Trip Ideas

Top Milwaukee Attractions to Check Out

Top Milwaukee Attractions to Check Out

It doesn’t take long to realize that Milwaukee has many landmarks and historical attractions. Try to visit everything on this list to make the most out of your trip.

For an industrial hub, Milwaukee surprisingly has a lot to offer. It seems like a bland location for a vacation from the outside. But once you start exploring the city, it becomes obvious that it can provide a plethora of fun and educational experiences.

The museums, landmarks, breweries, and outdoor attractions can keep you busy and buzzed for days. Whether traveling alone, as a couple, or with friends or family, Milwaukee can’t disappoint. Check out some of the best sights to see during your stay.

Harley Davidson Museum

Mass production of Harley Davidson motorcycles started in Milwaukee in 1903. It’s now one of the city’s most prominent industries and passions besides brewing.

The Harley Davidson Museum is easily one of the top Milwaukee attractions that you shouldn’t miss seeing. Here, you can check out the oldest Harley model as well as some of the most significant designs of the iconic motorcycle company through the years.

But, it also offers more than memorabilia displays. You can also dine at a themed restaurant and even catch a bike night when Harley owners contribute their prized possessions to the museum’s display.

Pabst Mansion

For an ample dose of brewing history, the Pabst Mansion is a must-see attraction. It’s easily accessible as it’s close to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee campus.

Although a beautiful building itself, the mansion also tells the story of the wealthy Pabst family. In particular, its beginnings and involvement with the Pabst Blue Ribbon beer.

Milwaukee Art Museum

Almost every big city has an impressive museum or two. However, the Milwaukee Art Museum is awe-inspiring because of both its location and collections.

You can see over 20,000 works of art in this museum. Some of them date back to ancient times, while others are more modern.

Even the building looks spectacular on the Milwaukee Lakefront. The museum looks like a retractable structure with wings, something of a mix between an aircraft and a ship.

Mitchell Park Conservatory

The Domes within the Mitchell Park Conservatory are among the top Milwaukee attractions. The gigantic glass structures house a variety of exotic tropical and desert plants.

While the interior gardens look amazing, the domes’ sheer size is enough to impress visitors, too. Each dome is 85-feet tall and 140-feet in diameter. They’re also the oldest ever built, dating back to 1959.

Discovery World Museum

One of the best things to see in Milwaukee is the Discovery World Museum. It offers a wide range of interactive exhibits that can captivate the imagination of any visitors.

Also located on the lakeshore, Discovery World houses an impressive array of artifacts. It also displays research of the Great Lakes and various methods of nature conservation.

Traveling exhibits also make stops at the museum. That’s why you can witness science, economics, and technology displays throughout the year.

For an even more entertaining afternoon, don’t forget to catch an adventure movie on Discovery World’s big screen.

Boerner Botanical Gardens

Anyone who loves flowers, nature, and colors can enjoy a walk through the Boerner Botanical Gardens. It’s one of the most relaxing sights in the city and is recognized as one the top Milwaukee attractions.

It opened in the 1930s and the initial five formal gardens still exist today. They include the rose, annual, perennial, peony, and rock gardens. But over the years, the Boerner Botanical Garden acquired large varieties of shrubs, herbs, and flowers.

Milwaukee County Zoo

A zoo trip can always be one of the best things to do in Milwaukee, especially if traveling with kids. The Milwaukee County Zoo will captivate your kids as it’s one of the largest in the country and spans an area of 200-acres.

Different seasonal events run throughout the year, each providing a unique educational experience. The zoo houses over 1,800 animals and many of them were born right there in the zoo.

If you want to see a satisfying combination of rare, unique, exotic, and native animals, the Milwaukee County Zoo is worth a few hours of your time.

It’s worth knowing that certain seasonal events come with free admissions, so make sure to check in advance.

The Oriental Theatre

Milwaukee’s Oriental Theatre is not an attraction per se. But it is a city landmark and a place teeming with people on the East Side.

The theatre opened in 1927 and you’ll find that most of the original ornate interior since then is perfectly preserved. It even has its old pipe organ, which gets played on certain occasions.

While not as glamorous as an IMAX, the Oriental Theatre can offer a different movie-going experience. It also features a full bar with wine, beer, and even cocktails.

The Miller Brewery

Whether a fan of Miller or not, you can’t pass on the opportunity to see a part of American history.

The Miller Brewery is the last of the “big breweries” still operating in Milwaukee. The facility perfectly encapsulates the city’s deep-rooted passion for brewing.

To top it all off, the tour lasts a good 80 minutes so you’re sure to get an immersive and detailed experience. When you leave, you will be able to sample some Miller beers and take a souvenir glass with you.

Visit the North Point Lighthouse

The North Point Lighthouse sits in one of the most picturesque locations in the city. Talk about Milwaukee sights to see.

Initially, it helped guide boats into the Milwaukee harbor. It now acts as a maritime museum with displays focused on the Great Lakes. There’s also a unique twist. To celebrate Milwaukee’s brewing history, the Lighthouse Museum also holds beer tasting events throughout the year.

Fun for All Ages

Granted, adults can have way more fun in Milwaukee due to its passion for brewing beer and riding motorcycles. But while it may not have the theme parks that other big cities offer, it does provide a ton of interactive experiences.

Known for being an industrial hub, Milwaukee knows how to pleasantly surprise tourists with the conspicuous downplaying of an industrial city vibe.

Up Next

Reconnect with Nature by Visiting these Nine Parks in Calgary

Don't Miss

Breweries That Beer Lovers Must Visit in Milwaukee

Trip Ideas

Cabo Adventures: Top Excursions for Thrill Seekers

For travelers who crave more than lazy days on the beach, Cabo San Lucas is a paradise waiting to be explored. While the resort town is famous for its golden sands and vibrant nightlife, it’s the heart-pounding adventures that truly set it apart. Nestled at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, Cabo offers a stunning backdrop of desert cliffs, cobalt waters, and rugged terrain—perfect for thrill seekers looking to trade poolside naps for adrenaline-fueled escapades.

Here are six must-try excursions that transform a typical vacation into an unforgettable quest for adventure.

1. Zip-Lining Through Desert Canyons: Soar Like a Bird

Zip-lining in Cabo isn’t just a quick thrill—it’s a full sensory immersion. Adventurers strap into harnesses and launch from towering platforms, soaring over dramatic desert canyons and weaving between ancient rock formations. Companies like Cabo Adventures and Wild Canyon offer multi-line courses that send riders flying at speeds up to 60 mph, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez. The grand finale? A beach landing that pairs perfectly with a post-ride margarita. Pro tip: Go camera-ready—the mid-air vistas are Instagram gold.

2. ATV Tours in the Baja Desert: Unleash Your Inner Daredevil

The Baja Desert’s rugged landscape is a playground for ATV enthusiasts. Guided tours let travelers rev up powerful quad bikes and tear through dusty trails, navigate dry riverbeds, and climb rocky hillsides. Along the way, guides often share stories of the region’s history, pointing out hidden treasures like abandoned mines or secluded beaches. Just be prepared to return covered in dust—this isn’t an activity for the faint of heart (or clean clothes).

3. Scuba Diving in Cabo Pulmo: Dive into an Underwater Eden

The Cabo Pulmo Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a bucket-list destination for divers. Home to the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez, its waters teem with sea turtles, vibrant tropical fish, and playful sea lions. For the bold, some operators offer shark diving experiences, where sleek reef sharks glide gracefully past awestruck divers. It’s a surreal encounter that blends awe with a dash of adrenaline.

4. Snorkeling with Whale Sharks: Swim with Ocean Giants

Between November and April, the waters near Cabo become a haven for whale sharks—the largest fish in the ocean. These gentle giants, stretching up to 40 feet long, feed on plankton near the surface, allowing snorkelers to swim alongside them. Tours typically include educational insights from marine biologists, making this adventure as enlightening as it is exhilarating. Floating next to a creature of such majestic size is a humbling reminder of nature’s wonders.

5. Camel Safaris on the Pacific Coast: An Unexpected Journey

Who expects to ride a camel in Mexico? Cabo’s quirky camel safaris combine adventure with cultural charm. Operators like CaboTrek lead groups on a leisurely trek across desert trails atop these gentle, hump-backed creatures, followed by a hike to a secluded beach. The excursion often ends with freshly prepared tacos and guacamole, offering a taste of local flavor alongside the thrill of the unexpected. (Fair warning: Camels have personalities—some might decide to pick up the pace!)

6. Flyboarding on the Marina: Defy Gravity

For those who dream of hovering above the water like a superhero, flyboarding delivers. Powered by jet ski engines, water thrusters propel riders up to 30 feet into the air, where they can perform flips, dives, and mid-air acrobatics. It’s a steep learning curve—expect a few splashes—but mastering the balance is a rush unlike any other. Crowds on the marina often cheer for bold flyboarders, making it a spectacle for participants and onlookers alike.

Planning Tips for Cabo Adventurers

Seasonal timing matters: Whale shark encounters peak from November to April, while summer offers warmer waters for diving.
Book early: Popular tours, especially zip-lining and ATV excursions, sell out quickly during peak travel months (December–March).
Gear up: Sturdy shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, and waterproof camera cases are essentials.

Why Cabo? More Than Just a Pretty Sunset

Cabo San Lucas may lure visitors with its postcard-perfect sunsets and luxury resorts, but its true magic lies in the adventures that await beyond the hotel gates. From soaring over canyons to diving with sharks, these experiences don’t just fill photo albums—they ignite stories that last a lifetime. Whether travelers are adrenaline junkies or simply curious explorers, Cabo’s wild side promises to leave them breathless, inspired, and already planning their return.

Trip Ideas

Miami Like a Local: Exploring the City’s Best Neighborhoods

Think Miami is just about South Beach, neon lights, and mega clubs? Think again.

This city has layers—hidden gems, vibrant neighborhoods, and a whole lot of culture that most tourists barely scratch the surface of. If you want to experience Miami like a local, ditch the generic itinerary and dive into these neighborhoods that truly define the Magic City.

Little Havana: The Heartbeat of Cuban Culture

Step into Little Havana, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to the streets of Havana—minus the passport stamp. This neighborhood is packed with Latin flavor, from the rich aroma of Cuban coffee at Versailles to the rhythmic beats of salsa spilling out of every open doorway.

Walk down Calle Ocho, where locals gather at Domino Park for intense matches (and even more intense conversations). Don’t leave without grabbing a guava pastelito and a cafecito—it’s practically a requirement.

Wynwood: The Artsy Playground

Wynwood is Miami’s cool, edgy cousin—the one who’s always wearing something effortlessly trendy. Famous for its massive, colorful murals, this neighborhood is an open-air art gallery with creativity oozing from every corner.

Check out the Wynwood Walls, then pop into local galleries like The Margulies Collection. When hunger strikes, grab a bite at Kush, a laid-back spot serving up killer burgers and craft beer. And if you’re up for it, a rooftop bar like Astra offers insane skyline views.

Coconut Grove: The Bohemian Escape

If Miami had a secret garden, it would be Coconut Grove. This lush, laid-back neighborhood is the city’s oldest—and arguably its most charming. Think banyan trees, waterfront parks, and an artsy, boho vibe.

Stroll through The Barnacle Historic State Park, sip on a fresh smoothie from Panther Coffee, and explore cute boutiques along Main Highway. If you’re around on a Saturday, the Coconut Grove Organic Farmers Market is a must.

Brickell: The Urban Jungle

Welcome to Miami’s “Manhattan.” Brickell is all sleek high-rises, rooftop lounges, and a fast-paced energy that makes you feel like you should be closing a business deal—even if you’re just here for a cocktail.

Check out Brickell City Centre for shopping, then grab a drink at Sugar, a swanky rooftop bar with unbeatable city views. And if you need a food recommendation? Coyo Taco is the move for delicious tacos and margaritas that won’t break the bank.

Bonus: Key Biscayne – The Local’s Getaway

Miamiandbeaches.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/ [Accessed 21 Mar. 2025]

Need a breather from the city? Locals love escaping to Key Biscayne, a little slice of paradise just across the Rickenbacker Causeway. It’s got stunning beaches, bike trails, and one of the best sunset spots in town at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. It’s the perfect place to unwind with zero crowds.

Miami Your Way: More Than Just the Party

Miami is way more than just a party destination. Whether you’re sipping cafecito in Little Havana, admiring murals in Wynwood, or soaking up the coastal breeze in Coconut Grove, this city has a little something for everyone. So skip the tourist traps, embrace the local rhythm, and make your Miami experience one for the books.

California

Sun, Sea, and Tacos: A Local’s Guide to San Diego

San Diego is a city that effortlessly blends laid-back coastal vibes with vibrant cultural energy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, there’s always something new to discover in America’s Finest City. As a local, I’ve soaked up the sun, dipped into the sea, and eaten my weight in tacos—so let me guide you through the essentials of experiencing San Diego like a true insider.

Bask in the Sun: San Diego’s Best Beaches

La Jolla Shores — Travel-assets.com. (2025). Available at: https://a.travel-assets.com [Accessed 14 Mar. 2025]

San Diego boasts 70 miles of pristine coastline, and every beach has its own personality. Here’s where to catch those golden rays:

La Jolla Shores: Perfect for families, this beach offers gentle waves for swimming and kayaking. Stay until sunset for a fiery sky over the Pacific.
Pacific Beach (PB): The epicenter of surf culture and people-watching. Rent a bike and cruise the boardwalk, or grab a post-beach drink at one of the lively bars.
Coronado Beach: With its iconic Hotel del Coronado as a backdrop, this wide, sparkling stretch of sand is ideal for a romantic stroll or a picnic.

Pro Tip: Arrive early in summer to snag parking, and don’t forget sunscreen—San Diego’s sun is stronger than you think!

Dive into the Sea: Coastal Adventures

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park — Lajollamom.com. (2025). Available at: https://lajollamom.com [Accessed 14 Mar. 2025]

The ocean isn’t just for lounging—it’s for playing, too.

Snorkel at La Jolla Cove: Swim alongside leopard sharks (they’re harmless, promise!) and colorful Garibaldi fish in this protected marine reserve.
Whale Watching: From December to April, gray whales migrate past San Diego. Book a tour for a chance to see these majestic creatures up close.
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park: Hike the rugged trails and watch the waves crash against dramatic cliffs. Time your visit for golden hour—it’s pure magic.

For a low-key day, rent a paddleboard in Mission Bay or join a bonfire at Fiesta Island (just bring your own firewood!).

Taco Heaven: Where to Eat Like a Local

Oscar’s Mexican Seafood — Nothingfamiliar.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.nothingfamiliar.com [Accessed 14 Mar. 2025]

Let’s be real: You haven’t experienced San Diego until you’ve had a street taco. Our city’s Mexican food scene is legendary, thanks to its proximity to the border. Here’s where to indulge:

The Taco Stand (Encinitas or La Jolla): Order the al pastor tacos, grilled on a trompo and topped with fresh pineapple. The line moves fast, I swear.
Oscar’s Mexican Seafood: A local chain serving Baja-style seafood tacos. The smoked fish taco is a must, paired with their tangy crema.
Lola 55 (Downtown): For a modern twist, try their crispy Baja fish tacos or duck carnitas. Pair it with a craft margarita.

Local Secret: Hit up a neighborhood taquería like Tacos El Gordo in Chula Vista for authentic Tijuana-style tacos. Don’t skip the adobada (marinated pork) and a cold horchata.

Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

Balboa Park’s Desert Garden — Emptynestershittheroad.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.emptynestershittheroad.com [Accessed 14 Mar. 2025]

Balboa Park’s Desert Garden: Escape the crowds and wander through this serene, otherworldly cactus garden.
Liberty Public Market: A food hall in Point Loma with everything from oysters to artisanal ice cream—and yes, more tacos.
Torrey Pines Gliderport: Watch paragliders soar above the cliffs, or hike the trails for jaw-dropping ocean views.

Final Tips for Your San Diego Adventure

Weather: San Diego’s “June Gloom” can bring morning fog, but it usually burns off by noon. Pack layers!
Transportation: Rent a bike or electric scooter to explore beach neighborhoods. Parking can be tricky, so consider rideshares.
Taco Etiquette: Always add salsa, squeeze lime, and eat with your hands. No forks allowed.

San Diego is more than a destination—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, riding waves, or savoring that first bite of a perfectly grilled taco, this city will steal your heart. So slather on that sunscreen, grab a beach towel, and let San Diego work its magic.