Learn About Milwaukee, WI

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Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, is located on the western shore of Lake Michigan and is well known for its cultural heritage, breweries, festivals, and strong industrial roots. With a population of almost 600,000, Milwaukee is a hub for commerce and community in the Midwest, offering both residents and visitors a blend of historic neighborhoods, vibrant arts, and a revitalized waterfront. Over the years, the city has grown into a diverse and thriving metropolitan area, serving as both a regional economic engine and a destination for visitors from around the country.

The Milwaukee Fire Department (MFD) was established on January 1, 1875, and in 2025, it will celebrate its 150th anniversary. From its beginnings, the department has grown to operate 30 fire stations across the city, equipped with engines, trucks, paramedic units, battalion chiefs, heavy rescues, dive rescue teams, and the Trident fireboat. Under the leadership of Chief Aaron D. Lipski, MFD provides fire suppression, prevention, rescue, and emergency medical services. The department’s motto, “Courage, Integrity, and Honor,” reflects its deep commitment to safeguarding the community.

Today, the Milwaukee Fire Department consists of approximately 700 firefighters, many of whom are also paramedics who provide both basic and advanced life support. MFD has earned national recognition for its service, including being ranked the third-best emergency medical service in the country by a 2003 USA Today study. As the city continues to grow and evolve, MFD remains a cornerstone of public safety, honoring its 150 years of tradition while looking ahead to the challenges of the future.

Milwaukee Art Museum
The Milwaukee Art Museum is a landmark on the Lake Michigan shoreline, known for its world-class collections and iconic architecture by Santiago Calatrava, Eero Saarinen, and David Kahler. As Wisconsin’s largest art museum, it showcases an extensive range of works—from American and European art to photography, design, and twentieth-century Haitian pieces. Beyond its galleries, the museum serves as a dynamic hub for education and culture, inspiring visitors of all ages through exhibitions, programs, and community events. Learn more at mam.org.
Milwaukee’s Teams: Bucks & Brewers
Milwaukee takes pride in its two major league teams—the Bucks and the Brewers. Founded in 1968, the Bucks won their first championship in 1971 with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson. Today, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Porter Jr., Myles Turner, and a strong supporting cast carry on that tradition, pairing elite talent with Milwaukee grit. At Fiserv Forum and in the lively Deer District, game days are city-wide celebrations. The Brewers arrived in 1970 when Bud Selig brought the Seattle Pilots to Milwaukee, honoring the city’s brewing tradition with their name. Playing at American Family Field, the team has given fans decades of memorable moments, from Hank Aaron’s final seasons to their 1982 pennant run. Together, the Bucks and Brewers showcase the passion, pride, and community spirit that make Milwaukee a true sports city.
Summerfest Grounds
Summerfest, held at Henry Maier Festival Park on Milwaukee’s lakefront, is one of the nation’s premier music festivals and a true city tradition. Spanning 75 acres, it features hundreds of performances across 12 stages, from major headliners at the 23,000-seat American Family Insurance Amphitheater to indie acts on the grounds stages. Alongside the music, visitors can enjoy local food favorites, unique shopping, family entertainment at the Community Park, and unbeatable lakefront views. With something for everyone, it’s no wonder Rolling Stone named Summerfest a “must-see musical festival.”
Harley Davidson Museum
Set on a 20-acre campus in downtown Milwaukee, the Harley-Davidson Museum is the only museum of its kind in the world. It features more than 450 motorcycles and artifacts, including the very first Harley-Davidson, known as Serial Number One. Visitors can explore the company’s history, people, and culture through exhibits, interactive displays, and special programs like the Steel Toe Tour, which includes a trip to the Pilgrim Road Powertrain Operations facility, and the Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Harley-Davidson Archives. Guests can climb aboard bikes in the Experience Gallery, admire one-of-a-kind customs, or see how a Knucklehead engine comes together. Younger visitors can try on kid-sized gear, rev a bike at the Imagination Station, or design their own ride at the Build-A-Bike display. After exploring, stop by Motor Bar and Restaurant, serving up American favorites like burgers and barbecue.
Milwaukee River/RiverWalk
The Milwaukee RiverWalk is a lively 3.1-mile stretch of dining, nightlife, and shopping along both sides of the Milwaukee River. It links the former North Avenue Dam site through Downtown and the Historic Third Ward down to Lake Michigan. Along the path, you can snap a photo with the Bronze Fonz, admire colorful public art, and take in views from picturesque bridges. For a unique perspective, explore by water with Riverwalk Boat Tours or rent a kayak from Milwaukee Kayak Company to see the city’s history and architecture from a new angle.
Discovery World
Discovery World is a family-friendly science and technology museum located on Milwaukee’s lakefront. With interactive STEM exhibits, the Reiman Aquarium, and immersive hands-on experiences, it’s designed to spark creativity, curiosity, and innovation for all visitors. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with admission priced at $24 for adults, $20 for children ages 3–17 and seniors, and $18 for college students and military personnel. Children under 2 are free. Discovery World also hosts special events and free days throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for the latest details before planning your trip.
Hoan Bridge
The Daniel Hoan Memorial Bridge is one of Milwaukee’s most recognizable landmarks, stretching across the harbor and lighting up the city skyline with its signature glow. Through the Light the Hoan initiative, local business and civic leaders have turned the bridge into a symbol of pride and unity, using its colorful displays to celebrate community spirit. Both a beacon and a community hub, the Hoan Bridge embodies Milwaukee’s passion, dedication, and love for its city.

For more information, please go to visitmilwaukee.org

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