Milwaukee may be a major city, but it's extremely accessible and walkable. On a nice day, you won't see many Milwaukeeans driving. Whether you're walking to work or looking for a leisurely walk with window-shopping or destinations to stop at, we've picked out the most iconic streets you must experience at least once. Get your walking shoes on and take a stroll through these eight walkable Milwaukee streets.
1. Broadway (Historic Third Ward)
Broadway is an upscale shopping location located in the Historic Third Ward. While you're shopping, you'll be surrounded by some of Milwaukee's oldest architecture. The street is full of local shops and restaurants, and a few bigger name brands stores as well. You'll find small boutiques, consignment stores, and everything in between. It's also home to local theatre groups like Skylight Theatre, so feel free to stop on your walk for a show! Fun fact: the street has no suffix, it's simply Broadway.
2. Brady Street (Lower East Side)
Brady Street is an eclectic, bustling street running through Milwaukee's up-and-coming lower east side. There's always great people-watching and amazing food to be the be found here. It's not hard to spend the whole day on Brady; start with coffee at Rochambo Coffee & Tea, have lunch at La Mesa empanada bar, enjoy dinner at Thainamyte, treat your sweet tooth to dessert at FroZone, and then grab a beer to end the night at one of the dozens of local bars. The nightlife brings Brady to life, as does Brady Street Festival every July!
3. Water Street (Downtown)
Water Street is the heart of downtown Milwaukee. Whether you're strolling down the South End closer to the Third Ward or exploring the North End bar scene, Water Street is always a good time. Some highlights: Milwaukee Public Market for a bite to eat, City Hall for sightseeing, and AJ Bomber's for a burger and a beer.
4. 2nd Street (Walker's Point)
Walker's Point has been on the rise for some time now, and if you trek down 2nd Street you'll see why. Start at Purple Door Ice Cream for some of the most delicious homemade ice cream of your life, then head on down to Black Sheep for some wine on tap! Don't miss the Allen Bradley Clock Tower and then swing on over to Anodyne Coffee right off 2nd on Bruce for the best latte ever. With new restaurants popping up left and right, your dining choices are endless.
5. Farwell Avenue (East Side)
Milwaukee's East Side is full of walkable streets, but we think Farwell tops them all. With classic pizza spots like Zaffiro's and Pizza Shuttle, along with Asian-cuisine gems like Kiku Sushi and Chopstix, Farwell is a charming street full of hidden gems amongst a neighborhood that is constantly growing.
6. Old World Third Street (Downtown)
If you want a look at old Milwaukee, Old World Third is your go-to. The streets are even made of cobblestone! On this downtown path, you'll find the Usinger's Sausage Factory, Mader's German Restaurant, and many other bars and restaurants to enjoy as you walk down this beautiful street that's full of history.
7. Oakland Avenue (Shorewood)
Oakland might be most popular for its place on the East Side, but if you head further north you'll enter the charming town of Shorewood. This end of Oakland Ave. has been growing for awhile now, and it's where most Shorewooders hang out. With the new huge Metro Market, Stone Creek Coffee, and numerous other businesses popping up, you won't want (or need) to go anywhere else!
8. State Street (Wauwatosa)
The quaint State Street runs through the Village of Wauwatosa. Tosa is rapidly growing, but hasn't lost its charm. Take an afternoon stroll down State Street and bring the whole family! There's a great brunch served at Cafe Hollander and check out Pizzeria Piccolo for a delicious slice. State Street is the perfect place for any afternoon stroll.
Milwaukeeans, where do you love to roam? Let us know the streets you frequent in the comments below!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
