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Milwaukee is a city thick with tradition. Today, Milwaukee is one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse cities in the U.S. However, it continues to be one of the most racially segregated, largely as a result of early-20th-century redlining. German immigrants heavily influenced its history in the 19th century and it continues to be a centre for German-American culture, specifically becoming well known for its brewing industry.

In recent years, Milwaukee has been undergoing its largest construction boom since the 1960s. They take their local culture seriously and if you visit, there are certain must-do traditions to have on your list during the trip.

Things to do in Milwaukee

Milwaukee officially the City of Milwaukee, is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Wisconsin and the county seat of Milwaukee County. With a population of 577,222 at the 2020 census, Milwaukee is the 31st largest city in the United States, the fifth-largest city in the Midwestern United States, and the second-largest city on Lake Michigan’s shore behind Chicago.

It is the main cultural and economic center of the Milwaukee metropolitan area, the fourth-most densely populated metropolitan area in the Midwest. Milwaukee is considered a “Gamma −” global city, as categorized by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network, with a regional GDP of over $102 billion in 2020.

Brady Street

Shop the trendy Brady Street stores in Milwaukee’s trendy east side. You will see it all, from incense and vitamins to handmade clothes and crafts. Other great shopping districts in the area include Milwaukee’s third ward and the up-and-coming Bay View area.

Friday Fish Fry

Attend a Friday Fish Fry. If you are not from the area, the Friday fish fry is probably something you consider only a Lenten ritual. In Milwaukee, they hold them every week at just about every restaurant. The most famous is at Milwaukee’s Serb Hall. You will need reservations for this and any other fish fry you choose to attend, so plan ahead and call early.

Enjoy Radio

Listen to the Bob and Brian morning show on 102.9 FM. While many feel that local Milwaukee radio leaves something to be desired, these guys will tickle your funny bone while you are in the area. Their morning show combines local and national news with guest interviews and hilarious, side-splitting banter.

Boating

Enjoy a boat ride around Lake Michigan. The lake is Milwaukee’s greatest asset and you can not visit the city without taking full advantage of it. There are a variety of tours to choose from, including some that offer gourmet food and savory cocktails.

Art Museum

Visit the Art Museum. Located at the heart of the lakefront, this is Milwaukee’s architectural gem. Exhibits change frequently, so check the current schedule before you go.

Eating at the Safehouse

Eat at The Safehouse. This local favorite combines yummy food with spy-like intrigue. It has a secret location and there is a password to get in, so ask locals once you get into town for more details.

Some Custard

Dine on delicious Milwaukee custard. In most cities, it is a summer favorite, but folks in Milwaukee enjoy it all year long. There are several locations that feature a flavor of the day and many a Milwaukeean will debate the location of the best custard. Check local publications for listings.

Brewers Game

Attend a Brewers game at Miller Park. Shaped like a keg, you will truly get a feel for the inebriate that Milwaukee is known for. Along with the baseball game, you will be entertained by the Sausage Races, featuring four of Milwaukee’s finest delicacies. If the Brewers are not in town, there are many other sports options to choose from, such as the NBA Bucks, the minor league ice hockey championship Admirals or the fast paced indoor soccer Wave.

Brewery Tours

Tour a brewery. Tour all of the breweries. Just be sure not to drive after all of those free samples.

Summerfest

Attend Summerfest. This is the premiere lakefront festival featuring musical acts of all kinds. Many of the shows require only one admission price and feature acts ranging from local favorites to big stars. The festival lasts about fourteen days and is started and ended with a fireworks spectacular. If it is not Summerfest season, you are sure to be lucky enough to attend another Milwaukee festival, on the same Summerfest lakefront grounds.

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