things to do on Your own in Milwaukee
Click on each Green or Blue Highlighted heading below to see more information on each activity.
Milwaukee Art Museum
More than 34,000 artworks from antiquity to today comprise the Museum’s expansive collection. American and European painting, sculpture, and decorative arts; conceptual and minimalist art; prints and drawings; photography and new media; modern and contemporary design; folk and self-taught art; and 20th-century Haitian art count among its strengths. Housed in buildings designed by architects Santiago Calatrava (2001), David Kahler (1975), and Eero Saarinen (1957) $27 Admission $20 Seniors
More than 34,000 artworks from antiquity to today comprise the Museum’s expansive collection. American and European painting, sculpture, and decorative arts; conceptual and minimalist art; prints and drawings; photography and new media; modern and contemporary design; folk and self-taught art; and 20th-century Haitian art count among its strengths. Housed in buildings designed by architects Santiago Calatrava (2001), David Kahler (1975), and Eero Saarinen (1957) $27 Admission $20 Seniors
So Many Brewery Tours!
Milwaukee is the city that beer built, and now you can see how Milwaukee builds its beer. From macro to micro, fruit beers to gourmet sodas, take an individual brewery tour or hop on a beer tour bus for a guided expedition through multiple breweries to see how Brew City is still earning its name!
Milwaukee is the city that beer built, and now you can see how Milwaukee builds its beer. From macro to micro, fruit beers to gourmet sodas, take an individual brewery tour or hop on a beer tour bus for a guided expedition through multiple breweries to see how Brew City is still earning its name!
The Pabst Theater
BILLBOARD has named THE PABST THEATER a Top Music Venue of 2026! The Pabst Theater is the centerpiece of Milwaukee’s downtown theater district; able to accommodate virtually all performing art forms with the stunningly beautiful backdrop of a European opera house. Harry Connick Jr. is there on the evening of July 13. 144 E Wells St , Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 242-8200
BILLBOARD has named THE PABST THEATER a Top Music Venue of 2026! The Pabst Theater is the centerpiece of Milwaukee’s downtown theater district; able to accommodate virtually all performing art forms with the stunningly beautiful backdrop of a European opera house. Harry Connick Jr. is there on the evening of July 13. 144 E Wells St , Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 242-8200
Milwaukee's Riverwalk Walking Tour
This walking tour is 1.2 miles in length. $16 per adult, approximately 2 hours. The Riverwalk extends 3.1 miles along both sides of the Milwaukee River, from the site of the former North Avenue Dam, through Downtown and the Historic Third Ward to Lake Michigan. The tour will explore the industries and early city growth that impacted the river so greatly and also a number of the historic buildings along the way. You’ll also learn about some of the temporary and permanent public art on display.
You can also do the Riverwalk on your own. Click here for more information.
This walking tour is 1.2 miles in length. $16 per adult, approximately 2 hours. The Riverwalk extends 3.1 miles along both sides of the Milwaukee River, from the site of the former North Avenue Dam, through Downtown and the Historic Third Ward to Lake Michigan. The tour will explore the industries and early city growth that impacted the river so greatly and also a number of the historic buildings along the way. You’ll also learn about some of the temporary and permanent public art on display.
You can also do the Riverwalk on your own. Click here for more information.
Harley Davidson Museum and Restaurant
Tickets: $25 Adult (18-64) | $21 Senior (65+) History roars to life at the Harley-Davidson Museum. It’s the best of American design and culture – seasoned with freedom and rebellion, showcased in a landmark building. See why the H-D Museum is one of Milwaukee’s top tourist destinations for visitors from around the globe. The restaurant, called Motor, is located at 400 Canal Street, Milwaukee, WI 53201, same as the museum. 414-287-2778. Check their website at: https://www.motorrestaurant.com/ for their menu & info.
Tickets: $25 Adult (18-64) | $21 Senior (65+) History roars to life at the Harley-Davidson Museum. It’s the best of American design and culture – seasoned with freedom and rebellion, showcased in a landmark building. See why the H-D Museum is one of Milwaukee’s top tourist destinations for visitors from around the globe. The restaurant, called Motor, is located at 400 Canal Street, Milwaukee, WI 53201, same as the museum. 414-287-2778. Check their website at: https://www.motorrestaurant.com/ for their menu & info.
Sobelmans Pub and Grill
Known as the Original Bloody Mary Bar, Sobelmans is located at 1900 W St Paul Ave Milwaukee, WI 53233, in the original Schlitz Mansion.
Wisconsin is known for its Bloody Marys, sometimes garnished with cheeseballs, sliders and maybe a grilled chicken! Check out Sobelmans website for information on opening times, food and drink menus. Under "Locations" you'll find this information for the Milwaukee site.
Known as the Original Bloody Mary Bar, Sobelmans is located at 1900 W St Paul Ave Milwaukee, WI 53233, in the original Schlitz Mansion.
Wisconsin is known for its Bloody Marys, sometimes garnished with cheeseballs, sliders and maybe a grilled chicken! Check out Sobelmans website for information on opening times, food and drink menus. Under "Locations" you'll find this information for the Milwaukee site.
Edelweiss Historic Narrated Boat Tour
Travel through downtown Milwaukee underneath its bridges, see historical landmarks and get incredible views of the Milwaukee skyline including the Milwaukee Art Museum (Calatrava), Discovery World, Summerfest grounds, and yacht clubs. This narrated tour is brought to you by Historic Milwaukee, Inc (HMI). Their team of knowledgeable volunteer narrators will provide an informative and enjoyable experience while cruising down the Milwaukee River and the inner and outer harbors. Adults $30.50
Travel through downtown Milwaukee underneath its bridges, see historical landmarks and get incredible views of the Milwaukee skyline including the Milwaukee Art Museum (Calatrava), Discovery World, Summerfest grounds, and yacht clubs. This narrated tour is brought to you by Historic Milwaukee, Inc (HMI). Their team of knowledgeable volunteer narrators will provide an informative and enjoyable experience while cruising down the Milwaukee River and the inner and outer harbors. Adults $30.50
Visit Milwaukee
Looking for more things to do in Milwaukee? Start here. Explore iconic attractions like the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Harley-Davidson Museum and Discovery World, cheer on the Milwaukee Bucks during the Playoffs at Fiserv Forum or taste your way through the Milwaukee Public Market. From live music and theater to local boutiques, chef-driven restaurants and a classic Friday fish fry, every neighborhood brings its own flavor and something is always happening across Milwaukee. Click this link to Milwaukee's 2026 Visitors' Guide.
Looking for more things to do in Milwaukee? Start here. Explore iconic attractions like the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Harley-Davidson Museum and Discovery World, cheer on the Milwaukee Bucks during the Playoffs at Fiserv Forum or taste your way through the Milwaukee Public Market. From live music and theater to local boutiques, chef-driven restaurants and a classic Friday fish fry, every neighborhood brings its own flavor and something is always happening across Milwaukee. Click this link to Milwaukee's 2026 Visitors' Guide.
The Milwaukee Boat Line
Explore Milwaukee's past and present from our rivers, harbors & Lake Michigan during this 90-minute tour. Unforgettable views and a unique perspective of Milwaukee's history & architecture. Live narration is provided by experienced and entertaining tour guides & the captain. Tickets: $28.99
Explore Milwaukee's past and present from our rivers, harbors & Lake Michigan during this 90-minute tour. Unforgettable views and a unique perspective of Milwaukee's history & architecture. Live narration is provided by experienced and entertaining tour guides & the captain. Tickets: $28.99
Milwaukee Peddle and Paddle Tavern
Looking for a unique Milwaukee River excursion? Look no further than Milwaukee Paddle Tavern. You bring your own beer, snacks, and music and we’ll ice up your coolers for you. Our Paddle Taverns fit up to 14 people and they’re a scenic and fun way to see our lovely city while making a pit stop or two at some of the great bars along the river
What is the Pedal Tavern? It’s a 16-person bicycle-powered party on wheels ready to take you on a tour of the best bars in Milwaukee. Pedal Tavern is great for individuals, company outings, birthday, anniversary, holiday, bachelor, and bachelorette parties! Approximately $55 for 1.5 hour tour.
Looking for a unique Milwaukee River excursion? Look no further than Milwaukee Paddle Tavern. You bring your own beer, snacks, and music and we’ll ice up your coolers for you. Our Paddle Taverns fit up to 14 people and they’re a scenic and fun way to see our lovely city while making a pit stop or two at some of the great bars along the river
What is the Pedal Tavern? It’s a 16-person bicycle-powered party on wheels ready to take you on a tour of the best bars in Milwaukee. Pedal Tavern is great for individuals, company outings, birthday, anniversary, holiday, bachelor, and bachelorette parties! Approximately $55 for 1.5 hour tour.
Milwaukee County Zoo
The Milwaukee County Zoo is operated by the Milwaukee County Parks Commission, covering an area of 190 acres. The zoo averages about 1.3 million visitors a year and houses 3,100 animals from 350 species. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Approximately $15
Highlights: Has petting zoo · Offers tours · Gift shop
Address: 10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226
The Milwaukee County Zoo is operated by the Milwaukee County Parks Commission, covering an area of 190 acres. The zoo averages about 1.3 million visitors a year and houses 3,100 animals from 350 species. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Approximately $15
Highlights: Has petting zoo · Offers tours · Gift shop
Address: 10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226
Ten Chimneys - Historic Home of Lunt and Fontaine
Lynn and Alfred named their Genesee Depot, Wisconsin, estate after the number of chimneys on the Main House, Cottage, and Studio combined. Tours are available Tuesdays through Saturdays at 10:00 am and 2:30 pm, and on Sundays at 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm. Additional tour times may be added - actual times can vary based on the number of reservations on any given day. While we will try to accommodate walk-ins when there is room, ADVANCE RESERVATIONS ARE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Ring our reservation line at (262) 968-4110 for the exact tour dates & times. Closed Mondays.
Lynn and Alfred named their Genesee Depot, Wisconsin, estate after the number of chimneys on the Main House, Cottage, and Studio combined. Tours are available Tuesdays through Saturdays at 10:00 am and 2:30 pm, and on Sundays at 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm. Additional tour times may be added - actual times can vary based on the number of reservations on any given day. While we will try to accommodate walk-ins when there is room, ADVANCE RESERVATIONS ARE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Ring our reservation line at (262) 968-4110 for the exact tour dates & times. Closed Mondays.
Schlemiel, Schlimazel - The Laverne & Shirley Tour
Only available on July 18 This Tour leaves at 1:15 PM from State Fair Park and returns approximately at 5:15 PM. $119
If you are a fan of the Laverne & Shirley show, you will appreciate seeing Milwaukee's City Hall which was the opening shot of the show. See Polish Flats and the Brewery that made Milwaukee Famous, "Shotz." We even make a stop to see Laverne's heart throb the Bronze Fonz Statue. Bring your camera for that! Our day includes touring Lakefront Brewery where you will enjoy 2 samples and a souvenir glass. The day also includes a game of mini-bowling because the girls have to keep their skill sharp for the Shotz Brewery Tournament. Top off the day with a frozen custard treat at Milwaukee's legendary and nostalgic Leon's Drive-In. Be ready for surprises along the way. Grab your friends and get ready for a Funday!
Only available on July 18 This Tour leaves at 1:15 PM from State Fair Park and returns approximately at 5:15 PM. $119
If you are a fan of the Laverne & Shirley show, you will appreciate seeing Milwaukee's City Hall which was the opening shot of the show. See Polish Flats and the Brewery that made Milwaukee Famous, "Shotz." We even make a stop to see Laverne's heart throb the Bronze Fonz Statue. Bring your camera for that! Our day includes touring Lakefront Brewery where you will enjoy 2 samples and a souvenir glass. The day also includes a game of mini-bowling because the girls have to keep their skill sharp for the Shotz Brewery Tournament. Top off the day with a frozen custard treat at Milwaukee's legendary and nostalgic Leon's Drive-In. Be ready for surprises along the way. Grab your friends and get ready for a Funday!
Mader's German Restaurant
Mader's Restaurant is an authentic, Bavarian German restaurant in Milwaukee that offers delicious Old World German food specialties and giant pretzels. The restaurant serves unique German beers and cocktails, presented in a modern and vibrant way. Mader's Restaurant blends elements of fine and casual dining and features a stunning $3 million collection of art, vintage chandeliers, suits of medieval armor, ceramic beer steins, and antiques. The restaurant is located adjacent to Fiserv Forum in the heart of Milwaukee's Deer District, is close to other downtown attractions, and was recently voted "Most Famous Restaurant in Wisconsin!" Address: 1041 N Doctor M.L.K. Jr Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53203 Phone: (414) 271-3377
Mader's Restaurant is an authentic, Bavarian German restaurant in Milwaukee that offers delicious Old World German food specialties and giant pretzels. The restaurant serves unique German beers and cocktails, presented in a modern and vibrant way. Mader's Restaurant blends elements of fine and casual dining and features a stunning $3 million collection of art, vintage chandeliers, suits of medieval armor, ceramic beer steins, and antiques. The restaurant is located adjacent to Fiserv Forum in the heart of Milwaukee's Deer District, is close to other downtown attractions, and was recently voted "Most Famous Restaurant in Wisconsin!" Address: 1041 N Doctor M.L.K. Jr Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53203 Phone: (414) 271-3377
Lakefront Brewery Beer Hall
1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee, WI 53212-3701
Rated as one of the 10 best restaurants in Milwaukee. American and German food - and of course Beer! Check out their website for Tour information. They currently offer tours 7 days a week with tour times fluctuating based on the season. Scroll down on their webpage to see information on dining hours. They even have "Cheese Curd Flavor of the Month"!
1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee, WI 53212-3701
Rated as one of the 10 best restaurants in Milwaukee. American and German food - and of course Beer! Check out their website for Tour information. They currently offer tours 7 days a week with tour times fluctuating based on the season. Scroll down on their webpage to see information on dining hours. They even have "Cheese Curd Flavor of the Month"!
