The City of Delafield, located in southeastern Wisconsin (Waukesha County), surrounds Lake Nagawicka. Delafield is strategically situated twenty-five miles west of Milwaukee and fifty miles east of Madison, the state capitol. Unique in its small town atmosphere and quaintness, Delafield, Wisconsin continues to attract families and businesses to its historic and beautiful landscape.

In the early nineteenth century, the area which is now Delafield was dotted with sparkling lakes, clear river streams and hardwood forests. Seasonal fishing and hunting camps of several Indian tribes could be found on the shores of the lakes and streams. Cabins were first settled on this rolling landscape in 1839. Other settlers, including farmers and merchants, soon followed. herds of sheep began to graze the gentle hills as grist and saw mills appeared along the streams.

Perhaps Delafield's most famous settler was Nelson Hawks, who moved here with his family from the state of New York. Mr. Hawks soon built a 3-story inn as a stage coach stop in 1846. Recognized by the National Register of Historic Places, the Hawks Inn still stands today as an educational museum. Mr. Hawks named this little settlement Delafield and in 1848, the territory became the state of Wisconsin. Today this historic community thrives with over six thousand residents.

Historic Delafield established in 1837 offers unique quaintness nestled in the hills of the Kettle Moraine. Delafield, surrounding Lake Nagawicka, is just 30 minutes west of Milwaukee adjacent to 1-94. Our community offers historic sights, antique and specialty shopping, award winning restaurants, lodging and a variety of recreational activities year round. Charming Delafield offers two stimulating shopping districts. The Hwy 83 interchange boasts a collection of department stores, a variety of specialty shops, an array of restaurants and friendly accommodations for the overnight visitor. Just as friendly and so inviting, the downtown hosts exceptional crafts-men, antique treasures, mouthwatering eateries and a delightful array of unique shops. The city is host to community celebrations and festivals throughout the year.

Delafield Days, Lake Country Women's Club Art Fair, the Woodcarvers' Show, and a Halloween Celebration at The Steeple in the fall are a few of the many celebrations held annually in this tight-knit community. Neighbors share in the holiday spirit at the annual Christmas Tree lighting Ceremony. Residents and their guests can also visit Hawks Inn, St. John's Northwestern Military Academy and Nashotah House. These historic institutions still carry on their traditions and offer scheduled tours throughout the year.

As a premier boarding school for boy in grades 7-12, nearby St. John's Northwestern Military Academy provides a unique environment defined by four "cornerstones of success: character development, academics, athletics, and leadership." The English Gothic architecture of the buildings, which are surrounded by broad lawns and towering trees, makes the campus one of the most picturesque in the United States. Among the academy's many distinguished alumni are Curtis Roosevelt, grandson of FDR and U.S. delegate to the United Nations, Andrew Filipowski, Founder of Platinum Technologies, the 8th largest software firm in the world, and Martin Torrijos Espino, current president of the Republic of Panama.

The business district of Delafield is established along the south end of Lake Nagawicka and is located off of Interstate 94, with State Hwy. 83 providing easy access to points north and south. Antiquing is a fond hobby for many, given the quaint and quiet setting, and there are several antique shops in downtown Delafield, including the Delafield Antiques Center, The Lang Companies Store and The Steeple. These shops can all be found along Genesee St. (Hwy. C).

Delafield also has many recreational and sporting activities available to everyone. Locals enjoy the bike and hiking trails surrounding the area. For a more restful activity, relax and enjoy a leisurely round of golf, fish on one of our area lakes, or unwind with the family at one of our beautiful parks. Participate in a unique family outing at the beautiful Olympic size Naga-Waukee Ice Arena open all year for family fun.

If summer outdoor activities are in your plans, Delafield will seem like heaven. It is surrounded by area lakes for sailing, boating, fishing and swimming. You can even enjoy ice-skating year round at the beautiful Olympic size-Naga-Waukee Ice Arena. For the swimming enthusiast, there is a swimming beach on Nagawicka Lake with lifeguards on duty June through August and a beach house with concession facilities. And winter is just as fun and exciting. For a unique and serene experience, cross-country ski at Lapham Peak State Park under the winter moon and stars. Lapham Peak has some of Wisconsin’s finest cross-country ski trails and one of the few lighted trails. Ice-skating, snowshoe trails, dog sledding, down-hill skiing at nearby Olympia Ski Hill and a sledding hill at Nashotah Park for some old-fashioned winter fun, are sure to accommodate your recreational needs.

Delafield, Wisconsin, is proud to be the boyhood home of current Wisconsin Governor, Scott Walker.

For more information on activities in and around Delafield Wisconsin, visit: