Hales Corners, WI

Hales Corners, Wisconsin is a village located in Milwaukee County. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, notably the Menominee, Fox, and Potawatomi. European settlement of the area began in the early 19th century.

The first recorded European settler in the Hales Corners area was Richard H. Hales, who arrived in 1837 and established a farm. The land was dense with forests, and the settlers relied heavily on the timber industry to support their livelihoods. This led to the establishment of sawmills and the logging of vast amounts of timber.

In 1839, a post office was established under the name "Hales Corners," after Richard Hales. The community slowly grew, with more settlers arriving and establishing farms. By the mid-1800s, Hales Corners had a school, churches, and a general store.

In the late 19th century, the advent of the railroad contributed to the growth of Hales Corners. The Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway extended its line to Hales Corners in 1882, providing better transportation options for both residents and businesses. This allowed for further development and an increase in population.

Throughout the early to mid-20th century, Hales Corners continued to grow and develop as a primarily agricultural community. Dairy farms, orchards, and other agricultural ventures were prevalent in the area. By the 1950s, Hales Corners had established a reputation as a peaceful and desirable suburban community.

In the latter part of the 20th century, the village experienced significant residential and commercial growth. The population increased, and suburban housing developments were built to accommodate the growing demand. Hales Corners also saw the construction of shopping centers and other commercial facilities.

One notable landmark in Hales Corners is Boerner Botanical Gardens, located within Whitnall Park. The gardens were established in 1933 as a project of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the Great Depression. It has since become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, known for its beautiful floral displays and horticultural exhibits.

Today, Hales Corners is a thriving suburban community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. It still retains its small-town charm while conveniently being situated near the city of Milwaukee. The village's rich history and the hard work of its early settlers have helped shape Hales Corners into the vibrant community it is today.

Boerner Botanical Gardens

A beautiful and serene garden with various themed areas, including a rose garden, herb garden, and a tropical dome.

Whitnall Park

A large park with walking and biking trails, picnic areas, golf courses, and a nature center.

Wehr Nature Center

Located within Whitnall Park, it offers educational programs, hiking trails, and interactive exhibits that showcase the local flora and fauna.

Trainfest

An annual event held at the Wisconsin State Fair Park, featuring model trains, exhibits, demonstrations, and entertainment for train enthusiasts of all ages.

Hales Corners Speedway

A quarter-mile asphalt oval racetrack that hosts various auto racing events during the summer months.

Parkway Lanes

A bowling alley that offers both traditional and cosmic bowling, as well as an arcade and snack bar.

Hales Corners Park and Pool

A community park with a swimming pool, playground, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, and picnic areas.

Leff's Lucky Town

A popular sports bar and grill known for its extensive beer selection, menu of pub food, and frequent live music performances.

Whitnall Beer Garden

A seasonal beer garden located within Whitnall Park, serving a selection of local craft beers and snacks in a picturesque outdoor setting.

Whitnall Edge Trail

A scenic hiking and biking trail that connects several parks in the Hales Corners area, offering beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

Hales Corners, Wisconsin, has a continental climate. It experiences all four seasons, with warm summers and cold winters.

Summers in Hales Corners are generally warm and humid. Average temperatures in July, the warmest month, range from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s°F (30s°C) during heatwaves. Hales Corners receives a moderate amount of rainfall during the summer months, which helps maintain the lush greenery in the area.

Winters in Hales Corners are cold and snowy. Average temperatures in January, the coldest month, range from 14°F to 29°F (-10°C to -2°C). Snowfall is common during the winter season, with an average annual snowfall of about 47 inches (119 cm). The presence of the Great Lakes in the region can influence the climate, leading to occasional lake-effect snowfall.

Spring and autumn in Hales Corners are transitional seasons, characterized by mild temperatures. Spring sees a gradual warming up from the chilly winter, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 16°C). Autumn starts with warm temperatures and gradually transitions to cooler weather, averaging between 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 16°C) in October.

Overall, Hales Corners experiences a moderate climate with distinct seasonal variations. It allows residents to enjoy the beauty of each season, from colorful fall foliage to snowy winter landscapes and warm, sunny summers.

Hales Corners is a small village located in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin. Although Hales Corners itself is a relatively small area, it is surrounded by a number of neighborhoods that offer different characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in and around Hales Corners:

Hales Corners Village

This is the main neighborhood within Hales Corners. It is characterized by its small-town charm, well-maintained homes, and a mix of residential and commercial areas. The village is known for its strong sense of community and its annual events such as the Hales Corners Days festival.

Thornapple Estates

Located to the west of Hales Corners Village, Thornapple Estates is a residential neighborhood that offers a mix of single-family homes. The area is known for its quiet streets and well-established properties, making it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a peaceful and suburban atmosphere.

Whitnall Park

Located south of Hales Corners, Whitnall Park is a large recreational area that offers various amenities and activities. The park includes a golf course, nature trails, picnic areas, athletic fields, and the popular Boerner Botanical Gardens. The surrounding neighborhoods mainly consist of single-family homes and provide a suburban feel with easy access to nature.

Grange Avenue

Located east of Hales Corners Village, Grange Avenue is a neighborhood that mainly consists of single-family homes. It is known for its tree-lined streets and well-maintained properties. This area offers a suburban setting with easy access to the village's amenities and major roadways.

Forest Ridge

Adjacent to the Whitnall Park area, Forest Ridge is another residential neighborhood. It is known for its larger and more modern homes, often surrounded by wooded areas. The neighborhood provides a suburban feel and convenient access to nearby parks and natural surroundings.

Overall, the neighborhoods in and around Hales Corners offer a diverse range of housing options, amenities, and community atmospheres. Whether you prefer a small-town feel, suburban comfort, or proximity to recreational areas, Hales Corners and its surrounding areas have something to offer for various preferences.