While Milwaukee's downtown draws visitors with its breweries and cultural institutions, savvy travelers are discovering the charm of the North Shore, where seven distinct suburban communities create an enticing escape just minutes from the city center. This string of lakeside towns — Shorewood, Glendale, Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, Bayside, River Hills, and Brown Deer — offers a perfect weekend blend of outdoor recreation, architectural history, and culinary exploration.
Here, tree-lined streets lead to hidden beaches and nature preserves, while historic commercial districts house everything from craft coffee shops to farm-to-table restaurants. Families picnic in parks designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, while architecture enthusiasts photograph preserved mid-century modern gems. Young couples browse boutiques along Silver Spring Drive, and outdoor enthusiasts hit the trails at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center.
A weekend in the North Shore reveals a side of Milwaukee that many visitors miss: where urban sophistication meets small-town warmth, and where Lake Michigan's shoreline provides a stunning backdrop for both adventure and relaxation. From Shorewood's walkable Oakland Avenue to River Hills' winding roads along the Milwaukee River, each community adds its own character to create an ideal 36-hour getaway.
Friday
3:00 p.m.
Begin at the Lynden Sculpture Garden, where more than 50 monumental sculptures dot 40 acres of pristine landscape. Unlike traditional sculpture parks, there are no designated paths here – visitors are encouraged to chart their own course through the grounds, creating a uniquely personal experience with art and nature.
6:00 p.m.
Enjoy dinner and drinks at the Bavarian Bierhaus, a sprawling authentic German beer hall in Glendale. House-brewed German beers complement traditional Bavarian fare, while live polka music provides the soundtrack. The sprawling indoor-outdoor space captures the gemütlichkeit (coziness) of Munich beer halls.
Saturday
9:00 a.m.
Start at the classic Benji's Deli in Fox Point, a 60-year-old Milwaukee institution that channels the spirit of a classic New York Jewish deli. The all-day breakfast menu and signature sandwiches draw loyal crowds to this sunny corner spot.
11:00 a.m.
Dedicate your late morning to the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, where 185 acres of diverse terrain and six miles of accessible trails showcase Wisconsin's natural splendor. The family-friendly programming offers insights into local wildlife and vegetation.
2:00 p.m.
Head to Atwater Beach in Shorewood, where a gently sloping switchback trail leads down the lake bluff to a pristine white-sand beach. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan and spectacular views make this a perfect afternoon retreat.
5:00 p.m.
Catch the evening football match (soccer to Americans) at Three Lions Pub in Shorewood. This authentic British pub offers both imported and local beers in a convivial atmosphere that transforms during major European tournaments.
6:00 p.m.
Complete your day at Solly's, recipient of a 2022 James Beard America's Classics Award. This slice of Americana has been serving its famous butter burger since 1936. The classic diner ambiance adds to the experience of this dairy-loaded local staple.
Sunday
10:00 a.m.
Start your final day at Sprecher Brewery, Milwaukee's original craft brewery. While known for producing some of the country's best root beer, their facility tours offer insights into both craft beer and soda production.
1:00 p.m.
Spend your afternoon at Estabrook Beer Garden, the first public beer garden in Milwaukee since Prohibition. Beyond traditional German brews, the surrounding park offers an 18-hole disc golf course and plenty of green space for a final taste of North Shore tranquility.
3:00 p.m.
No visit to Milwaukee is complete without frozen custard from Kopp's. For 75 years, they've perfected this regional delicacy, offering classic flavors alongside creative variations like peach melba and lemon raspberry shortbread.
Lodging
While the North Shore is primarily residential, several hotels near Bayshore in Glendale provide convenient bases for exploration. Downtown Milwaukee's hotels are just a 15-minute drive away.
If You Go
Make time for shopping at Bayshore, an outdoor mall in Glendale featuring more than 60 stores and regular community events. For unique local flavors, try Cloud Red in Shorewood for innovative fusion dishes, or venture to AppeThai in Brown Deer for authentic Thai cuisine.
Don't miss Friendship Circle of Wisconsin Café in Fox Point, where delicious treats come with a mission to empower teens and adults with special needs. For a unique souvenir, stop by Goody Gourmets for their creative popcorn flavors and chocolate-dipped treats.
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