Delafield WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Delafield, Wisconsin.
1. Lapham Peak
SCENIC STATE PARK VIEWS
Lapham Peak is a celebrated unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, offering visitors extensive hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing trails, along with panoramic views from its 45-foot observation tower. Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse ecosystems, well-maintained paths, and opportunities for birdwatching and picnicking. The adaptive landscape makes it a favorite destination year-round for both outdoor enthusiasts and families.
2. Hawks Inn Historical Society
1840S STAGECOACH INN MUSEUM
Hawks Inn Historical Society preserves an 1846 Greek Revival stagecoach inn that served travelers and locals in Wisconsin's pioneer days. Guided tours led by costumed docents showcase the inn's 18 authentically-furnished rooms and reveal life in Delafield during the 1840s to 1860s. The museum also hosts educational programs and special events to connect visitors with local history.
3. SummerStage of Delafield
OUTDOOR PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The SummerStage of Delafield offers live theater, music, and entertainment in an open-air amphitheater surrounded by the natural beauty of Lapham Peak. From May through September, audiences can enjoy professional and community performances in a casual, family-friendly environment. The venue brings culture and the arts to life under the stars in Delafield.
4. Nagawicka Lake
POPULAR RECREATIONAL LAKE
Nagawicka Lake is a scenic 981-acre lake renowned for its clear waters and vibrant recreational scene, including boating, fishing, and swimming. Anglers enjoy a variety of fish species, while families take advantage of the public beaches and parks along the shoreline. The lake is a centerpiece of outdoor life in Delafield, especially during summer months.
5. Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Riverwalk
COMMEMORATIVE RIVERSIDE PATH
The Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Riverwalk is a scenic path honoring America's veterans, featuring a series of memorials and tranquil river views. Stretching about a mile, the walk offers interpretive signs, peaceful gardens, and easy access for families and visitors. This living tribute connects the community with reflective outdoor space and local history.
6. The Smiley Barn
HISTORIC TOY AND CANDY STORE
The Smiley Barn is a restored 100-year-old dairy barn turned whimsical toy and candy shop, home to the nation's largest interactive Playmobil display. Visitors are greeted by a cheerful exterior and a playful atmosphere inside, making it a favorite for kids and nostalgic adults alike. The shop offers a unique blend of shopping and hands-on fun in a beloved local landmark.
7. Lake Country Trail
SCENIC BIKING AND WALKING TRAIL
The Lake Country Trail is a 15.2-mile paved path running through picturesque Lake Country from Waukesha to Oconomowoc, passing directly through Delafield. Cyclists, joggers, and walkers enjoy gentle grades, stunning rural and lake views, and convenient trailheads along the route. This well-maintained trail is perfect for outdoor recreation and sightseeing in Southeast Wisconsin.
8. St. John's Northwestern Academies
HISTORIC MILITARY ACADEMY CAMPUS
St. John's Northwestern Academies boasts a stately campus established in 1884, featuring beautifully preserved architecture and landscaped grounds. Visitors can tour the campus to learn about its long-standing educational traditions and military heritage. The school often opens its grounds for community events, gatherings, and special celebrations.
9. Downtown Delafield
QUAINT HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown Delafield offers a charming blend of boutiques, restaurants, and historic buildings along walkable streets near Nagawicka Lake. Shoppers browse unique local wares, while visitors enjoy diverse dining options from cozy cafés to fine restaurants. The district's picturesque setting and annual festivals make it a lively hub for both locals and travelers.
10. Delafield Fish Hatchery
HISTORIC NATURAL RESOURCES FACILITY
The Delafield Fish Hatchery is a beautifully restored 1907 building that once played a vital role in Wisconsin's fish stocking programs. Today, it serves as a community and event venue surrounded by gardens and public green space. The adjacent area offers walking paths and local interpretive signage about the region's natural history.
11. Nashotah Park
EXPANSIVE NATURAL PARKLAND
Nashotah Park encompasses over 440 acres of rolling hills, woodlands, and prairie just northeast of Delafield in the Village of Nashotah. Visitors enjoy hiking, picnicking, dog walking, and wildlife observation throughout its scenic trails and open spaces. The park also features winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
12. Cushing Memorial Park
COMMUNITY PARK AND HERITAGE SITE
Cushing Memorial Park is a well-loved community space dedicated to the memory of Civil War hero Alonzo Cushing, a Delafield native. The park offers playgrounds, picnic shelters, sports fields, and access to the Lake Country Trail. Interpretive signs and monuments educate visitors on Delafield's historical figures.
13. Glacial Drumlin State Trail
LONG-DISTANCE BIKING TRAIL
The Glacial Drumlin State Trail stretches 52 miles from Waukesha to Cottage Grove, traversing scenic countryside and passing through several small towns near Delafield. This multi-use trail is a favorite for long-distance cyclists, runners, and hikers looking for peaceful rural vistas and well-maintained surfaces. Trailheads near Delafield provide convenient access for exploring Southeast Wisconsin's glaciated landscapes.
14. Merton Rolling Mill Dam
HISTORIC DAM AND RIVERSIDE SPOT
The Merton Rolling Mill Dam is a historical site on the Bark River in the neighboring Village of Merton, illustrating the region's industrial heritage. Visitors can enjoy riverside scenery, learn about the dam's legacy, and spot local wildlife. The dam area is a popular stop for cyclists and history buffs exploring the Lake Country area.
15. Retzer Nature Center
INTERACTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER
Retzer Nature Center in nearby Waukesha offers interactive exhibits, nature trails, prairies, and a planetarium, making it a premier destination for environmental education and recreation. Families enjoy exploring more than 450 acres of restored habitats and participating in educational programs and seasonal events. The center provides a hands-on learning experience for all ages interested in Wisconsin's natural heritage.