Things to do & places to visit in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is perhaps best known for its famous breweries and the Major League Brewers, but there's more to the city than beer and baseball. Milwaukee is rich in historical and cultural attractions, making it the perfect place for a weekend of exploring. Check out the newly expanded Milwaukee Art Museum or the Mitchell Park Horticultural Society, which hosts an annual show of the same flora and fauna seen in Georgia O'Keefe's paintings. Those interested in the city's history can visit the grand Pabst Mansion, former home of one of the city's famous beer barons, or the Milwaukee Public Museum, to see what life was like in Old Milwaukee. If the kids are along, don't miss the Milwaukee County Zoo or the Betty Brinn Children's Museum. Of course a trip to the "Genuine American City" would not be complete without a tour of the Miller Brewing Company and a Brewers game at Miller Park.

Milwaukee city in Wisconsin, United States. Timezone: America/Chicago, current date and time: Wednesday, May 08, 2024, 16:51.

Top things to do (22)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Basilica of St. Josaphat (874 reviews)
- Amazing interior - one of Milwaukee's must do's
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

Enter the Basilica of St. Josaphat through the Visitor Center, Monday-Saturday, 10:00am to 3:00pm for visits and tours; free tour after Sunday 10:00am Mass. The Visitor Center is in the Pope John Paul II Pavilion at S. 7th Street and West Lincoln Ave. Enter from the parking lot. Located in Milwaukee’s historic Lincoln Village, the Basilica is a ministry of the Conventual Franciscans and has a captivating story of faith, historical significance, and unmatched architectural and artistic beauty. Polish immigrants built the Basilica over 115 years ago using salvaged materials from the razed U.S. Post Office and Custom House federal building in Chicago. Its 250 foot high copper dome is the icon of the diverse neighborhood the Basilica serves today. The Basilica hosts community events, performances of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and others. The St. Josaphat Basilica Foundation, a 501(c)(3) works with the Franciscans to preserve and restore the Basilica. All are welcome! See more..
4.5 Harley-Davidson Museum (3.125 reviews) from $22.00
- HD & beers - more than enough reasons to visit Milwaukee
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Harley-Davidson motorcycles bring heart-thumping adventure, life-changing freedom and a bit of rebellion into the lives of people around the world. But whether you were born to be wild - or mild - makes no difference at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Much more than a nostalgia trip for motorcycle enthusiasts, the Museum offers a glimpse of American history and culture like you've never seen before - through the successes and trials of an iconic American company. Interactive, eye-catching exhibits present an unparalleled collection of legendary stories of our nation's last century. Located on 20 acres in downtown Milwaukee, the Museum offers free parking, Motor Bar & Restaurant, The Shop, park-like outdoor spaces, and space for special event rentals. This attraction is a must-see on your list of things to do in Milwaukee! See more..
4.5 American Family Field (3.082 reviews)
- Most informative and fun tour
Arenas & Stadiums

Home of the Milwaukee Brewers, this state-of-the-art stadium features a fan-shaped convertible roof and four choices of front-row seats for baseball fans. See more..
4.5 Milwaukee Art Museum (2.785 reviews)
- Well worth the money!
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Museums

Museum boasts an extensive collection of nearly 20,000 works, representing such artists as Pablo Picasso, Georgia O'Keeffe and Andy Warhol. See more..
4.5 Lakefront Brewery (1.896 reviews)
- Most entertaining tour we have ever been on.
Wednesday: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries

On December 2nd, 1987, brothers Russ and Jim Klisch opened Lakefront Brewery and sold their first batch of Riverwest Stein Amber Lager to a neighborhood tavern in Milwaukee. We have grown to brew 46,848 barrels of beer in 2017 and distribute our products to 35 states, Canada, Ukraine, Japan, Korea, Sweden and Australia. Lakefront Brewery was the first certified organic brewery in America, the first brewery to produce a government-approved, gluten-free beer and the first indigenous beer using all Wisconsin grown ingredients. We currently produce 20 year-round and seasonal beers as well as our innovative one-off My Turn Series which gives each of our full time employees a chance to choose a style we've never brewed. Beer aside, Lakefront is also known around the country for their highly entertaining and sought-after brewery tours. See more..
4.5 Milwaukee County Zoo (1.733 reviews)
- Fun family Zoo!
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Zoos

So much fun! We went as a family (2 boys 10 & 13 also). We all loved it. Note: I did not see any place to get tickets inside and since we were traveling from Chicago, we did buy tickets and parking ($15) in advance. Get there before the 0930 open time, the cars were lined up outside. The indoor exhibits were open - but masks were required inside there and the gift shops. There is a lot of walking. Not sure if you can "rent" a stroller or wheelchair. A lot of areas were accessible outside, but some of the indoor buildings had smaller spaces. Since my kids are older, we were done in 2.5 hours (we did not do any of the ziplining, tram tour or train ride). We did do the Sky Safari, but the notice said they would close it after Labor Day. See more..
4.5 Historic Third Ward (1.302 reviews)
- Little Hamburg on Michigan Lake
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Every trip to Milwaukee should start in the Historic Third Ward. Explore our locally owned restaurants, spas, theaters, galleries, and boutiques all in a historic warehouse setting. The neighborhood is home to the award-winning Third Ward Riverwalk, the nationally acclaimed Milwaukee Public Market, and the world's largest music festival, Summerfest. Located just south of downtown Milwaukee. See more..
4.5 Milwaukee Public Market (1.096 reviews)
- Totally Loved The Milwaukee Public Market! So Much Fun!!!
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Flea & Street Markets

MARKET HOURS Monday through Friday: 10 am – 8 pm Saturday and Sunday: 8 am – 6 pm Early Open Hours: Weekdays at 7 am See more..
4.5 Milwaukee Public Museum (1.085 reviews)
- Impressed with collection
Wednesday: Spent 2-3 hours Natural History Museums

Natural and human history museum in the heart of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. MPM houses more than 4 million objects. See more..
4.5 Pabst Mansion (1.085 reviews)
- Christmas at the Mansion
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites

Featuring 37 rooms, 12 baths and 14 fireplaces, sea captain and beer baron Captain Frederick Pabst's beautiful home was built in the Flemish Renaissance style on Milwaukee's historic Grand Avenue. During docent-led tours visitors will see the first through third floors and learn about the Pabst Mansion and family. New tours are offered including a fine arts tour, happy hour tour, family-friendly tour and mimosa tour. See more..
4.5 Milwaukee RiverWalk (1.041 reviews)
- Enjoyed an Afternoon Walk
Historic Walking Areas

After stuffing ourselves on lobster rolls we crossed over to the Riverwalk to see what it was all about. It was a great sunny and warm afternoon. We passed through a park that was undergoing the final construction touches and found it to be a very inviting start. The path along the river was very well maintained, clean and well signed. There were lots of benches to take a rest and soak up the views. If you were in your own boat (or kayaking through) then docks were also available for those wanting to get something to eat or shop. We did get to watch a sightseeing cruise boat go down the river and bridge after bridge had to be raised and lowered. I understand that all the bridges are operated remotely instead of a person at each bridge. My only nit pick (loss of one circle) was that the Riverwalk path was not continuous and we had to climb up and down stairs and cross streets. See more..
4.5 Miller Brewery Tour (930 reviews)
- It's Miller Time
Breweries

The Miller Brewery Tour offers an 80 minute indoor/outdoor guided walking tour of Miller Valley, home to over 155 years of brewing history. Experience everything from Fredrick Miller's arrival in Milwaukee to the high-speed production lines used today. Our tour begins with beer education and a journey back in time in our Historic Caves and Bavarian Style Miller Inn. Next we’re off to Brewing, Packaging & Distribution operations. Each tour ends as it begins… with our famous beers. Enjoy beer samples throughout the tour and after if 21 with valid ID (soda and water available for those under 21). Commemorate your experience with a custom tour photo or one of the many great items found in our Girl In The Moon Brewery Shop. We look forward to seeing you for your Miller Time experience soon. CHEERS! See more..
4.5 Great Lakes Distillery (777 reviews)
- VIP Treatment
Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

Great Lakes Distillery is a small-batch distillery located in Milwaukee Wisconsin. We hand-craft award winning distilled spirits in limited quantities using old world methods and traditions which we believe result in a superior product. We’re a bit of an anomaly in the spirits business - we actually make our own products! We’re a handful of people devoted to the craft of distilling and creating the best distilled spirits possible. As Wisconsin's first distillery since prohibition we are anxious to share our unique products and look forward to meeting people who appreciate high quality craft distilled spirits. Give us a try and see for yourself how unique these hand crafted spirits can be. We are pleased to be able to open our distillery to the public everyday for tours. During our approximately 1 hour tour, visitors will learn about our award winning products, how & why we make them and receive a flight of five products to try (complimentary soda is available for non-drinkers). See more..
4.5 Discovery World (546 reviews)
- Great place to spend a couple hours!
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Science Museums

ATTENTION – Due to COVID-19, we are reopening in phases. Please visit the Discovery World website to review open attractions prior to your visit. Discovery World is Milwaukee’s premier, non-profit science and technology center for the whole family. We want to light the spark of curiosity in your kids. We want to inspire them to become the next generation of engineers, designers, scientists, innovators, community leaders, and makers. We want you and your family to explore, learn, create, and have fun. See more..
4.5 Henry Maier Festival Park (353 reviews)
- Great place for concerts and shows
Parks

Situated on the Lake Michigan shore, this park plays host to Milwaukee's sizzling summer circuit of ethnic and music festivals. Promoting an understanding of different ethnic cultures, the histories and traditions of various nationalities, harmony in the community, civic pride and provides a showcase for performing arts, activities and recreation for the public. Festivals throughout the year held at Henry Maier Festival Park: Polish Fest, Pride Fest, Summerfest, German Fest, Jazz Visions on the Lake, Irish Fest, Mexican Fiesta, Fromm Pet Fest. See more..
4.5 Pabst Theater (289 reviews)
- Milwaukee Police Band at the Pabst Theater
Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 6:30 PM Theaters

We drove in with an elderly relative for the concert. We arrived about 45 minutes early and found free street parking two blocks away. There were several steps to climb to get to the elevator, but a handrail was available The elevator took us to the second floor. Steeper steps, also with a handrail, led to our seats. Unfortunately, handrails are not available at the ends of the banked rows of seats. The concert was good. Nice acoustics. See more..
4.5 Betty Brinn Children's Museum (255 reviews)
- This dad gives BBCM 5 out of 5 stars!
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Children's Museums

The Betty Brinn Children's Museum inspires all children to wonder and explore their world through play and innovative, hands-on learning experiences. Families are invited to explore the Museum's interactive exhibit galleries, create in the makerspace and participate in weekly programming. See more..
4.5 Milwaukee Brewing Co. (231 reviews)
- Top Choice
Wednesday: Spent 1-2 hours Breweries

MKE Brewing Co. started as a brewpub, the Milwaukee Ale House, in October 1997 in Milwaukeeʼs Historic Third Ward. Fast forward 10 years and over 300 innovative beers later to November 2007 when MKE Brewing Co kegged off their first brew at their 2nd Street Brewery located in the trendy Walker’s Point neighborhood. A WDNR Green Tier Certified brewery, MKE Brewing Co. prides themselves on taking the artisan approach to brewing, using only the finest local ingredients and never making compromises. Tours are offered on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations are recommended. See more..
4.5 North Point Lighthouse (225 reviews) from $8.21
- Impressive setting in upscale neighborhood
Wednesday: Lighthouses

North Point Lighthouse & Museum is beautiful, memorable & historic. Our museum tells the history of lighthouses in Milwaukee as well as the maritime history of the area - extremely interesting with original artifacts & great stories. Learn about Georgia Stebbins was our longest-term keeper - quite unusual for a woman in the late 1800's & early 1900's. It's estimated she climbed the tower 63,800 times! She was amazing. Our lighthouse tower is on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan and Milwaukee. It's comprised from three sections, each a component of three different lighthouses. It's truly a historic treasure. See our Web site for more information and our open hours - there is an admission fee. Docents can provide a tour of our museum, you may climb to the top of the tower for a fabulous view! Visit our Gift Shop and enjoy our beautiful grounds, set in a park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (who designed Central Park in New York City). See more..
4.5 Old World 3rd St. (183 reviews)
- Downtown Walk
Points of Interest & Landmarks

I went downtown for my afternoon walk and found a lot of neat and interesting things to do in at Old World 3rd Street.I have not been in our downtown area in many of years. Here is what I found, There were many restaurant types, from German,Polish, American and Italian. Oh there also is a fresh seafood restaurant. There are all kinds of shops and a cheese market. Enjoy your visit. See more..
4.5 Oriental Theater (178 reviews)
- Awesome!
Theaters

What a cool place! You walk in and the beautifully restored decor transports you to the 1920’s. The modified movie posters on the walls are a nice touch. The seats are not as comfy as in the new theaters, and the screen is smaller, but the atmosphere 100% is worth it! Also, we specifically chose to come there at this time because they ask for proof of vaccine. Good for them! It certainly made us feel more at ease. See more..
4.5 St. Joan of Arc Chapel (163 reviews)
- Beautiful and Serene
Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

We had to wait a bit before exploring since a number of students in graduation gowns were using the outside of the chapel for photo shoots. This small chapel was located on the Marquette University campus near the library. It faced beautiful gardens and in the back was a recent installation of a grotto dedicated to St. Mary. Inside was quite small with an old world feeling. Beautiful stained glass windows and simple decor made this very serene inside. See more..
4.5 Veteran's Park (160 reviews)
- Lots of Activities Right by the Lake Beach!
Parks

Park at the south end of the Lakefront Trail. See more..
4.5 Milwaukee Public Library (127 reviews)
- Fantastic place for kids
Libraries

The children's section in the central library is wonderful- keeps kids busy for at least an hour...sometimes more! Has a lighthouse that small children can climb up into and overlooks the entire children's book area. There is a train table with enough trains that no one goes without. There's a puppet theatre with about 20 different hand puppets so you can sit and enjoy your kids entertaining you. Also lots of nooks for reading to your kids. Lego table in a nook. Lots of movies and books to choose from. They have a children's program with featured activities throughout the year. Great place to spend a rainy day. And don't forget to stop in at the coffee shop for a sandwich and a drink- proceeds go to the library and prices are reasonable. You can also buy used books there. See more..
4.5 Milwaukee Repertory Theater (126 reviews)
- Ring of Fire!
Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Theaters

Went to the Ring of Fire play and had dinner before play. The food was excellent and the staff was courteous. Enjoyed it very much. See more..
4.5 Lake Park (90 reviews)
- One of the few remaining Indian Mounds in this part of the State
Parks

City park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. See more..
4.0 Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes) (637 reviews)
- Small but interesting.
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Gardens

Plants make people happy, and with thousands of wild and wonderful plants growing and blooming inside our tropical, desert and floral domes, it's no surprise that our living museum is one of Milwaukee's most loved destinations. Discover cacti, succulents, shrubs and desert palms in the Desert Dome. Enjoy five seasonal shows each year in the Floral Dome and walk among 1,200 species of rainforest plants in the Tropical Dome. The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, better known as The Milwaukee Domes, is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves plants. Visit us year-round, from Wed-Sun. See more..
4.0 Bronze Fonz (610 reviews)
- The Fonz
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The statue was located near the Wells Street bridge and the Fonz was standing with his very well know pose with double thumbs up. You could almost hear him saying aaay. For those fans of Happy Days this statue would be a must see and perfect for selfies. See more..
4.0 Lake Express (326 reviews)
- Above and beyond
Wednesday: 4:00 AM - 11:00 PM Ferries

Lake Michigan's only high speed car-passenger ferry. Offering convenient 2-1/2 hour runs between Muskegon and Milwaukee. Visit our website for a full schedule of daily crossings and to book your trip. Cut hundreds of miles of driving and enjoy the hours you save when you take the Lake Michigan ferry shortcut offered by Lake Michigan's fast ferry, the Lake Express. See more..
4.0 Brady Street (181 reviews)
- GREAT STREET!!!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

North of Milwaukee's downtown, this area is frequented by college students, hip types and those in search of authentic Italian food. See more..