Fora’s Take
Milwaukee is a city full of diversity, from the food to the arts to the outdoors. Just a quick 90-minute drive from Chicago, Milwaukee offers a metropolitan experience with the beautiful backdrop of Lake Michigan. Milwaukee provides an unforgettable experience for a traveler looking to explore a unique city full of charm.
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Where to stay in Milwaukee, WI
Kimpton Journeyman
Where luxury meets the vibrant soul of the city in a seamless fusion of style and comfort.
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The Pfister Hotel
Historic Victorian hotel in a building from 1893 with sophisticated rooms and suites.
Hotel Metro, Autograph Collection
Where timeless elegance and modern luxury converge in the heart of the city.
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
Vibrant, artsy hotel with psychedelic interiors for a fun stay.
The Iron Horse Hotel
Where industrial chic meets urban sophistication, creating a unique haven for modern travelers in Milwaukee.
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Things to do in Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee Art Museum: From Georgia O'Keeffe to Dale Chihuly to Andy Warhol, MAM has something for everyone. Modern art, European art and photography are among the genres that you will see at MAM. Check out the folk art from several countries, or the epic mural by Derrick Adams.
Milwaukee Public Market: Enjoy a fresh-pressed juice, salad, pizza or baked goods from all local vendors. Stock up on local spices or your favorite wine or beer and grab a cool Milwaukee t-shirt or coffee mug while you're there.
Veterans Park: Located right on Lake Michigan, and within walking distance from the Milwaukee Art Museum, take the scenic route and get some steps in.
Harley Davidson Museum: Whether you're a motorcycle enthusiast or just along for the ride, the museum provides the opportunity to discover motorcycle history, with opportunities for shopping and enjoying a bite to eat at Motor Bar and Grill.
Discovery World: A must see if you have kids. Explore technology and local aquatics. Exhibits include a flight simulator, interactive models of the Great Lakes and model railroading.
Lakefront Brewery Tour: Take a tour of the legendary Lakefront Brewery and take home a souvenir pint glass.
Milwaukee Brewers Game: Cheer on the Brew Crew at American Family Field.
Milwaukee Bucks Game: Cheer on the 2021 NBA Champion Milwaukee Bucks and two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Day trips:
If you're a Packers fan, you are less than 2 hours away from the promised land of Lambeau Field. Check out the Packers Hall of Fame or take a tour of the famed stadium.
Three hours north of Milwaukee is the beginning of Door County, a beautiful peninsula known for its coffee, wineries, antiques, boutiques and outdoor sports. With the bay of Green Bay on one side and Lake Michigan on the other, it is a picturesque setting for a day trip.
Places to eat & drink in Milwaukee, WI
Honey Butter Cafe: Technically in the suburb of Franklin, this gem has impeccable service, and the Strawberry Banana Nutella Crepes are *Chef's Kiss* good! Loukomades, or honey puffs, are the appetizer.
Kopp's Frozen Custard: Kopp's is a must any time we are in Milwaukee. Obviously known for their frozen custard, their burgers and their grilled cheese sandwiches are sneaky comfort food good! If you happen to be in Milwaukee in the month of August, their French Silk Sundae is a Tony Bojko favorite! You can preview what the special sundaes and custards are for any given day or month before you go.
Ricardo's Pizza: Located in the suburb of Greendale, this family-owned pizza restaurant uses only the best ingredients, including, of course, Wisconsin cheese.
Portillos: Not necessarily local to Milwaukee only, but the best Italian beef you'll find.
Ray's Butcher Shoppe: If you're in the mood to cook, grill or smoke some meat, grab some brats from Ray's. They are so good; we have a local Milwaukee friend bring them in a cooler to us when we vacation in Minnesota!
Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro: One of Milwaukee's fine dining establishments overlooking Lake Michigan.
Colectivo Coffee: With several locations around the Milwaukee metro area, Colectivo is a great choice for a coffee date or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Milwaukee Burger Company: If you're craving a burger, this is the place to go. The Brown Sugar and Smoked Cheddar Burger is our go-to, but you can't go wrong with just about anything on the menu. Their cheese curds are also some of the best around, and that is saying something for Milwaukee.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Milwaukee. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Fora Advisor Sara Sandman's Trip Report, Site Inspection of Brewhouse Inn & Suites in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.