Explore Milwaukee’s Kinnickinnic River District

The Kinnickinnic River district is a dynamic, burgeoning neighborhood just minutes south of downtown Milwaukee. It’s centered at the intersection of South First and East Beecher streets, and bisected by the river from which it takes its name. It’s also home to upscale and casual dining, inventive breweries and distilleries, and distinctive retail shops. And, of course, it offers all the beauty, activities, and maritime character that comes from having a river running right outside your windows. So make your plans to head for, or even dock at, this distinctive waterfront district and soak up all it has to offer.

Dining Along the River

With the river flowing right beside its patio, and even a “dock cam” featured on its website, the Bridgewater Modern Grill has atmosphere aplenty. It matches the views with seasonal, modern cuisine that delivers bold flavors, specializing in steaks and seafood that are expertly prepared on an oak-fed, custom Jade grill.

For a more casual food experience, but one still packed with flavor, check out the Tacos el Charrito food truck. One taste from its authentic Mexican menu, and you’ll understand why it’s so popular in the community.

And if you’re in the mood for lighter fare served in a bright and airy setting, head for Casera Café & Bakery. Translating to homemade in Spanish, Casera serves up a delicious variety of breakfasts, sandwiches, and drinks. 

Breweries & Distilleries

The Kinnickinnic River district has become something of a hub for Milwaukee’s craft beverage, brewing, and spirits landscape. Step inside the massive Lincoln Warehouse, a throwback to the area’s industrial roots that’s been updated to accommodate modern retail tenants, to explore their artisanal creations.

Beer-lovers won’t want to miss New Barons Brewing, Component Brewing, and Torzala Brewing Co., each of which has added its own chapters to Milwaukee’s rich brewery traditions. In addition to lifting a few mugs, you can pay a visit to the Museum of Beer and Brewing, which showcases the industry’s history from its Lincoln Warehouse home.

For a different kind of brew, check out Soul Brew Kombucha, Wisconsin’s first Black woman-owned kombucha tea brewery. Its handcrafted small-batch sparkling kombucha tea comes in seven flavors, all of which are organic, health-conscious, and delicious alternatives to sugary drinks.

If the spirit moves you, head to Twisted Path Distillery, which a former CIA counterterrorism expert founded. There, you can learn the secrets of their rum, vodka, gin, and whiskeys while enjoying a cocktail in their secluded tasting room. 

Specialty Shops & Experiences

One attractive aspect of this district is the sheer variety of shops and experiences available in a relatively small geographic footprint.

Sometimes, you’re in the mood for a relaxing stroll along the Kinnickinnic River Trail, perhaps while enjoying a sweet gourmet treat from Melt Chocolates. Or maybe you want to sit at the potter’s wheel inside Tooth + Nail Studio and Gallery, or for the cameras in Amaya Marie Photography.

On days when you want to let off steam, Bust-N-Stuff offers the perfect outlet. The rage room and self-proclaimed bustaporeum is where you can safely gear up to smash up a variety of items, and perhaps even make your own splatter paintings in the process. 

No matter what mood you’re in or activity you’re seeking, the Kinnickinnic River district is full of things to do and a great place to spend your day or evening. It’s a neighborhood that seamlessly combines its industrial, riverside origins with sleek, modern aesthetics. See it all up close for yourself by planning your visit today.