9 Must-Visit Milwaukee Breweries in Wisconsin (Map Included)

If you’re planning a trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and wondering which Milwaukee breweries deserve a spot on your list, you’re in the right place.

Known affectionately as “Brew City,” Milwaukee has been synonymous with beer for nearly two centuries. This is the hometown of legends like Miller Brewing Company, Pabst Brewing Company, and Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company -names that built Milwaukee’s reputation as one of the beer capitals of the world.

But here’s the twist: today’s Milwaukee craft beer scene is stealing the spotlight. Local brewers are crafting bold, creative, and downright delicious beers that rival- and often surpass – the city’s big-name predecessors. Whether you’re into hazy IPAs, barrel-aged stouts, or classic lagers, you’ll find it all in this city of hops and history.

If you’re planning a Milwaukee brewery tour, these are the must-visit spots to sip your way through the city.

Short on time?  Here are the key takeaways:

• In our opinion, do not miss Eagle Park. To this day, we rank it in our top 10 favorite breweries in the U.S.
• Lakefront Brewery has the best tour ever. Also, they have gluten free beer that is quite good.
• MobCraft was the world’s first crowd sourced brewery ever and their beers are just as original.

This post was originally published in October 2019, and was updated in November 2025.

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Map of Breweries in Milwaukee, WI

Click the interactive map below!

1. Lakefront Brewery

• Hours:
  • Monday – Thursday: 3 PM – 9 PM
  • Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 9 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
• Food Available: Yes
• Tour Available: Yes, don’t skip it either

If you only have time for one Milwaukee brewery tour, make it Lakefront Brewery. Consistently ranked as one of the top brewery tours in the U.S., this spot combines local history, great beer, and plenty of laughs for an experience that perfectly captures the spirit of Brew City.

First, you’ll definitely want to get a reservation for this tour.

We also suggest arriving at least 1 hour early or plan on staying after to eat here since there food was sensational!

We started with a large helping of fried cheese curds (supposedly some of Milwaukee’s best cheese curds – we won’t argue), a sausage flight (yes, it’s a thing – but probably only in Milwaukee), and a side of more cheese (in the form of mac and cheese).

The Lakefront Brewery tour lasts about 50 minutes and is led by one of their famously entertaining guides. Expect a mix of fun storytelling, Milwaukee brewing history, and quick wit that keeps everyone smiling between sips.

Each tour includes:

• 32 oz. of award-winning beer (yes, you’ll get to enjoy multiple pours),
• A free beer coupon redeemable at participating Milwaukee bars and restaurants (valid for three days after your tour),
• And a souvenir pint glass to take home.

Beer is available before the tour and again midway through, making it as much a tasting session as a tour.

Fun Facts About Lakefront Brewery

• First U.S. brewery to bottle a fruit beer post-Prohibition (Cherry Lager, 1992).
• Creator of the first certified organic beer in 1996.
• Brewed the first gluten-free beer, New Grist, after petitioning the U.S. government to redefine what qualifies as beer.

Between the humor, history, and hops, Lakefront Brewery delivers one of the most memorable brewery experiences we’ve ever had and still talk about it to this day. Do yourself a favor – trust us, it’s worth it.

2. Eagle Park Brewing

• Hours:
  • Monday – Friday: 3 PM – 10 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
• Food Available: Yes
• Tour Available: Not at this location

Eagle Park Brewing is one of our favorite Milwaukee breweries and a must do when hopping around. 

We showed up just before opening and were shocked (but not surprised) to see a line of about 20 people waiting to get in. Turns out, Eagle Park has a highly sought-after beer club, available only through paid membership, and when a new beer drops, locals show up early to get their hands on it.

Even without the exclusive releases, the beer lineup here is phenomenal. Every pour is packed with bold, creative flavors that make it hard to stop at just one. We couldn’t resist ordering two full flights – and honestly, we still wanted more.

We highly suggest these if they have them on tap:

• Bahama Mama sour
• Tropical Slush sour
• Vegan Pineapple Upside Down Cake Milkshake IPA
• No Snickity No Stout  

Really, just try as many of their beers as you can because their craft is truly unique and amazing!

3. Dead Bird Brewing

• Hours:
  • Wednesday – Friday: 3 PM – 9 PM
  • Saturday: 12 PM – 9 PM
  • Sunday: 12 PM – 6 PM
  • Monday: Closed
• Food Available: Yes

If you’re looking for one of the most unique Milwaukee breweries, Dead Bird Brewing is a standout for its creative approach and community vibe. Founded in 2015 by two college roommates, the name “Dead Bird” came from a bizarre discovery – an actual dead bird found in an old aluminum pot in an attic. (Don’t worry, the pot never made it anywhere near the brewing process!)

Dead Bird Brewing specializes in beers crafted with locally sourced, vegan ingredients, making it a go-to for eco-conscious drinkers and anyone who loves inventive, clean-tasting brews. Their taproom opened in 2019 in Milwaukee’s Brewer’s Hill neighborhood, offering a welcoming space to relax, sip, and stay awhile. 

You’ll find a full food menu featuring everything from chips and salsa to beer pretzels, tacos, and BBQ – with plenty of vegan options that pair perfectly with their rotating tap list. They typically keep a cider on tap too, so there’s something for everyone.

This is a spot where good beer meets good fun. On Saturdays, you can catch live music, and inside the taproom, you’ll find arcade games and shuffleboard for a little friendly competition.

4. MobCraft Beer Brewery and Taproom

• Hours:
  • Sunday – Thursday: 11 AM – 10 PM
  • Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM
• Food Available: Yes

If you’re looking for one of the most innovative Milwaukee breweries, MobCraft Beer Brewery and Taproom is the place to go. Known as the world’s first crowdsourced brewery, MobCraft has been a staple of the Milwaukee craft beer scene for years- and it’s now entering an exciting new chapter under fresh ownership.

What Is a Crowdsourced Brewery?

Each month, MobCraft invites beer lovers from around the world to submit ideas for the next limited-edition brew. These can range from quirky flavor combinations to fully developed recipes. The realistic (and most creative) ideas go up for a public vote, and here’s the twist – your vote doubles as a pre-order for that beer.

When the votes are tallied, the winning concept gets brewed, packaged, and released for pickup at the brewery. It’s a completely community-driven model that keeps MobCraft’s lineup fresh, fun, and unpredictable.

Even with its ever-changing small-batch creations, MobCraft keeps a few flagship beers on tap year-round, including:

• Bat$h!t Crazy – a smooth coffee brown ale with roasted malt depth.
• Low pHunk – a tart and tangy sour ale that hits the perfect balance.
• Vanilla Wafer Porter – sweet, creamy, and comforting with dessert-like notes.

Located in the lively Walker’s Point neighborhood, MobCraft Beer offers a spacious taproom where you can sample experimental brews, grab a bite, and watch the brewing process in action. The vibe is energetic yet laid-back – exactly what you’d expect from a brewery built on creativity and community.

Whether you’re chasing the latest release or just curious about how far craft beer innovation can go, MobCraft is a must-visit stop on any Milwaukee brewery tour.

5. Broken Bat Brewery

• Hours:
  • Monday – Thursday: 3 PM – 10 PM
  • Friday: 12 PM – 10 PM
  • Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM
  • Sunday: 12 PM – 7 PM
• Food Available: No

For a city whose baseball team is literally called the Brewers, it’s only fitting that Milwaukee has a baseball-themed brewery- and Broken Bat Brewery knocks it out of the park.

Located in the heart of the Historic Third Ward, this cozy basement brewery gives visitors a peek into the brewing action with views of the tanks and brewing setup just beyond the bar. The atmosphere is relaxed and creative, blending Milwaukee’s love for beer and baseball into one unforgettable stop.

Every beer on the menu nods to America’s favorite pastime, from the cleverly named Straight Chedd (an apricot pale ale) to the crisp Golden Sombrero Pilsner and The Darryl, a bright and fruity strawberry kettle sour. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just love discovering themed taprooms, Broken Bat Brewery delivers a fun twist on the classic Milwaukee craft beer experience.

If you’re a baseball nut like Chris, you’ll appreciate the inside jokes, decor, and nods to classic players. If you’re not? Don’t worry – you’ll still find plenty to love in the glass.

6. Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery

• Hours:
  • Sunday – Monday & Thursday – Friday: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM – 6 PM
  • Tuesday – Wednesday: Closed
• Food Available: No
• Tour Available: Yes

Just a hop, skip, and a jump down the road is where you’ll find a more historical nod to Pabst Brewing:  Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery. 

Despite the funny-sounding name, “Best Place” actually comes from Jacob Best Sr., who founded the original brewery in 1844. After Pabst Brewing Company closed in 1996, the site sat quiet for years – until Best Place reopened to bring new life (and plenty of beer) back into the former Pabst headquarters.

Today, it’s part museum, part tavern, and part time machine. You can take a $14 tour that includes one beer and a walk through the beautifully restored offices and halls where Milwaukee’s brewing empire once ran. You’ll learn all about the Pabst family, the rise of Brew City, and how this place helped make Milwaukee famous around the world.

If you’re short on time or just here for a pint, skip the tour and grab a beer at The Guest Center, a cozy tavern with a wood-burning fireplace, murals of traditional German sayings, and plenty of old-world charm. Don’t forget to sign the guest book before you leave to officially become part of Milwaukee beer history.

Best Place is home to several beautifully preserved historic spaces – each with its own story to tell:

• The Guest Center – Enjoy a pint beside the fireplace while admiring hand-painted murals and rustic wood interiors. It’s the coziest spot in Brew City to sip a classic Pabst Blue Ribbon.
• Blue Ribbon Hall – The showstopper. This grand hall features intricate fresco murals and a wraparound balcony that offers a stunning view of the space. It’s a favorite for weddings and private events.
• The Great Hall – Step into Frederick Pabst’s original office, sit at his desk, and channel your inner beer baron for a photo-worthy moment.
• The Speakeasy – Tucked away in the basement, this hidden bar feels like the secret hangout every beer lover wishes they had at home. Rumor has it, it’s haunted – but only by friendly beer enthusiasts.

This is a must-see stop for beer lovers and history buffs alike. Even if you’ve visited some of Milwaukee’s modern breweries, you’ll gain a whole new appreciation for where it all began. Plus, the photo ops with Captain Pabst and King Gambrinus in the courtyards are non-negotiable – you can’t leave without them.

Whether you’re here to tour, sip, or soak in the nostalgia, Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery is a timeless tribute to Milwaukee’s beer heritage and deserves a top spot on your Milwaukee breweries list.

7. Milwaukee Brewing Company (MKE Brewery)

• Hours:
  • Tuesday – Thursday: 3 PM – 9 PM
  • Friday – Saturday: 12 PM – 9 PM
  • Sunday: 12 PM – 8 PM
  • Monday: Closed
• Food Available: Yes
• Tour Available: Not at this location

One of the most recognizable names in the Milwaukee breweries lineup, Milwaukee Brewing Company -or MKE Brewery-has entered an exciting new chapter. In September 2022, the beloved brand was officially acquired by Eagle Park Brewing (yep, the same brewery we mentioned earlier). The purchase included MKE’s recipes, branding, and everything that made this brewery a local favorite.

While there are plenty of changes ahead, fans can rest easy knowing that MKE’s high-quality beers are here to stay. Eagle Park plans to breathe new life into the brand with a refreshed taproom on Hamilton Street, set to continue the legacy that made Milwaukee Brewing Company one of Brew City’s best-known names.

Their year-round lineup remains a must-try for beer lovers, especially these favorites:

• Louie’s Demise – a smooth, malty amber ale that’s a true Milwaukee classic.
• Outboard – a crisp and creamy ale that goes down easy.
• MKE IPA – a balanced and hop-forward beer that appeals to both IPA fans and casual drinkers.

In November 2023, MKE relaunched its brewery tours, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. The updated tours run Fridays at 1 PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM, cost $20 per person, and include generous pours and samples. While we haven’t experienced the new version yet, if it’s anything like the old one, expect plenty of beer and plenty of fun.

Once fully up and running again, this will be another can’t-miss stop on your list of Milwaukee breweries – a perfect blend of old-school flavor and new-school creativity.

8. Third Space Brewing

• Hours:
  • Monday – Thursday: 4 PM – 9 PM
  • Friday: 2 PM – 10 PM
  • Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM
  • Sunday: 12 PM – 7 PM
• Food Available: Yes

A few minutes west of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, Third Space Brewing has quickly become one of the cornerstone Milwaukee breweries driving the city’s downtown revival. With a huge outdoor beer garden, a spacious indoor taproom, and a friendly, community-focused atmosphere, this spot perfectly captures what makes Brew City’s craft beer scene so special.

Since opening, Third Space has made a name for itself as one of the most award-winning Wisconsin breweries – and for good reason. In 2018, their Unbridled Enthusiasm Juicy Double IPA took home a bronze medal at the Great American Beer Festival in the Imperial IPA category, marking the first time a Wisconsin brewery ever won an IPA medal at that competition.

The awards didn’t stop there: their Unite the Clans Rye Ale earned a silver medal in 2019, the third consecutive year it had been recognized at the festival.

The tap list rotates frequently, but you’ll always find a solid lineup that includes sours, pale ales, and bold IPAs. Be sure to check out their dessert-inspired beers, which are creative, rich, and perfect for those who like to finish their tasting on a sweet note.

Whether you’re hanging out in the beer garden on a sunny afternoon or chatting with locals at the bar, Third Space has that rare mix of energy and comfort that keeps people coming back. It’s one of those Milwaukee breweries that truly lives up to its name – a welcoming “third space” between home and work where good beer and great company always meet.

9. Water Street Brewery

• Hours:
  • Tuesday & Wednesday: 4 PM – 10 PM
  • Thursday & Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
  • Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM
  • Monday: Closed
• Food Available: Yes

Founded in 1987, Water Street Brewery proudly holds the title of Milwaukee’s first brewpub – and it’s still pouring today. With four locations in Downtown Milwaukee, Grafton, Delafield/Lake Country, and Oak Creek, this local chain has become a familiar name across southeast Wisconsin.

Water Street has always blended restaurant dining with in-house brewing, offering approachable beers that stay true to traditional styles. Each location brews its own lineup of house beers and seasonal releases, including classics like a Bavarian Weiss and Oktoberfest – a nod to Milwaukee’s strong German brewing heritage.

While the beers didn’t blow us away, every pour we tried was refreshing and well-crafted. The brewery seems to lean more toward a restaurant-first, beer-second vibe, which makes it great for groups or anyone looking for a casual meal with a pint rather than a deep dive into craft experimentation.

Even if you’re not coming for the beer alone, Water Street Brewery is worth a quick visit for its atmosphere. The space is filled with beer memorabilia, from vintage neon signs and tap handles to an impressive display of thousands of beer cans and other historic brewing artifacts.

If you’re short on time and trying to prioritize the most standout Milwaukee breweries, we’d recommend focusing elsewhere. But if you’re after a hearty meal, a classic beer, and a side of local brewing history, Water Street Brewery is a comfortable, easygoing stop that still holds a special place in Milwaukee’s beer story.

Bonus Stops

Old German Beer Hall

• Hours:
  • 7 days a week; Open 11 AM – Close
• Food Available: Yes

As we alluded to, Milwaukee has deep German roots which is very evident by the architecture of the buildings downtown.

According to the Encyclopedia of Milwaukee (who knew that was a thing?), “Milwaukee is the most German of major American cities, and Germans have constituted Milwaukee’s largest immigrant group.

The city’s brewing industry, tradition of ethnic festivals, built environment, and history of working-class politics all display the influence of the German immigrants who arrived in especially large numbers during the half-century following 1850.” 

Well, The Old German Beer Hall embodies the spirit of Germany and represents the tradition of Munich’s legendary Hofbräuhaus, complete with the traditional Hofbräu beer in large liters – perfect for guzzling and cheersing (Prost!). 

You can also partake in a game that we’ve only ever seen at NASCAR tailgates. We call it “Stump” here in the South or “Hammerschlagen” in Germany (and Milwaukee).

The idea of the game is to hit a nail into a massive tree stump with a hammer (which is thankfully attached to a chain).

SafeHouse 

• Hours:
  • Monday – Thursday: 11 AM – 10 PM
  • Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 12 AM
  • Sunday: 11 AM – 8 PM
• Food Available: Yes

If you’re looking for something fun and unique, if not altogether touristy, head to SafeHouse. 

Tucked away in an the alley from the Bronze Fonz and in a relatively unmarked building, SafeHouse is like a speakeasy on the outside, and anything but a speakeasy on the inside. 

Look below 3 flags and behind the door faintly marked International Exports. 

You’ll need to know the password to get in, otherwise you’ll have to do something corny (think “do your best ninja move” or something similar) to prove you’re there for a good time! 

Even better, the entrance is shown on CCTV inside the bar for everyone to see (though no one seemed to be watching at all).  

Once inside, you’ll feel like you’re in a spy movie. 

All the employees call you “Agent” and act as if you’re a spy. 

The drinks are all spy-themed (and a little pricey), but the actual bar/restaurant itself has numerous rooms to mill in and out of while trying to find answers to various spy clues.  

We opted for two of the spy-themed cocktails and roamed around all of the rooms looking at all of the spy memorabilia. 

I’m sure we were interrupting people while they were eating dinner, but they didn’t seem to mind as this place was sensory-overload!

When you’ve completed your mission and are ready to head out, you can go out the secret exit in a phone booth if you wish, but it’ll cost you $1. 

Or just go out the way you came in, though a spy never leaves the same way they entered.

If you really want the password to get in and loathe doing something silly, google is your best friend.

Great Lakes Distillery 

• Hours:
  • Monday – Thursday: 12 PM – 9 PM
  • Friday: 12 PM – 12 AM
  • Saturday: 11 AM – 12 AM
  • Sunday: 11 AM – 7 PM
• Food Available: Yes

Great Lakes Distillery, the first distillery in Wisconsin since Prohibition, is located about a mile south of downtown Milwaukee in Walker’s Point (about a 10-minute ride for scooter-fanatic Samantha). 

The folks here are using local ingredients and old-world methods to create their high-quality lineup of spirits.  

Numerous varieties of vodka, gin, liqueur, whiskey, rum, brandy, absinthe, and various seasonal spirits are all available for you to sample and/or in one of their many cocktails. 

Great Lakes’ spirits have won numerous awards at prestigious competitions, including the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.    

Sightseeing stops

The statue, or the Bronze Fonz as it’s called, is located on the Riverwalk and is a quick stop on your way to SafeHouse or just on a stroll around the river.

The 1970s TV show “Happy Days” took place in Milwaukee and the statue was commissioned to help bring tourism to the city in 2008 with the show’s cast present at the unveiling.

Stop by for a quick picture and give your best thumbs up!

Wisconsin Cheese Mart

The Wisconsin Cheese Mart is a must-do in this cheese-crazed town.

Located in the heart of downtown and across the street from all the bars on Old World Third Street, you will find a cheese shop which, according to their website, has been the world’s largest selection of Wisconsin cheese since 1938. 

Some fun facts:  There are over 35,000 dairy farms selling milk in Wisconsin (almost 2 million cows producing about 14,000 pounds of milk each year)….that equates to a lot of cheese. 

In fact, about 74% of this Wisconsin milk is used in the production of cheese.

2 billion pounds of cheese every year, that is, or 30% of the nation’s total cheese production! 

With more than 250 varieties, types, and styles of cheese available at the Cheese Mart (many of which you can sample!), this is a no-brainer stop on your visit to Milwaukee. 

If you buy cheese, they even provide you with an ice pack to keep it cold while traveling, and will provide a travel cooler if you purchase a certain amount.

Where to eat in Milwaukee 

The Wicked Hop

When you know it’s going to be a long day of drinking all the Milwaukee beer and spirits, a hearty brunch is always a good start. 

Located in the Historic Third Ward at the corner of Sunday Brunch and Bloody Mary (not really, it’s actually St. Paul & Broadway, but the sign outside says otherwise), The Wicked Hop boasts some very good food and one of the best Bloody Marys in Milwaukee.

You’ll find most of your traditional brunch favorites here (eggs benedict, French toast, chicken and waffles, biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos) but the real star is the Bloody Mary. 

Complete with a peeled shrimp, beef stick, kosher dill pickle, mozzarella cheese whips, a portabella mushroom, a Spanish green olive, and a Lakefront Riverwest Stein beer chaser, this spicy Bloody is a meal in itself! 

We aren’t the biggest fans of Bloodys (gasp, we know), so don’t consider us connoisseurs by any means, but this Bloody has won “Best Drink in Milwaukee” for 4 straight years.  That’s gotta be good for something.

Milwaukee loves its brunch and loves its Bloody Mary’s even more, so look around for others which might tickle your fancy.  Some of them are really out there!

We were told to head to Sobelmans, but ran out of time before we made it there – guess we’ll be back!

Milwaukee Public Market

The Milwaukee Public Market is located directly across the street from The Wicked Hop and was a perfect opportunity for us to walk around for a few minutes and let our brunch and Bloody settle.  

Here’s just a sample of the types of vendors you’ll find at this bustling market: coffee, Thai, Mexican, fish, olive oil, soups, salads, pizzas, vegan options, bakery, chocolates, cheese shop, wine shop, and even a tap truck just outside pouring the delicious Milwaukee beer. 

Guaranteed that you can find something here! Once you do, head upstairs to eat while looking out over the organized chaos below. 

Café Benelux

This was one of Samantha’s favorite spots due to its Belgium-themed menu and beer selection.

With over 40 pages of craft beer on the menu, Café Benelux is an excellent (and massive) place to find a good beer and eat some great food.

We opted for brunch food and we were very satisfied with our choices. Samantha’s current go-to for brunch food is Eggs Benedict and she was incredibly happy with her selection. 

Chris, ever the beer and cheese lover (even more so when they are mixed), chose the ham and beer cheese omelet.

Mmmmmm!

FAQs About Milwaukee Breweries

How many breweries are in Milwaukee, Wisconsin?
There are over 20 breweries in Milwaukee, and the number continues to grow. From historic beer halls to innovative craft breweries, the city offers endless ways to sip your way through Brew City.

What is Milwaukee known for when it comes to beer?
Milwaukee’s nickname, “Brew City,” says it all. The city has nearly two centuries of brewing history, with legendary names like Miller, Pabst, and Schlitz shaping its identity. Today, Milwaukee has evolved into a haven for craft beer lovers, with small breweries crafting creative styles that rival the big brands.

What is the most famous beer in Milwaukee?
It depends on who you ask! For some, Schlitz, Pabst Blue Ribbon (PBR), and Miller High Life are the iconic beers that define Milwaukee’s legacy. But in today’s craft scene, breweries like Eagle Park, Third Space, and Lakefront Brewery are carrying that tradition forward in new and exciting ways.

What are the best breweries in Milwaukee to visit?
You can’t go wrong with any of the local favorites, but a few standouts include Eagle Park Brewing (creative and top-tier IPAs), Lakefront Brewery (famous for its hilarious tour), MobCraft Beer (known for crowdsourced recipes), and Good City Brewing (great food and rooftop views). Each one brings its own personality to Milwaukee’s thriving beer scene.

Does Milwaukee have brewery tours?
Definitely! You can book guided brewery tours or build your own self-guided Milwaukee brewery tour. We spent three days exploring downtown Milwaukee and crafted our own brewery-hopping route – flexible, affordable, and incredibly fun. Many breweries are close enough to combine into an afternoon crawl across neighborhoods like Walker’s Point, Bay View, and Riverwest.

What’s the best way to get around Milwaukee breweries?
Milwaukee is an easy city to navigate. Rideshares are widely available, but for an extra-fun twist, try The Hop, Milwaukee’s free downtown streetcar. It’s literally an ode to beer and “hop-on, hop-off” touring. While current stops don’t reach all the major breweries, expansion plans are underway to connect more of Brew City’s taprooms. Until then, it’s a great option for moving between downtown stops – and yes, it gives brewery hopping a whole new meaning.

Can you walk between breweries in Milwaukee?
In areas like Walker’s Point, you can absolutely create a walkable brewery crawl. Several craft breweries are within walking distance, and plenty of beer bars and restaurants make perfect pit stops in between.

When is the best time to visit Milwaukee for beer lovers?
The best time to visit is between May and October, when the patios are open, the beer gardens are buzzing, and the city comes alive with events like Milwaukee Brewfest and Oktoberfest.

Where to stay Milwaukee 

Booking.com probably has the widest selection of budget (and luxury) accommodations in the world. In our experience, they consistently found the cheapest rooms. We also like their easy to use interface and no money down policy. When we book our travel stays, we personally use booking.com.

Milwaukee is a relatively compact city and everywhere we went was about a 5-8 minute car ride, a 10-minute scooter ride, or a 20-minute walk. >>> For a full list of hotels in the area, CLICK HERE.

Centrally Located – Hyatt Regency

We stayed at the Hyatt Regency since it was centrally located and was in the middle of the breweries we wanted to visit (see the map above for reference). We have stayed at several Hyatts before this one was just as nice. 

>>>>Check current prices and availability here

Unique stay – Brewhouse Inn and Suites

This old brewhouse was renovated for a hotel! Talk about going all in on a beer weekend in Milwaukee. Located directly across from Pabst and a block away from MKE Brewing, this hotel is a nice choice on the outskirts of the city. 

>>>>Check current prices and availability here

Homewood Suites By Hilton Milwaukee Downtown

If being central and being near a food hall is your kind of place, then look no further than Homewood Suites. Just a block off the water and near the Milwaukee Public Market, this hotel is a good suite option for in the city.

>>>>Check current prices and availability here

Slightly south – The Iron Horse Hotel

Located in the southern end of the city, this hotel is walkable to a distillery and a handful of breweries. Known for it’s modern and chic room décor, the rooms are spacious and they are pet friendly.

>>>>Check current prices and availability here

If you’re heading to Brew City and want to explore some of the best Milwaukee breweries, make sure to pack your drinkin’ shoes.

While legendary names like Pabst and Miller built Milwaukee’s beer reputation, today’s craft breweries are redefining what it means to brew here – mixing creativity, community, and a little old-world flair into every pint. From historic beer halls to modern taprooms, Milwaukee’s beer scene truly has something for everyone.

Even with a full weekend, we barely scratched the surface. Between chasing down top-notch beers, touring historic spaces, and sampling local flavors, our time in Milwaukee flew by. We didn’t make it to the city’s famous frozen-custard stands (fun fact: Milwaukee has the highest concentration of them in the world), but that just means we’ll have to come back hungry.

Before flying out, we couldn’t resist trying a Wisconsin-style Old Fashioned at the airport – made with brandy instead of whiskey. Chris was an instant fan and plans to keep that tradition going at home.

All in all, our visit to Milwaukee was packed with great beer, friendly locals, and plenty of charm. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or staying longer, you’ll quickly see why Milwaukee’s breweries are worth raising a glass to.

And yes, we were always drinking Wisconsibly. We kept a reasonable pace, shared flights, drank water between rounds, and made sure to eat along the way. Please do the same – always drink responsibly and never drink and drive (yes, that includes scooters).

Still Thirsty? Keep your beer journey going with more brewery adventures and booze-filled guides:

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