Your Complete Milwaukee Summer Bucket List for Food, Recreation, and Entertainment
Summer in Milwaukee: Activities and Attractions
Summer in Milwaukee offers a vibrant array of activities and attractions for everyone to enjoy. From exceptional dining experiences to thrilling water adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the warm weather with friends and family.
Milwaukee’s food scene comes alive during summer, with options ranging from classic burger joints to sophisticated rooftop dining experiences.
Iconic Milwaukee Eateries
Nite Owl stands out as one of the must-visit burger destinations in Milwaukee. This classic joint, known for its generous portions and nostalgic ’50s atmosphere, delivers a taste experience that has kept locals coming back for generations.
Las Gardenias is another standout option for food enthusiasts. Located in the historic Pritzlaff Building, this relatively new restaurant has quickly generated positive buzz since opening in spring. Offering both indoor and charming patio seating, Las Gardenias serves authentic dishes from Guadalajara, the capital city of Jalisco, Mexico.
Outdoor Dining Spots
The Lux Skyhause at Cafe Benelux presents a unique dining environment. It’s the first of its kind in Milwaukee featuring a retractable Roll-A-Cover enclosure that brings the magic of outdoor dining to guests regardless of weather conditions.
Twisted Fisherman provides one of the most enjoyable patio dining experiences in the city. There’s something special about enjoying a dinner on their deck during a summer evening in Milwaukee. The relaxed atmosphere and delicious seafood create the perfect combination for a memorable meal.
Beer gardens offer another fantastic outdoor dining option. Estabrook Park Beer Garden, the first beer garden opened post-prohibition, invites visitors to enjoy a cold brew and a Bavarian pretzel while taking in pleasant views. Milwaukee now boasts numerous beer gardens throughout the city, each offering something unique.
The Old Guard Cafe presents an affordable outdoor experience. Grab a coffee from Valentine, borrow a game from neighboring Old Guard Games, and enjoy both in their outdoor space for what might be the most economical date in town.
Food Markets and Events
Milwaukee’s farmers markets thrive during summer months. These markets offer everything from fresh, locally-grown produce to handmade soaps and crafts. They’re ideal destinations for food enthusiasts looking to support local vendors.
414flea events at Zocalo Food Truck Park showcase dozens of local food vendors alongside art, clothing, and craft merchants. These vibrant gatherings highlight Milwaukee’s creative community while offering delicious culinary options.
Water Activities
Being situated along Lake Michigan and the Milwaukee River provides residents and visitors with abundant opportunities for water-based recreation.
River Adventures
The Milwaukee Kayak Company offers a unique perspective of Downtown Milwaukee. Renting a kayak to paddle down the Milwaukee River requires no previous experience and provides an easy, fun way to see the city from a completely different angle.
The Milwaukee Riverwalk presents another way to enjoy the water. Walking along this picturesque path while sipping a beer, ale, or cocktail allows you to take in the scenic beauty of the river at a leisurely pace.
Lake Michigan Experiences
The Milwaukee Sailing Center provides opportunities to experience Lake Michigan from a sailor’s perspective. Learning how to sail on this great lake offers a new skill and a fresh way to appreciate Milwaukee’s stunning waterfront.
Boating Options
Edelweiss boat cruises combine relaxation with sightseeing. Guests can grab a drink and unwind while voyaging down both the Lake Michigan shoreline and the Milwaukee River, offering dual water perspectives of the city.
Riverwalk Boat Tours lets you rent a pontoon boat with or without a captain. This affordable option provides a fun way to glide across the river with friends or family.
Outdoor Recreation
Milwaukee’s outdoor spaces come alive during summer with activities for all ages and interests.
Sports and Activities
Pickleball has become extremely popular, and Milwaukee offers plenty of free courts where beginners and experts alike can enjoy this accessible sport.
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate Milwaukee County’s many greens. These courses offer enjoyable play for golfers of all experience levels.
The Turf Skatepark, recently reopened after a 15-year hiatus, serves as one of the Midwest’s premier skateboarding destinations. Visitors can bring their own board or simply watch the action.
Parks and Green Spaces
Firefly Grove Park in Wauwatosa is home to “Mama Rosa,” an impressive 25-foot, 4,000-pound troll sculpture created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. This charming addition to Milwaukee’s outdoor art scene has quickly become a popular attraction.
Veterans Park hosts major events throughout the summer, including the Harley Homecoming festival, making it a central location for outdoor entertainment.
Biking Opportunities
The Kwik Trip Tour of America’s Dairyland combines competitive cycling with community block parties. Taking place in late June, these events feature food, drink, and vendors alongside exciting bicycle races.
The Pedal Tavern offers a unique biking experience where groups can pedal their way around the city while enjoying drinks. It’s a social activity that combines exercise, sightseeing, and socializing.
Cultural and Entertainment Options
Summer brings Milwaukee’s cultural scene outdoors with numerous options for music, shopping, and special events.
Music and Arts
Jazz in the Park provides the perfect Thursday evening entertainment. This year features a new format for the beloved outdoor music series, where attendees can enjoy live performances in a beautiful park setting.
Chill on the Hill, the popular Bay View outdoor music festival, celebrates its 20th anniversary this summer with performances scheduled for many Tuesday nights. This free concert series has become a staple of Milwaukee’s summer culture.
Markets and Shopping
The Milwaukee Night Market transforms downtown into a shopper’s paradise on select Wednesday evenings throughout summer. Visitors can shop from local vendors, enjoy live performances, and sample great food while experiencing downtown Milwaukee at its most vibrant.
Various farmers markets throughout the city offer not just fresh produce but also unique handcrafted items, creating perfect weekend morning activities.
Festivals and Events
Center Street Daze represents Milwaukee’s eclectic festival spirit. This Riverwest neighborhood celebration features car races, shows, pool and dodgeball tournaments, and various family-friendly activities along one of Milwaukee’s most diverse streets. This year it takes place on Saturday, August 16.
The Harley Homecoming festival, scheduled for July 10-13, attracts motorcycle enthusiasts from across the country. Programming spans multiple venues including Davidson Park, the Harley-Davidson Museum, and Veterans Park.
Day Trips and Excursions
When looking to venture beyond city limits, Milwaukee offers convenient access to interesting destinations.
Nearby Destinations
Minneapolis has become more accessible than ever thanks to expanded Amtrak service. The train journey offers a comfortable way to visit the City of Lakes without the hassle of driving.
Unique Travel Experiences
For those seeking an unconventional overnight experience, several area campgrounds feature unique structures beyond traditional tents. Options include cabins, yurts, and other distinctive accommodations that combine outdoor adventure with interesting lodging.
Nightlife and Evening Activities
As the sun sets, Milwaukee’s nightlife scene comes alive with diverse options for entertainment.
Outdoor Bars and Patios
Milwaukee boasts numerous patios and outdoor drinking spots perfect for summer evenings. These venues offer everything from craft beers to creative cocktails, all served with views of the city or in tranquil settings away from urban bustle.
The Riverwalk area features multiple establishments where visitors can enjoy drinks while strolling along the water, creating a perfect evening activity.
Entertainment Venues
Outdoor music venues throughout the city host performances ranging from jazz to rock and everything in between. Many of these shows are free, making them accessible options for summer entertainment.
Night Markets
The Milwaukee Night Market transforms downtown streets into bustling centers of activity on summer evenings. These markets combine shopping, dining, and entertainment in a festival-like atmosphere that showcases the best of Milwaukee.
Milwaukee summer nights offer something for everyone, whether you’re seeking quiet relaxation or lively social scenes.
