· US

Greendale

Greendale, Wisconsin, United States

Greendale, located in the charming state of Wisconsin, offers a delightful blend of history, community spirit, and modern attractions that make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique experience. Found…

#Suburban#Family-friendly#Quiet#Close-knit community#Safe

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Greendale.

Top Hotels in Greendale

Top Flights to Greendale

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Greendale.

Tours

Greendale Village Center Exploration

Explore the charming Greendale Village Center, a hub for local shopping, dining, and culture.

Historic Greendale Tour

Take a guided tour of Greendale’s historic sites, offering insight into its rich history as a Greenbelt community.

Shopping

Southridge Mall Shopping

Visit Southridge Mall for a variety of retail shops, dining options, and entertainment.

Outdoor

Whitnall Park Trails

Hike through the extensive trail system at Whitnall Park, offering a peaceful outdoor experience.

Scout Lake Park Fishing

Enjoy fishing at Scout Lake Park, a serene spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Greendale.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
Not Available
Languages
English, Spanish, English
Average weather
Greendale
Jan
snow
2°-5°
Feb
snow
4°-3°
Mar
cloud
8°0°
Apr
rain
14°4°
May
cloud
20°9°
Jun
sun
25°14°
Jul
hot
28°17°
Aug
hot
27°16°
Sep
sun
22°12°
Oct
cloud
16°7°
Nov
rain
9°2°
Dec
snow
4°-2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Greendale.

What people love

Greendale, Wisconsin is a charming village with several notable pros for travelers:

  1. Historic Architecture: Greendale is known for its unique historic architecture, as it was one of three "Greenbelt Communities" established during the Great Depression. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the picturesque streets lined with well-preserved homes and buildings.

  2. Community Atmosphere: Greendale has a strong sense of community, with friendly residents and a welcoming atmosphere. Travelers can experience a small-town vibe while still being close to the amenities of a larger city.

  3. Shopping and Dining: The village features a variety of shops and restaurants, offering visitors the chance to explore locally-owned businesses and try out delicious cuisine.

  4. Outdoor Recreation: Greendale has several parks and green spaces where travelers can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. The Root River Parkway also provides opportunities for walking and enjoying nature.

  5. Proximity to Milwaukee: Greendale is located just a short drive away from Milwaukee, making it easy for travelers to explore the city's attractions such as museums, breweries, and cultural events.

Overall, Greendale offers a peaceful and charming destination for travelers looking to experience a mix of history, community spirit, and outdoor recreation in a welcoming setting.

What to know

Greendale, Wisconsin is a charming village with many positive aspects for visitors, but there are a few potential cons to consider when traveling there:

  1. Limited nightlife: Greendale is a quiet, family-friendly community, so if you're looking for a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and clubs, you may be disappointed by the lack of options in Greendale.

  2. Limited public transportation: Greendale is a suburban community with limited public transportation options. If you don't have a car, getting around may be more challenging compared to larger cities with robust public transit systems.

  3. Limited shopping and dining options: While Greendale has some quaint shops and restaurants, the selection may be limited compared to larger cities. If you're looking for a wide variety of shopping and dining options, you may find Greendale lacking in that aspect.

  4. Seasonal weather: Wisconsin can experience cold winters and hot summers, so depending on the time of year you visit, you may need to pack accordingly for the weather conditions.

Overall, while Greendale is a lovely destination with a lot to offer, visitors should be aware of these potential cons to have a more realistic expectation of their travel experience.

Greendale, Wisconsin, is a village located in Milwaukee County and is one of the "Greenbelt Towns" that were developed during the Great Depression under President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. Here is a detailed history of Greendale:

Founding and Development

  • 1936: Greendale was one of three "Greenbelt Towns" constructed by the federal government. The other two are Greenbelt, Maryland, and Greenhills, Ohio. These towns were designed to provide work and housing during the Great Depression and to demonstrate a new kind of suburban community.
  • 1938: Construction of Greendale began. The project aimed to create a self-sustaining community that included housing, employment opportunities, and community services. The original plan was for the town to be a prototype for future suburban planning, with a mix of urban and rural living spaces.

Design and Architecture

  • Greendale was designed with a pedestrian-friendly layout, including green spaces and community areas. Residential areas were separated from business and industrial areas.
  • The architectural style of the homes was influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, featuring modest, functional designs that emphasized simplicity and harmony with the environment.

Significant Events

  • 1938: Greendale officially opened, and the first families moved in. The town initially consisted of 572 living units, including single-family homes, duplexes, and rowhouses.
  • 1950s-1960s: Greendale began transitioning from a government-owned town to private homeownership. Residents were given the opportunity to purchase their homes.
  • 1996: The Greendale Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing the village's unique history and well-preserved architecture.

Historical Figures

  • Eleanor Roosevelt: Although not a resident, Eleanor Roosevelt visited Greendale and praised it as a model community.
  • Rexford Tugwell: An influential figure in the development of the Greenbelt Towns as part of the New Deal, though not directly associated with Greendale, his vision shaped its creation.

Important Landmarks

  • Greendale Historic District: This area includes many of the original buildings and homes, emphasizing the historical significance of the village's design and architecture.
  • Trimborn Farm: A historical site located near Greendale, offering a glimpse into the region's agricultural past.
  • Greendale Village Center: The heart of the community, featuring shops, restaurants, and community spaces. It retains much of its original charm and design.
  • Ferch's Malt Shoppe and Grille: A popular local eatery in the Village Center, known for its nostalgic ambiance.

Greendale remains a notable example of planned community development in the United States, with its unique history and architecture continuing to attract residents and visitors alike.