Top Milwaukee Art & Culture

As seen on BBC, NBC, and featured on Netflix’s Dark Tourist, this is one of the most talked-about true crime tours in the world. The Cream City Cannibal Tour explores one of Milwaukee’s most infamous criminal cases—walking through the exact neighborhood where multiple events connected to a notorious serial killer took place. This is not a casual history tour. Through guided storytelling, guests are led through the psychological, cultural, and real-world impact of the case, offering insight into how it unfolded and why it continues to be studied today. The tour has even been referenced in academic settings, including university psychology and criminal justice programs. Expect a deeper, more intense experience—focused on understanding, not sensationalizing. Outdoor tour. Rain or shine. Not recommended for those sensitive to true crime content.

Milwaukee is known for its beer, brats, baseball, and lakefront scenery, but it offers much more than most travelers realize. Learn about the city through the eyes of a resident guide on this Milwaukee sightseeing tour, see famous attractions, trendy neighborhoods, an art-filled alley, and so much more—including a bronze statue of the Fonz of “Happy Days” fame.

Milwaukee is a city shaped by its waterways, its waves of immigrants, and its bold spirit-famous for its German heritage, its brewing traditions, and its knack for reinvention over nearly two centuries. Our journey today starts at Wisconsin Historical Marker three three three, which marks the heart of old Kilbourntown, walk through stories of rivalry, resilience, and remarkable change, all the way to the bustling Milwaukee Public Market in the Historic Third Ward. Go at your own pace. The tour never expires. This is a hand free experience, press play and put your phone in your pocket. The tour is location aware, and plays as you walk. It never expires.

One of the most haunted bars in the nation, Shaker’s Cigar Bar—a Milwaukee institution—has a history as wild as its ghostly encounters. On this small-group tour, you’ll explore behind the scenes, hearing stories about the Capone brothers and Jeffrey Dahmer, the bar's cemetery and brothel past, and more. Bring your camera, sure, but beware of what you might catch on film.

Swap the big bus tours for a crowd-free experience. Traveling in an open-air, five-seater electric vehicle, you'll thoroughly explore the historic city of Milwaukee, from popular tourist destinations to some hidden gems that most visitors miss. As you travel, your guide will fill you in on Milwaukee's rich and exciting history. This tour has different lengths to suit your schedule.

Unveil the dark history of Brew City with this ghost tour of the city’s most haunted locations. Meet your guide for a ghoul-fueled stroll through the heart of Milwaukee to take in spirit-infested historic hotels, theaters, and even skyscrapers. Be entertained by bone-chilling ghost stories and tales of paranormal activity as you delve into Milwaukee’s ghoulish past.

Get to know one of Milwaukee‘s most haunted neighborhoods, Westown, and discover why Marquette University is considered one of the nation‘s most haunted schools. On this self-guided walking tour, you‘ll visit eleven haunted locations and hear some of Milwaukee‘s most spook-tacular tales! Starting in front of the Milwaukee Public Museum, you‘ll stroll around Marquette Campus and along Wisconsin Ave to Straz Tower, where our tour ends. Along the way, you‘ll meet some of Milwaukee‘s most famous ghosts, including a professor who continues to report to work, and a home-proud beer baron. You‘ll also see the site of one of the city‘s most notorious murders. Lace up your shoes and join me in discovering the haunted side of this historic neighborhood. This family-friendly hour-long walk does contain content that may be disturbing, including details of murders, mentions of suicide and accidental deaths. Please use caution when selecting this tour for very young or sensitive audiences.

Kick off your morning with a guided e-bike tour around Milwaukee. Covering more ground in less time, you’ll ride through historic neighborhoods and scenic parks, with stops including the North Point Lighthouse and Villa Terrace Museum and Gardens. Capped at eight for a personalized experience, this tour is a fun, active way to pack in plenty of sightseeing. Hear facts and insights from your guide along the way.

This experience is for the budget friendly travelers. This bus tour has a minimum 8 guest requirement to operate. A 90-120 minute Tour Times: 10am. Embark with fellow guests on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Milwaukee, where history, culture, and vibrant energy converge to create an experience like no other. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the iconic Harley-Davidson Museum, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of this dynamic city. Explore the historic Third Ward, where cobblestone streets lead to artisan boutiques and eclectic galleries. Indulge in the delights of the city's diverse neighborhoods from the viewpoint of a local, showcasing the best of local flavors. Discover the marvels of Milwaukee's skyline, including the stunning Milwaukee Art Museum with its iconic wings. Whether you're a history buff, a restaurant lover, or an art aficionado, this Milwaukee tour promises to captivate your senses and leave you longing to uncover more of its hidden treasures.

Guests will learn about Milwaukee’s thriving brewpub scene and visit four separate breweries, tasting up to 16 different beers on this guided brewery tour with a snack. Visit some of Milwaukee's most popular brewpubs, including Lakefront Brewing, Broken Bat Brewing Co, Ope!, Gathering Place, and Wizard Works, to name a few. Round trip transportation by bus in downtown Milwaukee is included. Please try to book your tour at least 72 hours in advance of the tour to confirm availability. Tours book up quickly, and tours booked inside this window may not have room.

Half the history talk calories of the Old Milwaukee Tour but with all the full bodied flavor! Ride 15 miles on a pedal assist e-bike through the best of Milwaukee. Try a tamale on the south side. Enjoy a frozen custard at the beach, a local speciality. See incredible variety! Ride through historic working class neighborhoods and past ornate mansions that were built when Milwaukee was the machine shop of the world. Admire hidden alley art and frescos in a magnificent cathedral. Ride along lakeshore parks and past downtown architectural gems. Wrap it all up with a visit to a beer garden, a city tradition since 1848, and you'll have a real taste of Milwaukee.

Downtown Milwaukee's growth began around the intersection of N. Water St. and E. Wisconsin Ave. but expanded quickly as the small settlement became a large city. If you are looking for an introduction to Milwaukee's history, this is the best place to start. The tour will explore this commercial district from the earliest beginnings at the river's edge all the way to the modern office buildings along Lake Michigan's shore. Stops on the tour include a variety of architectural styles including Alexander Eschweiler's Art Deco Gas Light Building (1930), the Richardsonian Romanesque style Federal Building (1892), and Northwestern Mutual's Neoclassical Headquarters (1914). This walking tour is 1 mile in length. We recommend that travelers bring (weather permitting): good walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and/or umbrella.

With 191 different blocks, it should come as no surprise that Milwaukee is known as a ‘City of Neighborhoods’. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll be introduced to two of its most interesting suburbs, Brady Street and the Lower Eastside, and their architecture. You’ll begin by discovering the impact that Polish and Italian immigrants had on Brady Street Historic District, including delicious Italian cuisine at Sciortino’s Bakery and Glorioso’s Deli. Finally, you’ll stroll down the city’s former Gold Coast to end this tour at the Oak Leaf Trail on Prospect Avenue, giving you the opportunity to continue your Milwaukee adventure independently on the Lake Line Trail. This family-friendly tour is an easy stroll, with the option to pop inside some of the city’s most interesting churches. Come hungry, there are plenty of opportunities to grab snacks, or discover your new favorite restaurant along the route.

The home of American lager and once a rival to Chicago in size, Milwaukee’s history and preeminence may not be as obvious as it once was—unless you look. With this self-guided audio tour, you’ll travel down Brew City’s most opulent drag, from the Milwaukee Public Library to the Milwaukee Art Museum. Across 150 years of history and plenty of steps, you’ll get a guided-tour experience without any of the crowds.

See the sights of Milwaukee while learning facts about the city on an entertaining and interactive scavenger hunt. This app-based game will lead you through the city, challenging you with trivia questions and tasks as you pursue the items on your list. This is a fun group activity for team building, parties, or anyone looking for a playful and memorable way to get to know Milwaukee.

West of the Milwaukee River, you’ll find the historic arts and entertainment district of Downtown. Today, the area known as Westown includes several theaters and arts venues as well as sports arenas, the Baird Convention Center, and several historic hotels. Also in the district is the multi-block Grand Avenue Mall (1982), now redeveloped into The Avenue (2018) with updated food hall and shopping. This tour will explore the recent transformation of several historic buildings into mixed-use development with apartments, new coffee shops, and gallery spaces, and the reinvigoration of office space. Included on the tour are Milwaukee’s large blue building, the Reuss Federal Plaza, now known as 310W (1983), the historic Hotel Wisconsin (1913), and the Pabst Theater (1895). This walking tour is 1.4 miles in length. We recommend that travelers bring (weather permitting): good walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and/or an umbrella.

Our guided City Skyline Kayak Tours are 1.5–2 hours long and follow the Milwaukee River up towards downtown Milwaukee. We do not make any stops along the way for this tour, but we do provide details about Milwaukee's history and attractions along the river. Our knowledgeable guides will provide you with any kayaking instruction you may need and ensure you feel safe and comfortable on this beginner-level tour.

Find out about Milwaukee’s dark history and most haunted places with this ghost-themed tour. Opting for a private tour means you’ll hear your guide clearly and can ask all the questions you want along the way. Find out about the city’s devastating fires in 1892 and the ghosts that are still believed to haunt the city. Learn about apparitions in a pub’s basement and bathroom mirrors, and visit the city’s most haunted location.

Skip the crowds this is a private tour for your group only! Embark on a captivating 2-hour private tour of Milwaukee, where you’ll explore iconic landmarks, vibrant street art, and cultural gems. With comfortable transportation, this curated journey includes glimpses of Lakefront Brewery, the artistic wonders of Black Cat Alley, architectural beauty at Villa Terrace, the iconic Milwaukee Art Museum, culinary delights at Milwaukee Public Market, and the energetic ambiance of Fiserv Forum. Enjoy the city’s diverse offerings while our expert guide provides insights into Milwaukee’s rich history and culture. Throughout the tour hear intriguing stories about the most iconic landmarks of Milwaukee, becoming familiar with the city’s history, culture, heritage, and unique stories.

Our tour blends art, street art, architecture and history to provide an informative yet interesting tour. You will be provided excellent views of Lake Michigan and various photography spots for those who love to take pictures. Our goal is to keep prices low while still offering a quality product that is fun for the entire family. The comfort and ease of having everything organized for you takes away the stress when going on holiday. Plus, the extra support and experience of a guide and the chance to travel with and meet like-minded people makes this tour much more attractive. Kenosha is an exciting and vibrant community on the shores of Lake Michigan in Southeastern, Wisconsin. Come enjoy the history and art that make up the Downtown and Harbor Park communities.

Shakers Cigar Bar is housed in a preserved 1894 building with a deeply layered past, including its time as a Prohibition-era speakeasy and brothel. Unlike typical ghost tours that move quickly from stop to stop, this experience is rooted in a location that has carried its stories for over a century. Guests don’t just hear about history—they step into it. The tour blends documented history with firsthand accounts, creating an experience that feels immersive rather than theatrical. The atmosphere of the building itself plays a central role, offering a level of depth and realism that can’t be replicated elsewhere. It’s not just a ghost tour—it’s a chance to experience one of Milwaukee’s most storied spaces from the inside.

If you've already seen most of the sights of Milwaukee, get a different perspective on the city with this haunted history walking tour of Lake Geneva. As you stroll in a small group, your guide will fill you in on all the colorful history and characters, from haunted mansions and vengeful spirits to lake monsters and more.

This is a focused look into one of the most fascinating—and least openly discussed—chapters of Milwaukee’s history. The Whorin’ 20s Walking Tour is centered entirely on the city’s Prohibition-era vice district, uncovering what operated just beneath the surface during a time when everything appeared controlled, but very little actually was. As you move through Milwaukee’s downtown, the past begins to reveal itself in layers—stories of hidden nightlife, blurred lines, and decisions made behind closed doors. The experience reframes the neighborhood, turning familiar streets into something far more complex. It’s not a general overview. It’s a deep dive into a specific era, told where it actually unfolded. The result is an experience that feels both revealing and unexpected—one that stays with you long after the walk ends. And when it does, the night continues at Shakers, where the atmosphere still echoes the world you’ve just stepped into.