Whether you’re visiting from out of town, out of state, or just down to road, there’s a lot to do in Wauwatosa. The Village and Mayfair Mall are some of our most well-known attractions, and Iconic Milwaukee staples like the Milwaukee County Zoo and American Family Field are just around the corner. While these are all great options for your next trip to Wauwatosa, we get that sometimes you need to slow things down and explore places that feel a little more off the beaten path. If you want to feel more like a local, these hidden gems will give you a chance to uncover some the magic Wauwatosa has to offer.

Food

Cranky Al’s located on North Avenue, is home to some of the world’s best doughnuts. Whether you’re ordering a vegan Oreo, a gluten-friendly cinnamon sugar, a fun maple bacon flavor, or an award-winning cruller, you’ll taste the secret ingredient to Cranky’s success: quality. They’ve focused on using local, quality ingredients to create the best experience for its community.

Lucky Joe’s Tucked away on Underwood Ave., this Wauwatosa Village cocktail bar features nightly specials and delicious bar bites. So, pull up a stool for Monday Pizza Night, Taco Tuesday, Wednesday Wings or Friday Night Fish Fry. Whichever day you pick, you’ve made a great choice.

Ca’Lucchenzo was founded by Zak and Sarah baker. The husband-and-wife duo bring their expertise to the tables of their customers, and to the hearts of their community. For over a decade, Zak worked with some of the best chefs in Italy while Sarah became a student of wine. The pair now shares their knowledge and love of Italian food to create handmade pasta and perfectly paired wine selections.

Simma’s Bakery Simma, a young immigrant woman from Russia, opened the doors to a small bakery in 1982 with the hope of sharing the love and spirit of her family tradition through fine cheesecakes and pastries. More than a decade since her passing, Simma’s legacy is still alive and well! Today, the walls of the bakery are now decorated with dozens of awards and plaques stemming from Simma’s dream. After four decades, the bakery is still embedded in tradition and family values.

Drinks

Good City Brewing The story of Good City Brewing is rooted in lasting friendships, a love of great beer, and a commitment to seeking the good. Founders Dan and David had a lasting friendship, a love of great beer, and the sought a place to contribute to Milwaukee’s rich beer heritage. With bites that are just as amazing as its long list of draft brews, Good City Brewing is the perfect place to watch the game, eat a casual meal, or enjoy the patio with your pup.

Vendetta Coffee Bar Espresso, macchiato, and cappuccino are Italian words that Vendetta believes fall short in American coffee culture of how they were intended to be enjoyed. Vendetta offers a taste of Italian flavor and culture right in the heart of Wauwatosa. Vendetta has authentic Italian Sfogliatella straight from Italy and $1 stand-up espresso bar for a quick shot of caffeine before you continue exploring Wauwatosa!

Ray’s Growler Gallery Since 1961, Ray’s Wine & Spirits has been a local staple with their selection of wine, spirits, and beer. With over 8,000 wines, 2,000 spirits, and 1,000 beers, Ray’s strives to provide the best quality and value to its customers. Ray’s Growler Gallery, a speakeasy-esque bar above Ray’s Wine & Spirits, opened in 2014 and has become a favorite of locals. We recommend trying a twist on a Wisconsin classic with their frozen Old Fashioneds.

Things To Do

Heinsight Leather Cindy Hein, founder of this woman-owned boutique, was once doing tailoring, alterations and custom bridal out of her home. In 1997, Heinsight Leather opened its doors in Wauwatosa and is now the oldest retailer in The Village. Besides offering custom leather, leather alteration and repair, Heinsight has an eclectic selection of jackets, shearlings, fur accessories, handbags and much more! After over 30 years of creating and sewing, Heinsight is one of Milwaukee’s most unique leather boutiques.

Jacobus Park Tucked into 68th & Wells, Jacobus Park is a 31-acre park that provides an urban escape in every season. The park is complete with a lilypad-covered pond, wading pool, athletic field, playground, and trails. Autumn is especially colorful with golden leaves hanging from the tree-lined paths. But no matter the season, Jacobus Park offers outdoor fun for the whole family!

Hyde Park MKE Hyde Park MKE is a small, woman-owned clothing boutique that specializes in the latest women’s fashions. They feature clothing, accessories, and gifts sourced from all over the country. Originally a dry-clean-only business, Hyde Park continues that tradition by offering tailoring, alterations and dry cleaning to the area.