USA

Going to Milwaukee? – These Are the Things You Need to See Before You Leave

Going to Milwaukee? – These Are the Things You Need to See Before You Leave

What’s the first thing that pops in your mind at the mention of Milwaukee? We’re willing to bet that it’s either the bikes or the beers. However, this gorgeous city has a lot more to offer.

Milwaukee has many nicknames, but Brew Town is the most famous. From that, you already know what its biggest attraction is.

But did you know what else it has in store for you?

A lot of culture and history. And even if it’s famous for the breweries, even your kids will find some of its attractions enjoyable. This delightful city may be eccentric for some but everyone will be charmed by it.

Now, take a look at this list of the best things to see in Milwaukee.

Things to See in Milwaukee

1. Milwaukee Public Museum

Suffice to say, all visitors have to stop by the Milwaukee Public Museum.

What can you expect once you get there? A sizable collection of dinosaurs and Egyptian mummies for starters. The 14,000-year-old skeleton of a mammoth is still one of the museum’s highlights. And you’ll also get to have a stroll down the historic streets of the city.

The museum also has the Puelicher Butterfly Wing, which is a two-story garden filled with these gorgeous little flyers. And before leaving, don’t forget to visit the Native Games section where you can learn and even try your hand at the games that the native tribes of North America used to play.

2. Milwaukee County Zoo

Are you hitting Milwaukee for a family vacation? Take some time to visit the Milwaukee County Zoo. After all, it is one of the best things to do in Milwaukee with kids.

The zoo opened in 1982 and has since grown into one of the most significant zoos in the United States. Also, it’s a big one so expect to spend a good portion of the day there.

Your kids will surely find their favorite animals here – be it spotted hyenas, penguins, or red pandas – because it’s home to more than 2,000 animals. If they get bored, you can take them to one of the rides on the zoo’s grounds. The carousel and the Safari Train, in particular, are crowd favorites.

The best time to visit with kids is during the holiday season. That’s because your kids can grab breakfast with none other than Santa Claus. But if you’re visiting in late October, take them to the Boo at the Zoo event.

3. Milwaukee Public Market

There are plenty of places to buy clothes and gadgets around the city. However, the best place for shopping in Milwaukee is the Public Market.

It’s also an indoor venue where you can buy a huge array of dishes and beverages. Popular dishes include several types of sushi, pizza, and vegan-friendly sandwiches. You can also buy and try out a range of sweets. With all these, there’s no way you can leave without a full stomach.

You can also learn to cook at the market. The different classes take place on the second floor and you have several choices available. You can learn the best way to fry shrimps or take a beginner’s Thai food course. There are also dedicated cooking classes for dads. How cool is that?

4. Old World Wisconsin

Milwaukee Old World Wisconsin — *Image by Kathryn D via Tripadvisor*

Milwaukee and the area around the city offer a huge range of tourist attractions. If you feel like getting out of the city, you might want to visit Eagle. It’s a museum out in the open some 45 minutes away from the city center.

You will find 60+ historic buildings from the early colonial period at Eagle. What’s interesting to note is how settlers from different countries built houses in different styles. The museum’s staffers don pioneer-era costumes and are extremely knowledgeable about the period. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a reenactment show.

If you’re visiting during the summer, you’ll have a chance to play a game of vintage baseball. You’ll play by the original rules and use the period-correct equipment.

5. Harley-Davidson Museum

This city is famous for many things, with beer and motorcycles being two of the biggest. If you’re visiting for the first time, make sure to drop by the Harley-Davidson Museum. It’s one of the most impressive things to see in Milwaukee.

Harley-Davidson opened for business at the beginning of the 20^th century. However, the museum only came into being in recent years. That said, it’s the best place in the world to learn about the history of the iconic brand.

You’ll find 450+ bikes and a slew of parts and artifacts inside the museum. The exhibit also includes “Serial Number One,” the first Harley-Davidson ever made.

Also, you can buy some memorabilia at the museum’s store and eat at a Harley restaurant. The museum also organizes bike nights, which are special events where local Harley owners display their bikes at the museum.

6. A Brewery Tour

Milwaukee is Brew Town because it’s home to a good number of breweries, some of which are popular all over the United States and the world. Most notably, Miller Brewing has its headquarters and production facilities in the city.

There are many brewery tours you can take, and none will ever disappoint. Even seasoned beer drinkers will find a beer or two here that they haven’t tried yet.

Black Husky, City Lights, and Delafield are among the most prominent local breweries. But if you don’t have time for a full tour, you can always visit The Bavarian Bierhaus on W. Lexington Boulevard.

7. Turner Hall Ballroom

Milwaukee Turner Hall Ballroom — Image via Visitmilwaukee

Do you want to explore the city’s nightlife? Or are you looking for the top Milwaukee events you need to experience? If so, check out the Turner Hall Ballroom.

Turner Hall Ballroom is a small establishment that is perfect for intimate gigs. But it’s also one of Milwaukee’s top concert venues. However, it has strangely big restrooms. Enjoy top-notch beer and quality live music there.

There is no need to reserve a spot, as it is a general admission place. You can find it in Kilbourn Town.

City of Beer and Bikes

Motorcycles and beer are Milwaukee’s most recognizable products. When you’re in town, you might want to visit the Harley-Davidson Museum. And you’re in for a real treat if you can attend one of its Bike Nights. Milwaukee’s brewery tours are also the stuff of legends.

There are also other things you can do in the city, even with the whole family. Check out the zoo and the museum, for starters. Live like a local for a day by checking out the public market.

Beer and bikes are not all that this city has to offer.

California

Why San Diego Might Be California’s Coolest City—And No One’s Talking About It

When people think of California’s most iconic cities, Los Angeles and San Francisco usually steal the spotlight. But those in the know will tell you that San Diego quietly delivers everything you want from the Golden State—and maybe even more.

This beachside gem is effortlessly cool, endlessly sunny, and filled with experiences that blend laid-back living with cultural depth. Here’s why San Diego might just be California’s coolest city—and why no one’s talking about it (yet).

1. A Beach Scene That’s Actually Relaxing

Forget the see-and-be-seen crowds of Malibu or Venice. In San Diego, the beaches are wide open, the surf is steady, and the vibes are impossibly chill. La Jolla Shores is perfect for kayaking and snorkeling, while Sunset Cliffs offers dramatic views without tourist overload.

Local Tip: Head to Torrey Pines State Beach for fewer crowds and one of the most beautiful coastal hikes in California. If you’re traveling with kids, check out Coronado Beach—its calm waves and golden sand make it ideal for families.

2. A Food Scene That’s Quietly World-Class

From fish tacos to Michelin-worthy plates, San Diego’s food culture is on the rise. Whether you’re eating fresh sea urchin at a seaside shack or indulging in fine dining in Little Italy, every bite feels intentional and locally inspired.

Must Try: Taco Stand (La Jolla) for classic Baja-style tacos – Herb & Wood (Little Italy) for upscale California cuisine – Convoy District for some of the best Asian food in the state -Liberty Public Market for an eclectic, local foodie experience under one roof.

3. Sunshine Without the Smog

With an average of 266 sunny days a year, San Diego has the perfect climate—warm, breezy, and rarely extreme. It’s a city built for flip-flops, bike rides, and endless patio dining. And unlike other California hubs, the air feels fresh and the pace is just… easier.

Pro Tip: Rent an e-bike and cruise the Mission Bay bike path for 12 miles of coastal views, beach cafés, and perfect photo spots.

4. Culture That’s Not in Your Face

San Diego’s creative scene is unpretentious and full of local character. You’ll find outdoor art installations, indie surf shops, and pop-up galleries alongside historic landmarks like Old Town and the Gaslamp Quarter.

Don’t Miss: The eclectic art museums and gardens at Balboa Park – A live show at The Old Globe Theater—San Diego’s answer to Broadway – The Chicano Park murals in Barrio Logan, a colorful tribute to the city’s cultural roots

5. A Laid-Back, Local Energy

What really makes San Diego stand out is the people. Friendly, fit, and effortlessly cool, the locals are as easygoing as the sea breeze. It’s a place where you’ll feel welcomed, not crowded—where the city unfolds slowly, inviting you to stay awhile.

Neighborhoods to Explore: North Park for vintage shops, craft beer, and murals – South Park for indie boutiques and brunch spots – Ocean Beach for classic SoCal vibes and a weekly farmers market Final Word San Diego might not shout the loudest, but it wins hearts quietly—with surf, sunshine, street tacos, and soul. It’s a city that doesn’t need hype to be great. And that’s exactly why it’s so cool.

So if you’re craving California without the chaos—San Diego’s waiting. Just don’t tell everyone.

Travel Tip: Book a visit in late spring or early fall for warm weather, smaller crowds, and seasonal festivals like CRSSD or San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival.

California

Why Oceanside Is The Coolest Beach Town In California You’ve Never Heard Of

Oceanside: The Coolest Beach Town in California You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should!)

Forget the crowded boardwalks and sky-high prices of California’s more famous beach towns. There’s a true gem sparkling on the Southern California coast, quietly cultivating a vibrant, authentic, and undeniably cool vibe: Oceanside. If it’s not on your radar yet, prepare to be wonderfully surprised.

For years, Oceanside might have been considered merely a pit stop on the way to San Diego. But those days are long gone. This dynamic city has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a destination that perfectly blends classic California surf culture with a burgeoning arts scene, an exciting culinary landscape, and a commitment to sustainable living.

So, what makes Oceanside the coolest beach town you’ve been missing out on? Let’s dive in!

More Than Just Miles of Sand (Though We Have Plenty!)

Oceanside Pier — Aeroviews.co. (2025). Available at: https://aeroviews.co [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Yes, Oceanside boasts 3.5 miles of pristine, wide sandy beaches – perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or catching a wave. But it’s the iconic Oceanside Pier that truly sets the scene. Stretching nearly 2,000 feet into the Pacific, it’s one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, offering breathtaking views, fantastic fishing (no license required!), and a quintessential California stroll. You’ll see surfers carving lines below and may even spot dolphins or seals playing in the waves.

Just north of the pier, the Oceanside Harbor is a charming hub for all things maritime. Think colorful boats, fresh seafood restaurants, and opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, or paddleboarding. It’s a picturesque spot to soak in the coastal ambiance.

A Surfer’s Paradise with a Rich History

Oceanside’s roots are deeply entwined with surf culture, and it’s celebrated at the fantastic California Surf Museum. Here, you can immerse yourself in the sport’s history, marvel at vintage boards (including an 11-foot redwood from the 1800s!), and learn about legendary surfers. Even Bethany Hamilton’s shark-bitten board is on display, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the surf community.

Beyond surfing, Oceanside embraces its past with historic landmarks like the Mission San Luis Rey and the beautifully restored “Top Gun” House (now serving up nostalgic pies!). You’ll find a blend of old and new, creating a unique character you won’t find just anywhere.

A Culinary Scene That Will Surprise and Delight

Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Prepare your taste buds, because Oceanside’s food scene is booming! What was once a sleepy surf town is now a culinary hotspot, with new and exciting restaurants popping up regularly. From European bistros to East Coast-inspired delis, and a plethora of craft breweries and wine-tasting rooms, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss out on exploring Artist Alley, a vibrant space that hosts a First Friday Art Walk with pop-up galleries and artisan goods, often with delicious food trucks on hand.

Beyond the Beach: Unique Adventures Await

Biking — Nitrocdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://cdn-ilbhmcd.nitrocdn.com [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Oceanside offers a surprising array of activities that go beyond the typical beach day:

Skydiving with Ocean Views: For the ultimate thrill, try indoor skydiving at iFLY or, for the truly adventurous, jump out of a plane with GoJump Oceanside for unparalleled views of the coastline.
Goat Hill Park: This isn’t your average golf course. It’s a refreshingly inclusive and unique spot with ocean views, a relaxed atmosphere (no dress code, rock music!), and even a commitment to local beekeeping!
Whale Watching: Year-round excursions from the Harbor offer incredible opportunities to spot majestic whales and playful dolphins.
Biking the Strand: A pedestrian-friendly path runs parallel to the ocean, perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.
Sunset Market: On Thursday evenings, Pier View Way transforms into a lively outdoor market with food, music, and local crafts – an experience not to be missed.

Why Oceanside is Your Next California Escape

Oceanside isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a community with a strong sense of identity, a laid-back charm, and a dedication to growth that benefits both visitors and locals. It’s less crowded than its Southern California neighbors, offering a more authentic and relaxed beach town experience. And with visitor spending consistently growing (reaching $568 million in 2022!), it’s clear that more and more people are discovering its magic.

So, if you’re looking for a California beach getaway that’s off the beaten path, rich in culture, brimming with delicious food, and offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, then Oceanside is calling your name. It’s the coolest beach town in California you’ve never heard of, and it’s time to change that.

Myrtle Beach

What They Don’t Tell You About Orlando (Hint: It’s Not All About the Mouse)

Orlando is world-famous for one thing: the Mouse. And sure, Walt Disney World is a bucket list destination. But beyond the theme park turnstiles and fairy tale castles, there’s a version of Orlando most visitors never get to see—one filled with local charm, unexpected adventures, and culture that has nothing to do with characters in costume.

Here’s what they don’t tell you about Orlando (and why that’s a good thing).

1. A Food Scene Worth Traveling For

While most visitors are dining on theme park fare, locals are indulging in everything from Vietnamese street eats to Michelin-starred tasting menus. Neighborhoods like Mills 50, Winter Park, and Audubon Park are packed with independently owned gems that rival big-city cuisine.

Audubon Park — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com [Accessed 17 Jul. 2025]

Try This: – The Ravenous Pig for upscale gastropub favorites – Domu for trendy ramen and sake cocktails – Kadence for an intimate sushi tasting experience

2. Nature That Feels Like Another World

Swap roller coasters for river bends and ancient cypress trees. Orlando is surrounded by lush springs, lakes, and natural preserves that make it easy to escape the noise.

Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 17 Jul. 2025]

Don’t Miss: – Wekiwa Springs for crystal-clear swimming and kayaking – Lake Eola for a scenic walk or swan boat ride in the city – Harry P. Leu Gardens for peaceful trails through botanical wonder

3. Culture With a Local Beat

Orlando’s arts and culture scene is vibrant and authentic. Catch indie films under the stars at Enzian Theater, browse modern art at Snap! Orlando, or take in a Broadway show at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

Widen.net. (2025). Available at: https://visitorlando.widen.net [Accessed 17 Jul. 2025]

Bonus Tip: Head to the Milk District for street art, vintage shops, and cool dive bars with a neighborhood vibe.

4. Unexpected Neighborhood Gems

The best part of Orlando might just be outside the tourist map. Winter Park is full of European-style charm, with sidewalk cafés, art galleries, and boat tours through historic lakeside estates. College Park and Thornton Park offer boutique shopping, cocktail bars, and weekend markets that feel miles away from theme park lines.

5. A Wellness Scene That Goes Beyond Spa Day

Orangespringsretreat.com. (2025). Available at: https://orangespringsretreat.com [Accessed 17 Jul. 2025]

Locals know how to slow down, too. From sunrise yoga by the lake to float therapy and holistic health studios, Orlando offers all the tools for a restful reset.

The Bottom Line Yes, Orlando has theme parks—and they’re amazing. But the real magic happens in the neighborhoods, the nature, and the flavor you won’t find in a brochure. What they don’t tell you about Orlando? It’s not just for kids. It’s a destination for anyone looking to dig a little deeper and discover something real.