The Milwaukee Bucket List: 29 things to do in & around town

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By UpNorthNews Staff

Here’s your guide to some of our favorite Milwaukee spots.

In Milwaukee, there’s no shortage of things to do, sights to see, and foods to eat. But finding a starting point can be overwhelming. We’re here to simplify things with your guide to all things Milwaukee.

Things to Do in Milwaukee

Stay in a “haunted” hotel

The Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee is one of the city’s premiere luxury hotels, notably having hosted every U.S. president since William McKinley. But aside from its numerous celebrity guests, the hotel is famous for another reason – it’s considered one of the most haunted buildings in Wisconsin, and one of the most haunted hotels in the entire country.

Opened in 1893 and designed by Milwaukee architect Henry C. Koch, the hotel is 23 floors tall and hosts an extensive collection of Victorian-era artwork – the most of any hotel in the world. Modeled after Romanesque Revival architecture, the hotel is adorned by stunning marble staircases and ornate ceilings.

The hotel was the vision of Guido Pfister, a German immigrant to Milwaukee who became wealthy as a venture capitalist. Pfister passed away during the hotel’s construction, leaving his son, Charles, in charge of finishing up the job. Charles oversaw the completion and opening of the hotel, but died of pneumonia in 1927. The popular legend is that Charles Pfister is the one who haunts the building, watching over the guests of his “Grand Hotel of the West.”

Catch a concert at Cactus Club

Located in the heart of Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood, Cactus Club is a local hidden gem. The building that now hosts one of the spunkiest venues in the Milwaukee area has a long and storied history – dating back to the late 19th century. The club has previously served as a grocery store and a prohibition-era tavern before converting to a live music venue in 1996. Since then, it’s served as a launching pad for both local and nationally touring acts, as well as hosting various community-oriented events such as artist markets, book clubs, and training workshops for local musicians.

Take in some public art on the Milwaukee Riverwalk

The Milwaukee Riverwalk is a three-mile, public walking trail along the Milwaukee River, offering serene views of the water and easy access to many downtown sights. The Riverwalk is also home to a number of public art installations, each of which come with unique histories and significance. Here are five of the best pieces of public art along the Riverwalk and the stories behind them.

Pick some flowers

Embark on a colorful adventure at For the Love of Flowers Farm, a delightful escape nestled in the rolling hills just outside Milwaukee. This vibrant, family-run haven is a dream destination for flower aficionados and casual admirers alike, offering an incredible selection of blooms that paint the landscape in every hue imaginable. Imagine wandering through fields dotted with the bright yellows of daisies, the passionate reds of tulips, and the deep purples of roses. For the Love of Flowers Farm offers the perfect opportunity to slow down, unwind, and build a perfect bouquet.

Head to an escape room

Choose from four different themed room options at Escape The Room. For 60 minutes, you and your team will search for clues and problem-solve to get out of the room before the countdown ends. The rooms can accommodate a minimum of eight players per scenario, making this activity great for a double date.

Go axe-throwing

If you’re looking for adventure and some snacks for date night, take a swing (or rather, throw) with an ax-throwing experience at Axe MKE. Make sure you reserve ahead — while they can accommodate walk-ins when there is space, it’s first come, first serve. If you enjoy a more relaxed scene, head to Hooligans Sports Bar, a few minutes walk from your axe-throwing adventure.

Take a cooking class

Check out classes at spaces like Braise for a variety of dishes like Cajun Shrimp Etouffee and Vegetarian Chile Relleno. Or, for classic favorite dishes like Classic Calzones, Birria Tacos with Elote, or Legendary Eggrolls, book a class at Gloriosos Italian Market.

Go bowling at Holler House

Holler House takes its guests on a walk through the annals of bowling history. Established over a century ago, this venerable institution has the honor of being the oldest continuously operating bowling alley in the United States, run by 5 generations of the Skowronski family since 1908.

Explore Oak Leaf Trail

Oak Leaf Trail is a multi-use trail system that spans more than 135 miles. Most of the trail system is smooth asphalt, meaning you can easily explore it by bike or on foot. With seven main “branch lines,” two scenic loops, and two east-west connectors, Oak Leaf Trail provides access to many Milwaukee County parks and other places of interest.

Looking for a lake view? You’re in luck. About a quarter of Oak Leaf Trail travels along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Embark on Milwaukee’s mural trail

In recent years, Milwaukee’s streets and alleys—as well as the sides of buildings—have exploded into an open-air art scene. Compared to museums and other indoor cultural centers where visits confined to strict hours, these are available any time of the day—and completely free to see.

For a handy guide to help design your mural trail, check out the Milwaukee Mural Map.

Shop at Value Village

Both Value Village stores — St. Francis and Milwaukee’s near South Side — have been in business for at least 15 years, if not longer. But when you buy used goods here, you’re actually supporting a 55-year-old thrift shop. The first location opened in 1969 on Green Bay Avenue and Concordia in Milwaukee, later relocating to the Harambee spot (now closed).

Proceeds benefit military veterans and their families through the Military Order of Purple Heart Service Foundation. At Value Village you can find true vintage (dating back to the middle of last century) clothing hiding in the racks next to designer labels like Banana Republic and Calvin Klein. Weekends are the best time to shop as that’s when everything is 50% off.

Pay your respects at Milwaukee’s oldest cemetery

Ever visited Milwaukee’s Calvary Cemetery? First consecrated in 1857, it’s the city’s oldest Catholic cemetery, with more than 80,000 interments across 75 acres.

Among the thousands of interments, the cemetery has become home to some of the city’s most famous names. The founder and first mayor of the city is buried at Calvary Cemetery, and so are some of Milwaukee’s brewing giants. There’s even an infamous exorcist laid to rest on the grounds.

Play arcade games at Up-Down Milwaukee

Unleash your inner child and reconnect with all your favorite arcade games at Up-Down Milwaukee. This nostalgia-themed bar and arcade features more than 60 games from the 1980s and ’90s, plus pinball machines, several skee-ball alleys, and a Nintendo 64.

All games cost just 25 cents to play and you can take advantage of daily specials such as $1 off draft beers and specialty cocktails on Monday or $2 pizza slices on Friday to make your outing even more affordable. You must be 21 or older to enter Up-Down Milwaukee (except during specified family hours), making it the perfect spot for a fun date night or evening out with friends.

Visit the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame & Museum

From sports fans to TV lovers to political buffs, there’s something for everyone at the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame & Museum. As the name suggests, this unique museum is home to the world’s largest collection of bobbleheads and exhibits.

Beloved movie characters like Buddy the Elf and world leaders such as President Biden join the likes of sports stars, mascots, musicians, and other famous faces that have served as inspiration for bobbleheads in the museum. In addition to marveling at the thousands of bobbleheads on display, you can learn more about the history of these fun knickknacks and how they’re made. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children.

Public Skate at Pettit National Ice Center

Sharpen your ice skating skills during a public skate session at Pettit National Ice Center. The impressive facility is an official training site for the US Speedskating team and home to two international-sized ice rinks.

Casually cruise the ice at your own pace, or if you’re feeling up for a challenge, join a “Let’s Race” session to compete against other skaters for no additional fee. Adult public skate tickets cost $9, teen tickets are $8, and youth admission is $7.

Visit the Milwaukee County Zoo

For a day of affordable family fun, head to the Milwaukee County Zoo, home to more than 2,100 creatures and critters from penguins and pythons to lemurs and leopards. There’s also a wide variety of rides and activities to enjoy. Tickets start at $12.50 for adults and $9.50 for children.

Cheer on the Milwaukee Milkmen

You’ve likely heard of the Milwaukee Brewers, but did you know the city has another baseball team worth rooting for? The Milwaukee Milkmen offer a pro baseball experience that is “udderly different.” Games are affordable to attend (adult tickets can be purchased for as low as $9) and feature plenty of between-inning games, hijinks, and stunts to keep you and the kids entertained.

Movie Night at Times Cinema

Make your next movie night extra special by catching a show at Times Cinema. This single-screen movie theater has an old-school vibe with modern amenities like comfy recliner chairs and draft beers, wine, and liquor. Classic concessions like popcorn and candy are available, but you can also order pizza, mozzarella sticks, chicken tenders, soft pretzels, and more.

Immerse yourself in nature at the Mitchell Park Domes

The Mitchell Park Domes consist of three large glass greenhouses, which, as you might have guessed, are shaped like domes. Inside each dome is an incredible array of exotic plant life along with a few animals, from Steve the Bearded Dragon to unnamed birds and koi fish.

There are two permanent collections—the Tropical Dome and the Desert Dome—as well as temporary exhibits that are housed in the Floral Show Dome and rotate throughout the year. Adult tickets start at $9 with discounts available for Milwaukee County residents.

Shop in the Historic Third Ward

Ten square blocks of self-proclaimed “O.G. Milwaukee” are at your disposal in the city’s Historic Third Ward. This neighborhood showcases the best of Milwaukee in the heart of the city, with independent shops to suit all tastes. The Third Ward is home to a bounty of independent shops selling everything from clothing and accessories to art supplies.

You can knock out some culinary shopping in the Milwaukee Public Market, which along with being a food hall offers gift opportunities at spots like Thief Wine and The Spice House. Your four-legged friends can get in on the fun at Salty Paws, an ice cream parlor and bakery for dogs. After you’ve made your purchases, take a culture break at one of the Third Ward’s many galleries or grab some food and drink at a cafe, restaurant, or independent brewery.

Watch a game at Who’s on Third

No list of this nature would be complete without one of Milwaukee’s premier sports bars: Who’s on Third. This sports bar is located downtown and encapsulates what makes this Wisconsin city so special (and no, we don’t mean its mouth-watering cheese curds, which you definitely should order). It’s casual, clean, and cool, and you’ll always be met with excellent service.

“Definitely a place that gives you a Milwaukee feel,” one Google reviewer wrote of Who’s on Third. Meanwhile, another called it a “great place to watch the World Cup.” If it’s good enough for the World Cup, it’s definitely great for March Madness. Oh, and Who’s on Third has outdoor seating, giving you plenty of options for how you want to enjoy the game and your visit.

Must-Try Restaurants in Milwaukee

Milwaukee Brat House

With a name like Milwaukee Brat House, there’s no doubt about the menu’s signature item. Not sure what to order? Spring for the Brat House Sausage Sampler: four different sausages (bratwurst, Italian, Polish, and cheddar-jalapeno) and a pretzel roll, what one Yelper calls “a solid choice.” The “unpretentious and inviting” atmosphere won a Californian over, while many others call out the “build your own brat” feature as completely unique.

La Merenda

La Merenda takes diners on a global culinary journey with its diverse selection of small plates inspired by various cuisines. Located in a refurbished Cream City brick building, the restaurant’s warm ambiance perfectly complements its vibrant dishes. Popular choices include the Moroccan lamb meatballs, the Argentine empanadas, and the Italian risotto. And if you’re wanting to try something new, the Goat Cheese Curds are a Reddit fan-favorite. With an ever-evolving menu and a focus on locally sourced ingredients, La Merenda is a true gem in Milwaukee’s dining scene.

Sweet Diner

At Sweet Diner, you can expect to find a blend of sweet and savory breakfast creations. This spot has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, thanks to its creative menu that turns every meal into a culinary masterpiece. Imagine starting your day with their irresistible cinnamon roll pancakes, a dish that wraps you in warmth and sweetness, or delving into the savory goodness of their breakfast bowl, a perfect balance of hearty ingredients to fuel your adventures. Each bite at Sweet Diner is a testament to the magic that happens when sweet meets savory.

Purple Door Ice Cream

Tucked into Milwaukee’s Walker’s Point neighborhood, this producer’s most unique flavors (clocking in at around 200) include those weaving in beer or alcoholic spirits. For example, patrons can choose from Beer and Pretzels, Brandy Old Fashioned, East Side Dark (featuring Lakefront Brewery’s beer of the same name), Chocolate Whiskey, Cinnamon Whiskey, and Whiskey. Yet there are also some savory flavors you’re not going to find anywhere else, like Basil, Earl Grey with Biscuit Bits, and Butternut Squash. If you really want to bite into proof this is the Dairy State, order Blackberry Quark, which folds in quark cheese (a soft cheese rarely made in the U.S.) by Wisconsin’s Clockshadow Creamery.

Honeypie Café

This Bay View restaurant is so legendary for its pies they often host baking classes so you can replicate the goodness (or at least come very close) at home.

Drop by the new location on KK — just a few blocks north of the old one, where Honeypie Café started in 2009 — and choose from pies of the day that range from specialty offerings like Blueberry Lemonade or Salted Honey Pie to standard fruit or cream pie flavors, like Door County Cherry or Banana Cream.

Just don’t wait until too late in the day for your visit because the pies are a major draw for diners and even those who pop in just for a slice, causing your choices to dwindle.

Simma’s Bakery

At Simma’s, it’s all about the cake: chocolate cake, banana cake, wedding cake, and of course their award-winning cheesecake. In fact, if you can dream it, there’s a good chance Simma’s can bake it.

Founded by a Russian immigrant more than 40 years ago, Simma’s offerings do go beyond cake, with an assortment of pastries, cookies, and more. Their mission statement says it all: “Our goal is to provide all of our customers with an unparalleled product and experience.”

County Clare Irish Inn & Pub

This East Side spot packs a lot into one place, including live music (Thursday through Saturday), a food menu, a full bar, and 29 guestrooms if you don’t feel like driving home. The owners organize trips to Ireland each year, too.

For weekend brunch, there’s a full Irish breakfast of bangers, black-and-white pudding, a rasher, brown bread, grilled tomato, baked beans, and choice of potato; and a Reuben sandwich, corned-beef sandwich, cottage pie, and corned beef and cabbage are on the dinner menu.

Blue Star Cafe

Nestled in Milwaukee’s lower east side, Blue Star Cafe serves up delectable, authentic East African cuisine at affordable prices. Their Somali-style steak sandwich is a locally recommended handheld, sauteed with African spices and served on a hoagie bun.

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UpNorthNews Staff

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CATEGORIES: THINGS TO DO