introduction

IntroductionDespite being Wisconsin's biggest city, Milwaukee has a decidedly small-town feel—it's more like a series of neighborhoods linked together as opposed to a typical booming metropolis. While the 19th century brought an influx of immigrants from some 30 European countries, Germans were in the majority, and you'll notice their heritage reflected in cozy cafes and beer gardens. But, you can grab some Italian, Polish and Irish specialties along with the bratwurst and sauerbraten, experiencing a wonderful array of cuisines.

Wash down all that fabulous food with the suds that made Milwaukee famous—names like Pabst, Miller and Schlitz were instrumental in the city's industrial development. To experience a first-hand look, take a guided tour of the Miller Brewery Tour & Visitor Center and visit the Pabst Mansion, a testament to the Gilded Age. During your trip to Milwaukee, there are several must-see attractions for your sightseeing itinerary. Explore the Milwaukee Art Museum, with collections ranging from the Old Masters and German Expressionists to folk and Haitian art. If your interests lean toward the world's human and natural history, check out the Milwaukee Public Museum, where the wonders range from exotic butterflies to a life-size replica of Tyrannosaurus rex. Flora and fauna are the stars at the Milwaukee County Zoo and the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, where natural wonders abound.

For a taste of nostalgia and a hint of German heritage, head to Old World 3rd Street, where specialty stores in 19th-century buildings include such favorites as Usinger's Famous Sausage, Mader's and the Wisconsin Cheese Mart.

Getting There

By CarFrom the north, I-43 provides controlled access into downtown Milwaukee. I-94 affords direct access to the downtown area from Chicago and other southern points. From the west, I-94 is the controlled-access highway into the city. Bypassing the metropolitan area to the south and west, I-894 provides the best connection for the I-94 through corridor. Lake Express offers 2.5-hour car-ferry trips from Muskegon, Mich., to Milwaukee; phone (866) 914-1010 for rates and schedule.

Getting Around

Street SystemLake Michigan flanks the city on the east, and Wisconsin Avenue is the main downtown east-west thoroughfare. The Milwaukee River divides the downtown area into approximately equal east and west sections; I-94 is the approximate dividing line between north and south street addresses. Streets are numbered in ascending order west of the Milwaukee River and continue well into the suburbs to the Milwaukee County line.

The official, unposted speed limit is 25 mph; other limits are posted. Rush hours are 7-9 a.m. and 3:30-6 p.m. Right turns are permitted on red unless otherwise posted.

ParkingPrivate commercial lots are scattered throughout the downtown area and near the airport. Lot rates are $3-$5 per hour and $7-$15 for all-day parking. Private lots within four blocks of the Wisconsin Center and BMO Harris Bradley Center provide parking for functions at the centers.