How do things compare at the ‘country’ outposts of two leading city clubs?

UNIVERSITY CLUB OF MILWAUKEE

WHAT TO EXPECT: The University Club merged with Tripoli Country Club in Brown Deer, giving members access to an 18-hole golf course, five outdoor tennis courts and a 25-meter lap pool (adjacent to a faux sandy beach).

WHAT’S THE VIBE: Tartan carpeting and gold chandeliers in the Windmill Tap, but the locker rooms are the place to be; the men’s has a full bar, vaulted ceilings and wood-paneled “lockers,” while ladies host a book club in theirs.

BEST REASON TO JOIN: Pool activities, including “Flick 'N Float” nights and the annual synchronized swimming show

BE FOREWARNED: Many members are part of third-generation families, so it may be tricky to find your place.

REGULARS INCLUDE: “Wisconsin Foodie” Kyle Cherek and Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra violinist Frank Almond

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WISCONSIN CLUB

WHAT TO EXPECT: The Wisconsin Club’s “country” outpost on West Good Hope Road caters to 1,500 members with six newly refurbished tennis courts, an 18-hole golf course, dining and an outdoor pool (with a slide for kids).

WHAT’S THE VIBE: Très Francais, with vintage French posters and dark woods driving the clubhouse décor.

BEST REASON TO JOIN: Alfresco theme nights like Garden Party (everyone dresses in white; activities including cigar rolling and Cuban music)

BE FOREWARNED: Tuesday is the club’s “dog days of summer” night at The Turn, a four-sided, rotunda-like bar. (A plus or a minus, depending on your feelings towards canines.)

REGULARS INCLUDE: Former baseball commissioner Bud Selig and lawyer David Gruber