Pewaukee’s history has always revolved around water – first as a milling and ice-harvesting hub in the 1840s, then as a resort town in the 1900s. Even through its rapid residential and business growth, the city has kept its distinctive small-town charm. Pewaukee Lake continues to exert its magnetic pull, whether that’s for swimming and sunbathing at the beach or catching a summer sunset.
Tell us who you’d pick to be a Betty this year!
Water Ski Shows on Pewaukee Lake
PEWAUKEE BEACH | 111 WISCONSIN AVE.
Join this 40-year tradition at Pewaukee Lake Water Ski Club’s free Thursday night performances. Bring a blanket and your favorite snack (or grab an ice cream cone from The Chocolate Factory across from the beach) and watch the area’s top watersport talent. Shows run from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
The Beach House Bistro
161 WISCONSIN AVE.
Fresh Mediterranean flavor meets small-plates dining at the Beach House Bistro, nestled along Pewaukee’s beachfront alongside other locally owned favorites. A glass of red pairs nicely with the sunset and an order of “lamb lollipops.”
Lynndale Farm
N47 W28270 LYNNDALE RD.
This rustic shopping complex features two barns full of antiques, repurposed items and home decor (think Magnolia lifestyle brand). Make sure to grab a snickerdoodle (or pizza to go) from Molly’s Gluten-Free Bakery, one of the area’s only gluten-free, nut-free fresh bakeries.
Simmons Woods Park
889 CECELIA DR.
Explore the Pewaukee River’s watershed on a boardwalk through the wetlands, or venture through the woods on the park’s 48 acres of trails. Bird lovers, don’t miss the blue heron rookery.
Pewaukee Beach
111 WISCONSIN AVE.
Pewaukee’s quaint public beach offers access to the city’s namesake lake with an easy walk to eateries and shops. But that’s not the only draw, Igielski says. There’s live music on Wednesday nights in June and July and the much-anticipated Pewaukee Kiwanis Beach Party, June 26-27. Igielski says the Saturday morning pancake breakfast is a must.
Play Pewaukee
N45 W23440 LINDSAY RD.
A couple of things Igielski loves about this new-in-2025, ADA-accessible playground are details like the Quiet Grove (a calming place for children with sensory challenges) and Garrison’s Splash Pad, a spot for all ages to cool off that opens when the temp rises above 63.
Nettie’s Irish Pub
733 W. WISCONSIN AVE.
The summer appeal of this tavern affectionately referred to as NIPs is its beer garden-style patio, where the live music, cold Guinness and hot fried cheese curds just make everything better. If you’re looking for active leisure, join one of the summer leagues for horseshoes or bags.
