There’s No Attraction In The World Like This One In Milwaukee
The Oriental Theatre in Milwaukee is a historic and unique movie palace known for its East Indian decor and long-standing tradition of showing independent films.
Milwaukee is full of incredible attractions, but some stand out above the rest. Unbeknownst to most, Milwaukee is home to the only operating movie palace, and it's absolutely bursting with history! From the incredible decor to artistic independent films, there's nowhere in the world quite like this theatre in Milwaukee.
Welcome to The Oriental Theatre, Milwaukee's oldest and most unique movie theatre.
With just three screens, you'd think this theatre would feel small, but the art within is larger than life. Before every 7 p.m. weekend show, they still play the old Kimball Theatre Pipe Organ (which is the third largest in the world,) just like the good old days.
You might expect the decor at The Oriental to reflect its name, but this immaculate theatre was designed by Gustave A. Dick and Alex Bauer with no Chinese or Japanese influence in mind.
Rather, the theme was East Indian, and it shows throughout the theatre with sparkling chandeliers, giant Buddha sculptures, and hundreds of elephants. It's said that the theater is the only movie palace to incorporate this kind of decor.
In 1972, the theatre was purchased by what is now Landmark Theatres.
On one night, The Pretenders didn't have an opening act, so they went out on the streets and found three regular street performers. This was the beginning of the Milwaukee native band, Violent Femmes, who has written many hits honoring The Oriental. Another famous name with ties to the theater is Walter Mirisch, producer of films such as The Pink Panther. Mirisch worked as an usher here in the 1940s!
In the late '80s, the live performances stopped and the theatre focused solely on films once again. A concession stand with alcoholic beverages was added in 2009, and the classic theater has become a top attraction. This is one of the only movie theatres in the city that shows independent films.
If it wasn't already cool enough, The Oriental holds a record for current and continuing film engagement. The Rocky Horror Picture Show has been shown every second Saturday at midnight since January of 1978, and it's still a Milwaukee favorite. The Oriental has won many other awards throughout the years, including Best Movie Theatre and Best Make-Out Spot.
There is simply no place more beautiful than The Oriental Theatre.
Landmark's Oriental Theatre is located at 2230 N. Farwell Ave., Milwaukee.
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Have you been to The Oriental? Did you attend shows here when it was still a concert venue? Have you joined in on the quirky fun at a Rocky Horror Picture Show night? Share your stories with us in the comments below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Being a big city, it can be hard to believe that Milwaukee is full of so much incredible greenery! We’re home to over 150 parks and even more secret spots that are simply out of this world. If you want to be transported somewhere magical without leaving The Good Land, you need to put these nine breathtaking places on your bucket list.
This is truly one of the best parks in Milwaukee to feel like you’re in a fairy tale. Strolling through this lakeside park is simply breathtaking, and much like everything else in Milwaukee, it has fascinating history too! Learn all about it within our feature article on the park.
You’ll find Lake Park located at 2975 N. Lake Park Rd., Milwaukee.
Within the aforementioned park is North Point Lighthouse! This stunning lighthouse has been guiding ships home since 1855 and offers jaw-dropping views of our city. The Keepers Quarters is the oldest building in the area. The Queen Anne-style architecture is preserved to this day, surrounded by two acres of wooded land and giving you a truly otherworldly feel.
North Point Lighthouse is located at 2650 N. Wahl Ave., Milwaukee.
This two-acre urban community garden on Milwaukee's north side is one of the city's best-kept secrets. The enchanting secret garden truly brings people together. Not only does this garden strengthen the Lindsay Heights neighborhood, all are welcome to come plant something and watch it grow. The garden is full of beautiful flowers and vegetables, all planted by Milwaukeeans!
Alice's Garden is located at 2136 N. 21st St., Milwaukee.
Did you know there’s a nature preserve right within our city limits? This little known natural oasis not only offers a getaway from ordinary city living, but it also serves as an outdoor education center for Milwaukee Public Schools. Hawthorn Glen works with Milwaukee Public Schools and Milwaukee Recreation to provide nature learning opportunities to 12,000 students a year, all within the most beautiful setting. Though this hidden gem serves as an education center for students during the day, everyone is welcome in the evenings and on weekends, so we can all experience this incredible slice of greenery.
Hawthorn Glen is located at 1130 N. 60th St., Milwaukee.
This hiking trail will transport you to a whole new world. Seven Bridges is a South Milwaukee gem that’s a mix of man-made and natural beauty. This hiking trail is a part of the Milwaukee County Parks system and features trails weaving in and out of Grant Park. The Seven Bridges State Trail is a roughly one-mile loop featuring beautiful footbridges and limestone staircases.
Seven Bridges Trail is located within Grant Park at 100 Hawthorne Ave., Milwaukee.
We’ll bet you didn’t even know this park existed, but once you find it, the beauty expands throughout every acre. Not only is it now an incredible getaway from the busy city life, it's history is absolutely fascinating. Three Bridges Park used to be a rice marsh and later a rail yard. It was subsequently vacant for decades until it was transformed into the park we know and love today.
Three Bridge Park is located at 610 S. 35th St., Milwaukee.
This hill just north of Milwaukee is so much more than a hill; it’s holy ground with breathtaking views. The incredible shrine hosts over half a million visitors each year, whether to attend mass or just experience this marvel in person.
Holy Hill Basilica is located near Milwaukee at 1525 Carmel Rd., Hubertus, WI.
This forest will make you feel like you’ve stepped out of a wardrobe and into Narnia. Havenwoods State Forest is 237-acres full of swampy woodlands and stunning views. This beautiful triangle of land has now almost grown full circle. This forest is also Wisconsin's only urban state forest, located right in our city, and it needs to be on your bucket list right now.
Havenwoods State Forest is located at 6141 N. Hopkins St., Milwaukee.
This one nature center takes an escape into Milwaukee nature to new levels. Not only is it located in the most incredible setting, they offer classes and exhibits that make the whole experience even better. Whether you’re looking to take a break from life, go on an intense hike, or simply learn something new, Schlitz Audubon is mesmerizing.
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Schlitz Audubon Nature Center is located at 1111 E. Brown Deer Rd., Bayside, WI.
Have you been to any of these amazing places? Let us know your favorite in the comments, and don’t forget to share photos from your visit on our Wisconsin Nature Lovers Facebook group or on Instagram using #onlyinmilwaukee for a chance to see your snapshots featured!
