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Details on Black Wednesday parties announced at Liar's Club, Buddha, Lava, darkroom and Bar Deville
Some people think of Milwaukee as the land of cheese curds, bowling alleys, brats, beer steins and other kitschy delights. And sure, there is some kitsch here. But there’s a lot more, too. Our insider’s guide to our neighbor to the north includes James Beard Award–winning restaurants, cool bars, raucous music and culture festivals that give ours a run for their money, and shops filled with emerging-designer fashions. To cover our bases, we got local tastemakers to share their secrets on where to find the best bites, bands and more. Dig in and start planning your next road trip—for Summerfest later this month, or all summer long.
Wisco fever: From zoos to brews, Milwaukee’s got plenty of pastimes to partake in.
What’s where: A quick guide to the city’s most happening ’hoods.
Five things you didn’t know about the Milwaukee Art Museum: So you’ve been to that much-photographed lakefront museum a few times. We’re guessing there are a few things you haven’t yet discovered.
Curds? No way!: Organic eateries, trendy cafés, divey diners and fish fries prove Brew City’s grub is as good as its suds.
Cold blooded: In the battle of the frozen-custard joints, one spot easily whips the rest into submission.
Brew City benders: Milwaukee is a drinker’s town, which means it’s got plenty of bar-lovers’ bars. These are our favorites.
The fest of times: Milwaukee loves to party, and this year’s lineup of outdoor festivals has something for everybody—cuisine, art, music. Oh, and badass bikers.
America’s fairyland?: It’s not the size of a city’s gay and lesbian community—it’s what you do with it.
Cheaper by the lake: Whether you’re looking for sausages or sassy shoes, we’ve got you covered.
Rock on Wisconsin: There’s more to the Milwaukee music scene than The Bodeans and…uh, the Bodeans. Here's who to see when you head up to MKE.
Fiscal face-off: How Milwaukee stacks up against Chicago when it comes to cold, hard cash.
Getting there: Four ways to find your way to Brew City.
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![]() | Map it: Cick here for a Google map of all these spots... |
Photo: Dane Tashima; Styling: Angela Kelley @ Ford, Model: Valencia @ Arlene Wilson, Musician: Julie Loyd Produced on location by Susan Million, Motorcycle: courtesy of Jai Cherney