opportunities are available in Wauwatosa?
    • The town's shopping mall is one of the biggest in the state, and in addition to world-class retail stores, it offers restaurants like Maggiano's Little Italy and The Cheesecake Factory.
  • What entertainment options does Wauwatosa offer?
    • The city's bowling alley is another great place to spend some time.
  • What can visitors find in downtown Wauwatosa?
    • If you venture downtown, you'll find cozy cafes, restaurants, and local boutique shops.
  • What historical attractions are in Wauwatosa?
    • If you're interested in history or architecture, you can also stop by the Kneeland-Walker House, which dates back to the late 19th century.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Renaissance Milwaukee West Hotel – A modern and stylish hotel near Mayfair Mall. Visit the Milwaukee County Zoo – Enjoy seeing over 2,000 animals in a spacious setting.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for outdoor activities. Radisson Hotel Milwaukee West – A convenient stay with great amenities. Explore the Village of Wauwatosa – Stroll through charming shops, cafés, and restaurants.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful autumn foliage. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Milwaukee West – A comfortable and well-located option. Visit the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church – A stunning Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building.
Winter (December-February) – Cold but festive with holiday events. Homewood Suites by Hilton Wauwatosa Milwaukee – A cozy stay with extended-stay options. Enjoy Mayfair Mall – A great indoor shopping destination during colder months.

Plan Your Trip


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