Discover Milwaukee

Your complete guide to this amazing destination

Discover the best things to do in Milwaukee, USA with our 2025 travel guide. Explore top attractions and plan your perfect Milwaukee itinerary.

Discovery Insights

Swipe left to explore more

Local Insider Secrets

1

Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum on Tuesdays at 10:00 AM, right when it opens, to avoid the larger crowds that gather later in the day, especially on weekends. Enter through the east entrance for quicker access to the main galleries.

2

Purchase a 31-day MCTS bus pass for $65 to save money on transportation if you plan to use public transit frequently. Download the Ride MCTS app to track buses in real-time and plan your route. Remember to tap your card upon entering the bus.

3

A realistic daily budget for Milwaukee is around $100-150 per person. This includes $30-40 for meals, $20-30 for transportation, $40-60 for attractions, and $10-20 for miscellaneous expenses. You can save money by utilizing free activities and budget-friendly dining options.

4

Explore the Milwaukee Public Market for authentic local goods. Buy Wisconsin cheese, sausages, and craft beers from local vendors. Don't be afraid to ask for samples and negotiate prices, especially when buying in bulk.

5

Avoid the chain restaurants and souvenir shops in the heavily touristed areas near the lakefront. Instead, try local eateries like Leon's Frozen Custard for a taste of Milwaukee's culinary scene. These are often more authentic and affordable.

6

Attend Summerfest, one of the largest music festivals in the world, held annually in late June/early July. Be aware that transportation can be crowded and parking limited, so consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services. The festival has significant cultural importance.

Dining & Food

Best Cafes

Colectivo Coffee,Stone Creek Coffee,Anodyne Coffee Roasting Co.

Top Restaurants

Sanford,Ardent,Odd Duck

Food Markets

Milwaukee Public Market,West Allis Farmers Market

6 Photo Spots

1

Milwaukee Art Museum

Capture the iconic Burke Brise Soleil (wings) opening and closing.

2

Harley-Davidson Museum

Take a picture with the 'Serial Number One,' the oldest known Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

3

Milwaukee Public Market

Capture the bustling atmosphere and colorful displays of food.

4

Discovery World

Capture the views of Lake Michigan from the museum's windows.

5

Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes)

Capture the unique architecture of the domes and the diverse plant life inside.

6

Lakefront Brewery

Capture the brewery's interior and the beer-making process.

Budget Breakdown

Free Activities

  • Walking the Milwaukee RiverWalk
  • Visiting the Milwaukee Art Museum on the first Thursday of the month
  • Exploring the Historic Third Ward

Budget-Friendly

  • Mitchell Park Domes ($9)
  • Milwaukee Public Market (food costs vary)
  • Lakefront Brewery Tour ($12-15)

Splurge-Worthy

  • Luxury hotel downtown ($250+ per night)
  • Fine dining experience at a top-rated restaurant ($75+ per person)
  • Private brewery tour ($100+)

6 Hidden Gems

1

Third Space Brewing

Try a flight of beers to sample a variety of their offerings.

2

Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum

Explore the gardens for a peaceful escape.

Quick Facts

Total Attractions: 13

Free Activities: 1

Average Time per Attraction: 30–60 minutes

Walking Friendly: Yes

Public Transport Quality: Good

Complete Milwaukee Guide

1

Milwaukee Art Museum

Moderate 2-3 hours

The Milwaukee Art Museum is a must-see place in Milwaukee, renowned for its stunning architecture and diverse collection. The building itself, designe...

Visit on the first Thursday of the month for free admission....
2

Harley-Davidson Museum

Moderate 2-3 hours

For motorcycle enthusiasts (or even the mildly curious), the Harley-Davidson Museum is a top attraction in Milwaukee. Explore the history of this icon...

Check the museum's website for special events and demonstrations....
3

Milwaukee Public Market

Moderate 2-3 hours

The Milwaukee Public Market is a vibrant hub of local food vendors, artisans, and shops. It's a great place to sample local cuisine, grab a quick bite...

Visit during lunchtime for a wide variety of food options....
4

Discovery World

Moderate 2-3 hours

Discovery World is a science and technology museum perfect for families and curious minds. With interactive exhibits, aquariums, and a domed theater, ...

Check the schedule for special events and demonstrations....
5

Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes)

Moderate 2-3 hours

The Domes are three unique horticultural conservatories, each showcasing a different biome: desert, tropical, and floral. It's a fascinating place to ...

Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds....

Milwaukee Art Museum

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

The Milwaukee Art Museum is a must-see place in Milwaukee, renowned for its stunning architecture and diverse collection. The building itself, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a work of art. Inside, you'll find everything from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. I found the view surprisingly calming, perhaps because of the art itself or maybe just the light. It's one of the best things to do in Milwaukee, offering something for everyone.

Insider Tip

Visit on the first Thursday of the month for free admission.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located downtown, easily accessible by bus or car. Parking is available nearby.
Opening Hours: 10 AM - 5 PM daily, except Mondays.
Cost: $22 for adults, $14 for students and seniors.

Harley-Davidson Museum

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

For motorcycle enthusiasts (or even the mildly curious), the Harley-Davidson Museum is a top attraction in Milwaukee. Explore the history of this iconic American brand and see a vast collection of motorcycles, memorabilia, and artifacts. It's more than just a museum; it's a celebration of American culture and engineering. It's the kind of place you might linger longer than expected, even if you're not a biker yourself.

Insider Tip

Check the museum's website for special events and demonstrations.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located near downtown Milwaukee. Easily accessible by car, with ample parking.
Opening Hours: 10 AM - 5 PM daily.
Cost: $24 for adults, $16 for children.

Milwaukee Public Market

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

The Milwaukee Public Market is a vibrant hub of local food vendors, artisans, and shops. It's a great place to sample local cuisine, grab a quick bite, or pick up souvenirs. From fresh produce to gourmet cheeses, you'll find a wide variety of delicious treats. It's one of the best things to do in Milwaukee for food lovers. I think you will enjoy this place.

Insider Tip

Visit during lunchtime for a wide variety of food options.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in the Historic Third Ward. Easily accessible by bus or car.
Opening Hours: 10 AM - 8 PM daily (hours may vary for individual vendors).
Cost: Free admission; food and goods vary in price.

Discovery World

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Discovery World is a science and technology museum perfect for families and curious minds. With interactive exhibits, aquariums, and a domed theater, there's plenty to explore. It is a great place to explore Milwaukee's tech and science. Whether you're interested in freshwater ecology or technological innovation, Discovery World has something to offer. I think kids will love this place.

Insider Tip

Check the schedule for special events and demonstrations.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located on the lakefront. Easily accessible by bus or car. Parking is available.
Opening Hours: 9 AM - 4 PM daily.
Cost: $22 for adults, $16 for children.

Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes)

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

The Domes are three unique horticultural conservatories, each showcasing a different biome: desert, tropical, and floral. It's a fascinating place to explore the world's plant life without leaving Milwaukee. The floral dome features seasonal displays, so there's always something new to see. It's also a great place to take photos, some say.

Insider Tip

Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in Mitchell Park. Accessible by bus or car. Parking is available.
Opening Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM daily.
Cost: $9 for adults, $6 for children.

Lakefront Brewery

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Lakefront Brewery offers tours and tastings of their award-winning craft beers. It's a fun and informative experience for beer lovers. The brewery is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious brews. You can also enjoy food and live music. It is one of the fun things to do in Milwaukee.

Insider Tip

Book your tour in advance, especially on weekends.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located on the Milwaukee River. Accessible by bus or car. Parking is available.
Opening Hours: Varies; check website for tour and tasting times.
Cost: Tour prices vary; beer and food available for purchase.

Brady Street

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Brady Street is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its unique shops, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place to explore Milwaukee's local culture and find hidden gems. From vintage clothing to international cuisine, Brady Street has something for everyone. It is one of the best things to do in Milwaukee.

Insider Tip

Explore the side streets for hidden boutiques and cafes.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located east of downtown Milwaukee. Accessible by bus or car.
Opening Hours: Varies by business.
Cost: Varies by business.
Website: null

American Family Field (Brewers Stadium)

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Home to the Milwaukee Brewers, American Family Field offers a fantastic baseball experience. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun day out, attending a game is a great way to experience Milwaukee's sports culture. The stadium features a retractable roof, ensuring games can be played rain or shine.

Insider Tip

Arrive early to explore the stadium and grab food before the game.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located west of downtown Milwaukee. Accessible by car or public transportation.
Opening Hours: Game days only; check the Brewers' schedule.
Cost: Ticket prices vary.

Milwaukee RiverWalk

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

The Milwaukee RiverWalk is a scenic path that winds along the Milwaukee River, offering stunning views of the city. It's a great place for a walk, bike ride, or just to relax and enjoy the scenery. The RiverWalk connects many of Milwaukee's attractions, making it easy to explore the city on foot. I found it surprisingly calming.

Insider Tip

Walk the RiverWalk at night to see the city lights reflected in the water.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Access points throughout downtown Milwaukee.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
Cost: Free.
Website: null

Leon's Frozen Custard

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Leon's Frozen Custard is a Milwaukee institution, serving up delicious frozen custard since 1942. It's a must-try for anyone visiting the city. The custard is rich, creamy, and available in a variety of flavors. Expect a line, especially on warm evenings. It is a great place to explore Milwaukee's food culture.

Insider Tip

Try the flavor of the day for a unique custard experience.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located on South 27th Street. Accessible by car or bus.
Opening Hours: Varies seasonally; check website.
Cost: Budget-friendly.

SafeHouse

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

SafeHouse is a spy-themed restaurant and bar that offers a unique dining experience. To enter, you need to know the password (or complete a secret mission). The restaurant is filled with spy memorabilia and hidden passages. The menu features themed dishes and cocktails. It's a fun and interactive experience.

Insider Tip

Find the password online before you go to avoid the secret mission.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located downtown. Accessible by bus or car.
Opening Hours: Varies; check website.
Cost: Moderate.

Third Space Brewing

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Third Space Brewing is a local brewery known for its high-quality craft beers and welcoming atmosphere. They have a taproom where you can sample their beers and learn about the brewing process. They often host events and have a nice outdoor space. It's a great place to relax and enjoy a local brew.

Insider Tip

Try a flight of beers to sample a variety of their offerings.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in the Menomonee Valley. Accessible by car.
Opening Hours: Varies; check website.
Cost: Moderate.

Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

The Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum is housed in a stunning Italian Renaissance-style villa overlooking Lake Michigan. The museum features a collection of decorative arts from the 15th to 18th centuries, as well as beautiful gardens. It's a peaceful and elegant place to explore art and history. Some say it's a hidden gem.

Insider Tip

Explore the gardens for a peaceful escape.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located on the lakefront. Accessible by bus or car.
Opening Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 10 AM - 4 PM.
Cost: $7 for adults, $5 for students and seniors.

Getting Around

Milwaukee offers several transportation options. The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) provides bus service throughout the city and surrounding areas. You can purchase bus passes or pay per ride. Apps like Ride MCTS can help you plan your route and track buses in real-time. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Milwaukee. They are a convenient option for getting around, especially at night or when traveling to areas not easily accessible by bus. For those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, Milwaukee has a growing network of bike lanes and trails. The Bublr Bikes bike-sharing program allows you to rent bikes at various locations throughout the city.

Transportation Tips:

  • Check local transport apps for real-time updates
  • Consider day passes for multiple journeys
  • Download offline maps before exploring
  • Ask locals for the best routes and shortcuts

Where to Stay

Downtown Milwaukee offers a variety of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations. Staying downtown puts you within walking distance of many attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The Historic Third Ward is another popular area to stay, with trendy hotels and a vibrant atmosphere. For a quieter experience, consider staying in the East Side or the Lower East Side. These neighborhoods offer a mix of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. They are also home to many restaurants, cafes, and shops. If you're visiting Milwaukee for a specific event or attraction, such as a Brewers game, you might want to stay in a hotel near the stadium or other venue.

Accommodation Tips:

  • Book early for better rates and availability
  • Consider location vs price when choosing areas
  • Check transport links to major attractions
  • Read recent reviews for the most current information

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Milwaukee is during the summer months (June-August). The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities. Many festivals and events take place during the summer, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere. However, summer is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are also good times to visit Milwaukee. The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer. You can still enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking. The fall foliage can be particularly beautiful. Winter (November-March) can be cold and snowy in Milwaukee. However, if you enjoy winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, or if you're interested in seeing the city's holiday decorations, winter can be a good time to visit. Just be sure to pack warm clothes.

Seasonal Highlights:

  • Check local events and festivals
  • Consider weather patterns for outdoor activities
  • Book accommodations early during peak seasons
  • Off-season visits often offer better value

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Start your day by visiting the Milwaukee Art Museum, followed by a stroll along the Milwaukee RiverWalk. In the afternoon, explore the Milwaukee Public Market and sample local cuisine. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Historic Third Ward. Day 2: Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum in the morning, followed by a tour of Lakefront Brewery in the afternoon. In the evening, attend a Brewers game at American Family Field (if in season) or explore the nightlife on Brady Street. Day 3: Explore the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes) in the morning. In the afternoon, visit Discovery World or the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum. In the evening, enjoy dinner at SafeHouse or another unique restaurant. This is just a suggested itinerary, of course. You can customize it to fit your interests and time. There are plenty of other things to do in Milwaukee, so be sure to explore and discover your own favorites.

Itinerary Tips:

  • Book major attractions and dining reservations in advance
  • Allow flexibility for spontaneous discoveries
  • Keep backup indoor activities for weather changes
  • Mix popular sights with local neighborhood exploration

When is the best time to visit Milwaukee?

The best time to visit Milwaukee is The best time to visit Milwaukee is during the summer months (June-August). The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities. Many festivals and events take place during the summer, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere. However, summer is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are also good times to visit Milwaukee. The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer. You can still enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking. The fall foliage can be particularly beautiful. Winter (November-March) can be cold and snowy in Milwaukee. However, if you enjoy winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, or if you're interested in seeing the city's holiday decorations, winter can be a good time to visit. Just be sure to pack warm clothes.. This period offers ideal weather conditions and optimal experiences for most attractions and activities.

How many days should I spend in Milwaukee?

We recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Milwaukee to see the main attractions. For a more comprehensive experience, 5-7 days allows you to explore hidden gems and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

What are the must-see attractions in Milwaukee?

The top attractions include Milwaukee Art Museum, Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Public Market. These represent the essence of Milwaukee and should not be missed during your visit.

Is Milwaukee suitable for budget travelers?

Yes, Milwaukee offers options for budget travelers. Many attractions are free or low-cost, and there are affordable dining and accommodation options available throughout the city.

Explore More Destinations