Things To Do
Milwaukee Art Museum
Even if you aren't an art buff, the museum is worth a visit just to see the Quadracci Pavilion. Watch the "wings" (the Burke Brise Soleil) open and close over Lake Michigan-it's the most iconic sight in the city. - Location: Downtown Milwaukee waterfront - Pro-Tip: It's a great photo op, and the surrounding Lakeshore State Park offers beautiful walking paths along Lake Michigan.
Milwaukee Public Market
The Milwaukee Public Market is a vibrant, industrial-chic destination in the Historic Third Ward. It's a perfect spot for guests to grab a quick, high-quality meal or pickup local Wisconsin specialties. - Local Flavor: Features a wide variety of vendors selling everything from fresh seafood and artisanal cheeses to Middle Eastern cuisine and local chocolates - Convenience: There is plenty of indoor seating on the second-floor "Palm Garden" level, which offers a great view of the bustling market below. - Location: Situated in the heart of the Third Ward, making it a great starting point for a day of shopping or exploring the waterfront.
Lakefront Brewery Tour
Widely considered on of the best (and funniest) brewery tours in the country! It's more of a comedy show with beer than a technical tour. - The Perk: Your ticket includes samples and a souvenir pint glass - Pro-Tip: Book in advance! Slots sell out fast, especially on weekends.
Milwaukee Public Museum
The Milwaukee Public Museum is a world-class natural history museum perfect for a curious afternoon. It is famous for its immersive walkthrough exhibits that transport you to different times and places. - The "Streets of Old Milwaukee": A fan-favorite exhibit where you can walk through a life-sized recreation of the city as it looked in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. - Butterfly Garden: A lush, tropical indoor garden where hundreds of live butterflies fly freely around you. - The European Village: Explore homes and shops representing over 30 different European cultures as they were when immigrants first arrived in Wisconsin.
Miller Brewery Tour
For a look at the "High Life," this tour offers a deep dive into one of the world's largest brewing operations. It's a classic Milwaukee experience that balances history with modern scale. - The Experience: You'll walk through the historic underground caves, the massive brew house, and the high-speed packaging center. - The Reward: The tour concludes with ice-cold samples in the historic Miller Inn or the outdoor Beer Garden - Logistics: The tour involves about an hour of walking (including some stairs), so comfortable shoes are a must.
Milwaukee Boat Line
For a classic sightseeing experience, the Milwaukee Boat Line offers a variety of public cruises that highlight the city's history and architecture from the water. - Sightseeing & History: Their popular "Sightseeing & Architecture" tour narrated by local experts provides a detailed look at the city's skyline and industrial past. - Specialty Cruises: They also host fun themed events, including Happy Hour cruises, live music voyages, and sunset tours. - The Experience: The double-decker boats offer both open-air and sheltered seating, ensuring a comfortable trip regardless of the weather. - Convenience: Located right on the riverwalk, it's an easy add-on to a day spent exploring downtown.