It’s a banner year for the Cream City. After the Brewers put together a division-winning 2024 season and the Bucks brought home a new NBA Cup trophy to end the year, 2025 is certain to be an even bigger year of sports in Milwaukee, featuring a packed calendar with adrenaline-pumping action.
Basketball
It all kicks off when madness descends upon MKE for the first and second rounds of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament. On March 21 and 23, eight teams will look to survive and advance in one of the most unpredictable season-ending spectacles in American sports.
Milwaukee Tailgate Week
Just a month later, Wisconsin will be on the clock as the site of the NFL Draft. Taking place in Green Bay, this will be the state’s first NFL draft since Milwaukee hosted it in 1939. From Milwaukee’s historic ties to the Packers and fan-filled Milwaukee hotels during the April 24-26 draft, it only makes sense that the Cream City is getting in on the excitement. Milwaukee Tailgate Week Presented by Potawatomi Sportsbook will celebrate the draft with a parade of festivities. On April 25, fans are invited to an exclusive draft-focused taping of “Inside the Huddle” at the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena, featuring Packers’ legends, including Jordy Nelson, surprise guests and more.
Find the full list of activities and more here.
U.S. Women’s Open
After the final player takes the stage in Green Bay, the Milwaukee area trades draft caps for golf tees. Just north of Milwaukee, Erin Hills will host the U.S. Women’s Open. From May 29 to June 1, the top golfers in the game will compete at this award-winning course, recognized by Golf Digest as one of the “100 Greatest” golf courses in the country. Fans who bring their clubs along are sure to take advantage of Milwaukee County’s outstanding public courses.
Baird Center
When the weather heats up, so does the competition, as a series of U.S. qualifying events roll into town, beginning with the USA Wrestling 2025 Junior National Duals on June 17-21. One of wrestling’s most exciting age group competitions, this event in the recently expanded Baird Center will see athletes in grades 9-12 take it to the mat in a battle for bragging rights and state pride. A week later, the state’s largest convention center will trade the finesse of hand-to-hand combat for the stealthy footwork of fencing as it hosts USA Fencing’s 2025 Summer Nationals. From June 28 to July 7, world-class fencers will engage, attack and parry their way to glory in this display of domestic fencing at the highest level.
USA Triathlon
Finally, the USA Triathlon National Championships return to the lakefront Aug. 9-10. A new scenic course will challenge the best multi-sport athletes in the land as they swim, bike and run against the beautiful backdrop of the Milwaukee skyline.
An MVP’s MKE with Christian Yelich
3rd Street Market Hall
This vibrant downtown food hall captures Milwaukee’s culinary spirit under one roof. Sample local staples like cheese curds and frozen custard, or venture into global territory with Venezuelan arepas or fresh sushi. Challenge friends to a round at the TopGolf Swing Suite, then toast your victory at the 3rd St. Market Bar. For a caffeine fix, the coffee and house-made pastries at Mid-Way Bakery beckon.
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
Downtown’s cultural hub seamlessly blends art with hospitality. Wander through curated galleries featuring rotating exhibits, then savor authentic Neapolitan-style pies at Proof Pizza. Pro tip: Order your pizza to go and pair it with craft cocktails at The Bar in the lobby.
Carnevor
Begin your evening at Yelich’s go-to steakhouse downtown. The restaurant’s extensive wine program perfectly complements the prime cuts, including a signature 60-day dry-aged ribeye that’s not to be missed.
J. Leinenkugel’s Barrel Yard at American Family Field
Experience baseball paradise at the Brewers’ home field. This year-round destination features an on-site brewery crafting specialty beers, all served with spectacular ballpark views. The family-friendly menu ranges from fresh salads to hearty sandwiches. Complete your visit with a stadium tour and a stop at the Brewers Team Store.
Pabst Theater
Cap your weekend at what Yelich calls “one of the world’s most beautiful music venues.” This historic theater hosts headlining performers and comedy acts throughout the year, including Yelich’s annual Home Plate Charity Concert – a can’t-miss event that perfectly embodies Milwaukee’s spirit of community and entertainment. Get your tickets here.
Read the full March 2025 issue of Key Milwaukee here.
