The village of Greendale is known for its rich history and beautiful green spaces. It is a favorite small town to visit, as well as to work and live in. 

It was founded in 1936 as part of President Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal after the Great Depression and is one of three "Greenbelt" communities in the country. Using the 'garden city' model, the community was developed so that residents could easily walk to shared green spaces, jobs and the downtown area. The goal was to provide much-needed jobs and better housing.

The Greendale village center is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places.

Throughout the year there are various events and celebrations held in  Greendale including a Fourth of July parade and fireworks, a green market, concerts at the gazebo, walking tours, Village Days in August, Hay Days in October and the 'Dickens of a Christmas' holiday event in December.   

During the summer months, there are over 40,000 flowers planted along the downtown streets in beds, boxes and hanging planters. Sidewalk eateries offer the chance to sit and enjoy the scenery and over two dozen shoppes and boutiques offer visitors a variety of shopping opportunities. A children's playground is located just off Broad Street.    

Where: Greendale is easy to find, just south of Milwaukee County off the I-894 bypass. Find a map and directions on the village website.  

When: Open year-round. Business hours for shops vary. Visitors Center is open 9 a.m. - 5.p.m. and during the summer until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. For more information, visit http://www.discovergreendale.com/ 

How much: Plenty of free parking available. Twenty-six unique shops and restaurants are located in the village. 

Special treat: Be sure to stop by Ferch's Malt Shoppe and Grille to discover an old-fashion ice cream parlour and soda fountain. Indoor and outdoor diining is available. Offers custom-mixed frozen custard flavors as well as a full menu of sandwiches, wraps, salads and grilled specialties.

See all the Gas Tank Getaways