Tucked away in Western Racine County and conveniently accessible from Milwaukee or Chicago, the communities of Waterford and Rochester offer the perfect amount of shopping and dining.
Take a look at our list of some shops where you are sure to find great gifts, and plan to spend a day or weekend in Waterford and Rochester this holiday season.
Main Street Mercantile
Shopping
In downtown Waterford, Main Street Mercantile offers a personally curated assortment of home and gift items sourced entirely from Small American Businesses. With a variety of candles, jewelry, barware, bath products, plants, and more, there is something for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Be sure to check out their brother store, Rusty's Dry Goods, located directly across the street!
This holiday season, Main Street Mercantile will have a few specials and events:
November 4 – Kick off pre-sales of the "Twelve Days of Gifts" advent calendar –12 specially selected gifts packaged in an adorable calendar box for $75.
November 11 – Veterans Day Event at Rusty's Dry Goods – 25% off purchase plus FREE gift to all veterans and their spouses.
November 25 – Black Friday specials and bounceback rewards at Main Street Mercantile and Rusty's Dry Goods.
December 6 from 4-6 p.m. – Naughty Elves Night Out at Main Street Mercantile and Rusty's Dry Goods – FREE goodie bags to the first 20 customers at each shop, FREE drinks and snacks, promotions throughout both shops, raffles, and more!
For antique enthusiasts, take a step back in time at the Waterford Unique Antique Market, which houses more than 60 vendors worth of treasures like primitives, antiques, shabby chic items, Amish chocolates, goats milk soap, local handmade candles, jewelry, barn wood furniture, vintage kitchenware, local art, handmade products, vintage trains and toys, and everything in between that showcases Western Racine County's equally unique history.
Nestled in the heart of Rochester, we suggest swinging by Fox & Fork. This cozy shop and unique hideaway offers up fun season décor, unique upcycled furniture, primitives, original antiques, and rustic country finds. Enjoy a glass of wine while you shop or schedule your next wine tasting with them by calling (263) 706-4319.
Learn about Scott Chenier, owner of Fox & Fork, on the Greater Racine County website. After years of exploring what the world had to offer, Chenier moved back home to Racine County – one of the few communities where, he says, you actually know your neighbor. He met his partner, opened his boutique store, and has enjoyed his new journey here in Racine County.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2022, New To You is a women's consignment boutique in Rochester's historic downtown district. They offer fashionable clothing at reasonable prices with current fashion trends for juniors, misses and women's sizes.
Crossover Cantina & Eatery
Dining
If you're looking for an early morning pep in your step, enjoy a fresh cup of coffee from Java Jo'z in Waterford or DW Coffee in Rochester.
For lunch or dinner in Rochester, visit Chances. Walking into Chances is a little like stepping back in time in its historic 1843 building. Homemade desserts and daily lunch specials are available.
Casual lunchtime dining is at its best at Crossover Cantina & Eatery. This newer addition to the Waterford area offers a dining menu packed with delicious authentic Tex-Mex inspired cuisine along with traditional American casual fare and a full-service bar.
If you like sports bars, you'll enjoy Spanky's Bar & Grill. This comfortable neighborhood sports bar features cool drinks, homemade thin crust pizza, fresh burgers, and wings as well as local musicians. Spanky's was voted Best of the West [of I-94] Pizza and 2nd Best Pizza in Racine County in The Journal Times 2021 Best of Racine County Awards.
Another fun option is Bruno's Restaurant, located at River City Lanes. Bruno's Restaurant is the only place in Western Racine County that offers bowling, volleyball, horseshoes, a full-service restaurant, bar, banquet center, wedding venue, party zone, and more.
For dinner, find country charm and casual culinary elegance in a beautifully restored turn of the century barn at the Cotton Exchange. Built originally in 1881, they're known for their long-standing tradition of providing unsurpassed southern cuisine and hospitality. A charming gift shop with baked goods and specialty coffees is available along with small group dining in the Silo or Cottonpatch.
If you like waterfront dining, you'll enjoy Doc's on the Fox. This casual riverfront spot has a seasonal roof deck located on the beautiful Fox River in Waterford. Try their steak or seafood with a cocktail, or their fish fry on Wednesday or Friday.
Looking for more fun? Visit our Things to Do page for everything going on in Racine County!
