Milwaukee's sights are spread out along the lake, the river and the bluffs, and a good guided tour joins them up in a single morning. This two-hour tour from the local operator Untapped Tours is the most reviewed experience in the city on Viator, rated 4.9 from more than 900 reviews, and it is a small-group trip with a maximum of 14 people. It starts in front of Milwaukee City Hall, the Flemish Renaissance landmark at Water and Wells Streets, and heads out to the places that a first-timer would struggle to fit in on foot. Stops include the Bronze Fonz statue on the Riverwalk, Black Cat Alley with its outdoor murals on the East Side, the North Point Lighthouse on the bluffs above the lake, and the Historic Third Ward warehouse district. Along the way the guide points out the Pabst Theater, the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Harley-Davidson Museum, so you can decide where to return. The commentary is live and personal, and the guides lean into the city's history and humor. The tour runs in all weather.
Booking and timing: the tour lasts about two hours, with prices starting in the mid-forties in dollars per adult and discounted rates for children. The listing says it is usually booked about two weeks ahead and is likely to sell out, so reserve as soon as your dates are firm. Note that this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so book only when you are sure. The meeting point is in front of City Hall at 200 East Wells Street, near the large gold sculpture, and paid parking is nearby.
What to expect: the group travels by small bus with the guide on board, stepping out at the main stops for ten to twenty minutes and driving past the rest. The longest stop is usually the Third Ward, where you can see the warehouse lofts and the river. The bus is not wheelchair accessible, though strollers can be accommodated.
Making it count: take this tour on your first morning. It gives you a map of the city in your head, and you can spend the rest of the trip going back to the places you liked, such as the Art Museum, the Public Market or the lighthouse. Bring a jacket for the lakefront stops, which can be windy in late autumn, and have your camera ready for Black Cat Alley.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-group bus tour with live commentary and short stops at the Bronze Fonz, Black Cat Alley, North Point Lighthouse and the Third Ward.
Best time
Your first morning in Milwaukee, so you can plan the rest of the trip around what you see.
How long
About two hours from City Hall and back, with several stops to step out.
Tips
Book well ahead as it often sells out, remember it is non-refundable, and bring a warm layer for the lakefront stops.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-timers on a short trip who want to see the whole city before deciding where to spend their time.
- Families
- Children get discounted rates and the stops are short and varied, though the bus is not wheelchair accessible.
- Couples
- An easy morning outing, ending downtown in time for lunch at the Public Market.
- Pair with
- The Milwaukee Public Market for lunch, then the Art Museum in the afternoon.
- Time needed
- Two hours, plus time to get to City Hall and park.
Good questions
Where does the Milwaukee sightseeing tour start?+
It meets in front of Milwaukee City Hall at 200 East Wells Street, near the large gold sculpture. Paid parking is available nearby.
What does the Milwaukee bus tour see?+
Stops include City Hall, the Bronze Fonz, Black Cat Alley, the North Point Lighthouse and the Historic Third Ward. It also passes the Pabst Theater, the Art Museum and the Harley-Davidson Museum.
Can I cancel the Milwaukee sightseeing tour?+
No, the listing says it is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Book only once your plans are fixed.
Does the tour run in bad weather?+
Yes, the tour runs in all weather. Bring a jacket, as the lakefront stops can be cold and windy.
How big are the groups?+
Groups are capped at 14 travelers. That keeps the stops quick and lets the guide answer questions.
