9 Fun Things to Do in Milwaukee, WI, as Recommended by Locals 

Located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is the largest city in the state. Multiple Native American tribes called the territory home well before Europeans settled in the early 19th century, including German immigrants who shaped much of the city’s culture, especially its beer industry. (Companies like Miller, Pabst, and Schlitz helped establish Milwaukee as one of the most important beer-producing cities in the US.) 

Historically, Milwaukee’s economy has been primarily driven by manufacturing, especially in sectors like brewing, machinery, and ironworks. Today, Milwaukee is still home to important manufacturers, particularly in machinery and equipment. For example, it’s the birthplace of Harley-Davidson, housing a museum that showcases the history and evolution of the iconic American brand. Over time, Milwaukee has diversified its economy, with healthcare, education, and financial services becoming more prominent. 

The cost of living in Milwaukee is generally lower than the rest of the nation, with rent prices averaging around $1,500 per month and medium home costs at $180,180. This level of affordability, paired with Milwaukee’s ample employment opportunities, rich history, and exciting arts, dining, and culture scene, make it an excellent place to live for families and singles alike! 

Whether you’re just visiting or planning to put down roots, Milwaukee has plenty of activities for everyone. In fact, there’s so much to see and do that you might have a hard time deciding where to begin! But never fear, we hit up some of the locals for their suggestions, and we think you’ll like what they have to offer! Read on for some of the best things to do in Milwaukee, according to the people who live there.

1. Check out one of the city’s exciting festivals

Milwaukee truly earns its nickname as the “City of Festivals,” and there’s no shortage of events to keep you entertained all year long!” says Steve Rader, CEO of the Milwaukee-based company Willie Fun Events. “At the top of the list is Summerfest, the world’s largest music festival, offering 10 days of live music along the beautiful lakefront. It’s a must-do experience for any music lover!” 

“But Milwaukee doesn’t stop there,” he says. “Our ethnic festivals are legendary, celebrating the city’s rich cultural diversity. For example, Irish Fest, Festa Italiana, and Mexican Fiesta bring together food, music, and traditions from all over the world. For beer lovers, Oktoberfest and the many craft beer festivals highlight Milwaukee’s brewing history. And if you’re here during the holidays, the city’s winter festivals, like Christmas in the Ward and the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, are full of festive cheer. No matter when you visit, there’s always a festival or event lighting up the city!”

2. Browse the Milwaukee Art Museum

“As a long-time Milwaukee resident and business owner, I’ve fallen in love with our city’s unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty,” says Dr. Meggie Graham, owner of Lake Park Dental. “For example, I’m always in awe of the Milwaukee Art Museum, with its iconic Calatrava-designed wings. Not only does it house impressive collections, but the building itself is a work of art that embodies our city’s innovative spirit!”  

The collection includes over 30,000 works spanning thousands of years. Its American and European collections are perhaps the most prominent (you’ll find works by notable artists like Georgia O’Keefe, Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso), but there are also significant works in modern and contemporary art from names like Andy Warhol, Mark Rothko, and Joan Miró. The museum houses decorative arts, photography installations, and folk art, including a unique collection of works from Haitian artists celebrating Haitian culture and tradition. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing works from other institutions, specific artists, movements, or themes. 

Good to know: The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. They’re closed on Monday and Tuesday.

3. Hit the Farmer’s Market

“For a taste of local flavor, I often visit the Milwaukee Public Market in the Third Ward,” says Graham. “It’s a lively place that showcases the best of our local culinary scene – great for picking up specialty ingredients or enjoying a quick lunch.” The market’s stocked with fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and iconic local specialties like Wisconsin’s trademark cheese curds. Beyond food, the Public Market also offers goodies like handmade candles and artisanal gifts. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or locally-made goods!  

While you’re in the area, make time to stroll around the Historic Third Ward. Originally a hub for Irish immigrants in the mid-19th century, it’s now a super trendy neighborhood with an eclectic, artsy vibe. If you’re a shopper, there are plenty of locally-owned boutiques, specialty stores, and high-end retail establishments. If it’s nightlife you’re after, there’s a diverse range of lively restaurants, cafes, bars, and live music venues to keep you entertained. 

4. Sample Milwaukee’s best craft beers

“As a Milwaukee native, I can’t talk about our city without mentioning beer! I recommend touring our craft breweries to experience how Milwaukee’s brewing legacy continues to thrive in new and exciting ways. Lakefront Brewery is a personal favorite, especially their Friday fish fry. These diverse attractions reflect what I love most about Milwaukee – the way we honor our rich heritage while continually looking forward,” says Graham. “It’s this dynamic character that makes our city a truly special place to live and visit. I’m very proud to be a part of the Milwaukee community!”

5. Take a lakeside stroll

Heather Farr, owner and senior wedding and event planner for Heather Farr Events, gave us some great suggestions for outdoor activities in the area! “My absolute favorite thing to do in Milwaukee is visit our lakefront,” she says. “We are so lucky to have such a beautiful and clean major body of water to enjoy. There are lots of things to do at our lakefront. I like to grab a cup of coffee at Colectivo Coffee and take a stroll along Lincoln Memorial Drive.” Visitors can take a morning jog on the Oak Leaf Trail, enjoy an afternoon picnic with the family, or rent a paddleboat to get a view of the city from the water!

6. Explore the Milwaukee Riverwalk

“Our riverwalk is also lovely: a boat cruise along the riverwalk and the Lake Michigan harbor is a wonderful way to see the city and learn about its history!” says Farr. The walkway spans about three miles, weaving through downtown and connecting some of the city’s most trendy neighborhoods. Along the walkway is The RiverSculpture!, a public art collection featuring rotating sculptures and permanent installations by local and national artists that reflect the city’s unique personality. If you’d like to sit back, relax, and watch the world go by, the Riverwalk is also lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars, many of which offer outdoor seating with views of the river. 

7. Fish fry and polka like a local!

Farr also recommends a night out on the town, Milwaukee-style. “Milwaukee has a vibrant dining scene, and all visitors must try a Friday night fish fry and some deep-fried cheese curds!” she says. “There is no more authentic Milwaukee experience than a Friday night fish fry at Lakefront Brewery with entertainment from an authentic German polka band.”  

8. Take the kids to Discovery World

Another lakefront activity for the fam! This science and technology museum offers interactive, hands-on exhibits on engineering, biology, and innovation, as well as the Dream Machine lab, where kids and adults can design, create, and test their own inventions. There’s also a 19th-century schooner replica that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about sailing and maritime history on the Great Lakes. The museum also features an expansive aquarium, giving visitors an in-depth look at the ecosystems of the Great Lakes and other freshwater environments. It includes various fish species, educational cool water touch tanks, and immersive underwater experiences.

9. Enjoy the tranquility of the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory

Commonly known as “The Domes,” the Horticultural Conservatory is a favorite landmark in Milwaukee, located in Mitchell Park. It’s called The Domes because of its three distinctive domes showcasing plants from different ecosystems. The tropical dome simulates the lush, warm, and humid environment of a tropical rainforest with palms, orchids, banana trees, and more. The desert dome features plants from the arid, often harsh deserts of Africa, the Americas, and Madagascar. Visitors will find cacti, succulents, and other drought-resistant species. The third is The Show Dome, housing rotating and seasonal exhibits all year. It’s a popular attraction for visitors, especially during the holidays and spring flower shows. 

Explore exciting Milwaukee 

Cream City (a nickname earned because of the dominance of creamy-yellow bricks in its architecture) is continuously evolving and improving. It’s an exciting place to be, full of things to see and do for visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, sports, or Wisconsin culture, you’re sure to have a great time! We hope our locals’ suggestions have given you some ideas for where to begin your adventure, but be warned, once you get comfortable, you might just want to stay!