So, you’re moving to Milwaukee? The Brew City, the Cream City, Smallwaukee – Whatever you’ve decided to call it, you’re going to like it here. Mainly because you read this list.
1. Let me buy you a beer.
Sit down and join the conversation. It’s the Milwaukee way. Someone is going to start talking to you at a bar because they are truly interested in learning your story. Generally speaking, we’re some of the nicest human beings in the country.
2. They say the best things in life are free.
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The first Thursday of the month, swing by the acclaimed Milwaukee Art Museum for Meijer’s Free First Thursday. Take an iconic MKE pic of Santiago Calatrava’s first project in the United States. The Burke Brise Soleil opens its wings every day at noon, weather permitting, offering a stunning photo op. The traveling exhibition changes quarterly, while the permanent collection offers unique abstract sculptures and a life-like janitor taking a break. Yes, that is a sculpture.
3. Brewery tours forever.
You’re surprised that’s not #1, right? “Go on the Miller Brewery Tour!” your friends will tell you. As a local, I’d like to tell you to start somewhere else. Lakefront Brewery offers delicious samples throughout the tour to go along with the wild banter from the guide. #ProTip: Be the Bung Queen!
4. Shake the rust off.
From being a leading start-up incubator, to vibrant street art adding color to its iconic Cream City Brick, this city and its residents are more than their blue-collar upbringing—they like to boogie. Check out Gibraltar or Jazz Estate for some jazz, Black Cat Alley for local artist’s murals and dance your face off at D.I.X or Mad Planet.
5. Can I park here?
Download the MKE Park App on Apple or Android. This app will save your wallet, as Milwaukee is notorious for ticket czars. And set up your phone for winter parking announcements. Took me two tows to learn this. You’re welcome.
6. The Four Seasons exist.
No, you can’t book a room at the Four Seasons, that kind of luxury does not exist in MKE quite yet. But find a luxurious winter coat. You’re going to need it while developing a new appreciation for those summer nights.
7. Venture out to the burbs.
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While the Third Ward, Old World Third and Brady all offer a different kind of night life, a lot happens >10 miles outside of MKE. Bohemian Bay View & Walker’s Point really turn up the culinary flavor, Shorewood can make you feel like you’re in the Wisconsin Northwoods and the Tosa Village makes you feel like you’re in a European town.
8. More parks than you can handle.
The County Park system is unlike anything you’ve seen in an urban environment. Veteran’s Park nestles between Downtown and Lake Michigan and offers walking trails with sweeping views of the lake and this great city. For true urbanites, the bike paths are world-class, offering an eco-friendly way to commute to work via Bublr Bikes.
9. Riverwest has the best view.
Reservoir Park is possibly the highest “peak” in Milwaukee, located just north of Downtown in Riverwest, giving you uninterrupted views of the sweeping city and slivers of Lake Michigan. After catching a sunset here, venture up the road for a little date night at Nessum Dorma with a nightcap at Foundation (trust, you’ll just need one.)
10. Prost!
Milwaukee was built on German heritage. And guess what? We still embrace it. Check out Estabrook Park & South Shore Pavilion, or find out where the Traveling Beer Garden is making a Pop-Up shop that week—a definite must in the summertime.
11. We don’t scream for ice cream.
Milwaukee is known for its many fine purveyors of frozen custard. Local faves are Gilles’, Kopps’, Leon’s & Kitt’s. Everyone grew up going somewhere different. I vouch for Gilles’, but figure out which one is your favorite!
12. Something we all take for granted.
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The Milwaukee County Zoo, located just 10 minutes west of Downtown, is the third oldest zoo in the country. Spread over 200 acres, there are 377 species featured and is rated one of the Top Zoos in America. #ProTip: Ride the Safari Train with a beer.
13. McKinley Marina is the go to lake spot.
The McKinley Marina offers access to the breakwater which provides you with that “From Lake Michigan” view without knowing a guy with a boat. Avoid super windy days, unless you want to get soaked.
14. If it’s Friday, you’re at a Fish Fry.
A Wisconsin past time truer than baseball. If it’s chilly out, people crave beer-battered goodness not limited to Cod. Try the Perch. And potato pancakes. It’ll taste even better if the place has Christmas lights inside all year round.
15. Hope you like cheese.
If not, you’ll be miserable here. Sorry. No reason to sugarcoat this.
16. The Milverine is our local hero.
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The shirtless man you see power-walking from downtown to Bay View every day has a name. We affectionately call him the Milverine and he’s totally cool with you asking for a pic with him. Do it for the ‘gram.
17. Nobody tailgates like we do.
You’ve likely never done it before and that’s totally going to change. Pre-gaming for a Brewers/Packers game is best when you pack a cooler of your favorite libation, maybe some jello shots & your mini-Weber grill. Oh, and make friends with the caravan of people parked next to you. See #1.
18. Don’t “sit on it”
Wanna look like a tourist? Take a selfie with the Bronze Fonz. Actually, do it once and get it out of the way, but never again. Well, unless your parents are in town. They’d probably appreciate it.
19. The Riverwalk is world class.
The 3.1 miles of boardwalk connecting you from the Third Ward to Brewer’s Hill along the Milwaukee River is internationally acclaimed. A great spot for a morning run or a stunning photo walk.
20. There are so many festivals.
Along with a summer full of heritage festivals, The World’s Largest Music Festival is now in your backyard! Summerfest offers every genre of live music and all the fried food at your fingertips. Get the Saz’s Sampler Platter and always grab two drinks at a time.
