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Milwaukee Travel Guide

Milwaukee

Milwaukee riverwalk © Milwaukee D.C.D.
Milwaukee is Wisconsin's largest city. It began as a Native American settlement, and was then an outpost for French fur traders and missionaries. But its real boom took place in the 1800s, when waves of German immigrants settled in the city, bringing with them the art of beer brewing. Milwaukee went on to become known as the beer capital of the world as well as a major commercial and manufacturing area. Although a few major breweries have relocated, Milwaukee's brewpub culture remains strong, as does its German heritage. It is perhaps its immigrant background that makes Milwaukee feel like a small town of friendly neighbourhoods. Residents take an active part in their community, and welcome visitors to experience their city.

Milwaukee is situated on Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes, so vast it appears no different from the ocean when walking along the shore, although without the waves. While surfing is not an option, almost all other water activities are, including sailing, powerboating, jet-skiing, dinner and cocktail cruises as well as some of the best shipwreck diving in the area. If lounging in the sun sounds more appealing, visitors can head to Bradford Beach, a long strip along the lake packed with swimmers and sunbathers in the summer.

For adventures of the shopping and dining kind, the other waterfront is the place to be. The RiverWalk system of promenades and bridges meanders along the Milwaukee River, linking the central downtown area, including the financial and Westown districts, and the Historic Third Ward. Westown is a hot spot for entertainment, with a variety of upscale restaurants, clubs and hotels as well as an upmarket shopping mall, convention centre, professional sports arena and various performing arts venues. The Historic Third Ward, a rehabilitated warehouse district with trendy lofts and stylish boutiques, is perfect for an afternoon stroll, as is the nearby Brady Street neighbourhood, which offers a more eclectic experience. Its tattoo parlours and alternative clothing shops, vestiges of the 1960s, when the area was a counter-culture haven, are now mixed with galleries, diverse nightlife spots, cafés and fine restaurants. After touring the city, visitors in need of a respite ought to try one of the three favourite local indulgences - beer, brats and frozen custard-without which a trip to Milwaukee would be incomplete.




Attractions

Miller Brewery © Greater Milwaukee Convention & Visitors Bureau

Miller Brewing Company

The Miller brewery, established in 1855, is a landmark in Milwaukee, and visitors can participate in a free, entertaining, one-hour guided tour of the brewhouse, packaging centre and historic caves on the premises. Tours conclude with samples either at the old Miller Inn or...  see full details



Miller Park © Greater Milwaukee Convention & Visitors Bureau

Miller Park

Miller Park is the home of major league baseball's Milwaukee Brewers. Opened in 2001, the ballpark combines state-of-the-art features, including a unique fan-shaped convertible roof, with the 'Take Me Out to the Ballgame' nostalgia of America's pastime. Ballpark tours are available, but if visitors...  see full details



Mitchell Park Domes © Greater Milwaukee Convention & Visitors Bureau

Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory

The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory is commonly referred to as 'the Domes', due to its memorable architecture. Its three giant glass vault-like structures are bursting with diverse plant life. Visitors can explore a different habitat-arid, tropical or floral-in each dome. ...  see full details



Excursions


Lambeau Field

Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers, is a landmark among America's football stadiums. When it underwent extensive renovations a few years ago, fans pleaded for the preservation of its trademark features. Today, its retro style and original seating bowl are balanced by...  see full details

Wisconsin Dells

About two hours' drive from Milwaukee is Wisconsin Dells, the 'Waterpark Capital of the World'. The city is a childhood fantasy come true, with more than 21 indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as various amusement parks, entertainment venues and recreational activities, including water...  see full details

Events


Summerfest
Summerfest © Greater Milwaukee Convention & Visitors Bureau

Summerfest

Summerfest, Milwaukee's 11-day tribute to musical styles ranging from alternative to zydeco, has been confirmed by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest music festival in the world. Staged along the shores of Lake Michigan in downtown Milwaukee from noon to midnight each day, Summerfest showcases both top artists and emerging talent and offers interactive activities for all ages.

Venue: Henry Maier Festival Grounds
Date: 25 June to 5 July 2009
Website: www.summerfest.com


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