Beer, brats, cheese and a Great Lake, when you think of Milwaukee, chances are these are the first things to come to mind. And while it’s certainly true that we Milwaukeeans have a penchant for our brews and local dairy products, there is so much more in this great city waiting to be explored. From spacious historic parks and a vibrant local sports scene to delicious foodie offerings and adorable shops and boutiques, Milwaukee, while often overshadowed by Chicago to its south, is totally worth a visit.
Thinking about making Cream City your next Midwest escape? These tips from a local will help you get started.
A Brief Overview of Milwaukee Neighborhoods
Shorewood
A charming village in Milwaukee County, Shorewood borders Milwaukee’s East Side to its south and Whitefish Bay to its north. The neighborhood is a mix of residential housing, small businesses and popular retailers — including MetroMarket and Culver’s —, many of which are found along the main drag on North Oakland Ave. Local recommendations for this area include grabbing a drink at Camp Bar, spending an afternoon at Atwater Park and enjoying dinner or a coffee at one of the many local restaurants.
The East Side
Divided into “upper” and “lower” portions, Milwaukee’s East Side is an expansive neighborhood with popular attractions like the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, bustling Brady Street and beautiful Lake Park. Locals and visitors enjoy unparalleled views of Lake Michigan with quick access to lakefront attractions like Bradford Beach, Veterans Park and Lake Park. Local recommendations for this area include devouring a late-night slice at Ian’s Pizza, making the most of fleeting summer days with a bike ride on the Oak Leaf Trail and watching a movie at the Oriental Theater.
Riverwest
Situated west of the Milwaukee River, Riverwest is bordered by the East Side to its east and Bronzville to its west. This unique neighborhood is filled to the brim with craft breweries, cycling enthusiasts and charming dive bars giving it a “hipster” reputation. Local recommendations for this area include sampling beers from local breweries like Amorphic and Black Husky, visiting iconic bars and restaurants like Art Bar, Two and Cafe Corazon and participating in the Riverwest24, a 24-hour bike ride the last full weekend of July.
Bronzeville
Comprising of areas like Haymarket, Brewers Hill, Harambee, Halyard Park, Schiltz Park and the Bronzeville Cultural Arts and Entertainment District, Bronzeville once acted as a mecca for Black businesses and entertainment before the community was displaced in the 1960s due to highway construction. Today, Black business owners and creatives are reclaiming their history through new attractions like museums, restaurants and shops. Recommendations from a local include learning something new at America’s Black Holocaust Museum, embarking on a flavorful journey at Dead Bird Brewing and browsing handcrafted goods at The Bronzeville Collective MKE.
Wauwatosa
Referred to by locals simply as “Tosa,” Wauwatosa is a trendy neighborhood west of downtown Milwaukee. This region boasts convenient access to I-41, and visitors will find popular attractions like the Milwaukee County Zoo and Mayfair Mall in addition to cozy spots like the Tosa Village — with its abundance of bars and restaurants — and sprawling green spaces like Hoyt and Hansen Parks. Recommendations from a local include exploring colorful murals, sinking your teeth into an iconic treat at Cranky Al’s and supporting small shops and boutiques.
West Allis
Home to Wisconsin State Fair Park, West Allis is bordered by Wauwatosa to its north and Walker’s Point to its east. Close to American Family Field, this part of Milwaukee is popular among fans of the Brewers who will find no shortage of convenient spots to fuel up before a game on Miller Parkway. Recommendations from a local include trying a new brew at Perspective Brewing Co., embracing Wisconsin’s German roots at Kegel’s Inn and spending a morning at the West Allis Farmers Market.
Walker’s Point
Popular for its nightlife, restaurants and LGBTQ+-friendly vibes, Walker’s Point is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood southwest of Milwaukee’s trendy Third Ward. Here, visitors can enjoy views of Milwaukee’s Harbor, hop aboard a peddle tavern or get creeped out on a ghost tour at Shakers, Milwaukee’s haunted bar. Recommendations from a local include dining at Zocalo food truck park, grabbing a drink at Boone + Crocket and visiting Don’s TV & Repair Speakeasy for a decadent adult milkshake.
Downtown
Home to Fiserv Forum, the Milwaukee Public Museum and several theaters and arenas, downtown Milwaukee is a hub for fun and entertainment. Whether they spend time exploring the abundant bars and eateries, catch a basketball game in the Deer District or head toward the lake to visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, there’s always something going on downtown. Recommendations from a local include posing by the Bronz Fonz along the Milwaukee River, enjoying an Edelweiss cruise in the summer and visiting 3rd St Market Hall.
The Third Ward
Located just south of Milwaukee’s major lakefront attractions like the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Summerfest grounds, the Third Ward emits a big city feel with its artsy turquoise light fixtures, swanky boutiques and shops and excellent walkability. The neighborhood is a hit among tourists and locals alike, especially the popular Milwaukee Public Market. Recommendations from a local include riding The Hop (Milwaukee’s free-to-ride streetcar), taking a stroll along the riverwalk and playing pickleball at the courts beneath the interstate.
Bayview
A quick drive across the city’s iconic Hoan Bridge (794) will take visitors to Bayview, a quirky neighborhood where locals joke hipsters go to retire. As such, travelers can expect no shortage of cozy restaurants and bars, one-of-a-kind boutiques and eclectic shops, many of which line Kinnickkinnick Ave, Bayview’s main drag. Recommendations from a local include starting a night out at bars like the Sugar Maple, the Mothership and At Random, looking for your next great gift at shops like Sparrow Collective and taking a quick drive to nearby South Shore Park.
Getting Around
As a mid-size city, getting around Milwaukee is fairly easy. However, the area is predominantly car-dependent, so visitors looking to cover lots of ground will want to either rent a car from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) or plan to utilize ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft. Alternatively, visitors planning to stay near the lakefront or in one specific neighborhood can take advantage of bikeable streets and the Oak Leaf Trail which connects a variety of Milwaukee County Parks to the lakefront and beyond.
For a quick day trip to Chicago, Milwaukee offers convenient access to two Amtrak stations — one downtown at the Milwaukee Intermodal Station (MKE) and one that boards at the airport (MKA). From the Milwaukee Intermodal Station, visitors also have the option to explore neighboring parts of Wisconsin via regularly scheduled buses operated by Amtrak.
By the Seasons
It’s no secret, the weather in Milwaukee can be a rollercoaster. From seemingly endless winters that stretch into April to hot and muggy summers that will have you reaching for the A/C, Wisconsin’s Fresh Coast keeps residents and visitors on their toes. Despite this, there’s something fun to do in Milwaukee year-round, you just need to know where to look.
In the Spring
From March through May, the occasional snowy day (or snowstorm) is still to be expected. However, slowly but surely the sun begins to make its highly anticipated return. Here are a few ways to make the most of your visit during this time.
- Museums: The perfect antidote to lingering dreary days, Milwaukee’s many museums offer a fantastical escape. For art lovers, there’s the Milwaukee Art Museum with its sweeping views of Lake Michigan and unique architecture. For those visiting with kiddos, there’s Discovery World, a science and technology museum with no shortage of hands-on activities. And, for travelers of all ages, there’s the Milwaukee Public Museum with its immersive displays and abundant artifacts. Finally, while not technically a museum, also worthy of a shoutout is the Mitchell Park Domes, a conservatory filled to the gills with colorful desert and tropical plants.
- Food Halls: Showcasing the best of local restaurants and businesses, Milwaukee is home to a bounty of food halls. The Milwaukee Public Market in the Third Ward is always a popular choice with its selection of dining options, gifts, fresh produce, and of course, Wisconsin-made cheese. Other must-visit options include 3rd St Market Hall near Fiserv Forum, Crossroads Collective on the East Side and Sherman Phoenix to the north.
- Milwaukee Brewers Opening Day: Each year in early April, Milwaukeeans experience their first taste of summer when American Family Field hosts the Milwaukee Brewers’ Opening Day. To fit in with the locals, visitors will want to show up a few hours before the game for some tailgating, complete with beer and brats.
In the Summer
From July through August, summer is in full swing and MKE residents are out and about eager to take advantage of sunny days and humid nights. Here are a few ways to make the most of your visit during this time.
- Beer Gardens: True to its German roots, the city of Milwaukee, and those who inhabit it, love their beer. During the summer, beer gardens are at their greatest with charming string lights, live polka music and no shortage of brews on tap. Check out Estabrook Beer Garden, Hubbard Park, Juneau Beer Garden, South Shore Terrace, The Landing at Hoyt Park and more.
- Fun by the Lakefront: When the weather gets hot, the Milwaukee Lakefront comes alive. From sunbathing and volleyball at Bradford Beach to kite flying and biking at Veterans Park, summer in MKE is a vibe.
- Summerfest: Of course, it wouldn’t be summer in Milwaukee without Summerfest, the city’s annual music festival that held the title of “The World’s Largest Music Festival” until it was surpassed by Vienna’s Donauinselfest in 2015. Each year, the event attracts top talent making it a must-do for music lovers throughout the Midwest.
In the Fall
From September through November, the summer heat gives way to crisp, fall days. As the leaves begin to change, a familiar thrill, and the smell of pumpkin spice, fill the air. Here are a few ways to make the most of your visit during this time.
- Doors Open: A must-attend event for history buffs, each September Historic Milwaukee, Inc. hosts Doors Open Milwaukee, a two-day celebration of the city’s architecture, history and neighborhoods through 100+ free tours in the metro area.
- The Milwaukee Bucks: After winning the NBA Championships in 2021, the Milwaukee Bucks are a major source of pride for residents of Cream City. To get in on the action, visitors can attend a home game at Fiserv Forum anytime between late October to early April.
- Milwaukee Paranormal Conference: Travelers looking to embody the “spooky” in Spooky Season won’t want to miss their chance to attend the annual Milwaukee Paranormal Conference. Traditionally held in mid-October, this festive event is unlike any other with lectures, activities and more surrounding the strange and unusual. And, best of all, it’s totally free.
In the Winter
From December through February, winter has moved it, but the brisk days and long nights don’t slow Milwaukeeans down. Instead, the city keeps busy with seasonal light displays, cozy hideaways and outdoor fun. Here are a few ways to make the most of your visit during this time.
- Stay Warm Indoors: Let’s face it, going outside when the air hurts your face isn’t for everyone. To combat sub-zero temperatures, look for fun indoors at one of Milwaukee’s many entertainment venues like NorthSouth Club for shuffleboard and axe throwing, RSVR for virtual reality fun and UpDown for arcade games and drinks. In addition to activities to keep busy, visitors will find comfort in toasty retreats throughout the city like At Random cocktail bar, Lake Park Bistro and local coffee shops.
- Ice Skating: A tradition for many years, each winter hundreds of people flock downtown to Red Arrow Park to put their skating skills to the test.
- Seasonal Light Displays: A time when winter nights are lit aglow, each December, Milwaukee plays host to a variety of seasonal light displays. From Wild Lights at the Milwaukee County Zoo to Winter Wonders at the Boerner Botanical Gardens, the city has no shortage of holiday cheer.
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