Explore the Havenwoods Neighborhood in Milwaukee

It’s rare to find a state forest at the heart of a city neighborhood, but that’s part of what makes Milwaukee’s Havenwoods so unique. The Havenwoods Business Improvement District is at the heart of supporting this growing and vibrant neighborhood. Dedicated to promoting and bringing the community together, the Havenwoods BID focuses on attracting, supporting, and retaining businesses that provide good jobs and a better quality of life. This collective work has helped make Havenwoods a vibrant, inviting destination for visitors to explore.

Outdoor Recreation & Fun Attractions

The Havenwoods State Forest is home to 237 acres of trees, wetlands, and prairies. Designated Wisconsin’s only urban state forest in 1980, its six miles of trails are perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and soaking up the great outdoors. Its Nature Center has exhibits and naturalists who teach visitors about everything populating the forest.

The neighborhood is also home to Uihlein Soccer Park and the Milwaukee Kickers Soccer Club. Operating since 1968, the nonprofit Kickers serves more than 5,000 youth players and field teams at all competitive levels. Adult leagues also play at Uihlein, the city’s premier soccer complex, which boasts three indoor fields and 13 full-size outdoor fields, including two stadiums with artificial turf.

A short drive from Uihlein is the Wisconsin Country Club, one of the region’s top private golf and event destinations. The club opened in 1928, and its 18-hole championship course is a gorgeous backdrop for weddings, dinners, and a variety of member-hosted gatherings for up to 300 people.

Local Flavor That Hits the Spot

The area offers a variety of dining and hangout spots to explore, like the Havenwoods Taproom & Beer Garden on the forest’s western edge. This outdoor beer garden features a rotating selection of 20 craft beers, often paired with pop-up food trucks. Guests can even take their drinks and enjoy a stroll along the nearby forest trail—perfect for sipping while soaking in the scenery. Also, because everyone should experience a Jamaican-themed bowling alley at least once, stop by Coconut Bowl for a few games and Jamaican jerk cuisine.

You’ll also find local favorites like House of Corned Beef, which serves pizza, burgers, and wings in addition to its delicious sandwiches. For classic barbeque, look no further than Pop’s BBQ, whose loyal following swears by its ribs, smoked sausages, brisket, and pulled pork. If you’re in a hurry, you can always count on Culver’s for its famed butter burgers and frozen custard.

A Thriving Hub for Makers & Manufacturers

The neighborhood is known for its top manufacturing companies. Brady Corp., a global Fortune 500 equipment manufacturer, is headquartered here, and Havenwoods BID members include dozens of top companies like CINTAS, Carpet One, and Hellermann Tyton. 

Specialty businesses also call Havenwoods home. Among them is Combat Corner, known for producing highly regarded gear for combat sports like mixed martial arts. Another standout is Walthers Model Trains, a beloved name in the model railroading world. From its humble Milwaukee beginnings, the company has grown into the world’s largest distributor of model railroad equipment and has been fueling the passion of hobbyists since 1932. Visitors and locals alike can also explore the Walthers Showroom, which features the latest products, a fully operational 8x20-foot layout, a historical display, and special deals on featured items. The passionate and knowledgeable staff enhances the experience, making it a must-visit destination for hobbyists and curious newcomers.

With its diverse blend of businesses, natural beauty, and recreation options, the Havenwoods neighborhood is a place that rewards those who enjoy exploring. Plan your visit today and discover your own memorable experience.