Jet engines roar overhead. Sunlight glints off the lake. Crowds line the shore, eyes on the sky and feet in the sand. The Waterstone Bank Air & Water Show is back. This splashy summer tradition brings thrilling stunts to both sky and surf, with aircraft soaring above and watercraft cutting across the waves below. The Blue Angels return July 19 and 20 at 3 p.m., joined throughout the day by aircraft like the F-35 Lightning and C-130 Hercules. These top spots offer the best views of the aerobatics, boat maneuvers and beachside excitement. 

Four U.S. Navy Blue Angels F/A-18 jets perform a close-formation aerial maneuver during an air show, with one jet flying inverted above another. The aircraft are painted in blue and gold with “U.S. NAVY” and “Blue Angels” visible on the fuselage.

Official Seating 

There is no better place to take in the sights than from the very front row. Grab seats for the whole family in the Centerpoint Reserved Seating section or the Flight-line Club to make sure you don’t miss a moment of the action. Alongside the spectacular views, enjoy access to the concession stand and shady rest areas to beat the heat. There are also opportunities to reserve parking, rent a BYO chair “Beach Box”, or some VIP seating in the Sky-Chalet, so don’t miss out on seeing the show from the very best seats. 

Learn more and snag some tickets here! 

 

Bradford Beach 

For a more laid-back gathering, while still being close to the main action, bring your crew to Bradford Beach. This free spot is the perfect place to gather and watch the show scream above you and make a splash along the shoreline. Grab your favorite beach blanket and some snacks from The Dock at Bradford Beach and watch as these world-famous aviators take to the skies.  

 

Aboard a Boat  

What better reason to take the boat out for a spin than for an unobstructed view of the Air and Water Show? A pontoon rental from Riverwalk Boat Tours or a recreational boat rental from Rigged & Ready allows for a relaxed day on the water with your family and friends away from the crowds. Tie your boat up in the Third Ward for a meal at Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria or Brisa Do Mar for some delicious bites before heading back out for an action-packed afternoon on the water. 

Four U.S. Navy Blue Angels F/A-18 jets fly in tight diamond formation against a clear blue sky, leaving faint white trails behind them. The aircraft are painted in their signature blue and yellow with “U.S. NAVY” lettering visible on their wings and fuselage.

Milwaukee Art Museum  

Combining your afternoon at the Air and Water Show with the Milwaukee Art Museum is your ticket to all-day fun for all ages. After perusing a collection of over 34,000 pieces of artwork, head outside to watch the breathtaking Air and Water show unfold. Stop by the Museum Cafe or Veterans Park Beer Garden, which offer lakeside views along the Oak Leaf Trail. The museum and surrounding area provide a beautiful backdrop for a day of remarkable and thrilling aviation.  
 

Discovery World’s Rotary Amphitheater 

For an exclusive view and a day full of action, Discovery World’s Rotary Amphitheater is the place to be. With jets roaring overhead and boats speeding across the lake, this prime location offers Members-only access during the Air & Water Show. From noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 28, you can grab a blanket or lawn chair and settle into the tiered seating for a front-row experience. Space is first come, first served, so get there early to make the most of this lakefront launchpad. 

 

North Point Water Tower Hill 

Another free option to take in the action as it hurtles overhead at near supersonic speeds, the hillside along E. Water Tower Rd. makes for an incredible vantage point to see the show. Take in the waterfront and the cityscape from high above Bradford Beach as the Blue Angels tear through the sky, doing death-defying stunts right before your eyes. For the best views, be sure to get there early. Then, kick back, relax and enjoy the show. 

 

There's so many more events to explore in the 414 this weekend! Plan your stay and extend your getaway today.