By Jennifer Sullivan
Milwaukee might have a reputation for beer and bratwurst, but there’s a lot more to this city if you know where to look. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, family-friendly spots, or something a little more offbeat, this list has you covered. And yes, there will be beer—this is Milwaukee after all.
The Best Things to do in Milwaukee
1. The Milwaukee Riverwalk
Walking along The Milwaukee Riverwalk might be the most “Milwaukee” thing you can do without actually buying a brewery. The 20-block pedestrian path hugs the Milwaukee River, offering a scenic stroll past public art, cafes, and historic landmarks. If you’re feeling particularly active, rent a kayak or paddleboard and see the city from the water. It’s one of those outdoor activities that balances nature and city life, and best of all, no hiking boots required.
2. Harley-Davidson Museum
Whether you ride or not, the Harley-Davidson Museum is a must-see. You’ll walk through over a century of Harley history, complete with restored bikes, vintage memorabilia, and interactive exhibits. It’s a deep dive into Milwaukee’s industrial past and its love affair with motorcycles. Plus, there’s a chance to sit on a Harley yourself—perfect for that very necessary photo op.
3. Black Cat Alley
If you’re in the mood for something a bit edgier, head to Black Cat Alley, Milwaukee’s open-air gallery of murals and street art tucked away in a back alley on the East Side. The walls are constantly evolving, featuring work by local and international artists, which makes it feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden art show. It’s also highly Instagrammable, though don’t tell the artists I said that.
4. Discovery World
Discovery World is where you go if you have kids, or if you’re just a big kid yourself. This lakefront science and technology museum offers interactive exhibits, an aquarium, and plenty of hands-on activities to keep little ones entertained while you pretend you’re there for “educational purposes.” Bonus points for its prime location right on Lake Michigan—so when the kids get tired, you can sneak a moment of peace with a view.
5. Milwaukee Kayak Company
For a real outdoor adventure, check out Milwaukee Kayak Company, where you can rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards and explore Milwaukee from the water. Paddle down the Milwaukee River or head out into the harbor for a unique view of the city skyline. It’s a great way to feel like you’re in nature without leaving the city behind, and it beats the treadmill any day.
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The Things to do in Milwaukee
Milwaukee might have a reputation for beer and bratwurst, but there’s a lot more to this city if you know where to look.
By Jennifer Sullivan
It was my ex-boyfriend, not my father, who took me for my first ride. I was sixteen, and it was love at first throttle—the speed, the noise, the way the world blurred as you tore through it. That boyfriend is long gone, but the love of motorcycles? That stuck. So, here I was, decades later, in Milwaukee—the birthplace of Harley-Davidson—not to chase ghosts, but to feel the weight of history rumbling beneath my feet.