A Family-Friendly Milwaukee Suburb Comes Into Its Own
Adventure knows no bounds in Wauwatosa, where whimsy and wonder intertwine along tree-lined streets. Just minutes from downtown Milwaukee, this charming suburb reveals its treasures like chapters in a storybook – each corner holding the promise of discovery for wide-eyed explorers of all ages. Here, European-inspired architecture mingles with modern delights, creating an enchanting backdrop for a family getaway that bridges generations. Let the village's historic charm and vibrant energy guide you through a weekend where every moment becomes a cherished memory.
Friday
3:00 p.m.
Start at Ruckus & Glee, a locally owned toy store that elevates play with thoughtfully curated games and puzzles. Continue your retail therapy in the Village at The Flannel Fox, where Northwoods-inspired merchandise meets urban sophistication, and Shop Privvy, showcasing Milwaukee's evolving fashion scene.
6:00 p.m.
Secure a coveted patio table at Café Hollander, where Menomonee River offers the soundtrack to a relaxed evening. The extensive beer menu caters to connoisseurs, while the kitchen serves elevated comfort food that satisfies both adults and young diners.
Saturday
9:00 a.m.
Start your day at Blue's Egg, where the signature benedicts and stuffed chicken chorizo hash browns have earned a devoted following. Arrive early – weekend waits are part of the local culture.
11:00 a.m.
Dedicate your late morning to the Milwaukee County Zoo, a 190-acre sanctuary housing 2,200 animals. Don't miss the otters' aquatic ballet, and embrace nostalgia with a stop at the vintage Mold-A-Rama machines for unique souvenirs.
3:00 p.m.
Embark on a dessert crawl through Tosa's finest confectioneries. Begin at Ultimate Confections for their famous chocolate-covered Oreos, continue to Tabal Chocolate for small-batch, bean-to-bar creations, and finish at Joy Ice Cream Social for perfectly scooped double-dip cones that evoke childhood summers.
7:00 p.m.
End your day at Maggio's Wood Fired Pizza, where 10-inch pies satisfy both traditionalists and adventurous eaters. The intimate setting and creative toppings make for a memorable family dinner.
Sunday
10:00 a.m.
Begin your final day at Eldr + Rime in the Renaissance Hotel, where a fiery Bloody Mary sets the tone for a memorable brunch. The cinnamon rolls, crowned with cream cheese frosting, offer a sweet start, while the pork belly benedict provides a heartier option. The restaurant's family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely Sunday morning.
1:00 p.m.
During summer evenings, Hart Park becomes the city's communal backyard, hosting the Tosa Tonight Concert Series. Even without scheduled events, the park offers a perfect setting for a farewell picnic or for renting a Bublr Bike to roll along the extensive trail network.
Lodging
Wauwatosa offers several hotels near Mayfair Mall, which provide convenient bases for exploration. Milwaukee's downtown hotels are also just a 15-minute drive away.
If You Go
Time your visit with signature events like ART 64®, a live painting competition that transforms the Village into an open-air gallery, or the winter Christkindlmarkt, which brings European holiday charm with heated beer tents and twinkling lights.
Remember that Wauwatosa's proximity to Milwaukee means you can easily catch a Brewers game at American Family Field, where the pregame tailgate scene and Famous Racing Sausages are as much an attraction as the baseball.
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