Author: Jennifer Posh
VISIT Milwaukee
The 3.7-mile Milwaukee RiverWalk winds through the heart of the city, connecting three distinct riverfront neighborhoods – Historic Third Ward, Downtown and Beerline B.
More than 20 blocks from the northernmost to the southernmost points, RiverWalk is now fully ADA accessible and provides an basic and fun way to explore Milwaukee.
Here are the seven best ways to enjoy a hike along the Milwaukee RiverWalk!
Admire public art
RiverWalk in Milwaukee is home to an outdoor art gallery called RiverSculpture! includes both indefinite elements and ephemeral installations that change periodically. As you stroll along the RiverWalk, you’ll enjoy fresh discoveries, from petite, whimsical sculptures like Gertie, the most renowned duck in the world, to immense and striking abstract works.
Currently, the exhibition features 20 sculptures representing national, regional and local artists.
Pose with the brown Fonz
This work of art deserves a special mention! The statue, which has been displaying its iconic double thumbs up in downtown Milwaukee since 2008, pays tribute to Arthur Fonzarelli, also known as “Fonzie,” the tough guy king of frigid from “Happy Days,” the popular sitcom set in Milwaukee in 1950s.
Standing 5 feet 7 inches lofty (like Henry Winkler, who played the Fonz on TV) in his frigid leather jacket, the Brown Fonz is rarely seen without at least one fan putting an arm around him or imitating his thumbs-up pose. Make sure you get your photo!
Eat on the patio
Dining outdoors is even better on the water! The RiverWalk is paved bars and restaurants with terraces by the river. Take a walk and see what looks good!
Hop in the kayak
Why not see the RiverWalk from the river? You can go on an adventure by renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from Clear Water Outdoor. Their pier is located right on the RiverWalk, across from the Milwaukee Public Market.
We invite you to a performance at Peck Pavilion
Peck Pavilion at Marcus Center is a wonderful outdoor performance space located on the RiverWalk that often hosts free family entertainment during the summer months. Enjoy music, dancing, outdoor movies and more without leaving RiverWalk!
Go on a cruise
It’s no wonder Milwaukeeans love their boats since it’s a city on the water! From RiverWalk, you can hop aboard one of Milwaukee Boat Line’s cruises, including a popular sightseeing tour or evening cocktail and concert tours. A little further upstream is the Edelweiss Boat Cruises dock. Take a skyline cruise, go out for brunch or dinner, or take the kids on a pirate-themed ride!
Take the infusion
At Brew City, you’re never far from beer and you can enjoy local beers from two of the city’s most popular breweries without leaving the RiverWalk! At the beginning of the RiverWalk you’ll find the Lakefront Brewery, renowned for its fun and irreverent guides. Lakefront also has a riverside patio where you can enjoy some summer style after your tour.
Next, in the heart of the historic Third Ward, is the Milwaukee Ale House, where you can enjoy a selection of house-made ales and lagers, as well as a variety of high-quality craft beers on the RiverWalk.
RiverWalk is a great start, but there is so much more to discover! Discover the highlights of Wisconsin’s largest city and learn more on the website VISIT Milwaukee.org.
