36 Hours on Milwaukee's North Shore

A Lakeside Escape Where Urban Meets Nature

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

Lodging