In the 1980s, greeting card company mogul Bob Lang poured millions into a massive development project, slowly transforming Delafield into the kind of idyllic country town that might appear on one of his cards or calendars. Although the 19th century charm is completely manufactured, it certainly looks and feels real, albeit with less hay and fewer sheep than you might have encountered back then.
Related: Why You Might Want to Visit La Crosse This Winter
Where to Stay
OUTSIDE, THE RECENTLY remodeled Delafield Hotel (415 Genesee St.) looks every bit as historic and traditional as many of the other buildings in town. Inside, it’s sleek and contemporary, with plush seating scattered throughout its lower level and an open-concept restaurant, I.d., that consistently ranks among the best in the area – chef Joe Heppe cut his teeth at Chicago restaurants like Untitled Supper Club before coming to town.
What to Do
HIKING IN WINTER offers wonderful vistas, so why not rise with the sun and climb Lapham Peak, the highest point in Waukesha County? From the top of the 60-foot Parnell Tower built at its summit, you can see the glaciated hills and valleys of the Kettle Moraine State Forest rolling below you in every direction.
Then venture into town for dinner and drinks. The Delafield Brewhaus is a perennially popular microbrewery with a couple of award-winning beers on tap (try the Naga-Wicked Pale Ale!). Or check out Revere’s Wells Street Tavern, a quaintly colonial-style pub located within stumbling distance of your hotel room.
