Waukesha County, Wisconsin
Waukesha County, Wisconsin is located just west of Milwaukee and is the gateway to Wisconsin's Lake Country. The county is known for its beautiful lakes, scenic landscapes, luxury lake homes, and working farms. The Fox River Valley flows through Waukesha County, adding to its natural beauty and outdoor appeal.
The City of Waukesha is the county's largest city and features a lively downtown with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Visitors also enjoy exploring Oconomowoc and Delafield, two charming towns known for their lakes, historic downtowns, and welcoming atmosphere.
Outdoor lovers can hike, bike, and camp in Kettle Moraine State Forest, one of the best outdoor destinations in Wisconsin. Waukesha County is also known as the hometown of Les Paul, the inventor of the electric guitar. With its parks, lakes, local attractions, and friendly communities, Waukesha County is one of the best places to visit in southeastern Wisconsin.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Waukesha County |
| County Seat | Waukesha |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Waukesha, Brookfield, New Berlin, Muskego, Oconomowoc |
| Interstates and Highways | I-94, I-41, WI-16, WI-59 |
| Etymology | Named after the Potawatomi word for “fox” or “little fox” |
| FIPS Code | 55-133 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 581 sq mi (Land: 556 sq mi; Water: 25 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Coordinates | 43.0117° N, 88.2315° W |
| Major Landmarks | Waukesha County Fairgrounds, Fox Brook Park, Retzer Nature Center |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Washington County (North), Ozaukee County (Northeast), Milwaukee County (East), Racine County (Southeast), Walworth County (Southwest), Jefferson County (West), Dodge County (Northwest) |
| Population | Approximately 415,000 |
PHYSICAL MAP
Waukesha County Topographic Map
Waukesha County features gently rolling terrain shaped by ancient glaciers along the eastern edge of the Kettle Moraine. The county’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, wooded ridges, scenic lakes, and fertile valleys rather than steep mountains. These glacial landforms have influenced local development, created the region’s many lakes, and make Waukesha County one of the most scenic destinations in southeastern Wisconsin.
TRANSPORTATION MAP
Waukesha County Road Map
Interstate 94 is the primary east-west highway running through northern Waukesha County, providing convenient access to Milwaukee, Madison, and surrounding communities. A network of state highways and local roads connects the county’s cities, towns, business districts, parks, and lakes, making travel easy for residents and visitors. Use the interactive map below to explore Waukesha County’s highways, roads, and nearby attractions.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Waukesha County Satellite Map
The satellite view of Waukesha County showcases a diverse landscape that blends urban development with natural beauty. The eastern portion of the county is dominated by residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, and major road networks, while the western area features scenic green spaces, forests, and numerous lakes. Prominent bodies of water such as Pewaukee Lake and Nagawicka Lake are easily visible, highlighting the county's reputation as part of Wisconsin's Lake Country.
OUTLINE MAP
Waukesha County Blank Map
Waukesha County has a nearly square shape and is located in southeastern Wisconsin, just west of Milwaukee County. It shares borders with Milwaukee, Washington, Dodge, Jefferson, Walworth, and Racine counties, making it an important part of the Milwaukee metropolitan area. Since Waukesha County is entirely within Wisconsin, it does not border any state lines.
Wisconsin County Maps
Wisconsin County Map
Wisconsin is known for its beer, cheese, and proud traditions, but the state’s 72 counties offer far more than familiar stereotypes. From the scenic shorelines of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior to sprawling dairy farms, dense forests, rolling bluffs, and picturesque river valleys, Wisconsin features an incredible variety of landscapes and communities.Each county has its own unique character, history, and attractions.