Things To Do
in Milwaukee
Milwaukee sits on the western shore of Lake Michigan, blending a storied industrial legacy with a lively, diverse cultural scene. The city is known for its lakefront parks, thriving craft beer culture, and a strong arts and neighborhood network. From the historic Third Ward to the Brewers stadium and museum campus, Milwaukee offers urban experiences with Midwestern warmth.
Whether you’re here for summer harbor views or winter beer halls, Milwaukee rewards curious travelers with approachable neighborhoods and rich local flavor.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Milwaukee City Hall, a stunning example of German Renaissance architecture. After marveling at the intricate details, stroll over to the nearby Pabst Theatre and take a guided tour to learn about its rich history. Enjoy a coffee at a local café while soaking in the morning energy of the city.
Head to the Milwaukee Art Museum and spend a few hours exploring its impressive collection, including works by Georgia O’Keeffe and Alexander Calder. Take a leisurely walk along the lakefront, enjoying the views of Lake Michigan and the iconic Quadracci Pavilion. For lunch, savor some classic Wisconsin cheese curds at a nearby bistro.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in the Historic Third Ward for a delicious dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients. After your meal, catch a live performance at the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, showcasing the city’s vibrant arts scene. Wrap up your evening with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day dedicated to Milwaukee’s famous breweries. After breakfast, take a guided tour of the Pabst Mansion to learn about the history of the city’s brewing industry. Don’t forget to grab a souvenir bottle opener before heading out.
Join a brewery tour at Lakefront Brewery, where you can sample a variety of craft beers while learning about the brewing process. Enjoy a light lunch at their beer hall, featuring snacks that pair perfectly with your brews. Continue your brewery exploration with a visit to Milwaukee Brewing Company for more tastings.
For dinner, head to a brewery restaurant that offers a menu of hearty dishes to complement their craft beers. After your meal, take part in a guided beer tasting experience that dives deeper into the world of Milwaukee brews. End your night with a visit to a local pub, where you can mingle with residents and enjoy live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🥗Meal for two mid-range restaurant | $25-60 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center | $1,200-1,800 per month |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant lakefront with a strong craft beer scene
- Accessible neighborhoods with a mix of historic and modern attractions
- Winter weather can be harsh and long
- Some neighborhoods require careful safety awareness after dark
Places to Visit in Milwaukee
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic sail-like structure on Lake Michigan creates dramatic angles, reflections on the water, and iconic sunrises and sunsets.
A scenic waterway with bridges, murals, and bustling cafes; great for golden-hour river reflections.
Brick streets, waterfront views, and stylish storefronts offer classic urban photography settings.
Wide-open lake views; capture boats, sailboats, and the skyline with the water as a backdrop.
Industrial architecture and vintage motorcycles provide distinctive subject matter for automotive enthusiasts.
Food in Milwaukee
Milwaukee Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled or fried sausage served on a bun with toppings; a Milwaukee staple found at many breweries, taverns, and festivals.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried or melted cheese bites with a squeaky texture, commonly enjoyed with beer at pubs and breweries.
Friday staple of beer-battered cod or walleye served with fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce at local taverns.
A buttery, seasoned burger often served with Wisconsin cheddar and crispy bacon; a Midwestern classic.
Polish-influenced dumplings filled with sauerkraut and potato, commonly found in Milwaukee-area eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A buzzing market in the Historic Third Ward with local vendors offering prepared foods, cheeses, seafood, baked goods, and coffee.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Midwestern warmth is common—polite greetings and small talk are appreciated.
Be on time for casual meetups and reservations.
Safety
Tipping in Milwaukee
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tips of 15-20% before tax are customary; for bar service, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab is common.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and mobile wallets; cash is accepted widely; some venues may add a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures begin to emerge; expect blooming trees and variable rain; layering is key.
Hot and humid days with abundant festivals, lakefront activities, and long daylight hours; stay hydrated near the water.
Comfortable temperatures with vibrant fall foliage along the lakefront; ideal for outdoor walking tours.
Cold and snowy with a thriving indoor scene of beer halls and museums; pack warm layers and waterproof boots.
Milwaukee at Night
Hiking in Milwaukee
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails and rolling terrain about an hour's drive from Milwaukee; popular for day hikes and scenic overlooks.
Gentle loops with elevated boardwalks and scenic stretches in the Kettle Moraine area.
Airports
How to reach Milwaukee by plane.
The main airport serving Milwaukee with domestic and international flights, located a short drive from downtown depending on traffic.
A major hub about 90 miles southwest, accessible for longer trips and international connections.
A further option about 90-100 miles away; less convenient for typical Milwaukee travel than ORD or MKE.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Milwaukee has a mix of African American, Hispanic/Latinx, White, and immigrant communities; each contributes to the city’s culture and cuisine.
A growing share of residents are young professionals tied to the city’s arts, tech, education, and healthcare sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Supporters watch the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field; summer is peak season with community events.
Local clubs and college teams provide weekend matches; some venues host sports and concerts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Milwaukee.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Milwaukee offers many vegetarian options—from veggie burgers to market-driven dishes—but check in advance for meat-free sauces and broths; many restaurants label vegetarian options.