Where Music Meets Art on Every Corner — Discover It With Us!
Downtown Waukesha isn’t just a place—it’s a living, breathing tribute to music and creativity. From the murals on the walls to the painted guitars on the sidewalks, art and music aren’t just appreciated here—they’re part of the city’s identity. And there’s no better way to experience that creative energy than by exploring downtown, soaking in the sights and sounds, and joining us for an evening of painting inside our cozy paint and sip studio on Main Street.
Home of the “Wizard of Waukesha”
Waukesha proudly honors its most famous son: Les Paul, the guitar legend and inventor whose innovations changed the course of music. Known worldwide as the “Wizard of Waukesha,” Les Paul invented the solid-body electric guitar and pioneered multi-track recording—two breakthroughs that shaped modern music as we know it.
His legacy is everywhere downtown—not just in museums or plaques, but in the vibrant art that decorates our streets. Walking through Waukesha is like walking through a celebration of music history, and it sets the perfect mood for a night of artistic inspiration.
Giant Painted Guitars & Murals That Rock
One of the most iconic sights downtown is the series of giant fiberglass guitars, each uniquely painted by local artists. These oversized sculptures are spread throughout the city as part of the “Les Paul GuitarTown” public art project. Each one tells a different story, blending visual art with musical legacy—and they make for some amazing photo ops!
In addition to the guitars, downtown Waukesha is bursting with murals, statues, and street art, many of which pay tribute to music, creativity, and community. These pieces aren’t just decorations—they’re a reflection of the city’s soul. From colorful alleyways to brick walls transformed into canvases, Waukesha invites everyone to experience art in everyday life.
Be a Part of the Art
If wandering through Waukesha’s art scene leaves you inspired, come be part of the creative energy at our paint and sip studio, located right in the heart of the action—inside the historic Metropolitan Building on Main Street, just steps from Stage 1 and Divino’s Gelato.
Our studio celebrates the same spirit that drives the murals and guitars—art that’s for everyone, not just professionals. Whether you’re an experienced painter or just looking for a fun night out, we’ll guide you step-by-step as you create your own masterpiece—while sipping wine or a mocktail, of course.
Make Your Mark in Waukesha
Every Friday night during Friday Night Live, downtown transforms into a festival of music, food, and community. But even outside of the festival, Waukesha is a destination for lovers of the arts. So take your time. Wander. Admire the murals. Snap a photo with a guitar. And when you’re ready to let that inspiration flow—we’re here with a paintbrush waiting for you.
Come celebrate the arts in the city that helped invent modern music. Paint. Sip. Be inspired. That’s the Waukesha way.
Learn more about Les Paul here:
https://www.les-paul.com/a-tour-of-les-pauls-hometown/