Waukesha, Wisconsin is a medium-sized city that sits just east of Milwaukee. Waukesha is part of the Milwaukee metropolitan area and was first settled in 1834 when both cities began to emerge. When the Erie Canal was completed in 1821, Waukesha saw a rapid increase in settlers.
The name "Waukesha" is thought to come from a leader of the local Potawatomi tribe. Wau-tsha (later anglicized to Waukesha) was a regional leader in the area when the first European settlers arrived. Today, Waukesha recognizes the history of the indigenous people who first settled in the area. Exhibits and tours are available at the Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum.
During the mid-1800s, Waukesha earned the nickname "Spring City." At the time, Waukesha was known for its pristine spring water. Until the early 1900s, visitors would regularly travel to Waukesha to enjoy the healing effects of the local spring water. Unfortunately, as time has passed, pollution and the natural drying of the springs have spoiled the water supply, and it is no longer possible to sample Waukesha's amazing spring water.
Despite how close it is to Milwaukee, Waukesha remains a vibrant, independent city of its own. Waukesha's charming and expansive downtown features several historic buildings, boutiques, shops, and restaurants. Be sure to stop by the historic Sobleman's restaurant for a burger and cocktail. If you're feeling like a stroll, Waukesha's Fox River Park offers numerous walking trails over a 257-acre site.
Summerfest – Summerfest returns to Milwaukee each July for 12 days of live music from every genre. Summerfest is held at the Henry Maier festival grounds.
Wisconsin State Fair – The Wisconsin State Fair takes place each August and features 10 days of food, rides, and farm competitions. Come try a stack of deep-fried Oreos or a world-famous Wisconsin cream puff!
Milwaukee Irish Fest - Irish Fest takes place each August. This large festival celebrates Irish food, art, and music.
Of the available options for RV storage in Wisconsin, All One Storage in Kenosha has drive-in outdoor storage in a secure facility. RV owners can also find affordable indoor storage nearby at the BigRigs Hotel in Kenosha.
Indiana Dunes National Park is a newly minted national park along the shores of Lake Michigan in northern Indiana. This park was declared a national park in 2019, and visitors can find dunes, beaches, prairies, and forests ripe for exploration. The Indiana Dunes are mainly a summer destination — snow, wind, and ice are all common on the shores of Lake Michigan during the winter.
Isle Royale National Park is part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, located in Lake Superior, just off the northern Wisconsin shores. This vehicle-free national park is overflowing with wildlife. Kayakers and canoers make their way to Isle Royale each summer to travel between the park's smaller islands.
Voyageurs National Park is in northern Minnesota. Sitting on over 200,000 acres, Voyageurs National Park is great for hiking, fishing, and boating. Voyageurs remains open in the winter and is a popular destination for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Guided ranger activities are held year-round, featuring landscape and wildlife tours. While the park is remote, there are several nearby gateway communities where you can visit restaurants, bars, and shops.
Big Foot Beach State Park is located about an hour from Waukesha and features a beach area, hiking, and camping. Big Foot Beach State Park is known as one of the best birdwatching sites in the area, attracting visitors from spring until fall. After you are done exploring the park, consider a visit to nearby Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.
Harrington Beach State Park is located about an hour north of Waukesha on the shores of Lake Michigan. Harrington Beach is one of the best Lake Michigan beaches in the area, composed of fine sand with few rocks. Unique to Harrington Beach State Park is the observatory, where an astronomy program teaches the public about the stars and planets.
Lake Kegonsa State Park is located just outside of Madison, Wisconsin. The park contains marsh and rolling prairie and is an ideal birdwatching and wildlife-viewing location. Lake Kegonsa is a popular destination for boating and fishing.
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail runs right past Waukesha, Wisconsin. The trail is just shy of 1,200 miles long and passes dozens of forests, canyons, lakes, and rivers.
The Pullman National Monument is dedicated to the endeavors of George Pullman, a businessman of the 1800s who helped to revolutionize the rail industry in the Chicago area.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features vibrant views of Lake Michigan and the dunes surrounding the park. Hiking and wildlife viewing are available at Sleeping Bear Dunes, where you'll also find beaches.
For those venturing into the city, the Wisconsin State Fair RV Park offers a convenient option to park your RV. Don't expect stunning natural vistas — the State Fair RV Park is smack in the middle of the city. For a more rural option, consider Happy Acres Campground. Happy Acres is located about 35 miles outside of Milwaukee. For family-friendly adventures, consider Jellystone Park near Caledonia, Wisconsin, which features a plethora of activities for kids.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Waukesha, WI, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Waukesha?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Waukesha from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Waukesha?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.