Travelers heading east toward Milwaukee along I-94 know that when they pass Delafield, they're almost there. But zipping past this town of 6,800 is a mistake. It has a wealth of natural resources at its fingertips, including the popular Lapham Peak, Nagawicka Lake, and Upper and Lower Nemahbin Lakes. Much of its downtown was created by Robert Lang, head of Lang Co. -- you know, makers of those über-popular folk art calendars -- so it's a pretty place to stroll around. Great dining options abound. And the shopping's pretty good, too. Get off at the nearest exit.
Ski the loops
You can't beat the Nordic skiing at Lapham Peak in the Kettle Moraine State Forest, a minute or two south of town on County Road C. The park features 17 miles of loop trails from easy to advanced, along with a 2.5-mile lighted loop for beautiful evening jaunts (Monday-Saturday until 10 p.m.). The trails are groomed for both classic and skate-style skiing, and a local ski club offers lessons. Not a skier? Five miles of hiking and snowshoeing trails lie across the road. Trail condition hot line: 1-262-646-4421.
The Bob Lang connection
Lang founded his business in Delafield in 1982 to produce a folk art wall calendar containing beautiful pictures on canvas-like paper. An instant hit, it was followed by other themed calendars, displayed in handsome wooden frames. The company went on to create a variety of Americana-themed products. Lang also redeveloped a chunk of downtown Delafield, creating a picturesque colonial American-styled cluster of retail, residential and office space. And, yes, a Lang shop. Although the store recently closed, two local boutiques carry Lang goods.
Shop 'til you drop
You can easily spend a day wandering through Delafield's specialty shops. Knitters love Knitch, which carries a wide selection of top-quality yarns, accessories, patterns, books and more (608 Milwaukee St.; 1-262-646-9392; www.knitch.net). Over at the Surrey Art House, more than 20 regional artists create the shop's goods: paintings, soap, jewelry and pottery by Jessie, which Rachael Ray has used in her cooking show (638 Milwaukee St.; 1-262-745-2682). Bittersweet features Lang products, Vera Bradley bags, and more (609 Milwaukee St.; 1-262-646-7090). Head for the Hidden Staircase if you'd like to find a children's book; the store specializes in classic kids' books, both new and out-of-print. It's also America's top seller of the whimsical M.A. Hadley pottery, and carries Lang address books and journals (525 Milwaukee St.; 1-800-869-7844). For unique, brightly colored jewelry, scarves and handbags, check out Bangles & Bags (611 Main St.; 1-262-646-4534).
Headed for the spotlight
