United States

6 Ways To Make It a Milwaukee Summer

by Halina Wilusz

Photograph by Halina Wilusz

milwaukee summer

Take to the river on Milwaukee’s Urban Water Trail. (Photo: Courtesy VISIT Milwaukee)

Milwaukee is known for its cold, snowy winters, making the precious summer months a time to celebrate the great outdoors. Here are six ways to savor the summer in Milwaukee:

Rivers Run Through It

Milwaukee Urban Water Trail is a 35-mile kayak and canoe “liquid parkway” that runs through the city’s three rivers. Whether you only explore a section of the trail or the whole thing, you’ll get a unique lens on the city from the water.

Get on 2 Wheels

Get some exercise in and explore Milwaukee on a bike. See the city’s highlights with ease, as Milwaukee has designated bike lanes throughout its core. If you’re looking for a more relaxed ride, head off-road to the Oak Leaf and Hank Aaron state trails. Pack a picnic and plan your own itinerary for a day spent exploring Milwaukee on two wheels.

milwaukee summer
Bradford Beach (Photo: Courtesy of VISIT Milwaukee)

Hit the Beach

Head to Bradford Beach to enjoy all your favorite beach activities along Lake Michigan. Chill out in a cabana, treat yourself at the Tiki bar or get competitive on the volleyball courts. Who knew Milwaukee could be such a tropical oasis?

Go Fly a Kite

Take advantage of the bright and breezy weather and head to Gift of Wings. This one-of-a-kind kite experience is located at McKinley Marina, and is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with the kids. Relax in gorgeous weather, take a flying lesson or purchase a kite of your own as a souvenir of a day well spent.

milwaukee summer
Milwaukee’s River Walk. (Photo: Getty Images)

Explore the RiverWalk

The Milwaukee RiverWalk winds through the city’s best areas for shopping, dining and outdoor art. Explore three distinct neighborhoods along the RiverWalk: Third Ward, Downtown and Beerline B. You also explore by water—either by renting a canoe or taking a boat tour.

Hike the Lakeshore

Disconnect from the city and head to Lakeshore State Park. Spanning 22 acres, the park offers a range of hiking experiences, starting with a 1.7 mile trail that connects to the Hank Aaron andOak Leaf State Trails. When it gets a little warm in the height of summer, you can cool down by the watercraft beach area, or unwind in the shade and go fishing.