Visit Milwaukee is thrilled to announce it has reached a record 1,000 partner businesses that contribute to Milwaukee’s robust and dynamic tourism landscape. This milestone highlights the vibrant network of local businesses, attractions, and community organizations that work in collaboration with Visit Milwaukee to showcase the diverse experiences Milwaukee offers.
“Reaching 1,000 partner businesses is a testament to the thriving tourism industry we’re building together here in Milwaukee,” said Peggy Williams-Smith, president and CEO of Visit Milwaukee. “Our partners are at the heart of what makes Milwaukee an incredible place to visit, and we are deeply grateful for their role in transforming Milwaukee into a world-class destination. I’m also grateful for our partnership team led by Bryan Kubel and Maria Strand, who work to bring on new partners and then make sure that we’re connecting those businesses with the $231 million in direct visitor spending in Milwaukee County each year.”
In recent years, Visit Milwaukee has significantly diversified its partnership base to better reflect the community it represents. Today, over 31% of its business partners are minority, LGBTQ+, veteran, or women-owned. It also partners regularly with local business and neighborhood improvement districts, as well as business chambers, who help the destination marketing organization better market the Greater Milwaukee area’s commercial areas. Corporate partners have also supported Visit Milwaukee in record numbers in 2024; Visit Milwaukee now boasts 29 corporate partners, like Boelter Companies, Carma Laboratories, Hackbarth Hospitality Group, Meetings & Incentives Worldwide and Pabst Theater Group, representing a 26% increase year over year.
As a reflection of its growing reach, Visit Milwaukee is excited to announce a new partnership with Discover the North Shore, a collaboration that will support select marketing initiatives for the North Shore area, opening new avenues for mutual growth.
Through this agreement, Visit Milwaukee will develop and execute marketing campaigns to showcase promote Bayside, Brown Deer, Fox Point, Glendale, River Hills, Shorewood and Whitefish Bay's attractions, events, and local businesses, further expanding the tourism offerings in the region and strengthening the North Shore’s appeal.
“Collaborating with Discover the North Shore is a thrilling opportunity that underscores our commitment to regional growth,” said Williams-Smith. “By promoting the North Shore and its unique offerings, we’re not only enhancing Milwaukee’s tourism footprint but also celebrating the distinct character of our neighboring communities.”
"We’re thrilled to be partnering with Visit Milwaukee to further elevate tourism in Milwaukee’s North Shore,” said Becca Garrison, Executive Director of Discover the North Shore Milwaukee. “This collaboration allows us to showcase the unique offerings of our communities while creating even more memorable experiences for visitors. Together, we’re building on a foundation of innovation, community pride, and commitment to making Milwaukee’s North Shore a top destination.”
The newly expanded partnership aligns with Visit Milwaukee’s mission to drive economic growth and build connections across the Greater Milwaukee area, fostering a cohesive and thriving community for residents and visitors alike. This milestone and new partnership reflect Visit Milwaukee’s dedication to fostering a united front in regional tourism development, further positioning Milwaukee as a standout destination for travelers.
In addition to Discover the North Shore, Visit Milwaukee maintains a successful partnership with the City of Wauwatosa and Discover Wauwatosa, which is led by Beth Gleesing. Through its partnership with Wauwatosa, Visit Milwaukee conducts Wauwatosa-specific campaigns across social, print and digital platforms to promote the municipality’s dynamic outdoor recreation offerings, its family-friendly event programming like Art 64 and the Wauwatosa Holiday Market, and its diverse array of top-notch dining experiences.