In this city, some stories are well-known, well-loved and as undeniably Milwaukee as they come. The Bronze Fonz. The brewing tradition. The Cream City brick. Others hide in the channels of time, faded by years gone by, hidden gems just waiting to be unearthed. But once a year, history and architecture come together throughout Milwaukee’s 191 neighborhoods to tell the tale of the entire city with Doors Open MKE.
Throughout the two-day event, on September 27-28, the city of Milwaukee throws open the doors at more than 150 locations all over town, many of which are inaccessible throughout the year. So, to help you plan your weekend of exploring the doors of Milwaukee, taking in its incredible history and uncovering the Cream City stories each contains, we asked our team to pick out just some of their favorite locations. Here’s what they said.
Frank Lloyd Wright's Burnham Block
Saturday and Sunday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Staff: I've always been interested in the Frank Lloyd Wright story. His architecture has been a source of inspiration to me, and it’s one Milwaukee staple I haven’t gotten a chance to see for myself.
Experience: Step inside one of only six surviving American System-Built Homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, a bold experiment in affordable housing from 1916. This National Historic District offers guided tours where visitors can see Wright’s vision for mass-produced architecture brought to life. Walk through history and see Wright’s ideas in action.
We Energies Public Service Building
Saturday and Sunday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Staff: I drive past this building every day on my way to work. I’d love the chance to explore what it looks like on the inside and know what I’m driving by.
Experience: In 1905, this neoclassical landmark welcomed electric trains right through its first floor. During Doors Open, you can explore marble halls, art deco flourishes and stained glass that showcase the building’s history as Milwaukee’s powerhouse. Discover something new in a familiar place.
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church
Saturday, September 27
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Staff: I grew up blocks away from this local icon, and went to Greek Fest every year, but I’ve never been inside the church itself. It would be neat to see the inside of this place that’s been such a staple in my life.
Experience: A sweeping concrete dome, vivid stained glass and Byzantine-inspired design make this church one of Milwaukee’s architectural treasures. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and often called his “little jewel,” it offers a rare chance to experience faith, history and artistry all in one place. Experience it for yourself.
Milwaukee Manhole
Sunday, September 28
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Staff: The title alone really drew me in. The fact that the Milwaukee manhole is an option cannot go unnoticed.
Experience: Peek beneath the city streets with live camera footage from a 1909 cream city brick sewer, part of Milwaukee’s massive Deep Tunnel project. With staff on hand to answer questions, this quirky stop offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse underground. Be sure to add it to your Doors Open list.
Baird Center
Saturday, September 27
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Staff: Every time I’m at Baird Center, I notice something new. Whether it’s the art or the new fixtures in the expansion or some detail in the exhibit hall, there’s just so much to see and explore.
Experience: Fresh from a $456 million expansion, Milwaukee’s convention hub now spans 1.3 million square feet filled with modern amenities, art and stunning spaces. Explore the rooftop ballroom, take in city views from the Skyview Terrace and see why this venue is shaping the future of events.
Stone Creek Coffee Factory Tours
Saturday and Sunday
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Staff: I just learned they did coffee tours! I’m a big fan of Stone Creek’s coffee and would love to see how it’s made.
Experience: Brew some fun inside this 1888 Cream City brick building, home to Stone Creek’s roastery, bakery and education center. Tours take you from green beans to fresh cups, with plenty of samples to keep you buzzing. Put this on your Doors Open list and espresso yourself.
Mitchell Street Arts
Saturday, September 27
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Staff: I'm always looking for locations where I can find like-minded creatives. It’s also in a location that I've been visiting since I was a kid, so that’s a plus.
Experience: Discover a creative hub on Milwaukee’s south side where galleries, a makerspace and an artist-in-residence program bring local talent to life. Stop in for a coffee at Reina’s Café, meet the artists and explore hands-on activities.
Jones Island Water Reclamation Plant
Ticketed Tours Only
Staff: Jones Island has a unique place in history. It was innovative in turning wastewater into Milorganite Fertilizer. This is an opportunity to see how Milwaukee has always been ahead of its time in water and environmental sustainability.
Experience: See how Milwaukee turned wastewater into Milorganite, a fertilizer produced here since 1925 at one of the world’s first modern treatment plants. This National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark showcases innovation in water sustainability and the massive scale of keeping Lake Michigan clean. Reserve your spot to experience it firsthand.
Milwaukee City Hall
Saturday and Sunday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Staff: Several years ago, I was invited to tour City Hall's bell tower. While it was a very windy and chilly day, it offered some of the most beautiful views of the city. Underneath the massive bell, you could see the lake to the east, and you were surrounded by amazing architecture downtown.
Experience: Milwaukee’s City Hall has been turning heads since 1895, and its 353-foot bell tower still delivers some of the best views in town. Head up for a sky-high look at the lake and downtown, and soak in the history of one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. This is a climb you’ll want to make.
