Living in Milwaukee can be difficult at times. In a city not quite as big as Chicago, but still not quite as small as Madison, it is easy to get kinda swallowed up. With an endless number of wards and districts, getting lost seems almost inevitable. Therefore, I want to share with you some of my favorite things about and places in the city. Places you can always go and things you can always do if you're feeling like a small fish in a big pond, feeling a little sentimental, or just looking for something to do. So, here are some tips and tricks to surviving in this beautiful city I get to call home.
1. Grab a slice of Ian's Pizza
It's no Chicago deep dish, but it will definitely do. This glorious chain is exclusive to only four cities nationwide, two of which are in Wisconsin, one of which happens to be Milwaukee. Sold by the slice, this joint has come up with just about every concoction that can be put on a pizza. Whether it's a slice of mac and cheese, loaded baked potato, taco, or brisket and tots, your tastebuds will thank you kindly.
2. Go to Atwater Beach
Of all of Milwaukee's Lake Michigan beaches, Atwater is definitely the most underrated. Unlike the popular Bradford Beach, Atwater is somewhat secluded and is actually decent for swimming. Its versatile appeal makes it enjoyable, no matter the season (yes, that even means winter). Whether you want to soak up some sun, play on the playground, or watch the sunrise/set, this beach is where it's at.
3. Attend Jazz in the Park
Not only does Cathedral Square Park reside in an epic location, but who doesn't love live music? Although Jazz in the Park only takes place during the summer, Cathedral Square puts on various fests and such, all throughout the year. Jazz in the Park is the best because there's food, drinks, and because nothing is better than laying on a blanket in the park with some friends, listening to cool jazz.
4. Rent a Bublr Bike
In a city of this size, it can be hard to get around quick. With 11 stations all over Milwaukee, Bublr Bikes are the perfect tools to utilize when exploring the city. The price of $3 per 30 minutes makes biking from the Lakefront to Brady St. rather easy, fun and affordable. Not to mention, the seats are very comfortable and the bikes have cute little baskets, need I say more?
5. Grab a cup of Colectivo Coffee
Formerly known as Alterra Coffee, this Milwaukee staple has been around since 1993. From piping hot cappuccinos and natural smoothies, to delicious cookies and decadent sandwiches, Colectivo offers outstanding food in a warm and friendly environment. Although it has many different locations throughout the Milwaukee Metropolitan area, by far and away, the best location is along the lakefront.
6. Visit the Milwaukee Public Market
Located in the beloved Third Ward, the Milwaukee Public Market (modeled after Seattle's Pike Place Market) serves as the unofficial culinary melting pot of the city. With delicious empanadas, confections, sandwiches, seafood, and fresh produce, everything you could ever want is right at your fingertips. To top it all off, there's a wine bar, a cheese shop, and a Milwaukee paraphernalia stand.
7. Take in a festival at the Henry Maier Festival Park
This famous venue, home to Milwaukee's own Summerfest, is one of the most prominent landmarks in downtown Milwaukee. Along with Summerfest, the park is home to various cultural fests throughout the year, such as Festa Italiana, German Fest, Irish Fest, Polish Fest, Pride Fest, and more. With something for everyone and a location that's right along the lakefront, it can't get any better.
8. Eat your heart out at BelAir Cantina
Whether you're looking for a wicked burrito or a mouth-watering taco, BelAir's got you covered. With an insane amount of tacos to choose from and quite possibly the most delicious chips and salsa you will ever have in your life, what more could you want? Cheaper prices? No worries, BelAir's one step ahead. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, tacos are half off. You're welcome.
9. See an exhibit at the Art Museum
Whether you go to see the featured exhibit, or just the museum's regular art, the Milwaukee Art Museum is always a worthwhile stop (not to mention the architecture is art in itself). Also noteworthy, this might just be the one place in the city where taking artsy pictures is not judged and is actually encouraged. Pro-tip: on the first Thursday of every month admission is free!
10. See a show at The Rave / Eagle's Club
This iconic concert hall located in downtown Milwaukee is every music lover's dream. Inside the Gothic style building, concertgoers are situated in one of eight venues within the same building. The Eagle's Ballroom is the main venue, sizing up to 25,000 square feet and has welcomed the likes of everyone from Coldplay and Ed Sheeran, to Ke$ha and 2 Chainz.
11. Get lost
The best way to learn about a city is to completely immerse yourself in it. Some of my favorite memories happened on nights where I had absolutely no idea what neighborhood of the city I was in. Whether you explore the east side, Downer, Brady, the Third Ward, or the lakefront; there's always something new to see and somewhere new to explore--that's what makes Milwaukee so beautiful.
So this is my Milwaukee, now what's yours?
