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Top 10 Fun Things to Do in Milwaukee
February 21, 2019 | By: Taylor Randolph
The city of Milwaukee is situated on the west bank of Lake Michigan, about 90 miles away from North Chicago. The city is rich in culture, history, and diversity. Since there is so much to do and see in Milwaukee, we have narrowed down the list to ten must-do things in Milwaukee. Let’s get started!
#1 Experience Milwaukee’s Public Market
The Milwaukee Pubic Market is an indoor farmers market that runs all year long. It’s in a cool renovated warehouse located in the historic Third Ward district. Visitors will find unique selections of artistic and ethnic products, freshly prepared foods, and authentic Wisconsin bites.
#2 Stroll the RiverWalk
The RiverWalk is a 3-mile pedestrian path that winds through downtown, along the Milwaukee River, and into the Third Ward. Some of the best shops, pubs, and restaurants in Milwaukee are located directly on the RiverWalk. It’s a great spot to dine al fresco during the summer with a beautiful view over the river. Don’t forget to take a picture with the Bronze Fonz!
#3 Milwaukee Brewery Tour
Beer in Milwaukee has a long history dating back to the arrival of German immigrants in 1885. The city gained the nickname “Brew City” because for a long time it was home to the four largest breweries in the world (Schlitz, Pabst, Blatz, Miller). Today, Milwaukee’s microbrewery culture is thriving with over 25 local breweries in the area. Learn more about the fascinating history and culture behind the beer industry in Milwaukee on a fun brewery tour with Untapped Tours. The tour takes you to four local breweries and includes two beers at each place. You will get to interact with the founders and brewers and learn why beer is their passion.
#4 Explore the Milwaukee Art Museum
Art enthusiasts will love visiting the Milwaukee Art Museum because it is among the largest museums in the United States. Visitors will find over 31,000 works of art that have been collected over the past 125 years of the museum’s existence. The beautiful wings of the museum have become an iconic symbol of Milwaukee. You can watch them open and close at 10 am, noon, and 5 pm.
#5 Experience Wildlife at Milwaukee County Zoo
The Milwaukee County Zoo has classic North American animals such as grizzly bears, black bears, polar bears, and moose amongst many other exotic animals. If you don’t have the opportunity to see these in the wild, then you should definitely put the Milwaukee County Zoo on your list. The zoo has kid-friendly attractions like a safari ride and a carousel. Check their official website for updates related to their seasonal “free days” when no admission fees are charged.
#6 Discover the Spooky Side of the Historic Third Ward
The Historic Third Ward is now known for its trendy shops and hip vibe, but once upon a time the location used to be called the “Bloody Ward.” It was a rough area known for its notorious residents. The haunted history of this area is truly fascinating. Take a tour with American Ghost Walks and learn about all the very well-documented paranormal activities that occur here.
#7 The Domes: Mitchell Park Conservatory
The Mitchell Park Conservatory is located on the western side of Milwaukee. The conservatory has three very distinct and gigantic domes that are home to plants from around the world. The domes are so unique and architecturally beautiful that it’s a must-visit tourist location in Milwaukee. Several festivals, events, and shows are held all throughout the year in the Show Dome, along with light shows during the night.
#8 Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum
Milwaukee was the birthplace of the classic American motorcycle over 115 years ago. Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum to find cool vintage artifacts from the company’s history over the past century as well as over 450 motorcycles. The Experience Gallery lets visitors take a seat on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and experience a virtual road trip through the great USA.
#9 Bike, Skate, or Walk along the Oak Leaf Trail
The Oak Leaf Trail is one of the best free things to do in Milwaukee. The trail will take you alongside Lake Michigan, the Milwaukee River, and through most of the major parks in the area. Located just off the trail are several beer gardens and breweries including Hubbard Park Beer Garden, Whitnall Park Beer Garden, Estabrook Beer Garden, and the Lakefront Brewery.
#10 North Point Lighthouse Museum
As you are walking along the Oak Leaf Trail or hanging out by Lake Michigan, you will probably come across this beautifully-restored lighthouse. From this vantage point, you will have incredible sweeping views over the city and the lake. It’s a wonderful spot to stop for a picnic. The museum itself is worth a visit to discover the history of the lighthouse and the story of its keepers.
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