Top 9 Things to do in South Milwaukee

Grant Park is full of the most gorgeous paths I’ve ever trekked—from the color-changing leaves of Seven Bridges Trail, to the stunning sunrises at Grant Park Beach. Discover the beauty of nature while surrounded by native trees, woodland critters, and wildflowers aplenty. Complete your hike by relaxing on the sandy beach on Lake Michigan’s shore!

Thanks to the Bucyrus Company’s arrival in 1893, the City of South Milwaukee has a rich history of engineering innovation and world-class mining machinery. Stop by the Bucyrus Museum to learn about Bucyrus’s legacy and impact on our community. Trust me, you’re not gonna want to miss out on this incredible story!

P.S. Grab lunch at the Skyline Deli on your way out. They have, hands down, the best sandwiches I’ve ever tasted.

Bakehouse 23 is the place to be for unique, scratch-made pastries and baked goods! This family-owned dessert shop brings a nostalgic twist to everyone’s favorite desserts (the apple cinnamon brioche tarts and double chocolate banana bread are my personal favorites.) Plus, their 80s-themed decor and playful atmosphere makes me reminisce on the good old days. Stop in once, twice, or a hundred times for a one-of-a-kind treat—their menu changes every day!

Becoming a part of the co-op style membership of the South Milwaukee Yacht Club has been an absolute blast! Between hangouts at the clubhouse, and joining the sports fishing club, I have met wonderful friends that now feel like family. They even offer youth sailing programs to get the kids out on the water early!

Nothing beats Thursday evenings in South Milwaukee! From June to October, South Milwaukee’s Downtown Market dazzles the streets with good old-fashioned family fun. You can count on live music, local vendors, and delicious food all summer long. It’s the best market in the midwest!

The South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center is home to hundreds of both professional and school-related shows every year. Whether you like beautiful orchestral music, hilarious theater productions, or anything in between, there’s always something cool going on at the PAC. Check out upcoming shows on their event calendar! Photo by Sean Oster.

Downtown South Milwaukee is sprinkled with over 100 local businesses—including boutiques, flower shops, cafes, and more. I recently enjoyed happy hour at South Milwaukee’s authentic Mexican restaurant, Azteca. My official review? 100% Sam Approved! Click here for a full list of South Milwaukee’s local restaurants, taverns, shops, and more!

World-renowned professional wrestler, Reggie “Da Crusher” Lisowski, was a lifelong resident of South Milwaukee. His success and determination made our community proud—resulting in a life-size statue of him in the heart of our downtown. Take a selfie with this legend at 1101 Milwaukee Avenue, and be sure to check out Crusherfest every summer in his honor!

Book your next tee time at the Grant Park Golf Course! This historic 18-hole course is perfect for all golfers, whether you’re a newbie or a pro (like me.) Join me for my next round… if you’re up for the challenge!