Milwaukee RiverWalk

The Milwaukee RiverWalk is a pedestrian pathway that follows the Milwaukee River through the heart of downtown, connecting major neighborhoods and attractions along approximately 3 miles of waterfront. It is free, stroller-friendly, lined with public art and restaurants, and provides the most pleasant way to move between downtown Milwaukee attractions.

The walk follows the river from the Beerline neighborhood south through downtown to the confluence of the Milwaukee, Menomonee, and Kinnickinnic rivers near the Third Ward. Along the way, it passes under historic bridges, alongside renovated warehouse buildings, and past dozens of restaurants with riverwalk-level patios.

Public art installations are distributed throughout. The Bronze Fonz -- a statue of Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli from the TV show Happy Days (which was set in Milwaukee) -- is the most photographed spot. Kids instinctively give the thumbs-up alongside the bronze figure. Other installations include abstract sculptures, murals on building walls, and interactive art pieces.

Riverwalk Boat Tours operate from May through October, providing narrated cruises that explain Milwaukee's history, architecture, and brewery heritage from the water. The tours last about 60-90 minutes and are engaging for kids 6+ who can appreciate the narration. Shorter harbor tours and sunset cruises are also available.

The RiverWalk is most magical on summer evenings. Outdoor dining patios fill with families, golden light reflects off the water, boats cruise past, and the city feels alive in the specific way that river cities do. It is the kind of experience that defines a Milwaukee visit.

For families, the RiverWalk functions as both destination and transportation. Walking from the Milwaukee Public Museum downtown to the Historic Third Ward via the RiverWalk takes about 30 minutes and is far more enjoyable than driving or riding the bus.