Jennifer & Matthew
Things To Do
Bradford Beach
Bradford Beach is a great spot to relax and get some sunshine! It features multiple sand volleyball courts, cabanas and plenty of claimable real estate.
Veterans Park
Veterans Park is expansive with plenty to do! Visit the lagoon to rent paddle boats and kayaks, rent kites on the peninsula, or take in Milwaukee's skyline during a walk along Lake Michigan's shoreline.
The Hop (streetcar)
The Hop is Milwaukee's new streetcar system! It's currently free and stops every 15 minutes at various locations downtown (including Cathedral Square, the wedding location). Hours of operation are 5AM-midnight Friday, 7AM-midnight Saturday, and 7AM-10PM Sunday. Click the 'view' link below for a map and how to best use the system.
Milwaukee Riverwalk
This trail guides you along the Milwaukee River as it snakes through the heart of downtown. Look for interesting and historical sculptures like the Bronze Fonz and Gertie the Duck!
Colectivo Coffee (Lakefront)
Colectivo Coffee is a local, colorful roastery with exceptional espresso. Grab a drink to-go before your morning stroll through Veterans Park! This historical lakefront location was originally built in 1888 as a flushing station for the Milwaukee River, and upon its inception housed the largest pump in the world (525 million gal/day).
Historic Third Ward
The Third Ward offers a wide variety of shopping destinations and eateries. Café Benelux serves one of our favorite brunches in Milwaukee!
St. Joan of Arc Chapel
At the heart of Marquette University's campus, St. Joan of Arc Chapel is Milwaukee's oldest building. Originally erected in early 15th century France, it was moved to New York in 1927 brick-by-brick by the daughter of a railroad magnate. After her death it was donated to Marquette University, and in 1967 it was relocated once more to its final resting place. The chapel is mostly original, minus the stained glass windows, and contains many medieval artifacts that predate the chapel itself. One such artifact, the “Joan of Arc Stone” is believed to be the one upon which Joan prayed for success before battle. The stone, reportedly kissed by the lips of the saint, was installed in the base of a wall niche behind the altar, and legend has it that it is always colder to the touch than the stones around it.
Pabst Mansion
Completed in 1892, this building was once the residence of Captain Frederick Pabst. The Archdiocese of Milwaukee purchased the estate in 1908 after the death of Frederick and his wife, Maria. The archbishop, priests, and sisters lived within its walls until 1975. Today it has been restored to its original condition, and tours are available to the public.
The Historic Pabst Brewery
German immigrant Jacob Best established this brewery (known as Best and Company) in 1844. It was eventually bought by his son-in-law Capt. Frederick Pabst, who renamed it the Pabst Brewing Company. Pabst grew to hold the title of America's largest producer of beer from the late 1800s until 1946. Although nothing is brewed at this location today, a great historical tour is offered!
Miller Valley
Miller Brewing Company has played an important part of Milwaukee's history since its establishment by German immigrant Frederick Miller in 1855. Frederick purchased the Plank Road Brewing Co. from Charles and Lorenz Best, who had left the tutelage of their father Jacob Best (founder of the brewery that would become the Pabst Brewing Company). Miller's collection of buildings were strategically built in an area now known as 'Miller Valley.' If "you've got the time," the visitor's center offers a fascinating tour which educates you on the origin and evolution of one of America's best-selling beers.
Milwaukee Brewers (Miller Park)
Miller Park is home to the Milwaukee's professional baseball team, the Brewers. The stadium features a unique fan-shaped retractable roof that makes the game enjoyable for spectators, regardless of the weather conditions. The Brewers are scheduled to play a 3-game series with the Pittsburgh Pirates at home from the 7th-9th!
The Harp Irish Pub
'The Harp' is one of our favorite haunts among the multitude of bars located near Water Street. This classic Irish pub arguably has the best riverside deck to watch boaters cruise by, as you sip on your favorite beverage.
Leon's Frozen Custard
Dairy tends to be a staple in this state (our condolences to all those who are lactose-intolerant), and dessert is no exception! Milwaukee proudly holds the title of 'Frozen Custard Capital of the World' due to its concentration of vendors. With well-known options like Kopp's, Michael's and Northpoint you can't go wrong. In our opinion, however, nothing beats the quality and neon ambiance of Leon's Frozen Custard. Best after sundown!
Wisconsin Cheese Mart
Did you know Wisconsin is well-known for its cheese? Located on Old World Third Street, the historical hub of German Milwaukeeans, this fromagerie neighbors some of the city's oldest (and architecturally-unique) buildings. If you want to sample or buy Wisconsin's best cheeses, this is the place.
Ian's Pizza
If you need a late-night bite to eat we highly recommend this pizza chain that got its start in Madison, WI. Whole za's or by-the-slice, open until 3AM.
Milwaukee Soldiers Home
Completed in 1869, the Milwaukee Soldiers Home functioned as a rehabilitation center for Civil War veterans. Today, it is one of three remaining 'soldiers homes' from this era, and one of the oldest buildings in the VA system. The building is closed for renovation, however the grounds are open to tour in case you want to enjoy sightseeing the rare second empire/gothic revival architecture.