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A Guide to Milwaukee’s RiverWalk 

One of its most treasured attractions is the Milwaukee RiverWalk, a charming pedestrian walkway that winds its way through the heart of the city. Its vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes attract people year-round, so, we’ve put together a guide for your visit!

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the highlights, history, dining, and activities that await you along Milwaukee’s RiverWalk. Winding through the heart of Milwaukee, this route spans over 20 blocks along the Milwaukee River. 

As locals, the team at City Tours MKE loves exploring this charming area and beyond, as you’ll see on our Milwaukee tours . If you’re planning a group excursion in our city, get in touch ! We have plenty of ways to entertain your party as you get to know Milwaukee’s hotspots.

If you’d like even more recommendations from a Milwaukeean perspective, take a look at our blog: Best Things to Do in Milwaukee: A Local’s Complete Guide . There are plenty of things to do for adventurers of all ages, including along the RiverWalk. So let’s take a virtual walk.

Milwaukee’s RiverWalk ( Source | License )

A History of the Milwaukee RiverWalk

The Milwaukee RiverWalk, established in 1993, is a symbol of the city’s commitment to revitalizing the downtown area. It stretches roughly 3 miles along the Milwaukee River, or 20 blocks from north to south, offering stunning views of the city skyline, historic buildings, and natural beauty. 

The RiverWalk has become a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Since the 90s, the years of development have been rewarded with several national awards thanks to its outdoor gallery and changing art exhibitions, restaurant scene, and distinct way to discover Milwaukee.

When you venture along this picturesque walkway, you can explore several riverfront neighborhoods, including Brewers Hill and the historic Third Ward and more. Whether you do it all in one day or over a couple, you’ll get a snapshot of Milwaukee’s history in different areas.

Where to Start on the Milwaukee RiverWalk

The RiverWalk spans approximately 20 blocks on both sides of the Milwaukee River, seamlessly connecting three vibrant downtown neighborhoods. This pedestrian promenade runs through the heart of the city, offering captivating views of gleaming skyscrapers, hotels, and restaurants. 

You can choose your own adventure on the RiverWalk, depending on where you’re staying and which area appeals the most. Each of the three distinct neighborhoods is united by the outdoor art gallery, RiverSculpture! an outdoor gallery featuring local and regional artists. 

The northernmost section of the RiverWalk is known as the Beerline “B.” This part of the RiverWalk proudly showcases Milwaukee’s brewing heritage, with reminders of the city’s beer legacy permeating the area. This section starts at the intersection of N Commerce St and N Humboldt Ave.

The Beerline B Apartments, RiverWalk ( Source | License )

The Downtown , central section, starts near Juneau Avenue, where the previous section ends. Here, past and present meet in the city’s theater district and along Old World Third Street, a historic landmark zone. See cobblestone streets and a play or two on your visit.

The view from Downtown, RiverWalk ( Source | License )

To the south, you can begin from the Historic Third Ward ‘s RiverWalk, a neighborhood often compared to a miniature “SoHo” due to its charming 19th-century architecture, eclectic boutique shops, art galleries, and thriving nightlife. This section spans from the I-794 freeway to the Harbor entrance. 

Each of these sections seamlessly transitions into the next, creating a continuous, enjoyable RiverWalk experience.

Dining and Drinking on the Milwaukee RiverWalk

The Riverwalk is a culinary haven, offering a diverse range of dining options to satisfy every palate. From casual waterfront cafes to upscale dining establishments, you’ll find a variety of cuisines and atmospheres. 

Enjoy fresh seafood and farm-to-table fare, or indulge in classic Wisconsin dishes like cheese curds and bratwurst. Some popular dining spots along the Riverwalk include Café Benelux, Water Street Brewery, and The Wicked Hop.

We’ve rounded up some recommendations by area, so you can enjoy a taste of what’s to come along RiverWalk’s three neighborhoods.

Drinking and Dining in Beerline “B” RiverWalk

The Beerline “B” RiverWalk section of Milwaukee’s RiverWalk is a haven for beer enthusiasts and showcases the city’s brewing heritage. As you stroll along this northernmost portion, you’ll encounter a variety of establishments offering craft beers, gastropub fare, and lively atmospheres. 

Kickstart your beer-centric adventure at Lakefront Brewery , a local favorite known for its guided tours and diverse beer selection. Enjoy a pint on their outdoor patio while taking in views of the river. 

Just a short walk away, you’ll find Eagle Park Brewing Company , a small-batch brewery specializing in unique and flavorful brews. Grab a seat in their taproom and sample inventive beer creations or enjoy the sun at the pop-up beer garden located in Schlitz Park The Tap Yard . The Tap Yard has rotating food trucks and special events all summer long.

If you’d like to explore more about craft beer and sample some local flavors along the way, take a look at our Milwaukee Brewery Tour .

Drinking and Dining in The Historic Third Ward

The Historic Third Ward section of the RiverWalk is a vibrant neighborhood that seamlessly merges history, art, and culinary delights. This district is home to an array of dining options that cater to diverse tastes. 

Start your culinary journey at the Milwaukee Public Market , a bustling marketplace where you can explore various food vendors offering everything from artisanal cheeses and fresh seafood to international cuisines. 

Visit Milwaukee’s first Tequileria at Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequileria . With more than 160 tequilas available, the team at Blue Bat knows their agave. This relaxed and fun atmosphere is a great place to unwind and taste tacos that fuse global flavors. 

If you’re craving Italian cuisine, head to Tre Rivali , a modern Mediterranean-inspired restaurant serving delicious pasta dishes and flavorful small plates. Journeyman Hotel , located in the same building, is perfect for enjoying craft cocktails and panoramic views of the skyline and the Milwaukee River.

Milwaukee Public Market ( Source | License )

Drinking and Dining in Downtown, RiverWalk

The Downtown section of the RiverWalk boasts an eclectic array of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Start your culinary exploration at Water Street, known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant dining scene. 

Here, you can find a range of establishments, including Mexican taquerias, sushi bars, and cozy pubs. For a taste of New American cuisine, visit Mason Street Grill , just five blocks from Riverwalk, where you can savor delectable steaks, seafood, and creative cocktails in an elegant setting. 

If you’re in the mood for some pizza, make your way to Calderone Club , a local favorite offering authentic Italian pies and hearty pasta dishes. 

To experience a unique dining experience with stunning views, head to Il Cervo . This rooftop bar and restaurant is located atop the Trade Hotel and specializes in delicious Italian dishes and signature cocktails.

If you want to learn more about our state’s delicacies, take a look at our blog: What Are Some Famous Wisconsin Foods ? You’ll be eating like a local in no time.

Activities Along the Milwaukee RiverWalk

There are plenty of activities to enjoy along Milwaukee’s RiverWalk, from art and craft beer to outdoor activities and music. We’ve rounded up a couple of activities for you to try along its banks in between eating, drinking, and walking.

Experience the beauty of the Milwaukee River from a different perspective by taking a boat tour. Choose from a variety of options, including historical cruises, architectural tours, or sunset cruises that showcase the city’s skyline. 

Get a unique vantage point of the Riverwalk and learn more about Milwaukee’s history and architecture.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

For a more active adventure, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the river at your own pace. Experience the tranquility of the water and soak in the city’s natural beauty. There are several companies that offer rental services and guided tours for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

The Riverwalk is bike-friendly, and you can rent a bicycle to explore the scenic path. Pedal along the river’s edge, passing through parks and enjoying the fresh air. 

If you’re an angler, the Milwaukee River offers excellent fishing opportunities. Cast your line and try your luck catching a variety of fish species, including salmon, trout, and bass. Make sure to obtain the necessary fishing licenses and familiarize yourself with local regulations before casting off.

RiverSculpture! 

As we mentioned, the RiverWalk is home to an outdoor art gallery — RiverSculpture! that includes permanent and temporary installations that change periodically. As you stroll along the RiverWalk you can enjoy local, regional, and national art, from small, whimsical sculptures to larger pieces.

Milwaukee Street Art ( Source | License )

Seasonal Events on the Milwaukee RiverWalk

The RiverWalk comes alive with events throughout the year. From summer concerts and art festivals to winter ice sculptures and holiday lights, there’s always something happening along the RiverWalk! 

Check the city’s event calendar to see what’s taking place during your visit. Some popular events include River Rhythms, a free outdoor concert series, and Gallery Night and Day, an art extravaganza that showcases local artists and galleries.

Kayaking in the Milwaukee River ( Source | License )

Milwaukee’s RiverWalk offers a blend of history, culture, dining, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re strolling along the water’s edge, enjoying a meal with a view, or immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, the RiverWalk provides a unique experience for visitors of all interests. 

Take the time to explore its highlights, indulge in its culinary offerings, and participate in the various activities and events that make the RiverWalk a beloved destination in Milwaukee. 

If you want to explore even more of the city, including brewery tours, escape rooms, and guided art tours, check out our Milwaukee adventures . Perfect for group activities or couples, City Tours MKE designs its tours to maximize your enjoyment as you get to know our awesome hometown. 

If you have any questions about the RiverWalk or any other Milwaukee landmarks, just get in touch ! Our team is happy to help you as you explore this area and beyond.

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Riverwalk Boat Rentals & Tours

Review Highlights

“ Took it to the Marina, stopped at the Sail Loft and out to the Harley Museum. ” in 10 reviews

“ A big bonus was that we rented the pontoon early not knowing that the Bucks parade would be on Thursday. ” in 18 reviews

“ We asked for the ride to be shortened from 120 minutes to 105 minutes and the crew got us off the boat in perfect timing. ” in 16 reviews

Location & Hours

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950 Old World 3rd St

Milwaukee, WI 53203

Downtown, Westown

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Private Boat Rentals (10 passenger, 30 passenger and 49 passenger Boats) Public Sunset Cruises Brewery Tour/Pub Crawl by Boat Sunday Bloody Mary Cruises *Catering Available* …

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135 reviews

Amazing service from the staff. Super easy to rent and super easy and chill to book. They make it very user friendly for renters of all ages. The price per hour here is probably the best you'll find for a boat rental. The staff has really cute suggestions for things to do as well. I will say they need more clear signage about where to check in.

We reserved our boat a couple months prior to our event in May. Everyone was very helpful and sent us a very detailed contract. We chose a 22 person boat for our family party of 11. It was a great day and the ride was perfect. Glad they reminded us it's cooler on the boat. We used our coats and blankets even though it was sunny and 68°. We used spot hero to park across the street from the park and the port. Easy walk across the grass. We asked for the ride to be shortened from 120 minutes to 105 minutes and the crew got us off the boat in perfect timing. We brought our coolers with food and drink and set up on the tables provided. We were all so happy.

Our spread.....

Absolutely loved our experience with hiring a pontoon from Riverwalk Boat Tours. We got a boat for Labor Day weekend for my friends visiting from Atlanta, to get to see the city of Milwaukee form the water and it is definitely a great idea for anyone wanting to show off the Crwam City from a unique angle. Their website is easy to navigate (calling them for a booking did not work but definitely try the website) and on the day of , they made it super easy to sign in and get a quick safety lesson before we took off. The staff were jovial and courteous and it was super experience in all. 10 thumbs up!

My family visited over a summer weekend and had so much fun on a pontoon! This was the perfect way to show them Milwaukee, and to get outside on the water. We were originally set to get on a pontoon that didn't have an ability to play music at first, but they were really nice about quickly switching us to a boat that could. We cruised along the Milwaukee river and hopped out at a couple bars along the way, and even took the boat out into the lake. Would definitely do it again, especially since prices were pretty reasonable!

We hired Riverwalk to do a private group tour of the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan as part of our wedding weekend, and we can't say enough good things about the experience. Michael helped us create a unique and extremely fun experience for our out-of-town guests (84 people total!). Not only are the views of Milwaukee from the boat unparalleled, but the ride itself was very comfortable and smooth. It was especially great being able to bring on board our own food and beverages, and play our choice of music. Everyone in the group had a fabulous time. Would do it again in a heartbeat. Thanks Michael and crew!

Staff was very friendly & professional. Boat was clean and ready for the time rented. Great ride.

Amazing service! Everyone here was extremely helpful from start to finish, excellent customer service when it came to taking my reservation. Captain and crew were amazing while we were out on the water as well! HIGHLY recommend if you're looking for a boat out on the MKE river.

Captain Bob and crew!! Amazing service!

We booked a private charter (2 hrs) as a fun activity during a work retreat, and we had a wonderful time! The captain and crew member were friendly, accommodating, and overall a pleasure to work with. They offered to connect our music via Bluetooth, which provided the perfect soundtrack for a casual boat ride. Great views throughout the ride! It was covered in case of rain, which was a big relief during the event planning process. I would highly recommend Riverwalk Boat Tours for an affordable and fun activity for large groups in Milwaukee.

Great way to see milwaukee easy access to the boats good value for a boat rental staff is very friendly parking can be tricky but there is a pay lot just north of the rental we use these guys once or twice a season if you are bringing snacks bring a table as well

The boat was mechanically sound and at the end of the day, our experience was good. The young woman who checked us in was rude, abrasive and condescending however. Seemed weird for a tourism-oriented company. We chalked this up to the lack of qualified and motivated workforce today and the difficulty businesses are having finding good workers. But we were friendly and there to have fun. Her attitude was unexpected to say the least. Most of the staff we worked with were pleasant. But me and my business associates who were boarding were put off by the attitude of our customer service representative Mora who checked us in. I'll assume that this is a good and well-intentioned company and that this was an isolated incident. But there are companies who want your business. I wrote Riverwalk Boat Rentals a cordial email about our experience and that it was our recommendation Mora be moved to a role that didn't require customer interaction. They have yet to respond to our email.

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Donald Trump isn't the first national personality to disparage Milwaukee; here's what we said the last time

Donald Trump asserting that Milwaukee is a "horrible city" isn't the first time Milwaukee has found itself catching flak from national figures.

Consider 2021 when the Milwaukee Bucks were pushing toward an NBA championship, and ESPN celebrity talker Stephen A. Smith referred to our home as a "terrible city."

We like to think The Brew City is a jewel of the upper Midwest, thanks to our lakefront location, our many festivals, our little-town feel in the context of a bigger city and ... our bars, of course. We recently profiled 100 objects that conjure Milwaukee.

After the 2021 comments — and noting that we didn't get to show off our city for the Democratic National Convention in 2020 — we put together this roundup of what's great about our hometown. It's especially relevant again now.

So join us on this tour, and we'll have drinks in the lobby afterward.*

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

*You technically have to take one of the brewery tours to get a drink. Prost! 

We have beer, obviously

You've probably heard the jokes about Wisconsin's proficient consumption of alcohol, but in Milwaukee, beer is part of the city's heritage as well.

Four giants of the beer world — Miller, Pabst, Schlitz and Blatz were still four of the 10 biggest breweries in the U.S. as late as 1950 — were based here, and many of the town's older buildings were once part of a brewery. It explains why you'll see a show at the Pabst Theater  (which wasn't a brewery but was built in 1895 by Captain Frederick Pabst, who also owned the brewery), drive down Miller Park Way (well, it's technically Brewers Boulevard now in most places ... it's complicated ) or even spend some time with nature at the Schlitz Adubon Center along the shoreline — land that was once a farm for brewery draft horses.

You might walk by a building and spy a hop leaf decoration on the building facade. Those were "tied houses," or taverns that were purchased by breweries to exclusively serve their beer. Tied House bar at Erie and Water Street was with Pabst, for example.

There are 39 breweries in metro Milwaukee (and many of them have tours!). The most Milwaukee of the craft breweries is no doubt Lakefront Brewery (1872 N. Commerce St.), a legacy brewery housed inside a former Milwaukee city building with lighting from the old Plankinton Hotel. The famous Miller brewery (4251 W. State St.) also maintains some of its old architecture and cobblestone roadways.

Drink outdoors in the sunshine at our many beer gardens in Milwaukee parks, tour breweries by boat or bike (seriously) with Milwaukee Pedal Tavern , and take in one of the many festivals if you find yourself in Milwaukee at other points in the summer.

When you drink, you've got to eat

Check out our list of the top restaurants , but these are the Milwaukee basics:

• Frozen custard. Just don't call it ice cream. Whether you're getting a scoop and a jumbo hamburger at legendary Kopp's Frozen Custard  or sticking to the more familiar Culver's brand that was born in Wisconsin, we've got a litany of delicious offerings. In 2021, the famous Leon's added a new flavor for the first time in 30 years! 
• Fish fry. It's a Friday staple in Wisconsin , and you can find options both in bars and more traditional restaurants. The aforementioned Lakefront Brewery provides one of the area's most famous.
• Old fashioned. Oh, we're back to drinks again. Although depending on the garnish, you could probably make a meal out of it. We love our brandy in Wisconsin, and if you belly up to the bar and order an old fashioned , you're going to get the best. 
• Foodies will love it here. You won't find many restaurant chains in downtown Milwaukee. It's a pretty diverse foodie scene, in fact. Some of the city's chefs and bakers have even competed on TV food competitions, including Adam Pawlak , owner of the Egg & Flour Pasta Bar locations and E&F Pizzeria;  Kimberly Hall , owner of Signature Sweets; and Dan Jacobs , co-owner of Dandan. You know Jacobs from his appearance on Top Chef: Wisconsin, which spent the last several weeks highlighting Wisconsin's culinary delights.

We're the city of festivals

We've got  Polish Fest ,  Bastille Days ,  Bronzeville Week ,  Festa Italiana ,  German Fest , Irish Fest ,  Mexican Fiesta ,  Milwaukee Dragon Boat Festival ,  Hunting Moon Pow Wow  and Asia Fest of Milwaukee . 

Then there's  Summerfest , billed as the world's largest music festival, which gets underway June 20. We've got SZA, Lil Uzi Vert, Tyler Childers, AJR, Kane Brown, Mötley Crüe, Maroon 5, Keith Urban, J.P., Lil Yachty, Brittany Howard and dozens more.

Honestly, you cannot form an opinion about Milwaukee until you sample Summerfest. Or the Saz's sample platter at Summerfest.

Three other brands we're proud of

• Harley-Davidson —  The motorcycle manufacturer's headquarters are actually across the street from the Miller brewery. William Harley and Arthur Davidson developed their first motor bicycle to navigate Milwaukee's hills in the early 1900s, and their company survived two world wars and a Great Depression and celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2003. There's even an entire Harley-Davidson Museum (400 W. Canal St.) dedicated to the brand's history. The every-so-often Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival will take place in July, welcoming the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jelly Roll, Hardy, The Offspring and more for some more big shows.
• Kohl's — One of the biggest department stores in the United States is headquartered in northwest Milwaukee. First started as a grocery chain in the 1920s, the Kohl Family opened its first department store in 1962 and developed into a powerhouse. Herb Kohl, the son of founder Maxwell Kohl and himself once part of the Kohl's ownership team, represented Wisconsin in the United States Senate from 1989 to 2013 and owned the Milwaukee Bucks from 1985 to 2014.
• Northwestern Mutual —  One of the newest structures on Milwaukee's skyline (the Northwestern Mutual Tower that opened in 2017) bears the name of this American financial services mutual organization, first founded in Janesville in 1857. At No. 110, it was the highest-ranked Milwaukee company on the Fortune 500 in 2024, with more than $33.5 billion in revenue.

Three other history nuggets you'll find interesting

• Socialism!  OK, maybe the Republicans won't love this one. Milwaukee had Socialist mayors for 38 years during the 20th century — including during the 1950s Red Scare when Frank Zeidler held office from 1948 to 1960. This is the birthplace of the term "sewer socialism" — first meant to ridicule socialists who bragged about a strong public works system (like sewers), then trumpeted proudly as an indicator of cleaning out corruption (and strong public works, for that matter).
• Thank us for that QWERTY keyboard you're using right now.  Newsman and politician Christopher Latham Sholes invented the typewriter here, patented in 1868. Milwaukeeans also invented Shrinky Dinks and, duh, the cheesehead hat. You're welcome.
• Fiserv Forum's address features a Civil Rights pioneer. Starting in 1967, protesters dismayed by discriminatory housing practices in Milwaukee insisted on stronger open housing laws in the city. They marched for 200 days, with Ald. Vel Phillips at the forefront of the movement. Today, the street on which Fiserv Forum resides is named for Phillips. Federal Judge Robert E. Tehan barred a referendum or a city law restricting open housing: "Considerable evidence has been presented which convinces the court that the holding of the referendum would do irreparable injury not only to the plaintiff and his class (African-American) but to the city as a whole." 

We love our sports (and our MVPs)

It's been a pretty great run for the two major pro sports franchises in Milwaukee, although let's be honest, the Green Bay Packers playing two hours north are still the No. 1 love for most of the city's sports fans.

But led by the 2019 and 2020 league MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks won their first NBA championship since 1971. The native of Greece has signed multiple extensions to remain in Milwaukee, where he was the central figure in building an empire out of a struggling franchise. So Giannis likes Milwaukee, clearly.

Even in the smallest market for Major League Baseball, the Milwaukee Brewers have been one of the winningest franchises of the past decade, led by MVP candidate William Contreras and 2019 MVP Christian Yelich.

That's not all we've got; the Milwaukee Wave indoor soccer team and Milwaukee Admirals pro hockey team affiliated with the Nashville Predators of the National Hockey League both play in the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena just down the block from Fiserv Forum (where the Bucks play). The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers , a single-A affiliate of the Brewers, play a little less than two hours north in Appleton, just a little south of Green Bay. The Milwaukee Milkmen have a gorgeous field in Franklin and won last year's American Association of Professional Baseball title.

If you want to check out the beautiful lakefront and watch baseball at the same time, head north to Concordia University in Mequon, where the Lakeshore Chinooks compete in a summer wooden-bat baseball league for college kids in the Northwoods League. Speaking of that lakefront ...

Surely, you noticed the lake

That big blue body of water you might've seen in overhead shots of the city? That's Lake Michigan, with all the perks of an ocean — sand beaches, sailing, kayaking, even surfing — without the drawbacks: no salt, sharks, jellyfish, tides or hurricanes. If you've never seen a Great Lake in person, go down to the lakefront and take in the world's fifth-largest lake at Veterans Park, Bradford Beach or the paved Oak Leaf Trail. You'll be blown away by the views of scenic Atwater Park in Shorewood.

You won't be able to see Michigan on the other side — that's more than 80 miles away — but you could catch a killer sunrise if you visit early enough.

Milwaukee has a few rivers, too. The Milwaukee River is the longest, running north to south through downtown before meeting up with the Menomonee and Kinnickinnic rivers and turning east to dump into Lake Michigan. A three-mile RiverWalk runs alongside the Milwaukee River, from about North Humboldt Avenue to where it meets Lake Michigan in the Third Ward. The sidewalk system is ADA accessible and passes breweries, restaurants and bars, many with outdoor patios. 

Fonzie is a big deal, but so is our other art

The guy who may be Milwaukee’s favorite son — after Brewers radio broadcaster Bob Uecker — is actually a TV character.

The 1970s hit TV series “Happy Days” and its spinoff, “Laverne & Shirley,” were set in a sitcom version of Milwaukee in the 1950s and early 1960s. In both, Henry Winkler played Fonzie, a leather-jacketed tough guy with a dozen catchphrases (“heeyyyyyyy!”) and a heart of gold. Visit Milwaukee commissioned a statue to pay tribute to the Fonz; Winkler and others from the show came to Milwaukee for the dedication in 2008. Living on Milwaukee’s downtown RiverWalk, the Bronze Fonz has been a tourist attraction ever since.

OK, yes, we acknowledge that's kitschy. It's no museum of modern art or Central Park. You've got to enjoy the small-town randomness for a city with a fancy riverwalk within its skyline.

We've got lots of public art. Every summer since 2017, Sculpture Milwaukee has installed artwork around the city, such as Paula Crown's "JOKESTER" a giant, crushed red Solo cup in the Third Ward; "Gild the Lily (Caribbean Hybrid I, II, III)," the tropical flowers on the Chase Bank lobby; and a Robert Indiana "LOVE" sculpture, which can be found behind the Milwaukee Art Museum. 

For some of the city's art, you have to dig a little deeper, like Black Cat Alley, an installation of murals, many by local artists, in the alley between East Kenilworth Place and East Ivanhoe Place. 

In 2020, murals — including ones honoring medical workers, the late George Floyd and voting rights —  changed the face  of the city. 

More: Here are 23 things we love about Milwaukee in honor of its 175th year as a city

More: From 'terrible city' to 'Bushville,' sports leaders mock Milwaukee at their peril

More: Bucks president offers Milwaukee tour to ESPN 'First Take' hosts -- assuming a new petition doesn't keep them out

Do we have problems here? Of course

Milwaukee has long been combating racial inequality , animosity between residents and police , violence  and questions of public health .

We're paying attention to it and trying to find solutions.

Sherman Phoenix serves as a hub for Black entrepreneurs. The Bronzeville Collective is a major recent success story along those lines.

Also, yes, we have snow. So much snow. We ... have to try really hard to appreciate that detail, but it's summer, baby! Nobody's thinking about January!

10 things you can do in Milwaukee that you can't do anywhere else

• See the underground caves where beer was stored at Miller brewery. 
• See the oldest known Harley-Davidson motorcycle in existence (and sit on a bunch of others) at the Harley-Davidson Museum.
• Visit the one-of-a-kind Black Holocaust Museum .
• Watch the Famous Racing Sausages compete in the sixth inning of a Brewers game at American Family Field, or watch Bernie Brewer navigate down his giant slide after a home run.
• Meet a 100-year old South American River Turtle named Onassis at the Milwaukee County Zoo, which also happens to be the only place to stand face-to-face with elephants anywhere in the upper Midwest (you have to hoof it to St. Louis for the next-closest elephants).
• Sing the "Laverne & Shirley" theme song on the Lakefront Brewery tour.
• View the largest cluster of work from acclaimed architect Frank Lloyd Wright on the "Burnham Block," constructed for working-class residents.
• Make a fool of yourself if you don't know the password to gain entry into spy-themed restaurant SafeHouse  (779 N. Front St.), but maybe you make friends with a Milwaukeean who knows the magic word? Those who don't know it will have to participate in some silly calisthenics ... for all to see, as it's broadcast on TVs to the bar inside.
• Watch the wings open (at 10 a.m.) or close (at 10 p.m.) on the Calatrava sculpture at the Milwaukee art museum.

JR Radcliffe can be reached at (262) 361-9141 or [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter at @JRRadcliffe.   Contributors to this story include Kathy Flanigan, Chris Foran, Meg Jones, Hannah Kirby, Chelsey Lewis, Mary Spicuzza and Jen Steele.

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