Born and raised in Milwaukee, I cannot help but be the city's number one fan. I am almost positive that anyone who knows me knows of the obsession I have for the beautiful city, especially because I have been far from shy in explaining that there are multiple incredible parts to the city itself. I won't let myself go into an endless tale of my love for Milwaukee, however, I did decide to highlight a few of Milwaukee's hidden gems you should check out over the holidays, or for you visitors, whenever you have a chance to spend a few incredible days here.
The Bronze Fonz:
Representing Arthur Fonzarelli, more commonly known as "The Fonz" in the popular show "Happy Days" that aired from 1974-1984, this statue is located right on the Milwaukee riverfront and is a must see when coming to Milwaukee. Not only are you in a prime part of town, surrounded by restaurants and on the river, but seeing a historical part of town as "Happy Days" was set in 1950s Milwaukee.
Milwaukee Blacksmith:
Opened in 2005, this family-owned Blacksmith shop is definitely a hidden gem of Milwaukee. The family business does decorative work, as well as the useful items of railings and gates. Furthermore, the shop holds Blacksmith 101 classes on some Saturdays, and a Wednesday night if not able to attend the weekends. This shop was created from the owner's love for Milwaukee and its architecture.
The Exclusive Company:
Wisconsin's oldest record shop, The Exclusive Company's location on Farwell Avenue is one of seven locations in Wisconsin. Used and new vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and novelty items are of high variety in the store, and you'll most likely find yourself getting lost in time while searching through their surplus of vinyls.
Indulgence Chocolatiers:
Owners Brian and Julie Waterman, and their fellow chocolatiers handcraft confections in their kitchen and shop in Walker's Point. You can enjoy the confections paired with wines, craft beers, and cheeses as you watch the chocolatiers work in the kitchen. Pairing classes are also commonly offered, and the owners recently opened a shop in Wauwatosa serving Purple Door ice cream too.
Zayna's Pizza:
Located on Brady Street, Zayna's Pizza is a locally owned pizza spot with incredible pizza, as well as a variety of other delicious items found on their large menu. Carry out, dine-in, or delivery, you won't want to miss experiencing pizza from one of the best places around Milwaukee.
Cafe Blue:
Cafe Blue is a small coffee house, owned by a local Wauwatosa couple. Serving coffee drinks and bakery items, the cafe has a fun and unique vibe to it. The walls are covered in local art that rotates on a monthly basis, and boardgames and books are found for customers to use.
Clock-Shadow Creamery:
Clock-Shadow is Milwaukee's first, and currently only, first cheese factory located in Walker's Point. The cheese factory tour is extremely informative and definitely a fun activity when wandering the city.
Purple Door Ice Cream:
Locally owned by a couple in Walker's Point, Purple Door Ice Cream is the place to be for ice cream in Milwaukee. Flavors vary from the classics to flavors never seen before. Something unique about this company is their dedication to using mainly local and also natural ingredients. Their raspberry green tea ice cream in between lemon cookies is a must have.
Milwaukee's Lakefront Trail:
Although this trail is far from a hidden gem, if you have never walked, biked, or somehow traveled this trail, it is an absolute must to see the beauty of Milwaukee. The trail runs right on Lake Michigan and passes the Art Museum, Veteran's Park, and runs into McKinley Marina.
Milwaukee is an extraordinary city filled with the rich history of it's industrial roots, as well as the vibrant colors that young people have brought to the regrowth of the city. I am so proud to have grown up in such an incredible place and only wish that other's find such joy in their hometowns. Thanks for the fun, memories, lessons and, rich culture Milwaukee—you've done an incredible job.
