Waukesha County, Wisconsin is located just west of Milwaukee County in the southeastern part of the state. One of Wisconsin's fastest growing counties, the population of Waukesha County increased by 56,052 during the 1990's, alone, and today stands at upwards of 360,767 (2000 census).

Waukesha (WALK' - e -SHAH) - the name of both the county and the seat which serves as its county seat - takes its name from a local Indian phrase meaning "by the little fox." The name and city gained world notability as a great and prosperous resort area during the last quarter of the nineteenth century. The entire tourist boom experienced can be traced to Colonel Richard Dunbar. Suffering from painful diabetes, Dunbar accidentally discovered the alleged "healing effects" of the local spring water. Ending the search for a cure for his illness, he spent the last ten years of his life believing and promoting that Waukesha spring water could indeed cure certain sicknesses. About 1916, the resort days of Waukesha faded and gave way to what is now a thriving city of more than 61,000 residents representing diversified industry, educational institutions, strong health care facilities, attractive and friendly residential areas and a qualified and experienced hospitality industry. Residents regularly enjoy remnants of the area's past in its many parks, museums and carefully restored architecture of the downtown district.

Ideally located adjacent to Milwaukee's western suburbs and less than a one hour drive from Madison, Waukesha is within minutes of the scenic splendor of the Kettle Moraine State Forest and linked to the interstate highway system. Several I-94 and I-43 interchanges provide quick access to outlying recreational areas, business and major metropolitan districts. Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport is less than a 30 minute drive from Waukesha. In addition, Waukesha County’s Crites Field is centrally located and used by commercial, private and military aircraft.

Diverse recreational opportunities await all who visit - or stay - in Waukesha. Outdoor recreation ranges from hundreds of miles of biking and hiking trails, to more than 12 golf courses and over 77 lakes within the county, with acres of devoted parks. The City of Waukesha hosts a lively arts community, ranging from the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra, Carroll (College) Players, Waukesha Civic Theatre, Waukesha Choral Union and summer concerts at the outdoor Les Paul Band Shell, named after one of Waukesha's favorite sons who invented the electric guitar. If it is shopping you are looking for, the historic downtown offers a variety of unique and specialty shops, with dozens of malls on the perimeter of our community.

There are over 12,000 employers in Waukesha County, employing more than 218,000 workers. Manufacturing (26%), services (25%), and the retail trade (16%) represent the largest employment sectors in Waukesha County. Economic growth and associated employment opportunities continue to be strong. To be sure, Waukesha County consistently registers one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state.

Newcomers to Waukesha are welcomed as a guest with individual needs, interests and passions. Surrounded in an atmosphere of pride, genuine warmth and midwest hospitality, Waukesha is sure to make any newcomer feel welcome. True hometown hospitality and charm await those who explore this modern but historic city "By The Little Fox."

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