There’s something to uncover around every corner in Wauwatosa – especially in summer. So, whether you want to be cooling off at the pool or laying out your blanket to take in a concert in the park, there’s so much to do, and see, and eat this summer you might just run out of time to squeeze it all in. Oh, and did we mention that most of it is free – and all of it is memorable. Start checking off your bucket list below:
Become One with Nature
Stroll through Hart Park
Walk, bike or take in the scenes on Hart Park’s shaded trails, and bridges. And if you’re feeling up to it, bring a skateboard (and your helmet!) or your tennis racket to enjoy the park’s skatepark and tennis courts too.
Bike the Oak Leaf Trail
Pedal along Wauwatosa’s stretch of the Oak Leaf Trail. It connects parks and neighborhoods, making your trek from one activity to the next even more scenic.
Explore the Forest Exploration Center
It’s just like it sounds… but better. Created and maintained by volunteers, this 67-acre hardwood forest is accessible to most – allowing wheelchair users, strollers, and those walking on foot to explore a one-mile loop in the woods. The forest’s unique blend of tree species and birds let you explore one of the best and last remaining remnants of the southern hardwood forests that once blanketed Wisconsin.
Bop Around Town
Explore Wauwatosa Village
Take a leisurely walk through the historic Village of Wauwatosa: admire charming architecture, window-shop at local boutiques, and refuel with iced coffee.
Check out the Tosa Farmer’s Market
Saturdays in summer bring fresh produce, local crafts, live music, and complimentary samples in the Harts Mills parking lot on the fringes of the Wauwatosa Village. The Tosa Farmers Market is a vibrant way to spend a morning mingling with neighbors and supporting local growers.
Attend Free Outdoor Concerts
Tosa Tonight has been putting on concerts for decades and has become a Wednesday night staple at the Rotary Performance Pavilion in Hart Park. Bring a blanket, tune into live music, and grab a bite from a tasty food truck.
Public Art & Mural Walk
Discover Wauwatosa’s growing collection of murals along North Avenue and sculptures (you might have heard about Mama Rosa in Firefly Grove Park!). Grab your camera or simply soak in whimsical installations scattered across parks and public spaces.
Some Like it Ho(y)t
For just a few dollars, you can enjoy one of the best public pools in the region. There’s a large main pool for older kids and more experienced swimmers, water slides, splash areas in a zero-entry environment, and concessions. It’s perfect for families or casual swimmers.
The Landing at Hoyt Beer Garden
And every parent’s favorite, just outside the pool area, is the beer garden! It’s free to enter, with modestly priced local brews, pizzas, and pretzels. There are events almost nightly, from trivia to live music on weekends that bring summer vibes.
Outdoor Dining Options
The Explorium Brewpub Wauwatosa
On those nice summer days, grab a beer and some pub fare and enjoy the indoor/outdoor space at Explorium Brewpub near the Mayfair Collection. The expansive garage doors open out to a yard of picnic tables complete with yard games.
Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club
Channeling classic Northwoods vibes, Buckatabon’s patio is a cozy place for Friday fish fry or a leisurely brunch. It’s Wisconsin comfort food at its finest. You’re able to feast on more than just the food too, as there are great views of the bustling district.
This is a true local favorite with a casual vibe and hearty pub food. The outdoor seating area fills up fast on sunny days (although plenty of shade is provided!) or game days.
Colectivo Coffee – Wauwatosa Swan Boulevard
This neighborhood coffeehouse has a spacious outdoor patio on the corner of North Avenue and Swan Boulevard with plenty of shade. Grab a coffee, sandwich, or pastry and settle in with a good book or a good friend.