Outdoor Activities in Downtown Milwaukee

There are countless outdoor activities in Downtown Milwaukee. Read about a few of the most famous below, then plan your next outing!

Kayak the Milwaukee River

If you’re seeking unique outdoor activities in Milwaukee, kayaking along the river offers a distinctive experience. Venturing onto the river in a kayak ranks among Wisconsin’s finest outdoor activities and provides an escape from the crowds.

Kayaking on the Milwaukee River offers an entirely fresh perspective of the city. While you can still observe the bustling crowds on the land, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the tranquility of the water. It’s an almost surreal experience to be a part of the city while simultaneously feeling removed from its chaos.

Rental facilities can be found along the riverbank, offering options for canoes and paddleboards. If you’re with kids, tandem kayaks are available, making this an excellent choice for a family outing in Milwaukee.

Don’t miss out on the fun right under your nose at Cathedral Square Park!

Also read:

Jazz in the Park

Bastille Days

Eat Outside

With its abundant offerings, Milwaukee ranks among Wisconsin’s top destinations for romantic getaways. If you’re searching for unique date ideas in Milwaukee, why not consider outdoor dining? But you might wonder, can outdoor dining be enjoyed in Milwaukee’s chilly winters, or is it limited to summer? The answer is a resounding no! Milwaukee provides options for outdoor dining throughout the year.

During the summer, one of the most delightful activities in Milwaukee is basking in the sunshine while savoring a meal on a picturesque restaurant patio. The city offers many fantastic outdoor dining choices for you to explore.

Watch for the telltale flame symbol displayed outside restaurants in the winter months. This emblem signifies that these establishments have outdoor dining patios equipped with fire pits, heaters, or other amenities to keep you comfortably warm while enjoying your meal. Outdoor dining is trendy. If you have a specific restaurant in mind, make a reservation to avoid disappointment.

Read about Milwaukee’s Top 5 Restaurants and the Top 5 Vegan Restaurants in Milwaukee!

Milwaukee by the Shores of Lake Michigan

In a state renowned for its picturesque lakes, the grandeur of Lake Michigan undoubtedly stands as one of Wisconsin’s finest aquatic gems. If you happen to find yourself in Milwaukee, consider yourself fortunate, for this city is nestled right on the shores of this mighty lake. And what better way to acquaint yourself with this natural wonder than by venturing onto its waters?

Along the lakeside, various watercraft options await, including Retro Boats, Donut Boats, and Classic Cruisers that you and your family can use to explore the lake’s beauty. If you’re 34 or older, all that’s required is a valid driver’s license to take the helm. Those under 34 must complete an online safety exam, and Boat MKE is an excellent starting point for those interested in this adventure.

The views from the middle of the lake are breathtaking, offering a completely fresh perspective on the city. Undoubtedly, this experience ranks among the top outdoor activities in Milwaukee.

Discover other fun things to do in Milwaukee!

Embark on a Hike at the Scuppernong Trail System

If you’re an enthusiast of stimulating physical activity, you’re in for a treat, as one of the most outstanding outdoor pursuits near Milwaukee perfectly fits the bill. The magnificent Scuppernong Trail System is a mere 35 miles southwest of Milwaukee, boasting some of Wisconsin’s finest hiking trails. This is high praise in a state brimming with remarkable hiking routes.

Nestled within the Southern Kettle Moraine State Forest, close to the tranquil village of Eagle, the Scuppernong Trail System offers an array of superb hiking trails in Southern Wisconsin. Notably, a portion of the famed Ice Age Trail is seamlessly integrated into this exceptional trail network, and there are numerous other pathways to explore.

Conveniently, the trails are color-coded, catering to various skill levels. There’s a trail suited for everyone with options like the Red, Orange, Green, and Observation Loops. These trails typically range from 2.5 to 5 miles long, so it’s time to lace up your hiking boots!

But that’s not all; this region is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. The Southern Kettle Moraine is home to some of Wisconsin’s finest mountain biking trails. It features two central trail systems, John Muir and Emma Carlin, connected by several smaller paths that offer multiple routes for bikers to customize their experience according to their skill level.

Also read:

15 Best Bike Trails in Milwaukee

Celebrate Halloween with Boo at the Zoo

Halloween in Wisconsin adds an extra layer of excitement for the entire family. During this time of year, the city goes all out, offering many spooky outdoor activities. One of the most enjoyable outdoor activities in Milwaukee during October is the annual Boo at the Zoo event.

This spooktacular event occurs at the Milwaukee Zoo and is a fantastic experience for the entire family. If you have little ones, this is an absolute must-attend event, as they will surely be delighted! Boo at the Zoo runs throughout the Halloween season and offers a wide array of captivating activities.

Guests can hop aboard the North Shore Bank Safari Train, which transforms into a Halloween-themed ride at night, navigate a haystack maze, and partake in trick-or-treating. However, the true highlight not to be missed is the stunning light display that illuminates every corner of the Zoo, adding a magical touch to the festivities.

Explore the Mitchell Park Domes

Situated in Mitchell Park, the Mitchell Park Domes serve as an enchanting conservatory, among the city’s most beloved attractions. Locally known as “The Domes,” these structures are a lush haven for diverse plants from around the globe.

Comprising three colossal domes, each simulating a distinct climate, visitors can journey through the Desert, Tropical, and Floral Show Domes. The Desert Dome boasts an impressive flora from Africa, Madagascar, South America, and North America. Notably, this dome is also the residence of Steve, a friendly bearded dragon.

Stepping into the Tropical Dome transports you to a tropical rainforest climate, where you can marvel at an astounding 1,200 species of exotic plants typically found in the world’s lush jungles. The Floral Show Dome is a delightful space showcasing unique, themed floral displays. Keep an eye on the Mitchell Park Domes website for their event calendar, as they host ever-changing exhibitions five times a year.

The domes come alive in the evening with a fantastic light display, offering a magical and captivating experience for all who visit.

For more outdoor/indoor activities, read about Milwaukee’s Top 5 Museums!

Enjoy the Wisconsin State Fair

The splendid Wisconsin State Fair is one of Milwaukee’s most exhilarating outdoor events. This eagerly anticipated annual gathering takes place at the Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis, a charming suburb of Milwaukee. If you are in the area in August, don’t miss this premier summer event.

With a history dating back to 1851, the fair found its permanent home in 1892, where it has been a beloved tradition ever since. Spanning an impressive eleven days, the fair offers many attractions that would take more than a day to explore fully.

While the fair’s primary focus lies in agricultural exhibits, it offers diverse experiences. From thrilling rides and captivating attractions to over 30 free stages hosting a wide range of entertainment, including music, comedy, and interactive educational shows for families, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Even if you’re not in town during August, the fairgrounds remain open year-round, hosting a series of engaging expeditions for visitors to savor.

Visit Downtown Milwaukee’s Historical Markers!

Experience Ice Skating at Red Arrow Park

When it comes to delightful activities for kids in Milwaukee, few can rival the sheer enjoyment of ice skating at Red Arrow Park. Milwaukee, a year-round destination, boasts a community well-prepared for the cold (and it can get quite chilly!), ensuring many exciting winter activities, with ice skating ranking high among them.

Nestled in the heart of downtown, Red Arrow Park provides a venue for enjoyable outdoor pursuits throughout the year. If you’re fortunate enough to visit during the winter, ice skating is one of the finest outdoor family activities Milwaukee offers.

Worry not about equipment, as ice skates, skater aides, and ice sleds are readily available for rent. Simply dive in and relish one of Wisconsin’s most enjoyable winter activities.

Check out Milwaukee’s Top 5 Parks!

Discover More Outdoor Activities in Downtown Milwaukee

Check out our blog to discover more outdoor activities in our Downtown Milwaukee neighborhood!

Milwaukee Public Market

Milwaukee Public Market

Milwaukee Public Market is a feast for the senses! The industrial-chic building is home to a curated selection of local delights, from freshly baked goods and artisanal cheeses to savory meats, fresh produce, and ready-to-eat Read More »

Fiserv Forum

Fiserv Forum

Fiserv Forum is the newest arena in Downtown Milwaukee. More specifically, in the Deer District. Home to the Milwaukee Bucks and Marquette University Golden Eagles, it hosts many events and concerts 12 months a year. Read More »

Red Arrow Park

Red Arrow Park

Red Arrow Park is a city green space with lush lawns, inviting benches, and, to top it all off – a seasonal outdoor ice-skating rink. Red Arrow Park Access The wheelchair-accessible parking lot and entrance Read More »

Milwaukee Art Museum

Milwaukee Art Museum

In 1888, Frederick Layton erected an art gallery adjacent to Cathedral Square, while other community-minded individuals established the Milwaukee Art Association, which later became the Milwaukee Art Institute. In 1957, the Layton Art Gallery relocated Read More »

About Streetcar Flats

Streetcar Flats is Downtown Milwaukee’s Newest apartment community located at 828 N Broadway. Streetcar Flats incorporates modern luxuries with the vintage charm of our hundred-year-old landmark building. What was once the Underwriter’s Exchange Building is now Streetcar Flats, your future home in Downtown Milwaukee, perfectly located along The Hop’s M-Line, Milwaukee’s new streetcar system. 

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Outdoor Activities in Downtown Milwaukee

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Rental Criteria

INCOME
One Adult – Gross income must meet or exceed 3 times the apartment rental rate. Roommates – The combined gross income must meet or exceed 3 times the apartment rental rate. If you are self-employed or retired, you must provide your most recent tax filing or consecutive bank statements from the past six (6) months to verify your income.

CREDIT HISTORY
Your credit score must meet or exceed six hundred fifty (650). You will automatically be denied rental if any monies are owed to a previous landlord or management company. If you owned a home and it has been foreclosed upon, you will be denied rental. If you have been sued in an attempt to obtain a monetary judgment against you within the last five (5) years you will be denied rental. If you have a monetary judgment against you that is older than five (5) years you must have legally satisfied that judgment or you will be denied rental.

PREVIOUS HOUSING
A verifiable history of apartment rental or mortgage payments. If there is no verifiable housing and you are a first-time renter, a Guarantor will be required, along with a security deposit of one (1) month’s rent. Any previous eviction judgment is an automatic basis for rejection of an application. Any negative reference from a prior landlord will cause you to be denied rental.

OCCUPANCY STANDARDS Maximum limits are as follows:

  • Studio: 2 individuals maximum
  • 1 Bedroom: 2 individuals maximum
  • 2 Bedroom: Not to exceed 4 individuals with no more than 3 unrelated adults
  • 3 Bedroom: Not to exceed 6 individuals with no more than 3 unrelated adults o
    • Children under the age of 2 are not included in the calculation


GUARANTOR(S)

Should an applicant not qualify in terms of credit history, the applicant, at the discretion of the landlord, may have the lease guaranteed by another party. Guarantor(s) must meet or exceed the rental criteria as stated above.

Each Guarantor must provide sufficient income verification equal to three (3) times the amount of the rent to guarantee the apartment rental.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND
If applicant has been convicted of illegally manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance as defined in sec. 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802) their application will be denied.

If applicant is subject to a state lifetime sex offender registration program their application will be denied.

If applicant has not been otherwise disqualified based on the above factors, and the applicant has been convicted of a felony or released from custody or supervision for a felony conviction, whichever occurred later, within the last six years, or a misdemeanor within the last three years, and the crime shows a demonstrable risk to tenant safety and/or property, their application may be denied after consideration of the nature and severity of the crime, the applicant’s age at the time of the conduct, and the amount of time that has passed since the criminal conduct occurred. Other factors may be considered on a case by case basis. Applicant shall provide any mitigating information or documentation that he or she would like to be considered regarding any criminal convictions.

*If management is unable to verify any information on your rental application, including but not limited to your prior rental history and employment, you will be denied rental. If you misrepresent your application information, you will be denied rental.

Date Started Using: May 16, 2023