Things To Do
in St. Francis
St. Francis sits on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, just a short drive from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This tree-lined community blends small-town charm with easy access to urban amenities and lakefront recreation. The area offers a relaxed pace, marina views, and a strong sense of neighborhood pride. With convenient highways and nearby attractions, St.
Francis serves as a comfortable base for exploring the Milwaukee area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in St. Francis and check into your cozy accommodation. Start the day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, enjoying some of the freshest ingredients the area has to offer. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around the town to get a feel for its charm and history.
Visit the community center to learn about St. Francis' history and participate in any ongoing events. Grab lunch at a family-owned café, sampling local specialties. Spend the afternoon hiking on nearby trails that reveal stunning views of the landscape.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can unwind while watching the sunset. As night falls, check out any local music events or gatherings happening in town to immerse yourself in the community vibe. Top off the evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading out for a day of adventure. Rent bicycles and explore the stunning nature trails that wind through the gorgeous surroundings. Take in the breathtaking views and keep an eye out for local wildlife.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic spot along the trail, surrounded by the beauty of nature. After lunch, continue your ride or, if you're feeling adventurous, try out kayaking on a nearby lake for some water fun. The afternoon is also perfect for visiting local parks where you can relax and soak in the sun.
Return to town for a casual dinner at a renowned barbecue joint, savoring delicious smoked meats. After dinner, take a stroll through the local art district, exploring galleries and street art that showcase the creativity of the region. Wrap up the night with dessert from a local bakery that has been a favorite among residents.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $900-1400 |
| 🛒Groceries for one person per week | $40-70 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Milwaukee and Lake Michigan
- Safe, family friendly neighborhoods
- Good access to parks and outdoor activities
- Relaxed, small-town feel near a big city
- Limited nightlife within St. Francis itself
- Smaller shopping and dining scene than Milwaukee
- Public transit options can be limited without Milwaukee connections
Places to Visit in St. Francis
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide horizon views, sunsets, and a sense of openness ideal for landscape photography.
Colorful boats, reflections on calm water, and morning light for maritime shots.
Scenic vantage point with lake views and grassy overlooks for sunset silhouettes.
Charmingly preserved storefronts and midcentury architecture perfect for street photography.
City skyline, water, and bridges offering dramatic evening cityscapes.
Food in St. Francis
St. Francis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy, lightly battered fish served with potato wedges, coleslaw, and tartar sauce at lakefront pubs.
Must-Try!
Fresh or lightly fried curds, a classic local snack often enjoyed with dipping sauces.
Juicy bratwurst served with sauerkraut or onions on a bun, a staple at many diners and pubs.
A hearty sandwich featuring beer battered fish, lettuce, and tartar sauce, popular at casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with fresh produce, regional cheeses, baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats.
Indoor market with a variety of vendors offering artisanal foods, snacks, and coffee.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time for appointments and events is appreciated in social and professional settings.
A simple greeting or handshake is common when meeting new people; small talk is typical in casual settings.
Respect residential quiet hours and keep noise considerate, especially in apartment buildings and evenings.
Safety
Tipping in St. Francis
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard 15-20% in restaurants; round up at bars; tip housekeeping in hotels; tipping customs are appreciated but not mandatory in casual venues.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with humidity, long daylight hours, and thriving outdoor events. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection; occasional thunderstorms can roll in from the lake.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage along the lakefront. Great for hiking and outdoor dining; nights can chill quickly.
Cold with lake effect snow and wind from the lake. Dress in layers, wear sturdy footwear, and plan for potentially icy conditions.
Cool to mild with rain showers and blooming landscapes. Bring a lightweight waterproof layer and enjoy early seasonal activities.
St. Francis at Night
Hiking in St. Francis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails in the Kettle Moraine area with scenic overlooks.
Forest and lakefront trails with water views.
Extensive network of hiking and biking trails through glacial terrain.
Airports
How to reach St. Francis by plane.
Milwaukee's main international airport, about 20 miles from St. Francis, with domestic and international flights.
Major hub in nearby Chicago, about 75-90 miles from St. Francis, useful for international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in the quiet residential neighborhoods surrounding the lakefront.
A portion of residents are retirees attracted by the peaceful pace and proximity to Milwaukee.
Commuters who work in Milwaukee look for affordable housing near the lake.
Diverse communities with roots from Poland, Italy, and other parts of Europe influence local culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Milwaukee Brewers games are a staple in the region, with home games at American Family Field in nearby Milwaukee.
Support for the Milwaukee Bucks and local college teams; many casual courts around the area.
Local and regional hockey culture with semi-pro teams and youth leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Francis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer meatless options such as salads, pastas, veggie burgers, and veggie-forward entrees. If in doubt, ask for vegetable-based dishes or pasta with vegetable toppings and request no meat stock or gelatin.