Instagrammable Milwaukee

If a person goes on an awesome vacation but doesn’t post about it on Instagram, did it really happen? Better to play it safe and make sure you get some great photos during your trip to Milwaukee! Here’s some recommendations for can’t-miss shots while you’re in Milwaukee.

What Lifts You Mural (2021-07) by Visit MilwaukeeVISIT Milwaukee

Public Art

What’s not to love about public art? Murals and outdoor sculptures give a city a personality all its own. Milwaukee’s RiverWalk is lined with sculptures and you’ll find colorful murals adorning buildings throughout the city. Many of these displays are created by local artists, but some by globally-recognized artists such as "What Lifts You" by Kelsey Montague Art.

Milwaukee Art Museum (2018) by Visit MilwaukeeVISIT Milwaukee

Milwaukee Art Museum

It’s a favorite for a reason! The striking Santiago Calatrava-designed Milwaukee Art Museum is one of the city’s most iconic and photogenic buildings. Make sure to get a photo of the massive white "wings" spread open.

Bronze Fonz (2018) by Visit MilwaukeeVISIT Milwaukee

Bronze Fonz

Say "Ayyy"! This life-sized statue of Arthur Fonzarelli from Happy Days is a kitschy favorite and a must-visit selfie spot.

The Mackie Building (2019) by Visit MilwaukeeVISIT Milwaukee

Historic Architecture 

If clean, modern lines aren’t your thing, you’re in luck – Milwaukee is filled with beautiful historic buildings just waiting to be captured by your lens.

Lake Michigan Sailing (2017) by Visit MilwaukeeVISIT Milwaukee

Lake Michigan

Milwaukee is right on the coast of Lake Michigan, so there’s plenty of opportunity to get some great nature shots without having to leave the city. From sailboats drifting serenely across the horizon to waves crashing on the shore, this Great lake is always an inspiring subject.

Hoan Bridge (2021) by Brian Slawson PhotographyVISIT Milwaukee

Hoan Bridge

The golden Hoan Bridge that stretches across the harbor is another favorite photo spot, especially at sunset.

Onesto Cheese Board (2018) by Visit MilwaukeeVISIT Milwaukee

Food

Ah yes, the classic food shot. Even if you’re not usually the kind of person who refuses to take a bite of your meal until you get the perfect shot, it’s still worth your time to get a snapshot of some local delicacies.

Gertie the Duck (2019) by Visit MilwaukeeVISIT Milwaukee

RiverWalk

Want a great, easy way to explore the city on foot? The Milwaukee RiverWalk winds through the heart of the city, tying together three distinct riverfront neighborhoods — the Historic Third Ward, Downtown, and Beerline B – and bringing you to the doorstep of some of the city’s best restaurants, brewpubs, shops, and nightlife. The RiverWalk is also home to an outdoor art gallery called RiverSculpture! that includes both permanent pieces and temporary installations that change periodically. Ranging from small, whimsical sculptures such as Gertie, the world's most celebrated duck, to sizable and striking abstract works, there are currently 20 sculptures on display representing national, regional, and local artists.

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Milwaukee: Fiercely Independent, Wholly Unexpected
From custard to contemporary art, murals to Lake Michigan
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