Grafton: Parks, Culture, and Hotels

Explore Grafton through a range of interests: local industrial history, recreation in parks, trails, and art. The legacy of the Milwaukee Falls Lime Company is rooted in Lime Kiln Park; other municipal parks highlight Cedar Creek and the Milwaukee River. There is also the historic Grafton Mill, the Interurban Trail, and a craft brewery. If you’re looking for a hotel in Grafton, these themes offer concrete points to consider when choosing where to stay.

Local History and Art

The 19-acre site of the Milwaukee Falls Lime Company lies mostly within Lime Kiln Park in the Village of Grafton. The company produced lime between 1890 and 1926. This links a specifically named site to a clearly defined period in local industrial history. The same park also has a 9-hole disc golf course, bringing together a historical connection and a specific recreational option.

Another cultural attraction is The Arts Mill, located in the historic Grafton Mill. It is home to more than fourteen artist studios. The studios add a glimpse of artistic work in Grafton to the area’s industrial history.

Parks Along Cedar Creek and the Milwaukee River

Grafton Lions Park offers views of Cedar Creek and kayak access to the creek. It also has a trail for bicycles and pedestrians. The park thus combines river views and water access with an opportunity to get around on foot or by bike. This sets it apart from the recreational offerings highlighted at the other parks mentioned here.

Veterans Memorial Park has a canoe and kayak launch, as well as a kayak rental station. During the winter months, visitors can also ice skate on the Milwaukee River. For planning purposes, the key seasonal distinction is that ice skating is specifically available during the winter months, while the launch and kayak rentals relate to other water activities.

Trails and Active Recreation

The Interurban Trail runs through Grafton. It is 30 miles long overall, paved, and extends the entire length of Ozaukee County. Activities mentioned include biking, hiking, jogging, cross-country skiing, and birdwatching. Its length makes it a regional trail, while its route through Grafton also makes it a local point of interest. If you’re weighing different activities, the trail offers several ways to get around in addition to the individual parks’ offerings.

The Grafton Family Aquatic Center is an outdoor swimming pool with level, step-free entry. It offers a range of classes and programs. For a trip centered on an outdoor pool visit or a class, this is a separate recreational option alongside the parks and trails.

Small-Batch Beer

Sahale Ale Works is a craft brewery in Grafton. It offers guests small-batch beers in its taproom and on the patio. This adds a culinary touch to the area’s attractions. Together, the historic sites, park offerings, trails, outdoor pool, and brewery provide a range of themes to guide your decision to visit Grafton.

Discover more destinations: Port Washington, Saukville, Cedarburg, Belgium, Mequon.

View the main travel guide: Ozaukee.