Milwaukee offers unique adventures for all visitors. Each neighborhood presents character and individuality through different dining, adventure, and entertainment experiences.
No matter the destination, it can be hard to know where to begin planning your trip. Challenges can start at the very beginning when you’re trying to decide what the best area is while staying in town. The best place to stay in Milwaukee depends on who you are and what you’re looking to take away from your short term stay in Milwaukee. We have experienced Milwaukee and outlined our top five favorite neighborhoods.
Milwaukee's East Side
The East Side of Milwaukee is trendy and ever-changing. Surrounding the UW-Milwaukee campus, the neighborhood is considered Milwaukee’s melting pot and is flooded with students, young professionals, along with longtime residents. With such a diverse crowd, visitors can feel welcome during every experience. A local favorite for food is Glorioso’s Italian Market. This is a good spot to pick up lunch or do some grocery shopping for your stay. One of Milwaukee’s nightlife hubs is on Brady Street; the area emcompasses bars, shopping, art theaters, live music, and more.
Downtown Milwaukee
Downtown is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions. From the Milwaukee Art Museum, Discovery World, to the lakefront beach, downtown offers endless adventure. There seems to be never-ending dining and bar options; selecting a place will be a challenge but you’ll be satisfied no matter where you go. A top bar for date night is Blu, a martini bar located inside of the Pfister Hotel. Buckley’s Restaurant and Bar offers a classy and cozy atmosphere and specializes in great food, wine, and beer. Visitors can enjoy Downtown through the day and into the night with all there is to do.
Historic Third Ward
If you’re looking forward to a trip that is full of specialty shops and unique restaurants and bars, then the Third Ward is the place for you. This part of Milwaukee provides memorable dinners, entertainment, and art. A popular spot is Cafe Benelux, offering a full breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night menu. Cafe Benelux is located on North Broadway, making for a great spot to start your Milwaukee day as it separates the Third Ward from Downtown.
Walker's Point
This Milwaukee neighborhood appears to be continuously growing. Many of the bars and restaurants in this area are focused on Second Street, while Fifth street is becoming a newer hot spot for even more outings. Walker’s Point has an edgy appearance and energy, while also being one of the most LGBTQ+ welcoming areas of Milwaukee. All locals and visitors feel at home in Walker’s Point. This area also hosts a variety of street festivals throughout the year.
Bay View
Along with other neighborhoods of Milwaukee, Bay View seems to be forever evolving. Rated one of the top bar districts in Milwaukee, this a great place to visit if you’re into a unique and trendy bar scene. Kinnickinnick Ave offers a wide selection of bars, beer gardens, a farmers market, and there is even a weekly concert series in the summer. Located just south of Milwaukee on the shore of Lake Michigan, Bay View is a hip and eclectic neighborhood.
Visiting Milwaukee?
You’ll need Frontdesk’s Milwaukee Guidebook. It’s curated by local experts and filled with only the best bars, restaurants, and places to visit.
