Whether you’re feeling super spontaneous or just itching to get out of town, planning that last-minute getaway is the perfect way to shake up your routine. And, with all the shopping, dining, outdoor activities, art, and events in one city, Wauwatosa makes it easy to turn those last-minute ideas into reality.
Book Your Stay
First thing’s first, you need book a place to rest and recharge for everything you’re about to discover. Choose from one of our comfortable hotels, all affordable, accommodating, and close to the action.
See What’s Happening
Now that you’ve taken care of your lodging, see what’s going on during your stay. Check our events page to find everything from quaint classes to large-scale events. With everything from live music at Tosa Tonight (Wednesdays during summer) and the Tosa Farmers Market (Saturdays during summer) to play dates at The Little Village Play Cafe and book signings at The Well Red Damsel, you’re sure to find something going on that draws your attention.
Find More Fun
Need some help filling your days with activities to do, things to see, and places to eat? We’ve got you covered with these pre-planned itineraries and blogs. Find out how to satisfy any craving (including your sweet tooth), the best place to grab a brew, how to keep your kids occupied, and how to keep your body moving.
In a hurry? Here’s the business breakdown:
Drinks
- Coffee: Start each day with a tasty dose of caffeine from our many coffee shops. Head to The Village of Wauwatosa’s Anodyne Coffee Roasting Company, Stone Creek Coffee, and Vendetta Coffee Bar. And don’t forget MidTown’s Fiddleheads and East Tosa’s Idyll Coffee Roasters.
- Craft Beer: Explore local craft beer from Lion’s Tail Brewing Co. and Big Head Brewing Co. then see what’s on tap at Camp Bar, Draft & Vessel, The Landing at Hoyt Park.
- Cocktails & Wine: Savor your sips at Wauwatiki Tiki Bar, Drunken Cobra, Lucky Joe’s, Pipsqueak Wine, and The Ruby Tap.
Dining
- Breakfast: Many of the coffee shops above have delicious bites, but if you’re looking for something more substantial try out Golden Nest Pancakes or Ally’s Powerhouse Café.
- Lunch: Get your fill at Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club, Café Hollander, BelAir Cantina, or Kin by Rice & Roll.
- Dinner: For upscale dinners, get a reservation to Le Rêve Patisserie & Café, Ca’Lucchenzo, Eldr+Rime, or Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993.
Things to Do
- Outdoor: See all of Wauwatosa’s hidden gems and see how many you can conquer during your stay.
- Indoor: Bad weather doesn’t get in the way of fun here. Play all day at 1st & Bowl or Slick City Action Park. Take an art class at Arté or Grey House Studio.
- Free: See Mama Rosa, stroll the paths, and play at Firefly Grove Park. See if you can find all nine murals in the NoMAD mural district. Window shop in The Village of Wauwatosa. See the labyrinth at Hartung Park.
Get Packing
Once you’ve got your trip all mapped out, it’s time to pack your bags and get on the road for your getaway. Don’t worry if you forget your favorite pair of shoes or dress, our small, local boutiques, Mayfair Mall, and the Mayfair Collection have you covered.
We hope you explore every part of Wauwatosa that makes it a beautiful place to live, play, and visit in, even if you are short on time for planning.