Early settlers paid homage to their agrarian lifestyle by naming the town Hayopolis. In 1843, the community's moniker was changed to honor a Dr. Delafield from Milwaukee.
Delafield, Wisconsin, is a prosperous community in the "Lake Country" of western Waukesha County
Early settlers paid homage to their agrarian lifestyle by naming the town Hayopolis. In 1843, the community's moniker was changed to honor a Dr. Delafield from Milwaukee.
Delafield, Wisconsin, is a prosperous community in the "Lake Country" of western Waukesha County. Much of Delafield hugs the southern and western shores of Lake Nagawicka. In fact, of the 11.06 square miles within the city limits, about 15 percent of that area is part of the lake. As of the 2010 U.S. Census, 7,085 individuals called Delafield home. Downtown Milwaukee is a straight shot to the east, 40 miles away. Head west on I-94, and you'll be in Madison in a little over an hour. Given its strategic location on an east-west interstate, commuting to the more urbanized areas near Milwaukee is easy. At the same time, those that want to mainly hang out around Delafield will find pretty much everything one could want.
You'll find apartments in Delafield that are often within walking distance of downtown and within minutes, or just seconds, of the interstate. In fact, most Delafield rentals are within just a few minutes of I-94. Some waterfront rentals can occasionally be found in the city.
When to Look
If you want a one bedroom apartment, or if it is a studio for rent that you're looking for, it may be ideal to begin your search 4-6 weeks ahead of time. Two and three-bedroom apartments may be a little easier to locate in Delafield. However, if you're planning a move in the dead of winter, be aware that available rentals may be harder to locate. Leases are more commonly timed to begin and end during the other three seasons. Property managers don't want to wander around in the snow any more than prospective tenants do.
Be Prepared
What do you need to bring? Having a credit report, a recent pay stub and your rental history along can make the application process more straightforward. In this area, some landlords or management companies may request a modest application fee to cover their costs regarding a credit report and possible background check.
Much of the community hugs the western and southern shores of Lake Nagawicka, and this helps to define the neighborhoods of Delafield. The downtown area is well developed and very pedestrian-friendly. The area near the Highway 83 exit at I-94 is another distinct part of the community.
Downtown: The downtown area is loaded with rental opportunities. There are mature bungalows with an occasional upper or lower duplex for rent. A variety of newer complexes include two and three bedroom apartments and townhouses within easy walking distance of shops and boutiques.
East Side: A variety of townhouses and condos are located east of the downtown area near the intersection of I-94 and State Highway 83. Some side-by-side duplexes will be found in this area as well.
Southern Shore: Some rentals are found right along the shore of Lake Nagawicka, or just to the south of the lake. For example, some townhouses not right on the water may have deeded lake access for easy fishing and swimming.
Mission Ridge: Along the western shore of Lake Nagawicka one finds the Mission Ridge area. Any rentals here are primarily condominiums with attached garages and single-family homes.
The community offers a couple of distinct shopping areas. To the north of the interstate and to the east of State Highway 83 is Kohl's and a number of restaurants, like the Water Street Brewery, with its microbrewery. Just south of I-94 is Home Depot, Target and Walmart. The Delafield Brewhaus offers yet another micro-brewery, just to the east of these major outlets.
Take a Peek From the Peak
Lapham Peak State Park has a great observation tower, and those prone to bouts of vertigo need not apply. Savor the springtime buds or the autumnal foliage from atop the tower. Nagawicka Park offers a beach along the southeastern shore of Lake Nagawicka. The allure of the lake is most pronounced during those warm summer months when water skiing, sailing and fishing are very popular. In the winter, ice fisherman tow their shanties out on the ice.
Off to the Links
Nagawicka Golf Course is a county-operated layout set amidst rolling hills and an occasional water hazard. The view of Lake Nagawicka from the 15th tee is exquisite. St. John's Northwestern Military Academy maintains a quaint nine-hole layout. The only friendly fire here will arrive in the form of an wayward shot launched from an adjacent fairway.
St. John's Northwestern Military Academy draws students, grades 7-12, from across the globe. Take a quick left just to the north of the downtown area, and you may see those disciplined students outside, marching in formation.
