Making the most of Milwaukee: An all-in-one guide

Many of us will be visiting Wisconsin for the first time at GA. No matter how busy your schedule is, the Outlook hopes this list will help you build an itinerary or find a thing or two to squeeze in during your time in the city.

Milwaukee was built on its dependable harbor. Being the best natural harbor in Wisconsin, it attracted settlers in the 1830s. In the 1860s, the city became the largest shipper of wheat on the planet and a hub for process industries such as flour, meat, leather and brewing. 

The city has a rich history, but it also features modern infrastructure, dining and a diverse range of activities. Whether you are exploring solo or planning family events, there is no shortage of things to do. This is not a comprehensive list, but it should be enough to get your gears turning for possible activities in the city. For a look into everything the city has to offer, VisitMilwaukee.org featuring a detailed guide for visitors.

Dive into history 

Check out one or more of these must-visit attractions to get to know the city like a local:

• Pabst Mansion offers multiple types of tours of the family mansion, built in 1892. Learn about the family behind the famous brewing while taking in the beauty of their historic house. 
• Frank Lloyd Wright: Wright has a legacy in Milwaukee. He designed several notable buildings across the city.
• America’s Black Holocaust Museum: Both a historical and memorial museum, the ABHM commemorates a Black holocaust from pre-captivity in Africa to the present day. Tickets are available for guided or self-guided tours.

Brews and brews

Milwaukee is known as “Brew City” or the Brewing Capital of the World. Take advantage of this hopping city by exploring its abundance of breweries and coffee shops.

• Fiddleheads Coffee: Family-founded and a small batch roastery, who pride themselves on quality, precision, and freshness in each cup of joe. 
• Valentine Coffee Co.: “Specialty coffee roasted in small batches by people who care.” Valentine Coffee is also committed to the community, partnering with local farmers for ingredients. 
• Nomad Coffee Bar: Your all-in-one spot for quality coffee, solid cocktails, and an extensive menu for breakfast and lunch. 
• Style Pop Cafe: A woman-owned and operated coffee shop, operating as a study spot, workspace and event space. 
• Pilcrow Coffee: Best known for their rotating lineup of fun, nostalgic cold brew coffees and flights with creative seasonal offerings. 
• War Memorial Beer Garden: With a lakefront location, enjoy an impressive selection of beverages in an immersive German environment.
• Wizard Works Brewing: Founded by a magician couple, this brewery finds its magic in creating a friendly atmosphere with hand-crafted beer. 
• Third Space Brewing: Beer that is brewed in the heart of Milwaukee. Third Space is devoted to quality in each step of the brewing process. 

Free and affordable attractions

Exploring the city and its landmarks, while being mindful of your budget:  

• Milwaukee River Walk:  A 3-mile stretch going along both sides of the Milwaukee river in the heart of the city
• Olmsted Parks: Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted who co-designed Central Park in New York City, this park system offers scenic views of the city and its natural scenery.
• Cathedral Square Farmer’s Market 
• Fondy Farmer’s Market 
• Milwaukee Public Library: Built in 1898, the public library is beautiful both inside and out and houses valuable archives, historical manuscripts and architectural records. 
• The Basilica of St. Josephat: The Polish community of Milwaukee built this cathedral as a smaller-scale replica of St. Peter’s in Vatican City. 
• Milwaukee Public Market: With 19 local vendors, the public market features a diverse range of local and ethnic food and drink options.

Family friendly

For those traveling with families, Milwaukee offers a plethora of activities for people of all ages: 

• Milwaukee Brewers: Summer is the time for baseball games. The Milwaukee Brewers have a cult following and have garnered massive support from locals. There are several home games throughout the dates of GA. 
• Discovery World: This museum includes an aquarium and hands-on exhibits, covering topics ranging from the Great Lakes to rocket launches.
• Milwaukee  County Zoo: The zoo is home to over 3,000 animals, with hands-on learning experiences to learn more about the wildlife. 
• Harley-Davidson Museum: The world’s only Harley-Davidson museum features interactive exhibits, 450 motorcycle artifacts, guided tours, and the Motor Bar and Restaurant for a bite after.