Within the fabric of the United States, there are many cities that are underrated – especially in the Midwest, with great cities like Milwaukee simply not getting the attention they deserve. With a thriving distillery scene, as well as numerous sites to see and experience, Milwaukee has much to offer both tourists and locals alike. But where exactly is Milwaukee, and what exactly makes it so special?

About The City

Located in the Midwest state of Wisconsin, Milwaukee is the county seat of Milwaukee county, and has a population of 577,222 as of 2020.

The 31st largest city in the United States, and the 5th largest in the Midwest region, Milwaukee has a complicated and storied history, with strong Germanic roots defined by the early European settlers that made the state their home.

Considered the center of German-American culture within the United States, Milwaukee is known for its love of cheese, its creation of craft, award-winning beer, and for distilling – of which there are some of the best companies in the country.

Local Distilleries

As mentioned above, Milwaukee also has a burgeoning distillery scene – with numerous award-winning distilleries located right in the heart of the city itself.

Each of these are varied, make different, popular spirits, and all have something that makes them special and unique for the customers they serve.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best!

1. Great Lakes Distillery LLC

First on our list, we have the Great Lakes Distillery LLC – a small batch distillery located right in the heart of the city.

Devoted to the craft of distilling fine spirits, the company might be a relatively small enterprise, but they are one fueled by passion and knowhow – tools that have led them to become award-winning competitors in the city’s hectic alcohol production industry.

Address: 616 W Virginia St, Milwaukee, WI 53204-1537

2. Central Standard Craft Distillery

Next up, we have the Central Standard Craft Distillery – a young company, but one that prides itself on creating the finest products for the people of Milwaukee.

With a large selection of whiskey, rum, gin, vodka, and brandy – all of which are produced on site – this is one of the most expansive enterprises in the city, and one that is born out of passion, experience, and sheer determination.

Address: 613 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204-1616

3. Twisted Path Distillery

Next we have Twisted Path Distillery – a certified organic, ‘grain to glass’ distillery located right in the heart of Milwaukee.

With a tasting room that has an ever-changing menu, and a catalog of products that include the finest vodka, rum, and various forms of gin, Twisted Path is certainly one of the more stylish distilleries on this list, and one that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon.

Address: 2018 S 1st St Located on the corner of S 1st St & Becher St, Milwaukee, WI 53207-1102

4. Handen Distillery

Next we have the Handen Distillery – a new and determined distillery located in the Cedarburg region outside of Milwaukee.

With a wide range of rum, whiskey, and gins, this is certainly a heavy hitter in the local markets, and one that seems dead set on becoming the best in the entire state. Just ask the legions of happy customers!

Address: W62N590 Washington Ave, Cedarburg, WI 53012-1943

5. Waterford Stillhouse

Last but not least, we have the Waterford Stillhouse – located just outside of the city of Milwaukee in the district of Waterford, and producing some of the finest spirits in the state of Wisconsin.

Offering some of the finest products in the area, the distillery became one of the first legally licensed producers following prohibition, and as of 2020 are one of the most successful in the entire state – offering a tasting room, a comprehensive tour, and a great addition to the Wisconsin scene.

Address: 228 E Main St, Waterford, WI 53185-4304

Accessibility

All of the historical sites within the city are easily accessed by wheelchair users, and those with mobility issues, and are well equipped to deal with any specific needs that visitors might have upon arrival.

What’s more, Milwaukee has some of the best transport links in the country, with trams, trains, public buses, taxis, and tour buses operating within the city.

What’s more, Milwaukee also has ample use of Uber and Lyft services, with them being widely used by residents and tourists alike as a means of getting around the city at particularly busy times.

Things To See/Monuments

As well as some of the best distilleries in the country, the city of Milwaukee is also home to a great array of historical sites, areas of cultural significance, and some of the best activities in the state – making it a great place to experience firsthand.

Milwaukee RiverWalk

One of the best areas to experience within the city of Milwaukee is its intricate network of rivers and waterways.

This is a great way to see some historic architecture, and get a sense of the importance that the rivers have always played in this great city.

Address: N Riverwalk Way, Milwaukee, WI 53212

The Pabst Mansion

One of the most famous brands of beer within the United States is Pabst – a company that prides itself on its German roots, and whose owner, Captain Frederick Pabst, was a proud Milwaukee resident.

This Flemish Renaissance mansion is a great example of classical architecture within the city, and is a great connection to a historic brand that has long played a role in the Midwest.

Address: 2000 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233

North Point Lighthouse

Built in 1888, this historic lighthouse is considered to be one of the oldest and most important buildings within the city, and has long since served a prime purpose of lighting the gateway to the Milwaukee river.

Address: 2650 N Wahl Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211

Old World Wisconsin

For those looking to get in touch with the lifestyles and history of their Midwest Germanic ancestors, then Old World Wisconsin is one of the best places to check out.

A living history museum with a difference, Old World Wisconsin showcases what life was like for early European settlers, and the hardships that they would have had to face.

Address: S103W37890 State Road 67, Eagle, WI 53119

Mars Cheese Castle

If there is one thing that Wisconsin is known for more than beer and spirits, it is certainly cheese. And here at the Mars Cheese Castle, visitors can embrace the state’s culinary legacy by sampling numerous dairy products, draft beers, and all manner of other treats that have become staples within the state of Wisconsin.

Address: 2800 W Frontage Rd, Kenosha, WI 53144

The Culture Of Milwaukee

There are also numerous distinct spots around the city to take in shows, experience great food, and relax with a couple of drinks.

Entertainment

For those looking for some light entertainment, there are countless places to visit within the city of Milwaukee.

For a few laughs, why not check out The Laughing Tap or the ComedySportz Milwaukee? And for those looking to take in a show, the Repertory Theater, The Riverside Theater, and the Miller High Life Theater always have something good on the playbill.

Food

As this article might suggest, Milwaukee has much to offer foodies of all preferences. However, for some of the best Germanic and European food in the city, be sure to check out Mader’s Restaurant, the Milwaukee Brat House, and the Old German Beer Hall for a true taste of the old country.

Nightlife

With pubs, bars, and clubs galore, there is a little something for everyone – whether you are looking for a quiet drink or a night on the town.

For those looking to experience the history of the city, the oldest pub in the area is the Landmark 1850 Inn – whose history dates to the 1840s, and has been a Milwaukee feature ever since.

Final Thoughts

It is certainly true that, when it comes to the fabric of the United States, Milwaukee is an underrated city – and one that has much to offer to both tourists and locals alike. However, what this article shows is that the city has not only a thriving tourism industry, but also a prominent and successful distillation industry that continues to release new and exciting spirits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that we know a little more about Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and everything that the city has to offer, it is now time to answer some frequently asked questions that you might be interested in.

Is Milwaukee Expensive?

Generally speaking, Milwaukee is not considered to be more expensive than the average costs of living within the United States.

Why Is Milwaukee So Underrated?

Like many cities within the Midwest, it loses out when it comes to tourism – with many people opting to head to the east and west coast, or to warmer climes.