Explore Milwaukee’s Riverwalk, uncovering its industrial past, historic architecture, and vibrant public art on a scenic 1.2-mile walking tour.
Explore Milwaukee’s Riverwalk, uncovering its industrial past, historic architecture, and vibrant public art on a scenic 1.2-mile walking tour.
- The Grain Exchange | A Bartolotta Catering & Events Venue - The tour will commence inside the Historic Milwaukee Store at 235 E. Michigan St., previously known as the Grain Exchange, now called the Mackie Building.
- 111 E Wisconsin Ave - Chase Bank Plaza
- 101 W Wisconsin Ave - ASQ Center, formerly Gimbels Department Store
- **East…
- The Grain Exchange | A Bartolotta Catering & Events Venue - The tour will commence inside the Historic Milwaukee Store at 235 E. Michigan St., previously known as the Grain Exchange, now called the Mackie Building.
- 111 E Wisconsin Ave - Chase Bank Plaza
- 101 W Wisconsin Ave - ASQ Center, formerly Gimbels Department Store
- East Wisconsin Avenue - Gertie the Duck: A Symbol of New Life & Hope Statue by Gwen Gillen
- The Riverside Theater - 116 W. Wisconsin Ave.
- 135 W Wells St - Germania Building
- Pere Marquette Park - Discover more about the park.
- Marcus Performing Arts Center - 929 N Water Street
- Bronze Fonz - This sculpture represents Henry Winkler, the actor who portrayed Fonz in the show Happy Days. Happy Days, which aired in the 1970s, was a sitcom about a family in 1950s/1960s Milwaukee.
- 104 E Mason St - The tour concludes approximately two blocks from its starting point.

- Audio Headsets
- Audio Headsets
- Tips (not required but appreciated)
- Tips (not required but appreciated)
Similar to many communities in the industrial Midwest, Milwaukee has experienced a notable history of pollution. Fortunately, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, under the leadership of Mayor John Norquist and others, Milwaukee committed resources to cleaning up the water and revitalizing the buildings along the Milwaukee River. This effort led to the…
Similar to many communities in the industrial Midwest, Milwaukee has experienced a notable history of pollution. Fortunately, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, under the leadership of Mayor John Norquist and others, Milwaukee committed resources to cleaning up the water and revitalizing the buildings along the Milwaukee River. This effort led to the establishment of a public-private partnership known as the Riverwalk in 1993.
Currently, the Riverwalk spans 3.1 miles along both sides of the Milwaukee River, stretching from the former North Avenue Dam site, through Downtown and the Historic Third Ward, all the way to Lake Michigan.
The tour will delve into the industries and early city development that significantly affected the river, as well as showcase several historic buildings along the route. Participants will also have the opportunity to learn about various temporary and permanent public art installations on display.
This walking tour covers a distance of 1.2 miles.
Travelers are advised to bring comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and/or an umbrella.
- Not recommended for travelers who cannot walk or use a mobility device for duration of tour.
- 1.2 miles, moderate to brisk pace
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.