West Allis, Wisconsin

Reading Time: 9 minutes

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Geographic Coordinates: 43.006800, -88.029600

Climate: Data not available.

Population: 60220

Language: English

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West Allis is a vibrant city located in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, United States. With a population of approximately 60, 000 residents, It offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and suburban charm. Nestled just west of downtown Milwaukee, West Allis provides easy access to the bustling city while maintaining its own unique character. The city boasts a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century when it was primarily an agricultural community. As time progressed, West Allis evolved into an industrial hub with several manufacturing plants and factories.

Today, Remnants of its industrial past can still be seen in the form of historic buildings and landmarks scattered throughout the area. One of the highlights of West Allis is its vibrant local culture and sense of community. The annual Wisconsin State Fairgrounds are located here, Attracting visitors from all over the state for thrilling rides, Live entertainment acts, Mouthwatering food stands serving everything from deep-fried delicacies to local favorites like bratwursts and cheese curds. For outdoor enthusiasts or those seeking recreational activities, West Allis doesn’t disappoint either.

The Root River Parkway meanders through parts of the city offering picturesque trails for walking or biking amidst lush greenery. McCarty Park is another popular destination featuring playgrounds for children and picnic areas where families can gather for fun-filled afternoons. West Allis also hosts numerous events throughout the year that showcase its diverse cultural heritage. Polish Fest celebrates Polish culture with traditional music performances and delicious authentic cuisine while German Fest pays homage to German traditions with lively beer gardens and folk dances.

Education plays a vital role in shaping West Allis’ future as well; several highly regarded public schools serve students from kindergarten through high school years. Additionally, There are multiple colleges nearby providing opportunities for higher education within easy reach. In terms of economic development and job opportunities, West Allis has successfully transitioned into a modern economy driven by various industries such as healthcare, Manufacturing, And retail. The city’s proximity to Milwaukee ensures residents have access to a wide range of employment options.

Overall, West Allis is a dynamic city that offers the best of both worlds – the excitement of a nearby metropolitan area combined with the charm and community spirit of a smaller town. With its rich history, Diverse cultural events, Beautiful parks, And strong educational system, It’s no wonder that West Allis continues to attract residents who seek a high quality of life in an engaging environment.

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1. Wisconsin State Fair Park: This expansive fairgrounds host the annual Wisconsin State Fair, one of the largest state fairs in the United States. The fair offers a variety of entertainment including concerts, carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and food vendors.
2. Pettit National Ice Center: Known as one of the finest ice skating facilities in the world, this Olympic training center offers public skating sessions and hosts various speed skating competitions throughout the year.
3. Milwaukee Mile: Located within Wisconsin State Fair Park, this historic racetrack is one of America’s oldest operating racetracks. It has hosted numerous motorsport events including NASCAR and IndyCar races.
4. West Allis Farmers Market: Established in 1919, this vibrant farmers market provides a wide range of fresh produce from local farmers as well as flowers and other goods.
5. West Allis Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that highlight West Allis’ history and culture through various eras.
6. Greenfield Park & Golf Course: Situated adjacent to West Allis near Milwaukee County Zoo, Greenfield Park features beautiful green spaces for picnicking or leisurely walks along with an 18-hole golf course for golf enthusiasts.
7. Hank Aaron State Trail: Named after baseball legend Hank Aaron who grew up in Milwaukee County (which includes West Allis), this scenic trail spans over 12 miles and connects downtown Milwaukee to Lake Michigan while passing through beautiful landscapes along its route.
8. Veterans Memorial Plaza at Candy Cane Park: A tribute to veterans who have served their country; it features memorials honoring those who fought in different wars throughout American history.

These are just some of the notable landmarks and attractions found in West Allis that draw tourists from both within and outside the city.

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1. Manufacturing: West Allis has a strong manufacturing sector, with companies involved in various industries such as machinery, metal fabrication, food processing, and automotive parts.
2. Health Care: The healthcare industry is significant in West Allis, with several hospitals, medical centers, clinics, and nursing homes providing employment opportunities.
3. Retail: There are numerous retail establishments in West Allis ranging from small local shops to larger chain stores. These include grocery stores, clothing boutiques, home improvement stores, and more.
4. Food and Beverage: The city has a diverse food scene with many restaurants offering different cuisines. Additionally, there are breweries and bars that contribute to the local economy.
5. Education: West Allis is home to several educational institutions such as schools and colleges which provide employment opportunities for educators and staff members.
6. Professional Services: Various professional services like legal firms, accounting firms, and consulting agencies operate within the city serving both local businesses and individuals.
7. Construction: Construction companies are prominent in West Allis due to ongoing infrastructure development projects including residential buildings as well as commercial properties.
8. Financial Services: Banks and credit unions provide financial services to residents of West Allis while also contributing to the local economy through job creation.
9. Transportation & Logistics: Given its location near Milwaukee’s major transportation routes (such as Interstate 94), there are logistics companies operating warehouses or distribution centers within the city limits.
10. Technology & Innovation: The technology sector is growing in importance with IT services providers offering software development solutions or tech support for businesses located both locally or nationally.

These industries contribute significantly to the economic growth of West Allis by providing employment opportunities for its residents while also attracting investment into the area.

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1. Settlement and Incorporation: West Allis was originally settled in the mid-19th century by farmers attracted to the fertile land. It was officially incorporated as a village in 1902 and later as a city in 1906.
2. Allis-Chalmers: The city’s name is derived from Edward P. Allis, who founded the Allis-Chalmers Manufacturing Company in 1901. The company became one of the largest manufacturers of industrial equipment, including tractors and machinery.
3. Wisconsin State Fair: West Allis has been hosting the Wisconsin State Fair since 1892 at its fairgrounds, attracting thousands of visitors annually to enjoy agricultural exhibits, entertainment shows, carnival rides, and food.
4. Notable People:
   • Liberace (1919-1987): Born in West Allis as Wladziu Valentino Liberace, he became an internationally renowned pianist and entertainer known for his flamboyant performances.
   • Steve Miller (born 1943): The famous rock musician known for hits like The Joker grew up in West Allis.
   • Don Ameche (1908-1993): Ameche was an Academy Award-winning actor who starred in movies such as Cocoon and The Story of Alexander Graham Bell. He was born in Kenosha but grew up partly in West Allis.
5. Milwaukee Mile: Located within West Allis at Wisconsin State Fair Park is the Milwaukee Mile racetrack, which opened back in 1903 making it one of America’s oldest operating motorsport venues.
6. Brewing Heritage: Like much of Wisconsin, brewing played a significant role in West Allis’ history with breweries like O’Brien Brothers Brewery being established in the late 19th century.

These are just a few notable historical events and people associated with West Allis, showcasing its industrial heritage, cultural contributions, and significance within the state of Wisconsin.

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1. West Allis Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the history and heritage of West Allis, featuring exhibits on local industries, notable residents, and community life.
2. Wisconsin State Fair Park: Located in West Allis, this fairground hosts the annual Wisconsin State Fair, offering a variety of entertainment options including concerts, agricultural displays, amusement rides, and delicious food.
3. Pettit National Ice Center: A world-class ice skating facility that has hosted numerous international competitions. Visitors can enjoy public skating sessions or watch athletes train on the Olympic-sized rink.
4. The Milwaukee Mile: Located within the Wisconsin State Fair Park grounds, this historic racetrack is one of the oldest operating speedways in the world. It has hosted various motorsports events throughout its long history.
5. Greenfield Park & Golf Course: This beautiful park offers serene walking trails around a scenic lake as well as an 18-hole golf course for enthusiasts to enjoy.
6. Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum: Although not located directly in West Allis (about 10 miles away), this museum is worth a visit for art lovers interested in decorative arts and Renaissance-style architecture. The museum houses an extensive collection of fine and decorative arts from different periods.
7. Milwaukee County Zoo: Situated adjacent to West Allis city limits (around 7 miles away), this zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing various species from around the world. Visitors can explore exhibits such as Big Cat Country, Aquatic & Reptile Center or take a ride on their famous Safari Train.
8. Mitchell Gallery of Flight: Located near General Mitchell International Airport (around 6 miles away), this aviation-themed gallery showcases historical aircraft models along with artifacts related to aviation history in Milwaukee County.

These are just a few examples of places to visit near or within West Allis that offer diverse experiences ranging from history and culture to sports and nature.

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1. Milwaukee Mile Racing Circuit: The Milwaukee Mile is an iconic racetrack located in West Allis. It opened in 1903 and has a rich history of hosting various motorsports events, including IndyCar races and NASCAR series. It remains one of the oldest operating race tracks in the world.
2. West Allis Hale High School Athletics: Nathan Hale High School is known for its athletic programs across various sports. The school’s teams have had success in basketball, baseball, football, wrestling, track and field, soccer, volleyball, and more.
3. West Allis Central High School Athletics: Another prominent high school in West Allis is Central High School with a strong athletic tradition. Their teams compete in multiple sports such as basketball, football, baseball/softball, wrestling, among others.
4. Brewcity Bruisers Roller Derby: The Brewcity Bruisers are a women’s flat-track roller derby league based out of West Allis since 2005. They participate in regional and national competitions while promoting athleticism and empowerment through roller derby.
5. District 6 Little League Baseball: District 6 Little League encompasses several youth baseball leagues within the area of West Allis, providing opportunities for young athletes to learn and play baseball at different levels.

These are just a few examples of sports teams with their respective histories associated with West Allis; there may be other local or amateur-level teams that exist within the community as well.

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1. West Allis A La Carte: This annual event takes place in downtown West Allis and features a variety of food vendors, live music, arts and crafts, and family-friendly activities.
2. Wisconsin State Fair: Although not exclusive to West Allis, the Wisconsin State Fair is held at the fairgrounds in West Allis every summer. It is one of the largest state fairs in the United States and offers a wide range of entertainment options including live music performances, agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, food vendors, and more.
3. Harvest Fest: Held during the fall season at Greenfield Park in West Allis, Harvest Fest celebrates autumn with activities such as pumpkin carving contests, hayrides, live music performances, food trucks serving seasonal treats like apple cider donuts or caramel apples.
4. St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes place on Greenfield Avenue in downtown West Allis each March. The parade features Irish dancers, bagpipers marching bands from local schools and organizations.
5. Independence Day Celebration: Every year on July 4th, there is an Independence Day Celebration held at Veterans’ Memorial Park featuring fireworks displays along with live music performances by local bands.
6. Polish Fest: While not directly located in West Allis (it takes place nearby at Henry Maier Festival Park), Polish Fest is an annual festival celebrating Polish culture with traditional food stands serving pierogi or kielbasa sausage dishes alongside folk dancing groups showcasing their talents.
7. Western Days Rodeo & Country Music Festival: This event brings together country music enthusiasts for a weekend filled with rodeo competitions like bull riding or barrel racing while also offering live country music performances by popular artists.

Please note that these events may be subject to change or cancellation due to various factors such as weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. It is always recommended to check the official websites or local event listings for the most up-to-date information.

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• West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe – Known for its wide selection of Wisconsin cheeses, sausages, and gourmet foods.
• Johnny V’s Classic Cafe – A family-owned restaurant offering American comfort food like burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast dishes.
• Crawdaddy’s Roadhouse – Specializes in Cajun and Creole cuisine with dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, po’boys, and crawfish boils.
• The Farmer’s Wife – A farm-to-table restaurant serving seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
• Urban Joe Cafe & Bar – A cozy cafe offering a variety of coffee drinks along with breakfast and lunch options.
• Mr. B’s Steakhouse – A classic steakhouse known for its prime cuts of beef cooked to perfection.
• West Allis Fish Market & Restaurant – Offers a variety of fresh seafood options including fish fry specials on Fridays.
• El Fuego Mexican Restaurante & Cantina – Serves authentic Mexican cuisine such as tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and margaritas.

These are just a few examples of the many dining options available in West Allis that showcase the local flavors and culinary traditions of the area.

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1. McCarty Park: This park offers various amenities such as walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields.
2. Honey Creek Park: It features a large playground area, open spaces for picnics, and a baseball diamond.
3. Greenfield Park: Located adjacent to West Allis, this park offers a golf course, tennis courts, picnic areas, hiking trails around the lagoon, and an outdoor swimming pool.
4. LaFollette Park: This neighborhood park has basketball courts, a playground area for kids of all ages, open green spaces for picnics or playing sports.
5. Reservoir Park: It provides scenic views of the water reservoir along with walking paths and benches to relax.
6. Cool Waters Aquatic Park: A popular spot during summer months with water slides pools for all ages including a lazy river and splash pad.
7. Wisconsin State Fair Park: Hosts the annual Wisconsin State Fair along with other events throughout the year like concerts and trade shows.
8. Root River Parkway Trail: A beautiful trail that runs through West Allis offering opportunities for biking or walking along the Root River.
9. Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes): Located nearby in Milwaukee but worth mentioning as it houses three distinct domes showcasing different climates with exotic plants from around the world.

These are just some examples of public parks and recreational activities available in West Allis; there may be additional options depending on specific interests or preferences.

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