Where to stay in Milwaukee? Find the neighborhood that best suits your visit to this great Midwestern city!
With its verdant landscapes and rich culture, Wisconsin is a state with a strong personality and much to offer, and a visit to the city of Milwaukee is a must. With over 595,000 inhabitants, Milwaukee is not only the largest city in the state of Wisconsin, but also the 25th most populous city in the United States. It lies on Lake Michigan, some 150 kilometers north of Chicago.
The former blue-collar city, and birthplace of the legendary Harley Davidson motorcycle manufacturer, is best known for its many breweries, earning it the nickname « Brew City ». But the renovation of certain neighborhoods, the presence of internationally renowned museums and the organization of major cultural events, particularly in summer, have enabled Milwaukee to change its face and attract new visitors.
Dynamic Milwaukee has managed to revitalize its downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, without erasing the charm and trademarks of its past. Planning a visit to this great Midwestern city and wondering where to stay? Discover below our selection of the best neighborhoods to stay in Milwaukee!
Historic Third Ward
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / stellamc
The Historic Third Ward is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a place to stay in Milwaukee, close to downtown. Some of its former industrial spaces have given way to art galleries, restaurants, performance venues and trendy boutiques.
In fact, it’s right next door to this neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, that the famous Summerfest music festival is held every year. Historic Third Ward is simply one of the city’s hippest neighborhoods! It’s also home to the Milwaukee Public Market, where you can sample local specialties.
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East Town
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Tony Savino
You’ll enjoy staying in this Milwaukee neighborhood if you’re looking for a place to have fun and enjoy its beers, all in a pleasant setting. Between the beach, the bars and restaurants, the museums and the various summer events held here every year, you’ll never get bored in this downtown neighborhood. Located between the shores of Lake Michigan and the Milwaukee River, East Town is home to some of the city’s must-see attractions, including the Milwaukee Museum of Art and Discovery World.
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Westown
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Tony Savino
West of the Milwaukee River lies Westown, the second half of Milwaukee’s bustling downtown. Are you looking for a place to stay in Milwaukee and enjoy its entertainment? Westown is for you!
Sports arenas (Fiserv Forum, BMO Harris Bradley Center…) and the city’s major cultural institutions (Wisconsin Center, Milwaukee Public Museum, Miller High Life Theatre…) are located here. Likewise, you’ll have no trouble finding pubs, restaurants and fast-food outlets in Westown.
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Lower East Side
Photo Credit: Flickr – Jeramey Jannene
Lower East Side is a trendy neighborhood and cultural hub for the city’s students and young professionals. The neighborhood – located north of East Town – has no shortage of cafés and bars, especially on Brady Street, a popular eclectic street in Milwaukee.
With its independent cinemas, jazz clubs and restaurants, the Lower East Side is the ideal place to enjoy the city’s nightlife!
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Menomonee River Valley
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Nigar Alizada
Wondering where to spend the night in Milwaukee? The offbeat Menomonee River valley neighborhood may be an excellent option. This former industrial zone has been revitalized with numerous green spaces, including the immense Three Bridges Park along the Menomonee River, and numerous bicycle and walking paths.
Two-wheeled enthusiasts can then easily visit the Harley Davidson Museum, a must-see in Milwaukee.
For those who like to gamble, the Potawatomi Hotel and Casino is located in the same neighborhood.
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Bay View
Photo Credit: Flickr – Steve Glynn
The Bay View neighborhood, on the shores of Lake Michigan, may suit families looking for Milwaukee housing in a charming, trendy and vibrant neighborhood, yet away from downtown.
With its farmers’ market and small boutiques, Bay View has a village atmosphere. Bonus: superb panoramic views of the town and lake!