Deciding to travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin? Look at our carefully selected list of top Milwaukee, Wisconsin attractions below on the best thing to do in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and places to go in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter aspires to make a huge impact on the world.
People don’t instinctively imagine all the fun things to do in Milwaukee as they do in big cities like New York, right?
This post, however, is going to change your mind and encourage you to go to Milwaukee.
Milwaukee is an ideal vacation destination for city dwellers looking for something different to do.
Did you know that Milwaukee is Wisconsin’s largest city, as well as one of the busiest? Yes, that’s right!
Milwaukee is a vibrant and lively city with lots of beautiful and unique places hiding different secrets and adventures.
There are so many things to see and do in Milwaukee that your head might spin from all of the possibilities!
The good thing is that when you have a list of options to choose from, it’s simple to narrow down your shortlist.
Planning your vacation isn’t as difficult as it may appear when you have a guide full of fun, free, and wonderful activities to do in the area.
Are you ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure while in Wisconsin?
Explore Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s top attractions and must-do activities in these things to guide.
Table Of Content
- American Science and Surplus
- Milwaukee County Zoo
- Discovery World
- Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
- Bradford Beach
- Estabrook Park
- Odd Duck
- Helium Trampoline and Indoor Adventure Park
- Milwaukee Public Market
- Milwaukee’s RiverWalk
- Lakefront Brewery
- Boerner Botanical Gardens
- Mequon Nature Preserve
- Lynden Sculpture Garden
- Milwaukee Art Museum
- Pettit National Ice Center
- Swing Park in Milwaukee
- 1983 Arcade Bar
- Green Meadows Petting Farm
- Central Library
- Volunteer At Animal Shelters
American Science and Surplus
A trip to Milwaukee doesn’t have to be expensive.
If you’re looking for offbeat, budget-friendly activities, the city of Milwaukee has plenty to offer. This one place is a pretty good example.
American Science and Surplus is a haven for geeks and techies as well as a place for families to explore their creative side.
For the enthusiast, tinkerer, artist, researcher, instructor, do-it-yourselfer, and bargain hunter, they provide a wide choice of unique and hard-to-find items.
Some believe it’s strange stuff, while others claim it’s a valuable find.
The shelves at American Science and Surplus are stuffed to the brim with items.
Even though they’re categorized by genre, you’ll often find craft glitter next to telescopes and encyclopedias in the same aisle.
In addition to medical and scientific items, American Science and Surplus also sells a wide selection of non-medical and non-scientific items.
If you’re on a tight budget when visiting Milwaukee, American Science and Surplus is an excellent option.
It’s easy to save money on the major tourist attractions while packing your bag full of unique, awesome, and quirky goods in this low-cost haven.
Visit American Science and Surplus if you can’t wait to see what it’s like.
Address: 6901 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53219, USA
Milwaukee County Zoo
Have you ever wished that you could get closer to the animals at the zoo? We’re happy to inform you that you can! And it’s all because of Milwaukee County Zoo’s Wild Connections, a brand-new animal interaction program. Have a look at this:
Zoo-goers of all ages will enjoy the Milwaukee County Zoo’s 190-acre property, which houses a few thousand species.
The zoo recently debuted Wild Connections, an animal encounter program that allows visitors to get up and personalize with a wide variety of creatures.
Go ahead if you want to get “up close” to certain creatures. Encounter choices in the program include a Giraffe Encounter, Rhinoceros and Red River Hog and Alpaca Encounter, and Red River Hog Encounter.
The Wild Connections program also includes a tour of the aviary and the aquatic and reptile center.
Every interaction leads guests on a tour of the zoo’s backrooms.
You’ll be able to get up close and personal with the animals on your trip, just like you would on a safari.
However, feeding the animals is one of the most fascinating aspects of the experience.
The Milwaukee County Zoo is a must-see if you’re planning a trip to Milwaukee.
No matter if you want a day’s adventure or a nice night spent among the animals, this zoo will not let you down.
Address: 10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
Discovery World
The Discovery World is one of the top attractions in Wisconsin.
Fun activities can be found both indoors and outside in Milwaukee. When the weather is frigid, it can be difficult to get out and enjoy yourself.
Fortunately, Milwaukee has a number of fantastic attractions. There is no excuse for missing this fascinating and interactive museum on the lakefront.
Greetings from Discovery World! There is something for everyone at this technology and science museum with hands-on activities for everyone.
Discovery World is also home to the Reiman Aquarium, where you can learn about a wide variety of aquatic species in addition to the amazing, interactive displays.
Technology and freshwater sciences are two of Discovery World’s primary areas of study. Keeping our Great Lake clean is only one of many challenges they bring to light.
Regardless of whether your children aspire to be the next generation’s innovators, engineers, scientists, or community leaders…
Is it ME who is curious about how things function or is it YOU?
Discovery World is a great place to learn while having fun.
You’ll learn a lot and have a lot of fun if you take advantage of these interactive exhibitions!
Address: 500 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA
Explore Wisconsin this holiday! Check out our curated travel guides to Lake Geneva and Door County! Look over for more wonderful things to do in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, and the best things to do in Door County, Wisconsin.
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
If you’ve ever wanted to get away from it all while still being in the middle of the city, this is the place to go. Not only does it have one of Milwaukee’s most spectacular settings, but it also offers workshops and exhibits that enhance the overall experience.
This nature center near Milwaukee is a great place to unwind, go on a strenuous hike, or simply learn something new.
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center is a must-see for nature lovers of all ages.
This wildlife sanctuary is the best place to take a break from the daily grind.
A bird’s eye perspective of this natural wonder is the only way to do it justice. The lake and property views from a 60-foot observation tower are available at this nature preserve. For your safety, the tower is closed in the rain or snow because of the dangerously slippery staircases.
This nature center is dedicated to educating the public.
There are so many things to do here, from hiking and kayaking to bird-watching and animal exhibitions, that it’s hard to keep up!
Relax, take a deep breath, and take in the natural splendor of this Milwaukee nature sanctuary.
Bradford Beach
Do you enjoy the sensation of swaying toes in the swaying currents of the ocean?
Having a margarita while relaxing on a nice beach blanket sounds like a dream come true for many people.
At Bradford Beach, you may make these dreams come true.
It’s a beautiful, clean beach located on Milwaukee’s eastern side, and tourists of all ages are sure to enjoy their time there.
There are yoga classes on the beach if you’re into body wellness.
Also, there are cabanas for honeymooning couples and families.
Sandcastle tournaments are common, and volleyball equipment is available for use in games.
The Bradford Beach in Milwaukee is a great day trip if you’re seeking great things to do in Milwaukee.
It’s one of the city’s most popular attractions, so there’s no excuse for you not to go! Plan your visit and get mesmerized!
Have the intention to visit Wisconsin? Wisconsin Dells and Madison are places you should not miss when in this state! To get the most out of your vacation in Wisconsin, hop over to the best things to do in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, and the best things to do in Madison, Wisconsin.
Estabrook Park
If you’re seeking a peaceful escape close to Milwaukee, look no further. The solution is Estabrook Park in Shorewood. This is a great place to spend an afternoon, with a beautiful waterway, rolling farmland, and even a beer garden.
Natural splendor abounds at Shorewood, Illinois’ Estabrook Park. Despite its diminutive size, this urban green spot packs a lot in.
Sports fields and a playground provide hours of fun for your little kiddies.
This park is only a 15-minute drive from downtown Milwaukee. Yet, you’ll feel like you’re in another universe as you gaze out over the thundering waters of the river.
Since Prohibition ended in 1933, Estabrook Park has been home to America’s first public beer garden. The Staatliches Hofbräuhaus brews the beer on-site.
In the beer garden, you may relax with a cold one after a day of exploring the park or meet up with old friends. Customers are free to bring their own favorite beer stein or a picnic basket to enjoy the full cuisine at this establishment.
Visit Estabrook Park whenever you need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Odd Duck
Odd Duck is a great place to start if you haven’t had the pleasure of dining at this small plate restaurant.
If you happen to be in Milwaukee, don’t miss out on the opportunity to try something different while you’re there!
In fact, there’s a trick to it. If you order everything on the menu, you won’t be able to digest it all at once.
By ordering everything on the menu, you won’t have to limit yourself to just one meal; rather than selecting a few tempting options, you can try them all.
For less than $20, you can sample duck, quail, oysters, octopus, and pork belly.
Furthermore, they even give away complimentary food from time to time.
If you’re hungry in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, stop by Odd Duck.
It’s a must-do for eaters who want to extend their culinary skills and try new menus to eat.
Address: 2352 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207, USA
Helium Trampoline and Indoor Adventure Park
A visit to the Helium Trampoline and Indoor Adventure Park will make your heart race.
As a family-friendly site, it’s a must-see for visitors of all ages in Milwaukee.
There are a lot of trampolines here, as the name implies.
Rope courses, rock walls, and gladiator beams are among the park’s other attractions.
Laser games and bowling alleys are also available if you want to keep your feet on the ground.
Set up a dodgeball game or hoops for the whole family to participate in.
In the Helium Trampoline and Indoor Adventure Park, everyone of any age can have fun.
Neither your toddlers nor your teenagers will be bored. There’s nothing for all ages.
Before visiting the Helium Trampoline and Indoor Adventure Park in Milwaukee, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Address: 16235 W Beloit Rd, New Berlin, WI 53151, USA
Milwaukee Public Market
The Milwaukee Public Market is undoubtedly well-known to anyone who has spent any time in Milwaukee. There are hints of Seattle’s Pike’s Place Market in this fantastic local market on the outskirts of Third Ward and downtown Milwaukee.
Lunch and supper alternatives for locals and tourists alike may be found around the city. The businesses in the area are among the best in the entire state. Nothing good can come from just taking a quick glimpse. A visit to this market is a must-do the next time you’re in town, as there is so much to see and taste.
Despite the fact that many people are aware of its existence, the Milwaukee Public Market has numerous surprises and delectable treats for those who venture within its walls.
Tourists and locals alike enjoy shopping at the market because it’s always a great mix of the two. Downtowners flock here for lunch, and sophisticated Milwaukeeans come here for dinner special at night. Because of this, travelers flock to the store as a one-stop shop for all things Wisconsin.
The upstairs is one of the most secretive areas in the house. It’s a terrific place to eat but it can also be used for studying, hosting events, and more.
You can see the entire market from the upper level, and the people-watching is excellent.
The Milwaukee Public Market is always a terrific spot to eat and shop. It will become your new favorite hangout.
Milwaukee’s RiverWalk
The Milwaukee’s RiverWalk is one of the best things to do in Wisconsin.
The best way to experience a river when you live in a city with one is to walk along with it! Among the many things you can do on Milwaukee’s RiverWalk, you may dine, shop, and just relax.
Keep reading to find out everything there is to know about the beautiful riverfront neighborhood of Milwaukee.
It’s a pleasure to have you here!
A two-mile-long pedestrian trail follows the Milwaukee River and features art, history, and local shops. As a result of this RiverWalk, our city has been given a Global Award of Excellence from the Urban Land Institute. Experts believe we’re managing our land in the greatest possible way.
Milwaukee’s river has played an essential role in the city’s history.
It’s a lovely mode of transportation, on top of that.
An ever-changing art stroll is shown on the RiverWalk.
You’ll pass pleasant people dining on the shore, breathtaking views of the city, and a plethora of options for food and shopping during this delightful stroll. For a Milwaukee experience like no other, take this historical, artistic, and all-encompassing walk.
Lakefront Brewery
Don’t let the cold winter weather put an end to your lakeside eating plans. Rather, reserve a Hop House at Lakefront Brewery. The warm and inviting spaces are both heated and transparent, allowing you to take in the views while staying warm. Look at this:
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Lakefront Brewery, a Milwaukee institution, first opened its doors in 1987.
The brewery’s location on the Milwaukee River and wide Riverwalk Patio are two of its outstanding attractions.
The tables and chairs that normally occupy the patio are replaced in the winter by Hop Houses, which are greenhouses that have been transformed into individual dining abodes.
Another positive aspect of the Lakefront Brewery is that children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Although it is mostly a location for adults, children can participate in the tour and eat at the bar, so you won’t have to leave them at the hotel while you explore Milwaukee’s adult side.
Visit the Lakefront Brewery for food, music, and as much beer as your stomach can hold before your pants start to fall down!
Address: 1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee, WI 53212, USA
Boerner Botanical Gardens
Though it may seem as if spring will never arrive in Milwaukee, it always does. What better way to soak up the sun than by strolling around a lovely rose garden? This Milwaukee attraction is a historic garden that is a hidden gem in the city.
You haven’t completely appreciated the splendor of springtime in Milwaukee until you’ve wandered through Boerner Botanical Gardens’ lovely rose garden.
Boerner Botanical Gardens, located within Whitnall Park, is home to Milwaukee’s most exquisite rose garden.
Have you ever gone on a daylily walk or a shrub mall tour?
Have you ever beaten a path through a rock garden?
All of these things are available right in the center of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at the Boerner Botanical Gardens, and you won’t have to pay expensive costs for the privilege.
While tickets are not free, they are only $5 – $7 depending on your age and are valid for the full day.
A romantic date or an educational stroll with the kids can go for hours.
Look up the Boerner Botanical Gardens if you’re looking for the top things to do in Milwaukee.
You may go on a tour as soon as this weekend, and by Monday, the scent of a fresh bouquet will still be on your clothes!
Address: 9400 Boerner Dr, Hales Corners, WI 53130, USA
Mequon Nature Preserve
The Mequon Nature Preserve is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin.
This travel is worth your gas money!
The Mequon Nature Preserve is roughly a 30-minute drive from Milwaukee and requires a road trip.
With its waterways, grasslands, grasslands, and wetlands, it is certainly among the most picturesque places in the United States.
The Mequon Nature Preserve’s main goal is to preserve Wisconsin’s natural landscape.
There is no pollution and very little commercial development.
They want to return the entire area to “pre-settlement circumstances” in Milwaukee without the lights and rubbish of civilization, so conservation is a priority.
The result is a tranquil oasis in Milwaukee where you can truly connect with nature.
The preserve’s trails will beckon you whether you’re a hiker, biker, or adventure seeker.
When the sun sets, it may also be quite romantic.
This weekend, plan a tour of the Mequon Nature Preserve.
Wisconsin is known for its natural beauty for a reason.
Address: 8200 W County Line Rd, Mequon, WI 53097, United States
Lynden Sculpture Garden
Milwaukee has plenty of greenery, art, and hidden secrets, but one site embodies all three. Have you ever fantasized about strolling through a lovely garden? This incredible art and nature adventure in Milwaukee is both visually appealing and educational!
Prepare to be lost among dozens of colossal art sculptures at Lynden Sculpture Garden, a Milwaukee hidden gem.
Over 50 sculptures are hidden within 40 acres of park and woodland in Milwaukee’s stunning sculpture garden.
The garden’s grounds are hundreds of years old.
It’s such a unique and cool attraction that you can’t pass it up once you’ve discovered it.
Where else in Wisconsin can you discover 40 acres of land with dozens of larger-than-life sculptures?
Neither are the uninteresting sculptures statues of long-dead individuals.
They’re abstract masterpieces.
They’re available in every hue of the rainbow and can twist into any shape you can think of.
Visitors are permitted to touch, photograph, and interpret the exhibits as they see fit.
After you’ve finished admiring the sculptures, take a stroll through the bonsai gardens or visit the museum to see a show of paintings and textiles.
Lynden isn’t just known for its sculptures; they’re simply the best.
If you’re looking for must-see sites in Milwaukee, pay a visit to the Lynden Sculpture Garden.
It might get hectic, so if you’re planning a last-minute vacation this weekend, call ahead. It’s well worth the trip.
Address: 2145 W Brown Deer Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53217, USA
Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee has an unending list of things to do, but trying to do them all at once might be costly. Fortunately, some of the nicest sites in town are free! One of them is the Milwaukee Art Museum.
The Milwaukee Art Museum, as one of the country’s largest museums, gives the rare opportunity to view over 25,000 works of art in one location.
It’s full of everything from classic paintings to contemporary wood carvings, and it’s sure to please art and culture lovers visiting Wisconsin.
The Milwaukee Art Museum is well renowned for its vast collection of Georgia O’Keeffe watercolors, but there are also works by many other painters on show.
Andy Warhol’s pop art, Pablo Picasso’s abstract doodles, and Claude Monet’s impressionist landscapes are among the works on display.
Paintings, prints, photography, sculptures, and folk art are among the works on display.
From Haiti to Holland, there are works on display.
To summarize, the Milwaukee Art Museum is a must-see for anybody interested in what the human spirit can do on a canvas.
It’s a fantastic destination with some of the best artwork of the Millenium, so it’s probably one of the best places to see while in town.
Address: 700 N Art Museum Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA
Pettit National Ice Center
Milwaukee people know how to stay active even when the weather is frigid.
Visiting places like Pettit National Ice Center is one of their secrets.
The Pettit National Ice Center, which has both rinks and speeds skating ovals, is a climate-controlled facility where you can get a touch of chilly in a good manner.
Spend a romantic evening dancing and sipping hot chocolate with your significant other, or let the children burn off some steam on the ice or in a hockey session with their friends.
As an additional perk, if you prefer to take the right steps on an ice-free path, there is also a non-ice track.
If you’re looking for something to do on a cold or rainy day in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Pettit National Ice Center is a great option.
It’s vacation time! You’ve earned some fun! So
Address: 500 S 84th St, Milwaukee, WI 53214, USA
Swing Park in Milwaukee
City life may be exhausting, so why not take a break and relax for a while? This hidden park in the heart of the metropolis has us feeling like a kid all over again. There are many hidden gems in Milwaukee, but this one is well-known and cherished by the residents. Check out this fantastic park in Brew City, which is located beneath the Holton Street Bridge.
Welcome to Swing Park in Milwaukee!
The Swing Park is located beneath the Holton Street Bridge and the Marsupial Bridge Media Garden. It’s the ideal spot to stop, relax, and have some fun, with swings for everyone.
Under the Holton Street Bridge sits Swing Park. It’s the ideal spot to stop, relax, and have some fun, with swings for everyone.
The park was taken up by the city of Milwaukee two years after it was built.
The swings are now popular among passers-by.
The Swing Park brightens your day and brings life to areas of our city that are in desperate need of it. The Swing Park provides something for everyone, whether you want to soar through the air on a tire or rest on a bench swing.
Address: 1737 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, United States
1983 Arcade Bar
Do you recall spending all of your childhood allowances at the arcade? If those days bring back memories, you might want to pay a visit to an arcade bar, which will transport you back to your childhood.
If you grew up playing arcade games, you’d enjoy the 1983 Arcade Bar.
This nostalgic utopia has all of your childhood favorites. You may spend hours playing pinball…
…put your bubble hockey skills to the test…
…as well as classic games like Donkey Kong, PacMan, and Frogger to hone your video game abilities.
These old games are all as enjoyable as you remember, with a few exceptions.
For starters, you won’t spend your entire allowance on your trip here as an adult. Every game costs only 25 cents, and now that you’re probably making a little more than you did on your paper route in the 1980s, you can play all day.
Another perk of rediscovering your childhood arcade games as an adult is that you get to play them again. You can have a beer while playing!
You’ll want to return to the 1983 Arcade Bar again and again after your first visit. See if you can make it to the top of the leaderboard!
Address: 1110 N. Old World 3rd St., Milwaukee, WI 53203.
Green Meadows Petting Farm
What could be more enjoyable than a road trip? A road trip that, of course, concludes with everyone in the family petting cute animals. Fuel up and drive to Milwaukee if a relaxing day at the farm is what you need right now. You’re going to adore a petting farm near Milwaukee that’s perfect for a day of fun for the whole family!
Green Meadows Petting Farm welcomes you!
This sprawling farm is only 45 minutes southwest of Milwaukee, making it an ideal day trip.
You can learn how to milk a cow, ride a pony, and pet various animals.
From bunnies to billygoats, horses, and piglets, there are many diverse creatures to meet.
This is the ideal location for everyone to unwind on a beautiful farm while petting cute animals!
So, what do you have to lose? Pack a picnic and plan to stay the entire day because you’ll find it difficult to leave.
Address: 33603 High Drive, East Troy, WI, 53120
Central Library
Technology has made it unnecessary for people to visit their local library whenever they need to write a paper, learn about the world, or entertain themselves. Even so, nothing beats the thrill of a trip to your local library to begin your next reading journey.
When it comes to the Central Library in Milwaukee, this is especially true.
You’ve arrived at Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s Central Library. However, from the outside, it appears to be a palace or government structure, but it is, in fact, a branch of the local library.
There’s more to it than that. This library, as you can see, is enormous. From the time it opened in 1898 to the present day, the Renaissance-style building has undergone a number of renovations. It currently covers a whole block in the city.
It’s not just that it’s larger than most public libraries; it’s also an architectural wonder.
The marble, brass, oak, and stained-glass panels that line the inside walls contrast beautifully with the building’s limestone facade.
When you enter, the first thing you’ll do is look up. The view from the rotunda is spectacular, with more than 120 lights illuminating the sky.
Remember to also look down. The beautiful mosaic floors of the library are another reason to visit.
A trip to Milwaukee’s Central Library, whether you’re one or one hundred, is an experience you won’t soon forget. It’s one of the best things to do in town, in our opinion, and it’s free.
Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.
Address: 814 West Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Do you need any more convincing that Milwaukee, Wisconsin is worth a visit? Hop over to reasons to visit Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at least once in your lifetime here
