Shopping in Caledonia

The industrial-chic boutique specializes in denim and stocks more than 20 brands of men's and women's jeans in a variety of cuts and styles. Women can find jeans from Miss Sixty ($119–$149), Rich & Skinny ($140–$160), Diesel ($200–$220), and many more. Men can choose from Nudie ($170–$249), Diesel ($170–$180), True Religion ($215–$240), and more. If you prefer to only clothe the top half of your body, Untitled stocks an array of guys' and gals' tees, which average around $25, and button-ups that run about $50–$80. It also carries skirts and dresses from brands such as Fred Perry, Stussy, WeSc, and Fornarina.

Unlike the young fish venders and fruit sellers who in ancient times ran to the morning trade ships to view the latest fashions from across the sea, Fred Boutique is set in modern times and has plenty of trendy and affordable items for savvy ladies. Statement accessories ($8–$40) such as a chunky necklace, studded booties, or a bright patterned scarf can invigorate your pre-existing wardrobe and make a basic tee the canvas for show-stopping extras. Fred Boutique also offers tons of comfy and chic tops ($18–$60), denim ($50–$60), and jackets ($40–$70). Stop in soon to get first dibs on springy floral dresses ($60–$120) or something sparkly to wear to an upcoming wedding. Some brands Fred Boutique carries are Betsy Johnson, BCBG Max Azria, and Ella Moss, among others. This Groupon is also good for sale items.

The writers at Milwaukee Magazine mine cultural gems and scoop political stories each month to reflect the city's lifestyle and current events in 12 glossy issues. Subscribers join a community of 225,000 readers, who vicariously interview local celebrities and innovators and explore Milwaukee's boutiques and underwater speakeasies through the magazine's pages. Feature stories spotlight local gustatory delights, profile local businesses, and unpack economic issues, while arts and leisure articles hone cultural literacy and personal style.

Readertainment is aggregated annually in the City Guide and the Best of Milwaukee, a roundup that clearly distinguishes the lakefront's elite establishments. In addition to printed matter, Milwaukee Magazine is published online, where an event calendar and a blog roll herald potential trades for the Milwaukee Brewers, dispatches from the pressroom, and discoveries of fossilized bobby socks excavated from the Happy Days set.

Chalet stocks its 4.8-acre retail center with thousands of chlorophyll critters, including botanical buddies plucked from Chalet's own nursery in Salem, Wisconsin. When they're not giving plants rubdowns on the undersides of their leaves, more than 100 earthy retail employees (up to 350 seasonally) can help you pick out an African violet ($4) or a host of sprouting vegetables (starting at $3). Nab cache pots for $3 or a gurgling fountain for $40. Birdhouses made from recycled, century-old barns ($24) attract brightly fluttering worm-eaters, and a bag of soil laced with nutrients ($4) satisfies even the pickiest sprout. You can even get an outdoor chair ($99), a bag of dog food (starting at $14), and floral body lotions (starting at $9.75).

Mammoth Comics offers an extensive selection of obscure comics as well as current titles from publishers such as Top Cow, Wizard, DC Comics, and Marvel. Snag back issues ($2.50 each, or five for $10) or uncover a hidden gem to complete your neighbor’s Pineapple Man collection. Although Mammoth focuses mostly on comics, they also stock posters, cards, and action figures and statues for mild-mannered shelves. Mammoth's helpful, informed staff will also special-order more-obscure comics still in print, as well as offer recommendations.

After studying genetics at UW–Madison’s College of Agriculture, Gwen Condon opened a garden and landscaping center in the hopes of making local exteriors more beautiful and fashionable. Gwen began traveling to shows in Germany, England, and Italy in search of gifts and garden accessories. Her shop quickly grew into an inspirational garden, where customers wander paths lined with seasonal plants, from spring flowers to fall mums to winter killer tomatoes. The knowledgeable staff makes sure to clearly label each plant with lighting and water requirements.

Additionally, customers can show photography of their yards to Garden Gate Nursery staff to get tips on plants, shrubs, or trees that would thrive there. The garden tamers’ most popular service is what they call the “Please Come Stand in My Yard” consultation, a house call in which they scope yards and inspect any problem areas before sharing their ideas and recommendations.