Milwaukee

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Milwaukee's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Breweries and Beer Tasting
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Cultural Gems and Museums
morning
:

Visit the Milwaukee Public Museum to explore its extensive natural history exhibits and the fascinating life-sized replica of a rainforest. After immersing yourself in the exhibits, stroll over to the nearby Discovery World, where you can engage with interactive science and technology displays. Grab a light snack at the museum café before heading to your next adventure.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Harley-Davidson Museum, where you can learn about the legendary motorcycle brand and its impact on American culture. Take your time exploring the exhibits and don’t forget to check out the outdoor area with iconic bikes on display. Enjoy a casual lunch at the museum's café, which features a motorcycle-themed menu.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head to the Milwaukee Theatre for an exciting show or concert, experiencing the local entertainment scene. After the performance, treat yourself to dinner at a nearby restaurant known for its innovative cuisine. Wind down your night with a stroll along the Milwaukee Riverwalk, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and waterfront views.

day 4
Nature and Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk or bike ride along the Oak Leaf Trail, taking in the scenic views of Lake Michigan. Enjoy the tranquility of nature as you pass through parks and green spaces. For breakfast, stop by a café that offers fresh pastries and coffee to fuel your outdoor adventure.

afternoon
:

Visit the Boerner Botanical Gardens to explore over 1,000 varieties of plants and flowers in beautifully designed landscapes. Afterward, head to the nearby Whitnall Park for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard at the nearby rental shop to enjoy some time on the water.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to the Kettle Moraine State Forest for a sunset hike, where you can experience the breathtaking views from the trails. After your adventure, return to the city and dine at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying fresh fish and seasonal dishes. Conclude your evening with a relaxing stroll along the shoreline, listening to the waves lapping against the shore.

day 5
Family Fun at the Zoo
morning
:

Spend your morning at the Milwaukee County Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. Engage with the various exhibits, including the popular Australian Oasis and the African Living Center. Take plenty of photos and enjoy a quick snack from one of the zoo's family-friendly cafes.

afternoon
:

After lunch, continue your adventure at the zoo, stopping by the petting farm for a hands-on experience with friendly animals. Don’t miss the zookeeper talks and animal feeding sessions, which are both educational and entertaining. As the afternoon winds down, explore the zoo's gift shop for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a family-friendly restaurant that offers a diverse menu to satisfy everyone's tastes. After your meal, take the kids for a fun night at the nearby Adventure Rock, an indoor climbing gym perfect for active families. Wind down with ice cream from a local shop as you share stories from your day at the zoo.

day 6
Art and Music in the City
morning
:

Kick off your day at the Milwaukee Art Museum, where you can admire its stunning architecture and world-class art collection. Spend hours exploring the galleries, including contemporary and classic works. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum café, featuring views of the lake.

afternoon
:

Head over to the Historic Third Ward to visit local art galleries and boutiques, immersing yourself in the creative vibe of the neighborhood. Stop for lunch at a trendy café or bistro, sampling local flavors and seasonal dishes. If you're up for it, catch an art workshop or demonstration happening in the area.

evening
:

After dinner at a local restaurant known for its live music, catch a performance at a nearby venue showcasing local artists. Experience everything from jazz to indie rock, supporting Milwaukee's vibrant music scene. Conclude your night with a visit to a cozy bar for a nightcap and a chance to chat with locals about their favorite spots in the city.

day 7
Historical Landmarks and Riverwalk
morning
:

Start your day by exploring the historic landmarks of Milwaukee, beginning at the iconic Milwaukee Riverwalk. Stroll along the beautifully maintained pathways and take in the sights of the city’s architecture and public art. Enjoy breakfast at a café with a view of the river, setting a picturesque tone for your day.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, take a guided walking tour of the city’s historic district, visiting landmarks like the Basilica of St. Josaphat and the Milwaukee Soldiers Home. Learn about the city's rich history and the stories behind these architectural treasures. Enjoy a casual lunch at a nearby restaurant with a view of the river.

evening
:

As evening falls, embark on a relaxing riverboat cruise to see the city from a different perspective, taking in the beautiful skyline as the sun sets. After the cruise, head to a riverside restaurant for dinner, where you can relish the local flavors. Cap off the night with a drink at one of the bars along the Riverwalk, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

day 8
Festivals and Local Events
morning
:

If your visit coincides with one of Milwaukee's famous festivals, start your day by exploring the festivities. Enjoy breakfast from a local vendor, sampling traditional foods unique to the event. Take part in activities and enjoy live performances to immerse yourself in the local culture.

afternoon
:

Continue your festival experience by participating in workshops or demonstrations, learning about local crafts and traditions. Enjoy lunch from various food stalls, sampling a wide range of cuisines and treats. Make sure to catch any special events or showcases that highlight Milwaukee's local talent.

evening
:

As the evening sets in, find a good spot to enjoy the main event of the festival, whether it be a concert, dance performance, or fireworks display. Afterward, head to a nearby restaurant to discuss your favorite festival highlights over dinner. Wrap up your night by enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, mingling with locals and fellow visitors.

day 9
Shopping and Local Cuisine
morning
:

Begin your day at the Milwaukee Public Market, where you can browse local vendors offering everything from fresh produce to artisan goods. Enjoy breakfast at one of the market's eateries, sampling local specialties. Afterward, explore the shops for unique souvenirs and local crafts.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Historic Third Ward, known for its chic boutiques and galleries. Stop for lunch at a trendy restaurant that highlights farm-to-table ingredients. Don’t forget to visit the local art studios and shops for a taste of Milwaukee's creative scene.

evening
:

For dinner, indulge in Milwaukee's culinary offerings at a restaurant specializing in traditional Wisconsin fare, such as bratwurst and cheese curds. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely stroll back to the market to see it lit up at night, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with dessert from a local bakery, savoring the sweet end to a wonderful trip.

Discover Milwaukee

Read more in our Milwaukee 2025 Travel Guide.

Milwaukee Travel Guide