Milwaukee is probably best known for its beer (you’re probably familiar with the moniker “Brew City”. And sure, there are lots of breweries, bars, and beer gardens, but there is SO much more.
Milwaukee rivals any Midwestern metropolis with a thriving culinary scene, arts, and attractions like beautiful Lake Michigan.
As Milwaukee residents, we have compiled a list of places we recommend to our out-of-town guests. These are the places we take friends and family when they visit and frequent yourselves. We even put together several itineraries at the end to help you with your trip planning.
Whether it’s a snowy winter day or a hot and humid summer night, this list is filled with year-round gems. And whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with your entire family, you’ll undoubtedly find something for everyone.
These are the places that make us proud to be Milwaukeeans. And we hope they make your visit to Milwaukee one you won’t forget.
Of course, we also have a list of FREE things to do!
Jump To
Museums
Milwaukee has a rich history and is home to some world-class museums. So whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to learn a bit more about this underrated midwest city, there is something for you.
Milwaukee Public Museum
Adults and children will have a blast at the Milwaukee Public Museum. Three floors filled with history, nature, culture, and interactive exhibits are sure to keep you captivated for hours. Step back in time in the Streets of Old Milwaukee and European Village and prepare yourself for the morbid life-sized Tyrannosaurus rex exhibit.
Milwaukee Art Museum
Just from viewing the Santiago Calatrava designed building and walkways as you approach, you know the Milwaukee Art Museum is a special place. Take the day to get lost in the over 32,000 unique art pieces, including sculptures, paintings, video installations, and more.
Harley-Davidson Museum
You don’t have to be a motorcycle enthusiast to become wholly engaged during a trip to the Harley-Davidson Museum. Take a fascinating journey through time and Milwaukee history as this once small outsider bike manufacturer evolved into the icon it is today.
Attractions
American Family Field – Home of the Milwaukee Brewers
Summer in Milwaukee is not truly summer without taking in a Brewers game at American Family Field. There are plenty of affordable seats, and tailgating in the parking lots is an essential rite of passage for any first-timer. And there’s never a chance for rain out, thanks to the retractable roof.
Fiserv Forum and Deer District
The Deer District was seen worldwide as the Milwaukee Bucks won the 2021 NBA Championship. Check out a game or concert at the Fiserv Forum if the timing is right. If not, it’s still worth checking out the Deer District bars, restaurants, and year-round entertainment options.
Pabst Mansion
One of the great Milwaukee beer barons, Captain Frederick Pabst, built this historic Milwaukee landmark in 1892. The fine art collections, “modern” amenities for the time, and rooms decorated and constructed for lavish parties are hallmarks of the Pabst Mansion.
Visiting the Pabst Mansion at Christmas time is extra special, with each room elegantly decorated for the season.
Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery
If you’ve got some time, sign up for a tour of the former brewery, including the Blue Ribbon Hall, corporate offices, visitor’s center, and infirmary. Or stop by Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery for a beer or coffee in a vintage setting.
Milwaukee County Zoo
See over 2,100 animals native to all parts of the world at the 190 wooded acres Milwaukee County Zoo. Open year-round, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor exhibits to spend an entire day enjoying nature.
Indoor Activities
Milwaukee Public Market
Located in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, the Milwaukee Public Market is a chic marketplace offering meal options, baked goods, cheese, wine, candy, ice cream, and more. It’s a great place to stock up on Milwaukee memorabilia, grab a drink at the wine bar or coffee shop and people watch, or stock up on cheese curds!
Bowling Alleys
Milwaukee’s rich history of bowling began in the mid 19th century. For decades The National Bowling Association called a Milwaukee suburb home. And even today, Milwaukee is home to some of the most historic and unique lanes in the country.
- Holler House – Look no further than Holler House if you want to dive headfirst into Milwaukee’s bowling history. Home of the two oldest sanctioned bowling lanes in the United States, the pins are still set by hand. Pay no attention to the bras hanging from the ceiling when you grab drinks from the bar.
- Falcon Bowl – While not as old as Holler House, the basement lanes at Falcon Bowl were officially certified in 1913. Bowl a few games at one of the oldest continually operated lanes in the United States.
- Koz’s Mini Bowl – The last original duckpin bowling alley in the United States resides in an unassuming neighborhood on Milwaukee’s southeast side. Beyond the old-school cool bar and dirt cheap cocktails and pitchers lie the little lanes at Koz’s Mini Bowl. Tip the folks who hand set your pins well.
- Landmark Lanes – At Landmark Lanes, you can bowl, but you can also throw down some quarters in the classic arcade, shoot darts, play pool, and even do karaoke in the Moon Room. There are also bars located throughout the building, so you can grab a drink no matter what you end up doing.
City Tours MKE
What better way to explore the city than a City Tours MKE guided tour. Get to know the city better than a Milwaukeean on the iconic Experience MKE Tour. Other options include exploring local breweries, dive bars, or skin-crawling ghost tours.
Oriental Theatre
The Oriental Theatre was built in 1927 and shows arthouse and mainstream films. This iconic East Indian themed movie palace with modern amenities makes it a spectacular place to catch a flick.
Up-Down Milwaukee
Grab a handful of quarters, a cold craft beer, and a slice of house-made pizza for a night of nostalgia at Up-Down Milwaukee. Pinball machines, 80’s and 90’s arcade games, skee ball lanes, and more await at just a quarter per credit.
NorthSouth Club
Put on your flannel and start chucking axes like they do in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Or wear your light-colored linens and play classic deck shuffleboard as they do down South. No matter how you roll, NorthSouth Club is a fun destination for a group.
Outdoor Activities
Walk Around the Historic Third Ward
In an area just south of downtown that used to house warehouses and factories, lies the revived Third Ward neighborhood.
Now full of restaurants, shops, theatres, and art galleries, you’ll be entertained for hours if not an entire day. Some favorites in the area include Mod Gen, a gift and plant shop, and the Milwaukee Public Market.
The Milwaukee River
- Kayak the Milwaukee River – Milwaukee Kayak Company will help you safely navigate the Milwaukee River while pointing out the downtown landmarks during guided tours. Or venture out on your own by simply renting a kayak or paddleboard.
- Walk the Milwaukee Riverwalk – Explore three distinct downtown Milwaukee neighborhoods on foot while strolling along the Milwaukee Riverwalk. Make a day of it and stop for a drink, food, or at unique shops along the way. Make sure you stop by and take a selfie with the Bronze Fonz statue. Two thumbs up. And discover the legend of Gertie the Duck and see her immortalized in statue form. See if you can find all 5 of her ducklings as well.
Lake Park and North Point Lighthouse
A walk through Lake Park is one of the best ways to see classic Milwaukee architecture. Here you’ll find lavish old homes and ornate bridges with gorgeous views of Lake Michigan. Don’t miss the historic North Point Lighthouse and climb to the top for a breathtaking view.
Hank Aaron Trail
Milwaukee’s legendary Hall of Famer gave his name and support to create the 14-mile paved interurban Hank Aaron State Trail. As you walk or bike the route that spans from Lake Michigan west to the county line, you’ll run into some of Milwaukee’s most well-known attractions. Stop in the neighborhoods along the way to get a true sense of what Milwaukee is all about.
Rent a Bublr Bike
The city is becoming more bike-friendly, with many paved trails and dedicated lanes on streets. Bublr Bikes kiosks are conveniently located near attractions and busy areas so that you can cover a lot of ground on a single day pass.
If you rent a bike, consider the Oak Leaf Trail. This trail runs through the city and along the Milwaukee River, giving you an excellent feel for what Milwaukee is all about.
Where to Drink or Caffeinate
Breweries
Milwaukee is known for its beer culture, so if you are into beer, here are some of our favorite breweries to tour or simply get a cold one.
For even more on our favorite Milwaukee breweries, check out our post on the best craft breweries in Milwaukee.
Lakefront Brewery
One of the oldest microbreweries in the city, Lakefront Brewery got its start back in 1987. Today, they’re home to one of the most popular beers in the city, Riverwest Stein. Come for the exceptional standards and seasonals, but stay for the legendary tours, an iconic Friday fish fry, and a prime location on the river.
Eagle Park Brewing
If you’re looking for experience in extreme beers, look no further than Eagle Park Brewing. Subtlety is not a hallmark here, so expect their IPAs to light up your tastebuds and their fruited slushes to be reminiscent of a fresh smoothie.
Indeed Brewing Company
Indeed Brewing Company earned a solid reputation at their flagship brewery in Minneapolis. However, the much smaller pilot brewery in Milwaukee tests out new styles and offers beers exclusive to this location.
Central Waters Brewing Company
Another popular brewery with a Milwaukee satellite location is Central Waters Brewing Company. You can find all their standards and big seasonals, but they also brew new styles exclusive to Milwaukee.
1840 Brewing Company
Located in the trendy Bay View neighborhood, 1840 Brewing Company focuses on barrel aging and blending. You’ll find many exceptional beers in various styles, making it an excellent stop for everyone who loves beer.
City Lights Brewing Company
City Lights Brewing Company seems to do everything well, and their location in a historic building en route to American Family Field is ideal. All of their core beers are excellent and offer seasonal and special releases.
Miller: The Brewery
Yes, Milwaukee is home to tons of craft beers, but don’t slouch on the one who started it all – Miller Brewery. The sheer scale of their brewing operation is worth a tour. And the drive through historic Miller Valley will take you back to the golden age of brewing.
For more breweries, check out our interactive map of all the Milwaukee Breweries.
Distilleries
Great Lakes Distillery and Tasting Room
Whether you want to try a few spirits or learn about Milwaukee’s best distillery, Great Lakes Distillery and Tasting Room is a great choice.
Great Lakes Distillery makes delicious gin and vodka. Their tasting room is welcoming, and the drinks showcase their spirits well. If you have the time, we recommend the distillery tour. It’s a fun tour with great guides and a chance to sample all of their spirits.
Wine Bars
Voyager
Located south of downtown in the trend Bay View neighborhood, Voyager is the perfect place to grab a glass of wine and chat with the knowledgable bartenders. Voyager has an ever-changing wine list with something for everyone’s palate.
Thief Wine – Public Market Location
If you like wine and people-watching, then grabbing a glass of wine at Thief Wine in the Milwaukee Public Market will be right up your alley. They also have a great beer cooler for those non-wine lovers.
Bars
Dive Bars
You can tell a lot about a city by the “quality” of its dive bars. Here are our favorite dive bars to hang out with friends.
- Burnhearts Bar gets right to the point by offering an ever-rotating roster of some of the most unique tap beers you’ll find anywhere. They also host an annual outdoor music and beer festival in February, aptly named Mitten Fest.
- Blackbird Bar regulars try to check off their extensive list of Wisconsin breweries to be immortalized on the Beer Club sign. But even if you’re in town just for a night, the rotating pinball machines and pull tabs will keep you in a great mood.
- Sabbatic – If you’re looking for a dive bar with a bit of an edge, Sabbatic is a must-stop. Grab a beer and a shot while rocking out to metal and punk music and chatting with the friendly bartenders.
- Finks – Known as the “Everyman’s Cocktail Bar”, Finks might have the best happy hour in Milwaukee. They always have a few exciting beers on tap, rotating arcade games and pinball machines, and a lovely outdoor patio as well.
- Paddy’s Pub – Just off the beaten path in the fashionable East Side, Paddy’s Pub is a hidden gem. The drinks are cheap, the bartenders are friendly, and the bar mix is full of M&M’s.
Fun/Unique Bars
- Boone & Crockett has killer happy hour cocktails and one of the best beer lists in the city. This is a Milwaukee favorite with its giant outdoor patio on the river, outdoor bar, and food trucks parked outside.
- Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge – Tale a trip back in time at the oldest cocktail lounge in Milwaukee, Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge. They take their cocktails very seriously here. There are no menus, but their expert mixologists, with a repertoire of over 450 drinks, will concoct whatever you’re in the mood for.
- At Random Cocktail Lounge – Another blast from the past is the retro-themed At Random Cocktail Lounge. Originally named for their random hours of operation, they specialize in vintage cocktails and unbelievably decadent ice cream drinks.
- Shanghai MKE – Try your luck at finding the East Side’s hidden speakeasy, Shanghai MKE. If you discover its location, you’ll be treated to a curated custom cocktail list. It’s tiny, so try and get there early.
Upscale Bars
- BLU Bar and Lounge – There’s no better view of the city than from the 23rd floor of the famed Pfister Hotel at BLU Bar and Lounge. Visit this posh martini bar on Friday or Saturday night, and you’ll be treated to some live music, usually jazz.
- The Outsider – On the 9th-floor rooftop of the Journeyman Hotel in the historic 3rd Ward, you’ll find The Outsider. Elaborate cocktails crafted from small-batch spirits, hard-to-find beers, and an extensive wine list make this a can’t miss a fancy night out with a great view of the city below.
Related Post: Cool Hotels to Stay at in Milwaukee
Music Venue Bars
- Cactus Club – In the truest sense, Cactus Club is an indie venue. This is where to catch small national touring bands before they blow up. Drinks are cheap, and if you decide to stay for a show, you can always expect to pay less than $20.
- The Jazz Estate – You can expect to find local or national jazz musicians playing this intimate venue on any given night. But even on off nights, The Jazz Estate is a pretty swanky cocktail bar worth checking out.
- Linneman’s Riverwest Inn – When you’re in the eclectic Riverwest neighborhood, stop by Linneman’s Riverwest Inn for some warm hospitality and a cold beer. Stick around, and you’ll likely get to see a band, poetry reading, or an open mic night.
Beer Gardens
More and more beer gardens have popped up in Milwaukee in recent years. And it’s one of our favorite things to do in the warmer months. If you are in Milwaukee during the summer, don’t miss out on this experience.
South Shore Terrace
Soak up the sun and grab a cold one on the lakeshore of Lake Michigan at South Shore Terrace. You’ll surely enjoy your time relaxing outside in the beautiful space with a fantastic view of downtown Milwaukee.
The extensive list of tap beers, wines, house-made rotating sangrias, and a great food menu make it easy to spend the entire day.
The Vine Humboldt
The Vine Humboldt sure does have a great beer garden for a small park. Offering a diverse lineup of beer and wine on tap, and an outstanding empanada restaurant, make this a can’t miss.
Estabrook Beer Garden
Indulge in authentic German beer, sausages, and pretzels at Estabrook Beer Garden. This was the first public beer garden in the U.S. to open after prohibition. It’s a classic beer garden that’s not to be missed.
Hubbard Park Beer Garden
Experience the proud heritage of Germans in Wisconsin at the only beer garden open year-round in Milwaukee – Hubbard Park Beer Garden. Even when you’re snowbound, you can take advantage of their heated Winter Camp Domes.
Coffee Shops
Hawthorne Coffee Roasters
Head to the southside for Hawthorne Coffee Roasters, or grab a coffee on your way to the airport.
Hawthorne roasts their beans in small batches, so you’ll always get the freshest coffee in town. Try a bourbon barrel-aged cold brew, or come by on the weekend for a cocktail and brunch from a pop-up food truck.
Collectivo
If you’re more into the ambiance of a lovely cafe, then stop by one of the many Milwaukee locations of Collectivo. They’re known for taking older, abandoned buildings around the city and giving them new life.
One of the most unique Collectivo’s in Milwaukee is housed in a historic Milwaukee river flushing station. Located just across the street from Lake Michigan, this is the perfect place to grab a coffee, sit outside, and watch the action of the lakefront.
Anodyne Coffee Roasting Company
For one of the best cups of coffee in the city, don’t pass up Anodyne Coffee Roasting Company. While the coffee is consistently exquisite, each location is unique. One offers wood-fired pizza, and another has a large stage and hosts concerts.
Where to Eat
Cheap Eats
Some of the best food in the city come from inexpensive restaurants and food trucks. These restaurants are the real gem of the city. In them, you’ll find delicious food and get a feel for who Milwaukee really is.
Oscar’s Pub & Grill
Oscar’s Pub has huge heavenly burgers, perfectly sauced wings, and a diverse tap list, all for amazingly low prices. This is what makes Oscar’s Pub & Grill one of the best-hidden gems in Milwaukee. Don’t miss out on one of the best burgers in the city – The Big O.
Conejito’s Place
A Milwaukee staple for generations, Conejito’s Place is THE place to get some of the best Mexican food at great prices. Have a seat at the giant table in the bar area with friends and enjoy a massively cheesy enchilada or chicken mole served on a paper plate.
Nessun Dorma
Buried just off the main drags in Riverwest, Nessun Dorma stands out as one of the city’s best bangs for your buck. The daily beer and wine specials and the enormous paninis are easy on the wallet.
For cheaper Milwaukee eats, check out our full post: Best Cheap Eats in Milwaukee.
Breakfast/Brunch Restaurants
Coffee Makes You Black
If you are looking for a diner-type breakfast, this is your place.
In an airy former bank building, Coffee Makes You Black serves up fantastic food in a slow, relaxing atmosphere. The coffee is bold, but the catfish is fried to perfection, and the chicken and waffles are a must.
Uncle Wolfies
Make sure you get there early because Uncle Wolfie’s Breakfast Tavern’s tiny rustic space fills up quickly. Whatever you’re in the mood for, from biscuits and gravy to burgers, it’s always better with a beermosa or bloody mary.
Mad Rooster Cafe
Don’t get overwhelmed by the enormous, globally inspired menu at Mad Rooster Cafe. How do you choose between breakfast tacos, shakshuka, or Godiva chocolate chip pancakes?
Engine Company No. 3.
The aptly named Engine Company No. 3 is set in a former fire station. But ambiance aside, their focus on local farm-fresh ingredients takes brunch to foodie levels.
Fun/Unique Restaurants
Barnacle Bud’s
Half the fun of Barnacle Bud’s is finding its off-the-beaten-path location on the Kinnickinnic River.
Once you’re there, you’ll think you’ve been transported to Key West. The beer is always flowing, there’s often live music, and you can even suck down a few oysters.
St. Paul Fish Company
St. Paul Fish Market inside the Milwaukee Public Market serves up all of your seafood desires, including a $17.95 whole lobster dinner. Grab a beer, nautical cocktail, or a shot, and the bartenders won’t hesitate to join you. Make sure to head to the attached outdoor palapa for the best time.
Hamburger Mary’s
If you’re looking for some classy yet kitchy entertainment with your meal, there’s no better place than Hamburger Mary’s. Come for the mouth-watering burgers, but stay for the raucous burlesque shows that happen almost daily.
For more fun places to eat in Milwaukee, check out our full-length post: Fun Places to Eat in Milwaukee
Casual Dining
Iron Grate BBQ Company
From their humble beginnings smoking meats outside Hawthorne Coffee, Iron Grate BBQ Company has some fantastic smoked meats. Enjoy some signature MKE Ribs with one of their house-made 32 oz cocktails.
Ned’s Pizza
Traditional Milwaukee-style pizza consists of a very thin crust covered in tons of cheese and toppings. Ned’s Pizza is a testament to this Milwaukee tradition. Try the Triple P (pepperoni, pepperoncini peppers, and pickles). Seriously.
Transfer
Transfer is an entirely different species of Milwaukee pizza. They specialize in using gourmet ingredients on a rising glutenous crust thrown in their wood-fired oven.
Lulu Cafe
Whatever you’re craving, Lulu Cafe is sure to have it. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger and a beer or pie and some wine, everything on the menu is delicious.
Casual Fine Dining
Bavette La Boucherie
When you enter Bavette, it may only appear to be a local butcher shop. But dine in and have one of the best meals in town from this multi-year James Beard award nominee.
Odd Duck
This James Beard-nominated restaurant is not to be missed in the up-and-coming Walker’s Point neighborhood.
Odd Duck specializes in small gourmet plates and killer cocktails. Bring a group so you can try as many of these amazing dishes as possible.
La Merenda
Don’t let the word tapas fool you – La Merenda offers flavors from across the globe. The wine list is impeccable, and the spacious and comfortable outdoor patio.
Centro Cafe
Cenrtro Cafe in Riverwest has some of the best pasta on this side of Italy. Try something traditional, or get adventurous with dishes like Short Rib Italiana.
Tenuta’s Italian Restaurant
Tenuta’s Italian Restaurant is an intimate insider’s choice for more traditional Italian fare. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza or pasta, you’ve already made the right choice.
Fine Dining
Ardent
Make your reservations now for one of the best meals of your life at Ardent. The multi-year James Beard finalist, Justin Carlisle, creates a pre-fixe menu daily, which can be paired with a beverage tasting.
Sanford
Another James Beard Award-winning chef resides at Sanford. Make your reservations far in advance to try some of the most unique culinary creations you’ll ever have the pleasure of tasting.
Morel
With a significant focus on locally sourced ingredients, Morel brings food to life. You’ll find a lot of traditional meat dishes, done exquisitely every time.
Birch
Elevated open-fire hearth cooking is the hallmark of Birch. The seafood dishes, like wood-roasted walleye, are the stars here. Ask your server to perfectly pair them with a wine from their lengthy list.
Food Parks
Zocalo Food Truck Park
You’ll undoubtedly find something delicious to eat and drink at Zocalo Food Truck Park. The offerings are constantly changing, but there’s something for everyone, including a central bar area featuring craft cocktails. Come in winter to experience the Hot Spell Nordic-inspired sauna.
Sherman Phoenix
Sherman Phoenix rose from the ashes of a burned-down bank building to become a vibrant foundation in the community. Sink your teeth into some of the best wings in the city at Buffalo Boss. Or sample some BBQ, cupcakes, gourmet popcorn, or spring rolls at the other black-owned businesses that reside here.
Crossroads Collective
The revolving door that was this corner lot on the vibrant East Side now has a permanent resident: Crossroads Collective. Eat and drink your way through the food hall with pasta, BBQ, ice cream, gourmet grilled skewers, pizza, craft cocktails, and more.
Bakeries and Sweets
Indulgence Chocolatiers
Satisfy your sweet tooth with some of the best chocolates Milwaukee offers at Indulgence Chocolatiers. They also offer chocolate pairing classes, like chocolate and Old Fashioneds cocktails.
Purple Door Ice Cream
There’s always some fresh and innovative flavor on the menu at Purple Door Ice Cream. Can’t choose just one? Try an ice cream flight.
National Bakery & Deli
Founded in a predominantly Polish neighborhood in 1925, National Bakery & Deli still uses some original time-honored recipes. Donuts, cakes, cookies, you name it – it’s all delicious.
Grebe’s Bakery
If you’ve gone to a grocery or convenience store in Milwaukee, you’ve likely encountered some donuts from Grebe’s Bakery. Dipping their glazed cruller in your milk or coffee doesn’t get any better.
Leon’s Frozen Custard
It doesn’t get any more Milwaukee than Leon’s Frozen Custard. Established in 1942, this retro landmark still doles out some of the best frozen custard and should NOT be missed.
Milwaukee Itineraries for Your Visit
1 Day Milwaukee Itinerary
If you only have one day to explore Milwaukee, we’d recommend one of the two options below.
For the food and drink lovers:
- If you are an early riser, start with a coffee from Colectivo Coffee on the Lakefront. Either enjoy the patio or the unique interior. Or, head for a stroll along the lakefront for a little exercise.
- Brunch at Uncle Wolfies in the Brewers Hill neighborhood.
- Sign up in advance for a tour of Milwaukee’s iconic Lakefront Brewery. If you only do one brewery tour on your trip, make it this one. They aren’t stingy with the samples, and the tour guides are entertaining. There is also a great patio along the river to hang out on after the tour.
- If you are looking for another drink or some food, check out Eagle Park Brewery next. Their beers are unique and delicious, and their food is also great.
- Head down to the Milwaukee Riverwalk. Stroll along the river and find the Bronze Fonz and Gertie the Duck
- Check out the Milwaukee Public Market and shops in the Third Ward. St. Paul’s Fish Market and Thief Wine are great places to hang out.
- For dinner, make reservations at either Odd Duck or La Merenda.
- If you are still going after a full day of Milwaukee adventure, head to Boone and Crockett or Byrant’s Cocktail lounge for an after-dinner drink. Or try making lane reservations at Koz’s Mini Bowl for a fun night.
For Milwaukee history and culture:
- Start with brunch at Engine Company No 3 in the Walker’s Point neighborhood. It’s a great restaurant located in an old firehouse.
- Check out one of Milwaukee’s Museums. Our favorites are the Harley-Davidson Museum and the Milwaukee Public Museum, but art-lovers will love the Milwaukee Art Museum. If you don’t head to the art museum, at least stop by to view the famous wings of the Quadracci Pavillion.
- Head down to the Historic Third Ward for shopping and lunch. The Milwaukee Public Market has great food and drink options. Or another Third Ward favorite is Bavette La Boucherie.
- Explore Milwaukee’s Brewing History with a tour of Miller Brewing or simply drive through the Miller Valley to be transported back in time.
- Stroll down the Milwaukee Riverfront
- Dinner at Mader’s located on Old World Third Street.
- And if you are up for more adventure check out Blu in the historic Pfister Hotel.
2 Day Milwaukee Itinerary
If you have two days to explore Milwaukee, here are some choices for Day 2.
- Brunch at Mad Rooster Cafe or hit up a Collectivo Coffee house for a light breakfast
- Head down to the Bay View neighborhood and take a stroll along the Oak Leaf Trail
- If the Southshore Beer Garden is open stop in there for a drink and snack/lunch. While the beer selection at this beer garden isn’t the best, it has the best location and view of Milwaukee.
- Next, if you are looking for lunch, head to The Vanguard for a culinary sausage party. They even have vegan and gluten-free options.
- Looking for another drink along the water? Then head to Barnacle Buds for a cocktail. Barnacle Buds is fun any time of year, but it’s the best when the weather is nice and you can enjoy the patio.
- For dinner, try the Zocalo Food Truck Park
- End your night with a drink on the rooftop of the Kimpton Journeyman hotel at The Outsider
