Welcome to the World's One and Only, Waunakee!
A blanket of fresh fallen snow against the red covered bridge paints an idyllic picture of Waunakee, Wisconsin. Founded in 1871, the village has managed to gracefully grow from a small farm town into a prosperous community, while maintaining its natural beauty. Developers have taken great care to beautify parks, expand hiking trails and plant trees in each new neighborhood. “The World’s One and Only Waunakee,” just north of Madison, is definitely worth a stop on your next trip down Interstate 94.
Community spirit is strong in this flourishing suburb, known for its award winning schools and championship athletic programs. As you’ll notice, once the snow finally melts, there’s still plenty of farm living around the original downtown. Almost like clockwork, as spring appears, a distinctive farm fresh smell fills the air. Any farmer will proudly say, “that’s the smell of money” and it means the growing season is underway. Residents look forward to the harvest almost as much as the farmers. We reap the fruits of their labor, gaining access to the freshest produce at the local farmer’s market.
During the pandemic, this tight knit village banded together to support each other. Lockdowns and restrictions brought financial hardship to small businesses across the country and right here in Waunakee. Many didn’t survive. Those that did make it, wouldn’t be here without the help of friends and neighbors. A COVID safe drive through market hosted by merchants at the local church, offered a creative way to drum up business during hard times. While some companies closed, others defied the odds and took a chance by expanding.
This year marks the village’s sesquicentennial, a true testament to the vision the founders had when they erected the first business on Main Street 150 years ago. Waunakee’s industry and population has grown dramatically to roughly 14,000. Although the original businesses are long gone, when you drive down Main Street today, the pioneer spirt of those early settlers shines through in each new business. Community leaders pride themselves on honoring the past as they plan for the future of the world’s one and only, Waunakee. Come visit and see for yourself what small town charm is all about!
Eat
Buck & Honey’s-A modern supper club dedicated to honoring the history of Waunakee’s original settlers in their life size photo gallery. Serving a variety of menu options from steak to seafood, vegan and gluten free. My favorite entrees so far are the salmon, tilapia and steak salad. Enjoy live music on the patio soon.
El Charro Mexican Grill-Authentic Mexican cuisine made with the freshest ingredients and generous servings. Live music from the mariachi band adds to the festive vibe. Our family’s favorites from the menu include any of the fajitas, burritos and house-made guacamole.
Eno Vino-Upscale wine bar and bistro, serving globally inspired small plates. Featuring an award-winning wine list. Happy hour specials Monday-Thursday 4pm-7pm and all day Sunday.
The Lone Girl Brewing Company-Craft brewery and restaurant with a fabulous roof top bar offering guests a picturesque view of downtown. Dome dining now available! Family friendly atmosphere serving up casual menu items. We like the homemade Italian meatball appetizer and the kids love the giant pretzels.
M-N-M’s Coffeehouse-Serving locally sourced coffee, homemade treats, soups, sandwiches and ice cream in a cozy atmosphere. Gather around the fireplace to enjoy the ambiance of this mother-daughter run business. The family operates a dairy farm nearby, which allows easy access to the freshest ingredients.
Rex’s Innkeeper-Classic supper club offering steaks and seafood in old school digs. Regulars love the retro bar, friendly service and hearty helpings of homemade food. Check their website for live music and special events.
Play
Discover Nature-Explore one of the many parks in and around Waunakee on foot or bicycle. Here are just a few to choose from. Don’t rely on bread crumbs to find your way. Download the trail map app instead.
Schumacher Farm County Park
Hit the links-Enjoy a round of golf at The Meadows of Six Mile Creek .
Winery Tour & Tasting-Sample world class wines when you visit Drumlin Ridge Winery.
Meet the Goats-Visit the famous goats who have their own Facebook page at Endres Manufacturing.
Shop
Ciao Bella Boutique-Charming shop offering trendy and classic clothing styles for men and women. Find fashionable accessories and home accents. Personal stylists to help you find that perfect outfit or gift.
Evie and Co Boutique-Discover fresh fun fashion at this charming shop for the modern woman. Find the perfect blend of clothing, jewelry and shoes in a cozy renovated space.
Kee-Kee Boutique-Hip boutique full of cozy and chic fashions for modern women. Clothing, jewelry, shoes and more.
Lyon Road Art-Art gallery showcasing independent artist and owner Kaitlin Walsh, who specializes in abstract anatomical watercolor and oil paintings. Walsh beautifully combines her fascination for art and medicine into stunning works of art. Shop the gallery or sign up for an art class at this lovely studio.
Musky Fool-Musky Fool Fly Fishing Co. was founded by husband and wife, Dan and Jenn Donovan, originally as an online shop in 2020 for all things musky on the fly. Musky Fool has quickly grown to a full-service fly shop and platform for the warm water fly angler. On a mission to protect the native trophy waters in Wisconsin.
Red Barn-A mix of old and new, offering a little bit of everything you never knew you couldn’t live without. From recycled barn wood signs to whimsical accents, and comfy clothing with a vintage flair.
Simply Unique-Find one of a kind gift items at this adorable shop, including cute clothing and fun accessories for women and irresistible baby gifts. Support local artists with your purchases here. My go-to for last minute gifts in Waunakee!
Stay
The Mill Waunakee-The Mill Waunakee is a boutique hotel, nestled in a newly renovated 150 year old grain mill. This grain mill was once the center of the town, now offering six private rooms all with modern amenities in a historic setting. Check out the photo gallery of the newly opened hotel online at themillwaunkaee.com to book a room, or call 608.413.2887 for reservations. Coming soon to the hotel, Grace Coffee.
Explore More
There’s so much more to see and do, we can’t cover everything. Please contact the Chamber of Commerce or the Village of Waunakee for a complete list of shops, restaurants and events. Historic photos courtesy of the Waunakee Public Library, where you can learn more about the town’s history.