Stretched along a bluff overlooking one of Lake Michigan's most beautiful bays, Milwaukee is said to have the perfect balance of big-city attractions and small-town values. With a population of over 600,000 people, Milwaukee is the largest city in Wisconsin and the 17th largest in the nation. Yet, it is known for its safety and cleanliness.

The Grand Avenue Mall, a four block, multi level, totally enclosed marketplace of over 130 shops and restaurants, has newly revitalized Milwaukee's historic shopping district. It is a perfect example of the blending of old and new. Milwaukee is a family friendly city with interactive museums, a spectacular zoo, theaters ranging from Imax to opera, world-class sporting events, and spectacular waterways offering fishing and water sports.

There are many beautiful churches and architecturally noteworthy buildings and homes. Each summer there is an authentic reenactment of an old time circus parade complete with bands, animals and horse drawn wagons in the downtown area. Summerfest brings to the city's waterfront eleven different music stages, along with food and fun.

Milwaukee hosts lively ethnic festivals throughout the year. Among these are: Oktoberfest, Bavarian Folk Fest, Festa Italiana, German Fest, Greek Festival, Polish Fest, Holiday Folk Fair, Indian Summer Fest, Irish Fest, Mexican Fiesta, African World Festival, Asian Moon Festival, and Bastille Days. The influence of each of these cultures is also apparent in the wide variety of local restaurants featuring mouth watering ethnic cuisine.

In the 1600's and 1700's Milwaukee served as a French trading post and a campsite between Chicago and Green Bay. As waves of other European settlers began arriving in the 1820's, they rejoiced in the combination of fertile land and abundant water that would insure their prosperity. The French were followed by the English, then by Scandanavian, Irish, Dutch, Austrian and Polish settlers. Reminders of these early immigrants are still evident as the community holds on to some of the traditions introduced over 150 years ago. The immigrants contributed their strong work ethic, evident everywhere from small family businesses to industrial giants like the Allen-Bradley Co. and the breweries.

A feeling of warmth and hospitality is evident throughout the region. Milwaukeeans are proud of their city and its many "one of a kind" attractions, and they welcome the opportunity to share these with visitors. The Milwaukee Public Museum ranks number one in exhibits nationwide. This museum pioneered the idea of walk-through exhibit designs, and it has featured these since 1882. The Milwaukee Art Museum is Wisconsin's premier visual arts museum. Brewery tours and samplings are popular with visitors and local residents alike.

Professional sports abound in Milwaukee. No matter what the season, Milwaukee has it covered! Top pro teams such as the Bucks, the Brewers, and the Admirals provide year round excitement. The Milwaukee Mustangs, a recent addition to the local sports scene, bring the thrill of fast paced football to the indoor arena.

Milwaukeeans do more than watch sports action from the sidelines -- they fully participate. Biking, swimming, skiing, football, baseball, tennis, golf and running are just a few of the recreational activities available in Greater Milwaukee. There are 15,000 acres of parkland in Milwaukee County and numerous private facilities. Competitive cycling brings national and international competitors to Milwaukee each summer. 76 miles of area bike trails are available to the public and waiting to be explored!

Milwaukee is a city of beauty and vitality that attracts visitors seeking to discover and enjoy this gateway to the Midwest. A few years ago, the Greater Milwaukee Convention and Visitors Bureau adopted a new and most appropriate slogan for the city: "Genuine American."

Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Season is from Sept. - June (414) 273-7206 This nationally acclaimed orchestra gives nearly 200 concerts a year in Milwaukee, across the country and in Europe and Asia.

Milwaukee Ballet Company 504 West National Avenue (414) 643-7677 well known for its classical and contemporary ballet.

Milwaukee Repertory Theater 108 E. Wells Street (414) 224-9490 Season runs from September to mid-May. Presents traditional and contemporary plays

Florentine Opera 929 N. Water Street (414) 291-5700 This is the only professional grand opera company in Wisconsin. It performs at The Marcus Center for the Performing Arts.

Milwaukee Riverside Theatre 116 West Wisconsin Avenue (414) 274-3000 This is Wisconsin's largest landmark theater and a showpiece for touring Broadway shows and pop and country artists.

Pabst Theater 144 E. Wells Street (414) 286-3665 Tours are offered Saturdays at 11:30 AM. The Pabst Theater is a center for touring and local theatrical productions, concerts and dance. It is a beautifully restored 19th century Victorian theater.

Skylight Theatre located in a newly constructed 18th century Italian Baroque opera house, presents both opera and music theater.

Helfaer Theater (414) 224-3000 on the Marquette University campus presents quality concert and theater offerings.

Milwaukee County Zoo (414) 771-3040 6 miles west on US18 between US 45 and SR 100 at 10001 West Blossomwood Road Hours and admission fees: May-Sept.: Mon.-Sat. 9-5. Sun. and holidays 9-6 Rest of the year: daily 9-4:30. Admission charged. Nominal charge for zoomobile and train The Milwaukee zoo is ranked among the finest zoological gardens in the world. More than 2500 species of animals are displayed in five continental groupings and in natural habitat settings. A daily educational show features four California Sea Lions. A close up educational tour in zoomobiles is available. Other highlights are an educational dairy complex called Heritage Farm; a petting zoo, and a miniature train. Rental equipment is available for use on a cross country ski trail that passes by indoor and outdoor animal exhibits. Allow a minimum of 3 hours at the zoo. Wheel chair and stroller rentals are offered.

Milwaukee County Historical Center (414) 273-8288 Admission: Free Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5 Sat.10-5; Sun. 1-5. Closed holidays The museum features a trip back in time. On display are military items, women's fashions, a panorama painter's gallery, firefighting equipment, an early 20th century pharmacy, physician's office and bank. Allow 1 hour minimum

Pettit National Ice Center, (414) 266-0100 S. of I-94 exit 306 at 500 S. 84th Street Guided tours by appointment. Daily 8 AM - 9 PM. Spectators Free except during events. Admission charged. The Center is a 200,000 square foot ice skating facility - only one of five in the world - which offers public skating along with a 400 meter speed skating oval and two international sized ice sheets for Olympic training. Various competitions and events take place periodically. The ice is open to the public several times daily.

Whitnall Park and Kettle Moraine 5879 S. 92nd Street provide extensive gardens and nature walks. 600 acres includes an 18 hole golf course, recreational facilities, picnic areas, an environmental education center and botanical gardens. Open daily year round dawn- dusk. Among the gardens located within Whitnall Park are:

(1) Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (414) 649-9800 Admission charged. Daily 9-5 The Conservatory is comprised of three geodesic domes which recreate the climate of a tropical rain forest, an arid desert and a seasonal floral display. Allow 1 hour and 30 minutes

(2) Boerner Botanical Gardens 5879 S. 92nd Street Open daily 8-7, May-Sept. Rest of the year: 8-4 Admission: free. Parking Admission charged. contains trees, shrubs and flowers displayed in formal and informal gardens. The rose garden has more than 3000 plants of 500 varieties. Each year more than 11,000 annuals are planted for seasonal flower exhibitions. The administration building contains art exhibits.

Miller Brewing Company 4251 West State Street (414) 931-2337 Admission: Free Call for schedule One could not think of visiting Milwaukee without considering a brewery tour. The Miller Brewing Company provides an inside glimpse at the fascinating history of brewing in Milwaukee as well as an opportunity to sample the current brew. The one hour tour includes stairs and four blocks of walking. Strollers are not permitted on the tour.

Sprecher Brewery (414) 964-2739 Tours by reservation only Tours conducted June-August offers some of the best connoisseur-style, or micro-brewery, beers in the world. Gourmet sodas in a variety of inviting flavors are also produced here and are available for sampling.

Lakefront Brewery 1872 North Commerce Street (414)372-8800 Tours by reservation only every weekend Call for appointment Admission: Free Tour and sampling at this recently renovated state of the art brewery

International Clown Hall of Fame 161 West Wisconsin Avenue, Suite LL700 in Grand Avenue Mall (414) 319-0848 is dedicated to the preservation and advancement of clown art. Clown clothing, shoes, and props are displayed. Paintings and videos of clown performances can be seen. Phone ahead for schedule of live clown shows.

Milwaukee Art Museum (414) 224-3200 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive overlooks Lake Michigan (Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat 10am-5pm Thurs noon-9pm, Sun noon-5pm) Admission charged. under 12, free when with adult Houses more than 20.000 works dating from the 15th century. Of particular interest are the collections of the Old Masters; 19th and 20th century European and American art and works by modern artists. Also featured are a collection of Haitian art, American folk art and the Prairie School archives of Frank Lloyd Wright. the 17th and 18th century American decorative arts are also featured.

Milwaukee Museum Center Complex 710 W Wells St (414) 224-3200 Admission charged. for all three attractions listed below

(1) Milwaukee Public Museum (414) 278-2700 daily 9am-5pm Admission charged. 3 and under Free In this museum, histories and mysteries of the earth, nature and humankind are imaginatively presented through dioramas such as "The Streets of Old Milwaukee" complete with lamplit lanes. A battle of the dinosaurs as well as a life sized tyrannosaurus rex and stegosaurus. Restaurant and vending machines on premises. Wheelchair and stroller rentals available.

(2) Humphrey IMAX Dome Theater (414) 319-4629 (press 2) (Mon-Wed 11.30am-4.30pm Thurs & Fri 11.30am-8.30pm Sat 10.30am-8.30pm Sun 10.30am-5.30pm shows on the half-hour Admission charged. provides thrills for all ages. This is the only IMAX theater in Wisconsin. It features the giant wraparound screen.

(3) Discovery World - The James Lovell Museum of Science, Economics and Technology 815 N. James Lovell Street Daily 9-5 (414) 765-0777Admission Charged features more than 150 "touch and do" exhibits in the fields of science, economics and technology of particular interest to children ages 10 and up. Allow 1 hour minimum. Weekends feature science demonstrations (children under 5 not admitted) and laser light shows.

The Pabst Mansion 2000 West Wisconsin Avenue (414) 931-0808 Open Tues.-Sat. 10-3:30, Sun. noon-3:30 Admission charged. Prices may vary during special events a 37 room Flemish Renaissance mansion built in 1892 for beer baron Captain Frederick Pabst. Exquisite carved wood and stained glass windows add to the beauty and grace of this home. There are 12 bathrooms, 14 fireplaces and fine ornamental ironwork. Available for rental for weddings, etc. Guided tours are available. Telephone for schedule.

Schlitz Audubon Center 1 mile east of I43 exit 82A at 1111 East Brown Deer Road (414) 352-2880 Tues.-Sun. 9-5. Admission Charged This impressive nature preserve covers 225 acres on the shores of Lake Michigan. Where off duty wagon horses once relaxed, there are now 6 miles of trails through fields into forests, along ponds and marshlands. A building houses materials for self conducted tours. Hiking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing are popular activities.

St. Joan of Arc Chapel 601 North 14th Street on Central Mall on the campus of Marquette University (414) 288-6873 Mon.-Sat. 10-4. Sun. noon-4. Free a 15th century French chapel that stood in the Rhone Valley for more than 500 years. During the French Revolution it fell into disrepair. In 1927 it was moved to a Long Island estate and reconstructed by John Russell Pope, one of America's leading architects. In 1965 it was moved to Marquette University. This outstanding example of Gothic architecture contains items from the 11th - 15th centuries including the Joan of Arc stone before which Saint Joan is said to have prayed.

Ongoing Exhibits

Kilbourntown House Estabrook Park, just off Capitol Drive 414/273-8288 Tues., Thurs., Sat. 10a.m.-5p.m., Sun. 1-5p.m. Built in 1844 by Benjamin Church, this Greek Revival home was originally located in the Kilbourntown section of Milwaukee. It was moved in 1938 and is open to the public. Free admission, donations appreciated.

Lowell Damon House 2107 N. Wauwatosa Avenue, Wauwatosa, WI Sun. 1-5p.m., Wed. 3-5p.m. 414/273-8288 Wauwatosa's oldest home - begun in 1844 and completed in 1847. Free admission, donations appreciated.

"Masterpieces from 25 Centuries Milwaukee Art Museum 414-224-3200 Highlights from the Permanent Collection" This exhibition features the museum's major works in a new installation that will undoubtedly surprise visitors, particularly familiar with the MAM layout which has remained virtually unchanges since 1988. The most important and best-loved works will be moved from their current locations to the museum's upper level.

Permanent Collection Charles Allis Art Museum Open Wed.-Sun. 1-5p.m. 414-278-8295 Completed in 1911, the Tudor-style mansion is intact with original furnishings and is undoubtedly was one of the finest of the many mansions that lined Milwaukee's most fashionable street in the elegant Edwardian era. Its worldwide art collection spanning 2,000 years includes Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Greek and Roman art objects; fine French, English and American period furniture; Renaissance bronzes; and landscapes by major 19th and 20th century French and American painters.

"Puelicher Butterfly Wing Milwaukee Public Museum

City Population: 628,088 Elevation: 740 ft. Time Zone: Central Standard Time Sales Tax: 5.6%

How to get around: For getting around the city, the two best bus routes are the 30 and 15, which stop near every major downtown hotel and restaurant. Milwaukee County Transit System (bus service) operates 22 hours per day. Fare is: Adults: $1.35 (exact fare needed) and children: 65¢. Schedule information available daily from 6:00AM - 10:00 PM (414) 344-6711. Note: Gray Line Tours conducts bus tours that take in the must-see sights, including the Historic Third Ward, Mitchell Park Domes, Saint Joan of Arc Chapel and Pabst Mansion. The festive red trolley that whisks its passengers all across town, from Brady Street's Italian bakeries to Old World Third Street's brick road, rolls into action when the winds blow fair (from May to September). The journey is called the Milwaukee Loop,

Rail Service: Amtrak at 433 West St. Paul Avenue

Buses: The Greyhound Lines terminal is located at 606 North James Lovell Street.

Events

January

“Cure for Cabin Fever” Antique Show

Held in mid – late January

Location: Cedarburg Community Center, Historic Downtown Cedarburg

262-377-9620

A Cedarburg Tradition! More than 20 regional antique dealers offering a variety of high quality unique pieces…from furniture to toys, sporting goods, vintage clothing, maps, prints and more.

February

Cedarburg Winter Festival

Held in early February

Location: Historic Downtown Cedarburg

262-377-8020

Festival features ice carving contest, bed-and-barrel races, pig roast, Iceberg Open golf tournament, chili cooking contest, parade, snowflake look-alike contest, pancake breakfast, family sock hop, family skating, children’s carnival and much more. Events within walking distance and most are free to the public.

Milwaukee Boat and Fishing Show

Held in mid February

Location: Midwest Airlines Center

414-908-6001

One of Wisconsin's largest indoor boat shows featuring hundreds of craft from kayaks to yachts, plus gear, seminars, services and more for boaters from novice navigators to ancient mariners.

Tripoli Shrine Circus

Held in late February

Location: U.S. Cellular Arena

414-908-6001

A superlative, non-stop evening of wonder, thrills, hilarity and pure amazement! The Tripoli Shrine Circus comes to town for its annual visit to the U.S. Cellular Arena with stupendous new acts and returning favorites.

Greater Milwaukee Auto Show

Held in late February

Location: Midwest Airlines Center

800-345-1487

Do all of your auto shopping under one roof at the annual Greater Milwaukee Auto Show. Check hundreds of new models from more than 35 manufacturers, plus concept cars and more.

March

Annual Spring Craft and Gift Show

Held in early March

Location: Wisconsin Exposition Center-Wisconsin State Fair Park

414-321-2100

It is cabin fever season and time to get out of the house. Shop the latest in art and creative craft designs for home, patio, garden or wardrobe from over 300 art, craft and gift exhibitors. Delicious candy, nuts, cheese, sausage and gourmet jams, jellies and sauces are a must have for everyone.

Indian Summer Festivals Winter Pow Wow

Held in early March

Location: Wisconsin State Fair Park

414-604-1000

A Pow Wow is an event where Native American Indian people gather to renew old friendships and make new ones through traditional Indian songs and colorful dance. The public is invited to join the dancing during one of the many “inter-tribals.”

Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Party

Held in mid March

Location: Downtown Milwaukee

414-276-6696

The Shamrock Club of Wisconsin joins forces with The Westown Association to produce Milwaukee’s oldest St. Patrick's Parade. With its route right in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, this 100-unit parade features marching bands, pipe and drum corps and local personalities.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show

Held in mid March

Location: Wisconsin State Fair Park

800-472-2070

Nearly 500 exhibitors of marine products, sporting goods, fishing tackle, vehicles and travel destinations for your travel needs are featured at the show.

Realtor’s Home & Garden Show

Held late March – early April

Location: Wisconsin State Fair Park, Exposition Center

414-778-4929

This is the genuine, original Annual Realtors Home and Garden Show for landscaping, redecorating or renovating every inch of property from lawn to garden to patio to interior - now expanding to include more terrific home and garden products, services and information.

April

20th Annual Craft Fair USA

Held Late April

Location:  Waukesha County Expo Center-Waukesha

414-321-2100

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, this is an ideal time for selecting a special gift designed for that special someone in your life from 150 unique art and craft exhibitors. Outdoor yard decorations also displayed.

May

Cinco de Mayo

Held early May

Location:  Wisconsin State Fair Park

414-389-6000

A two-day festival featuring a Mass, Mexican music, Mexican cultural dance groups and displays.

Drive The Mile

Call for exact date

Location:  The Milwaukee Mile

414-453-5761

Experience the thrill of driving your own street vehicle around The Milwaukee Mile. Drivers must be at least 18 years of age, present a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance.

June

Champ Car 250 night race

Location:  The Milwaukee Mile

414-453-8277

Call for exact date

The biggest names from America’s top open wheel Indy car racing series make their annual Milwaukee visit in their season long battle for the PPG CART championship. This is one of Wisconsin’s premier auto racing event.

AMA Suzuki Superbike Double Header

Held in early June

Location: Road America Race Track

800-365-7223

Professional motorcycle races. Runs rain or shine. Kids age 12 and under free with paying adult.

Kohler/SCCA June Sprints

Held in late June

Road America Racetrack

800-365-7223

Sports Car Club of America racing action includes 9 races and 24 classes of cars. Kids under 12 free with paying adult.

NASCAR Busch Series/NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

Held in late June

Location: The Milwaukee Mile

414-453-8277

The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and Grand National stock cars thunder into Milwaukee for a Genuinely American tradition.

Westown’s River Rhythms

Held all of June and July

Location: Pere Marquette Park

414-276-6696

The Westown Association presents a free concert series at the Midwest Airlines Landing in Pere Marquette Park each Wednesday evening. Pack a picnic or choose from one of the food vendors. Bring a blanket and enjoy one of Milwaukee’s most unique concert series.

Jazz in the Park

Held early June – mid September

Location: Cathedral Square Park

414-271-1416

Admission Free

One of downtown’s most popular after-work activities featuring exciting local and national jazz performers every Thursday evening.  Bring a picnic or try delicious food and wine from local vendors. Relax in the park with friends and colleagues.

RiverSplash!

Held in early June

Location: Pere Marquette Park

414-297-9855

Admission Free

This three-day celebration along 10 blocks of Milwaukee’s downtown river and RiverWalk is the place to be for food, fun, fireworks and music.

Milwaukee Highland Games

Held in early June

Location: Old Heidelberg Park

262-796-0807

Enjoy bagpipe bands, Scottish foods, Highland dancing and unique athletic events.

PrideFest

Held in early June

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-645-3378

PrideFest produces the largest Gay/Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender pride festival in Wisconsin. Enjoy the festivities and partake in the food, entertainment and marketplace. PrideFest is a celebration of diversity.

Reclaiming Our Heritage

Held in early June

Location: Grounds of Veterans Administration Medical Center

414-389-4135

Admission Free

Multi-era military encampment 1660-2004; tour of historic Soldiers Home buildings and National Cemetery, parade, fashion show and concerts.

Miller Lite Ride for the Arts

Held in early June

Location: Downtown Milwaukee

414-276-RIDE

Annual bicycle ride. Four available routes to choose from including a five, 15, 25 and 50-mile bike route. Benefits the United Performing Arts Fund. All routes start and finish at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts. Finish line party to immediately follow event at Marcus Center for the Performing Arts and Red Arrow Park. 

West Allis Western Days

Held in mid June

Location: Wisconsin State Fair Park

414-302-9901

Admission Free

Celebrating over three decades years of great family entertainment. Giant midway, exhibits, food, children’s day Saturday, sixteen musical acts over four days.

Asian Moon Festival

Held in mid June

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-483-8530

Celebrate Asian culture at Milwaukee's Lakefront featuring dance and martial arts demonstrations. Shop at the marketplace with 10,000 treasures, or just meet your friends and family at the main stage to enjoy Asian foods and popular bands from the U.S. and around the world.

Lakefront Festival of Arts

Held in mid June

Location: Milwaukee Art Museum Grounds

414-224-3854

Acclaimed as one of the country’s finest juried art festivals, the Lakefront Festival of Arts features over 175 artists from throughout the country displaying and selling their work. Also featured are a sculpture garden, children’s art activities, entertainment, artist demonstrations and food/beverage vendors.

Juneteenth Day Celebration

Held in mid June

Location: Dr. Martin Luther King Drive

414-372-3770

Juneteenth Day Celebration commemorates the end of slavery. Festivities begin with a parade that ends at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive and concludes with a street festival featuring entertainment and food.

Polish Fest

Held in late June

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-529-2140

One of America’s largest Polish festivals is three fun-filled days of storytellers, strolling minstrels, life-sized legends, old-world crafts, historic exhibits, dance classes and contests, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs, continuous music and good food.

Summerfest

Held late June – mid August

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-273-FEST 

Celebrate summer at one of the world’s largest music festivals. This eleven-day event offers musical entertainment on 13 different stages, a smorgasbord of the area’s finest restaurants serving mouth-watering fare, comedians, a children’s play area, daily demonstrations and activities, and exciting amusement park rides provide something for everyone.

July

African World Festival

Usually held in early July

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-372-4567

Expect a world of heritage, culture, entertainment and family activities at African World Festival. This is one of the Midwest's premier three-day celebrations of African heritage and culture.

U.S. Bank Fireworks

Held on July 3

Location: Veterans Park

414-765-6500

Spectacular fireworks light up the night sky along Milwaukee’s beautiful lakefront, just north of War Memorial. Enjoy afternoon activities and entertainment at the Family Festival beginning at Noon.

South Shore Frolics

Held in early July

Location: South Shore Park

414-671-4712

Enjoy two days of food, music, and spectacular fireworks nightly. A variety of kid’s games and rides will be available as well as an arts and craft show, bike ride and a spectacular parade on Saturday morning.

Gathering on the Green

Usually held the second week of July

Location: Mequon’s Rotary Park

262-242-6187

Enjoy a collaborative evening under the stars featuring the best of Milwaukee’s performing arts groups, including the Milwaukee Ballet Company, Florentine Opera, Skylight Opera Theatre and the Gathering on the Green Festival Orchestra.

Bastille Days

Usually held in mid July

Location: East Town (Jefferson Street/Cathedral Square)

414-271-1416

Celebrate French history and culture as the streets of Milwaukee are transformed into a mini French city complete with an Eiffel Tour. This free festival features street entertainers, a marketplace, over 25 sidewalk cafés and the annual “Storm the Bastille” 5K fun run/walk.

Brian Redman International Challenge

Held in mid July

Location: Road America Race Track

Elkhart Lake, WI

800-365-7223

View vintage sports car and racecars. Enjoy a Motorsports car show and auction. Children age 12 and under free with paying adult.

Garfield Avenue Blues, Gospel & Arts Festival

Held in mid July

Location: Garfield Avenue, between 4th & 7th Streets

414-223-4444

Family entertainment provided by inner city blues bands, dance groups, and gospel choirs. Barbeque and Louisiana Boil ethnic foods; clowns; magicians; puppet strolling and face painting for children; inner city arts and crafts participation.

U.S. Bank Championship in Milwaukee

Held in mid July

Location: Brown Deer Park Golf Course

414-540-3800

Top level PGA Tour Pros compete for the top prize in Wisconsin’s only PGA Tour event. The tournament is nationally televised live on network television.

Festa Italiana

Held in mid July

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-223-2193

Romance, nostalgia and rich Italian delicacies fill the air at Festa, America’s largest Italian cultural event. Offering nine stages of world-renowned and local entertainment. Enjoy the Sicilian brass marching band, the cultural exhibits and the colorful religious procession following Sunday Mass. There are nightly fireworks displays.

EAA AirVenture

Held late July – early August

Location: Wittman Regional Airport

Oshkosh, WI

920-426-4800

One of the world’s largest sport aviation gatherings; with over 11,000 airplanes. Daily

afternoon air shows, the world’s latest aviation innovations and more than 500 workshops, seminars and forums.

Milwaukee Rally

Held in late July

Location: Milwaukee Mile

414-276-9080

All bikes and riders are welcome. Bad to the bone BBQ cookout, high-octane bands, custom chrome show, lace & leather pageant, 300 vendor booths, scenic road trips,  and hometown hospitality.

German Fest

Held late July

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-464-9444

Grab a stein and cool off with a favorite brew at one of North America’s largest annually held German festivals! Indulge in German cuisine. Watch craftsmen demonstrate old-world artistry. Enjoy a colorful brass band or stroll through the Marktplatz for unique German gifts, from clocks to steins.

August

Arab World Fest

Held in early August

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-727-5517

The newest festival to join the line-up of lakefront festivals places an emphasis on the Arab culture. Cuisine, entertainment and cultural showcases will highlight the traditions, customs and heritage of the Arabs.

Russian Fest International

Held in mid August

Location: Old Heidelberg Park

414-840-9456

Embracing the rich heritage and famous hospitality of the Republics of the former Soviet Union, Milwaukee’s Russian Festival is proud to continue those same traditions and history. Experience ethnic songs, dances and activities while you enjoy delicious food inspired by East European and Caucasus traditions.

Wisconsin State Fair

Held early – mid August

Location: Wisconsin State Fair Park

414-266-7000

The state’s largest, most historic annual event highlights Wisconsin’s agriculture traditions with the excitement of a contemporary, urban event. The International Bazaar, thrilling midway, blue ribbon livestock, 28 free stages featuring top-name entertainment and world-famous cream puffs entice fairgoers of all ages.

Historic Third Ward Jazz Festival: A Summer Sizzle

Held in early August

Location: Historic Third Ward

414-273-1173

Sizzling jazz in a great neighborhood! A free, outdoor festival featuring two stages of great jazz musicians, a variety of mouth-watering food, and many specialty vendors.

River Flicks

Held early – late August

Location: Pere Marquette Park

414-276-6696

On Friday nights in August watch a free movie under the stars on the Milwaukee River. Movies start at dusk with family-friendly entertainment starting around 7pm.

Morning Glory Art Fair

Held in mid August

Location: Marcus Center for the Performing Arts

414-273-7206

Annual juried show presented by the Wisconsin Designer Crafts Council. Featuring 100 fine craft artists exhibiting original ceramics, fiber, jewelry, glass, leather, metal, wood, enamels, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.  Refreshments and silent auction to benefit the Wisconsin Designer Crafts Council scholarship fund.

Irish Fest

Held in mid August

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-476-3378

Celebrate the Legend at a lively lakefront musical celebration marking the silver anniversary of one of the world’s largest Irish festivals. More than 100 bands span diverse Celtic music influences and styles. Award-winning cultural exhibits and children’s attractions delight the entire family.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Milwaukee A La Carte

Held in mid August

Location: Milwaukee County Zoo

414-256-5412

Wonderful food and entertainment comes to the Zoo for this annual food and music feast with the beasts. Over 30 area restaurants with four entertainment stages are featured. Bring your appetite and your dancing shoes for this event!

Mexican Fiesta

Held in late August

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-383-7066

Spice up your life at Mexican Fiesta! A south-of-the border extravaganza featuring mouth-watering food, rousing mariachi bands, foot-stomping rhythms and an elaborate swirl of traditional dancers. Discover handmade treasures as you wander the marketplace. Learn the culture and heritage of Mexico and other Latin countries.

September

Wisconsin Orchid Society Show

Usually held in early September

Location: Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory – The Domes

414-645-0292

Admission Charged (regular Domes admission)

Enjoy breathtaking displays of orchids at their peak of bloom. Professional orchid growers nationwide sell a wide array of plants and supplies.

The Encore

Usually held in early September

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

A three-day music festival. Other attractions envisioned for the event include a sports bar themed area, a Busker's Row featuring street artists, a marketplace, interactive games for adults, fireworks and more.

Indian Summer Festival

Held in mid September

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

414-604-1000

One of the largest Native American festivals in the United States. Competition Pow-Wow; torch lit canoe procession preceding fireworks; Canadian, Mayan and American Indian dance troupes; tribal village re-creations; cultural demonstrations; storytellers; lacrosse demonstrations and tournaments; tribal tourism; juried fine arts; American Indian traditional and contemporary entertainers; authentic foods and a marketplace.

Oktoberfest

Held on a variety of dates in September

Location: Old Heidelberg Park

414- 964-4221

Admission Charged

Sponsored by the United German Societies of Milwaukee at Old Heidelberg Park, this authentic fall festival features brass bands, Bavarian folk dancers, yodelers, music and dancing for everyone. German food and beer available.

Milwaukee River Challenge

Held in mid September

Location: Pere Marquette Park/Milwaukee River

414-223-6901

Admission Free

This regatta features head style races on Milwaukee’s downtown river. Rowing demonstrations are presented in the morning. One can view the races from along the RiverWalk.

Harvest Fair/World Beef Expo

Held in late September

Location: Wisconsin State Fair Park

414-266-7000

Harvest bazaar, entertainment on multiple stages, scarecrow making, European-style beer garden, antique farm machinery displayed, farmer’s market and more. Family fun for everyone.

Milwaukee County Zoo (414) 771-3040 6 miles west on US18 between US 45 and SR 100 at 10001 West Blossomwood Road Hours and admission fees: May-Sept.: Mon.-Sat. 9-5. Sun. and holidays 9-6 Rest of the year: daily 9-4:30. Admission charged. Nominal charge for zoomobile and train The Milwaukee zoo is ranked among the finest zoological gardens in the world. More than 2500 species of animals are displayed in five continental groupings and in natural habitat settings. A daily educational show features four California Sea Lions. A close up educational tour in zoomobiles is available. Other highlights are an educational dairy complex called Heritage Farm; a petting zoo, and a miniature train. Rental equipment is available for use on a cross country ski trail that passes by indoor and outdoor animal exhibits. Allow a minimum of 3 hours at the zoo. Wheel chair and stroller rentals are offered.

Milwaukee County Historical Center (414) 273-8288 Admission: Free Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5 Sat.10-5; Sun. 1-5. Closed holidays The museum features a trip back in time. On display are military items, women's fashions, a panorama painter's gallery, firefighting equipment, an early 20th century pharmacy, physician's office and bank. Allow 1 hour minimum

Pettit National Ice Center, (414) 266-0100 S. of I-94 exit 306 at 500 S. 84th Street Guided tours by appointment. Daily 8 AM - 9 PM. Spectators Free except during events. Admission charged. The Center is a 200,000 square foot ice skating facility - only one of five in the world - which offers public skating along with a 400 meter speed skating oval and two international sized ice sheets for Olympic training. Various competitions and events take place periodically. The ice is open to the public several times daily.

Whitnall Park and Kettle Moraine 5879 S. 92nd Street 600 acres include an 18 hole golf course, recreational facilities, picnic areas, an environmental education center and botanical gardens. Open daily year round dawn- dusk. Among the gardens located within Whitnall Park are:

(1) Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (414) 649-9800 Admission charged. Daily 9-5 The Conservatory is comprised of three geodesic domes which recreate the climate of a tropical rain forest, an arid desert and a seasonal floral display. Allow 1 hour and 30 minutes

(2) Boerner Botanical Gardens 5879 S. 92nd Street Open daily 8-7, May-Sept. Rest of the year: 8-4 Admission: free. Parking Admission charged. contains trees, shrubs and flowers displayed in formal and informal gardens. The rose garden has more than 3000 plants of 500 varieties. Each year more than 11,000 annuals are planted for seasonal flower exhibitions. The administration building contains art exhibits.