Sprawling between Milwaukee and Waukesha, Brookfield is a residential and commercial hub near the shores of Lake Michigan. It is famously the birthplace of Caroline Ingalls and attracts fans of her daughter, Laura Ingalls, who penned the “Little House on the Prairie” books.
Things to do in Brookfield
In the far north-west of Brookfield is Fox Brook Park, which occupies a former quarry and its surrounding wetlands. You can stretch your legs on the paved walking trail that loops around the park or refresh with a dip in the man-made swimming lake. Anglers can cast their lines from the fishing pier while birdwatchers should keep their eyes peeled for a variety of waterfowl.
Adjacent to Fox Brook Park is Mitchell Park, where you’ll find a children’s playground, an off-leash dog area and the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts. In the summer, this 180-hectare green space is a popular setting for hiking and biking while in the winter, it receives enough snow for cross country skiing and downhill sledding. Events and live music concerts are held here in the warmer months.
If you’re interested in the region’s cultural heritage, pay a visit to the Elmbrook Historical Society, which is based at the whitewashed Dousman Stagecoach Inn. Admire the building’s Greek Revival-style architecture while learning about its role as a family residence, a guesthouse and a farm, then browse the antiques that decorate its interior. The property’s 1852 log cabin houses a gift shop where you’ll find local souvenirs.
Getting around Brookfield
Brookfield is a 25-minute drive from Milwaukee and 30 minutes from General Mitchell International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America. Buses travel through Brookfield while having your own vehicle gives you greater freedom to explore the city.