Dog-Friendly Patios
Craft Cocktails & Delicious Bites
HISTORIC THIRD WARD
HARBOR DISTRICT (BAY VIEW)
DOWNTOWN MILWAUKEE
BLUE BAT KITCHEN & TEQUILARIA
ONESTO
THE EDISON
SMOKE SHACK
SHOWS TRUNK
THURSDAY 08/07/2025 9AM - 5PM
THURSDAY 08/14/2025 9AM - 5PM
VOLUME 5 | ISSUE 13
PUBLISHER JIM PLAISTED
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JORDAN DECHAMBRE
DESIGN DIRECTOR CARRIE CHAPKO
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
KRISTINE HANSEN, MOLLY SNYDER, BOBBY TANZILO STAFF WRITERS
JORDAN DECHAMBRE, CELESTE BRUNNER
PHOTOGRAPHER ERIC HALVERSON MARKETING COMMITTEE
JOSH AMROZE, CARRIE ARROUET, SHAWNA BALLINGER, KATE DOWNEY, DANIELLE FUENTES, LEANN MESTER, STACEY STEINBERG, SUSAN VARELA, TRACEY WADSWORTH, MELISSA WEBER
PUBLISHED BY HISTORIC THIRD WARD ASSOCIATION
PRESIDENT JOSEPH GOODE
525 E. CHICAGO ST., SUITE 102 | MILWAUKEE, WI 53202
OFFICE@HISTORICTHIRDWARD.ORG
PRINTED AND MAILED FOX CO. PRINTING
ADVERTISING CONTACT JPLAISTED@HISTORICTHIRDWARD.ORG
Welcome to THREE , the lifestyle magazine of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward and a proud publication of the Historic Third Ward Association (HTWA). This vibrant neighborhood thrives because of the people, businesses and members who invest in its future.
Membership in HTWA is more than just support — it’s a commitment to preserving the character, energy and growth of the neighborhood. From championing local businesses to organizing beloved events, HTWA membership supports us in helping shape the community we all love.
In each issue of THREE, we celebrate the stories, successes and style that make this neighborhood unforgettable — all made possible through the strength of our membership.
If you believe in the power of community and want to be part of something meaningful, there’s never been a better time to join us.
Creativity - Cuisine - Culture. It’s all here.
JIM PLAISTED, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HISTORIC THIRD WARD ASSOCIATION
FEATURED
ON THE COVER: A BUSTLING BROADWAY, AS LENSED BY PHOTOGRAPHER MATT HAAS
Gallery Night MKE, World’s Largest Coffee Break, the Third Ward Art Festival, Gather - A Long Table Dinner & More!
There’s always something happening in the Historic Third Ward. The best way to stay in the know? Become a Historic Third Ward Association member!
We asked four Third Ward-based architects to share which local buildings truly make a mark in the neighborhood.
The latest neighborhood news of note.
A celebrated city landmark for decades, we look back on the Milwaukee RiverWalk’s path to success — and plans to expand.
A former rail bridge near Trestle Park is reimagined for a new generation.
$1.00offonallWine. BARK & BREWS SUNDAYS Dogmeetupinthepark!
OCTOBERFEST october 10-11
Livemusic,kegtapping,authentic foods,steinhoistingcompetition, games,prizes. MUSIC BINGO & WINE WEDNESDAYS
TH7/3KatyAmbrose5-8:30pmFRI7/18JamesRussel5-8:30pm FRI7/4JohnDavidson5-8:30pmSAT7/19PatrickVanBibber3-6:30pm SAT7/5AlexandJenn3-6:30pmTHU7/24Marcell5-8:30pm TH7/10RickPomeroy5-8:30pmFRI7/25JonRouse5-8:30pm FRI7/11MarcyaDanielle5-8:30pmSAT7/26ChrisEsenberg3-6:30pm SAT7/12BenJanzow3-6:30pmTH7/31PatrickVanBibber5-8:30pm TH7/17JakeWilliams5-8:30pm AUGUST
FRI8/1KeananKopplin5-8:30pmSAT8/16JesseVoelker3-6:30pm SAT8/2ChrisEsenberg3-6:30pmTH8/21KatieAmbrose5-8:30pm TH8/7IanGould5-8:30pmFRI8/22BenJanzow5-8:30pm FRI8/8JackTell5-8:30pmSAT8/23ChrisEsenberg3-6:30pm SAT8/9JonRouse3-6:30pmTH8/28KrisandDani5-8:30pm TH8/14BrooklynnMarti5-8:30pmFRI8/29JakeWilliams5-8:30pm FRI8/15JohnRouse5-8:30pmSAT8/30BenHarold5-8:30pm SEPTEMBER
HU9/4KeananKopplin5-8:30pmTH9/18KrisandDani5-8:30pm FRI9/5JakeWarne5-8:30pmFRI9/19JimandMIke5-8:30pm SAT9/6BenHarold3-6:30pmSAT9/20Marr’LoParada3-6:30pm TH9/11JesseVoelker5-8:30pmTH9/25RickPomeroy5-8:30pm FRI9/12PatrickVanBibber5-8:30pmFRI9/26ChrisEsenberg5-8:30pm SAT9/13JakeWarne3-6:30pm
UPCOMING EVENTS SUMMER & FALL 2025
THE THIRD WARD ART FESTIVAL
Get inspired! The Third Ward Art Festival returns Labor Day weekend, Aug. 30-31. The festival will showcase the work of more than 150 juried artists from around the country in a variety of mediums including ceramics, fiber, glass jewelry, sculpture, mixed media, paintings, drawings, photography, printmaking, wood and furniture. In addition to the incredible artwork available for purchase, attendees will be able to interact with artists through demonstrations and booth chats. Fun for the entire family, the festival features an interactive kid’s art tent, face painting, live music on two stages, and great food and drink options from neighboring restaurants and festival food vendors. Learn more at amdurproductions.com/new-thirdward-art-festival/.
HIKES, BONFIRES & MORE AT LAKESHORE STATE PARK
VARIOUS DATES
From hikes devoted to dragonflies, fish and birds — to cozy beach bonfires and special events like meteor shower viewing parties — Friends of Lakeshore State Park offers a variety of events for nature lovers of all ages. See the full list of summer programming and major events online. friendslsp.org/events
LIVE MUSIC AT AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE AMPHITHEATER AND BMO PAVILION
VARIOUS DATES
See concerts from your favorite artists at BMO Pavilion and AmFamAmp! This summer’s lineup includes Cyndi Lauper, Lil Wayne, Twenty One Pilots, Indigo Girls, Neil Young, The Black Keys and more. milwaukeeworldfestival.com/find-events/ calendar
UPCOMING EVENTS | SUMMER & FALL 2025
BLACK ARTS FESTIVAL
AUG. 2
Black Arts Fest MKE celebrates the deep roots of African heritage and the creative magnificence of Black Cultural Arts. Delve into this dynamic ethnic festival featuring art, music, poetry, fashion and more noon-10 p.m. at Henry Maier Festival Park. blackartsfestmke.com
IRISH FEST
AUG. 14-17
The world’s largest Irish festival brings Ireland to the Lake Michigan shoreline with four days of music, culture and craic at Henry Maier Festival Park. irishfest.com
WORLD’S LARGEST COFFEE BREAK
AUG. 19
As part of Downtown Employee Appreciation Week, we’re brewing the ultimate caffeine boost: Local coffee shops will be serving up free coffee and we’ll have plenty of donuts and treats to fill you up, too! It’s all happening in Catalano Square, 9-10:30 a.m.
MEXICAN FIESTA
AUG. 22-24
Mexican Fiesta brings the sound, culture and taste of México to Milwaukee’s lakefront at Henry Maier Festival Park. mexicanfiesta.org
LABOR FEST
SEPT. 1
Free and open to the public, enjoy a day of fun at Henry Maier Festival Park with the Milwaukee Area Labor Council. The event includes live music for adults and families, children’s entertainment like science and magic shows, a classic car show and union raffle. milwaukeelabor.org/laborfest
WILDFLOWERS ON THE WATER
SEPT. 6
Visit Lakeshore State Park for its annual Wildflowers on the Water from 3 to 7 p.m. The event will include local musicians, artists and creators, as well as youth activities by community members who are passionate about Lakeshore State Park. friendslsp.org/events
SANCTUARY CITY
SEPT. 10-OCT. 5
Two teenagers brought to America as children now face an impossible question: What are they willing to risk for a future in the only country they’ve ever known? These two dreamers and lifelong friends will fight like hell to establish a place for themselves and each other in America. nextact.org
GATHER: A LONG TABLE DINNER
SEPT. 11
Gather is an alfresco, long table dinner celebrating cuisine, culture and community in the heart of the Historic Third Ward. Returning to Broadway this year, this event showcases a variety of Third Ward restaurants as well as live entertainment. historicthirdward.org/annual-events
TACO FEST
SEPT. 13
¡Qué delicioso! Get your fill of the best tacos in Milwaukee at this family-friendly fiesta at Henry Maier Festival Park. milwaukeetacofest.com
OLD WICKED SONGS
SEPT. 19-OCT. 5
Set to Schumann’s Dichterliebe, this moving play with music follows a burned-out piano prodigy and his irascible teacher in 1986 Vienna as they uncover deep personal and political wounds through a music lesson that becomes a journey toward hope, healing and unexpected connection. milwaukeechambertheatre.org
DOORS OPEN 2025
SEPT. 27-28
Doors Open Milwaukee is a public celebration of Milwaukee’s neighborhoods, architecture, and history. This event offers behind the scenes tours of commercial buildings, art galleries, urban gardens and more throughout Milwaukee’s downtown and neighborhoods. historicmilwaukee.org/doors-open
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
OCT. 3-26
The award-winning classic, Fiddler on the Roof, returns to the Cabot Stage in an unforgettable way. This important tale is amplified in Skylight’s production through a powerful partnership with Violins of Hope, showcasing instruments rescued from the Holocaust, bearing witness to both the devastation and enduring spirit of those who endured, and perished in, the concentration camps. skylightmusictheatre.org
MILWAUKEE LAKEFRONT MARATHON
OCT. 4-5
The Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon, one of the largest in the United States, will have competitors from all over the world. Join the fun, either by participating or cheering them on across the city and north shore neighborhoods. milwaukeelakefrontmarathon.org
GALLERY NIGHT MKE
OCT. 17-18
Gallery Night MKE unites downtown Milwaukee through art at 50-plus venues throughout the downtown Milwaukee area. Experience the city’s vast creative culture while you discover local galleries, art and artists at this free, two-day art event. gallerynightmke.com
SWITZERLAND
OCT. 19-NOV. 9
Handsome young emissary, Edward, visits famed crime novelist Patricia Highsmith at her Swiss hideaway to persuade her to write one final Ripley novel. Dark humor and macabre twists unfold as Edward’s true, seductive agenda is revealed in this gripping new play. rtwmke.org
READY TO CATCH A THIRD WARD VIBE?
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RIVERWALK COMMONS CONCERT SERIES
JULY 29, AUG. 12, AUG. 26, SEPT. 9 & SEPT. 23
Live beats and great eats are only steps away on select Tuesday nights this summer. The Riverwalk Commons Concert Series is a free event, celebrating local music, food and community.
The music kicks off at 6 p.m., with a pre-show Happy Hour at 5 p.m. — offering drink specials from the Milwaukee Public Market’s Shipping Container Bar and Draft & Vessel’s vintage RK’d van, which also features a retro arcade. Attendees can enjoy rotating food truck options from local favorites like Frida’s Cocina, Rosemob Grill and Cocina Filipina.
Once an underutilized parcel beneath the I-794 freeway, Riverwalk Commons, located at 423 N. Water Street, has been transformed into an active public space featuring outdoor pickleball courts, green spaces and free neighborhood events. Proceeds from bar sales during events directly support ongoing improvements and activations within the space.
Learn more at milwaukeepublicmarket.org
REMAINING 2025 SCHEDULE:
JULY 29
AUG. 12
AUG. 26
SEPT. 9
SEPT. 23 *
MATHEW HAEFFEL
EVAN CHRISTIAN
RADIO RADIO
JOEY ACOPIADO
STEVE BEGUHN
*HTWA Night: Stop by our table and learn more about the Historic Third Ward Association’s events, membership and win giveaways from neighborhood businesses. Bring your friends!
THE SCENE
There’s always something happening in the Historic Third Ward. The best way to stay in the know? Become a Historic Third Ward Association (HTWA) member!
From exclusive member perks to members-only events and key communication that keeps you up to date on new business openings, neighborhood news and so much more, membership for residents and businesses is your inside access.
Scan the QR code or visit htwa.wildapricot.org/ join-us to enjoy the benefits of membership today!
PHOTO BY ARTDOSE MAGAZINE / FRANK JUÁREZ
1. HTWA members gathered at Camp Bar in March to be the first to view the Spring 2025 issue of THREE magazine. Guests enjoyed drink specials and networking at the happy hour event.
2. Over 250 HTWA members joined board members, staff and Friends of Lakeshore State Park (FLSP) for the HTWA Annual Meeting at the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel in April. The evening featured community updates, delicious food and drinks from award-winning Tre Rivali and an exclusive first look at FLSP’s new visitor center. Pictured: HTWA Board Member Carrie Arrouet, resident Laura Lindner, HTWA Board Member Tracey Wadsworth and Julia Killian of Lela.
3. Gallery Night MKE — which is produced by the HTWA — held its spring event in April. More than 50 venues throughout the city participated in this spring celebration of art and culture.
4. HTWA members (like Dennis and Carol Reilly, shown here with Architectural Review Board Coordinator Matt Jarosz and HTWA Executive Director Jim Plaisted) gathered at the new Las Gardenias at The Pritzlaff in May for an HTWA Member Happy Hour. Guests enjoyed complimentary appetizers and a first look at the Mexican restaurant, which opened in spring.
5. Residents and businesses alike spent their evening in Skylight Music Theatre’s dazzling Cabot Theater to hear from District 4 Ald. Robert Bauman, Milwaukee Police Department District One Captain Robert Thiel, BID #2 Executive Director Paul Schwartz and HTWA Executive Director Jim Plaisted about public safety in the neighborhood.
QUICK BITES
THE LATEST NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS OF NOTE
By Molly Snyder and Jordan Dechambre
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
The sky is not the limit for Café Benelux (346 N. Broadway). The Belgian-inspired eatery and bar transformed its rooftop seating into the Lux Skyhaus, featuring a retractable enclosure. Now, regardless of the weather, diners can enjoy the spectacular second-story view. The space is also available for weddings, private events and celebrations.
“Al fresco dining is a lifestyle deeply rooted in European culture, and one we’ve embraced from day one,” says Eric Wagner, CEO and Founder of Lowlands Group. “The Lux Skyhaus puts magic at the forefront year-round, rain or shine.”
After almost two decades, Shoo recently relocated to a new storefront (244 N. Broadway) – just across the street from the former location. The space is light and airy, thanks to cream city brick walls and 11 windows. Although the business no longer sells men’s footwear, it now has more clothing, new brands and two fitting rooms. Local artists and jewelry makers continue to contribute much of the inventory. “We will be 20 years old in
PHOTO COURTESY OF CAFÉ BENELUX
SHOO
November. I cannot believe it’s been that long,” says owner Kate Blake. “My hope is to be here another 20 years.”
NL Suits (241 N. Broadway) is currently expanding into the space formerly occupied by Shoo, enlarging its footprint in the building.
Pearl & Cade (219 N. Milwaukee St.), a dual-room event space formerly occupied by Plant No. 4, recently unveiled its modern elegance and industrial charm. To accommodate a wide array of gatherings, the venue (operated by 41Fork Hospitality) is divided into two different environments. The larger room, Pearl – adorned with pearl and gold accents – is ideal for weddings or upscale get-togethers. Cade, coming soon, provides a vintage-glammeets-modern-Paris style for intimate events.
“The Historic Third Ward is known for its energy, charm, and proximity,” says Kaelyn Cervero, owner of 41Fork Hospitality, the entity behind Noble Catering & Events, River Center Market and Vault. “We created a flexible, modern event space that reflects the area while offering clients something fresh, bright, and customizable.”
Harleys Co. (244 N. Water St., in the Marshall Building) recently expanded its custom clothing line to include women’s wear. “As the leading source for men’s custom clothing in metro Milwaukee, we’ve frequently heard requests from clients for a similar tailored experience for women,” says Jeff Brand, COO of Harleys Co. “We now offer a complete custom clothing experience for women, featuring a range of try-on garments and fabric books to suit various styles and shapes.”
Las Gardenias (305 N. Plankinton Ave, inside the Pritzlaff) crafts upscale dishes from the Guadalajara, Jalisco region. The menu is the vision of co-owner Patricia Barrera-Kerhin, an industry veteran who grew up in Guadalajara. It offers handmade tacos, tamales, aguachiles, Birria de pollo, mole and more. The bar features a careful selection of tequila, mezcal and spirits.
Richard Kerhin, Barrera-Kerhin’s husband and owner of neighboring eatery Aperitivo, and Pritzlaff building owner Kendall Breunig, are also partners in the project. “We hope to become a staple in the pantheon of great restaurants in the Third Ward,” says Kerhin.
The new Royal Road Clinic (207 E. Buffalo St., Suite 206) is a husband-and-wife-run wellness clinic offering a range of services, including psychotherapy, acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, and nutritional guidance. Individually, they treat depression, anxiety, creative blocks, relationship turmoil, insomnia, smoking cessation and more. They also collaborate with local businesses to provide sound baths, tea ceremonies, AcuYoga and other community wellness gatherings.
“It’s part of our ongoing commitment to building commUNITY and making healing more accessible, embodied and rooted in everyday life,” says co-owner Adriana Royal.
Work has officially begun on long-anticipated improvements to Riverwalk Park at 407 N. Water St., directly across from the Milwaukee Public Market. Spearheaded by Business Improvement District #2, the improvements are made possible by a Green Infrastructure Grant program through the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District.
LAS GARDENIAS
Refreshing the site into a more sustainable and inviting public space, the upgrades include replacing existing concrete and asphalt with permeable pavers to improve stormwater management — as well as adding native landscaping, trees, and new seating areas to encourage gathering and enhance biodiversity. These improvements will complement the growing activity in the area, such as the nearby pickleball courts and the programming at Riverwalk Commons, highlighted by the popular summer concert series. As one of the few green spaces in the Historic Third Ward along the river, this project will enrich both the environment and overall experience for nearby residents, workers, and visitors to our neighborhood. It is expected to be completed in late summer.
After years of dreaming about owning a business, in June Ashley Mullis opened Michal (321 N. Jefferson Ave.), a luxury lingerie boutique. “We are dedicated to providing a curated selection of high-end lingerie that is expertly crafted from the finest materials and adorned with meticulous attention to detail,” says Mullis, whose middle name is “Michal.” Private parties and small group or couples’ shopping experiences are also in the mix of offerings. “I want to provide a safe, warm, inviting experience for finding those pieces that make you feel sexy and confident for every day and those special occasions,” says Mullis.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
Due to the burgeoning popularity of the park, Friends of Lakeshore Park plan to build a 2,500-square-foot Visitor and Education Center. Surrounded by prairie, the center will provide accessible and family restrooms, table seating for 50, a DNR office, two outdoor, year-round patios for use by park visitors, and a learning center. By enhancing visitor amenities, the urban greenspace will draw even more people to experience hands-on education, community gatherings, recreation, and relaxing in nature. You can support the park’s progress by making a donation at friendslsp.org.
Progress is happening for the Milwaukee Preservation Alliance’s (MPA) plan to fully restore the 1885-built Catherine Foley Tavern (266 E. Erie St). At the time of publication, the design development was completed and open for proposals. If all goes well, the project will wrap up by the fall of 2026 and become the new home of the MPA – along with leasable spaces. The resilient, historic building survived a fire, escaped demolition, and will soon be in its glory once again. Fundraising for the renovation is under way; you can make a donation by visiting milwaukeepreservation.org
ASHLEY MULLIS OF MICHAL
A RENDERING OF THE NEW RIVERWALK PARK
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
As MOD GEN prepares to celebrate a quarter-century of business, we chatted with CEO Doug McDonald about the green-and-gifts boutique’s roots in Shorewood, and its continued growth in the Historic Third Ward. Q.
MOD GEN opened 25 years ago. Tell us about the evolution of the shop over that time?
“For over 15 years we were known as Garden Room, and operated out of a beautifully remodeled building on Capitol Drive in Shorewood … The early days were filled with experimentation as we slowly worked out what we wanted to be and what was physically possible with the resources at hand … Our move to the Historic Third Ward in 2016 was an exercise in downsizing and focus. It was also a strategic decision, as we wanted to be part of a larger business community and closer to tourist traffic. The risk paid off as the move injected new life into the business … Over the last nine years we have continued to streamline our product offerings and services to remain competitive all while remaining true to our values and business mission.”
What do you think makes MOD GEN unique?
“I tell my staff to be direct, honest and never try to sell something if you don’t think it will be a good fit for the customer. This approach is greatly appreciated and well received by the customers and staff. We’re not just here to ring a sale. We are part of the community.”
What are your hopes for the future?
“… On the best of days running a small, independent retail operation it is a difficult balancing act ... We are grateful and somewhat astonished to be celebrating 25 years … A 5- or 10-year plan was always aspirational, but we live in a fast-paced business environment that requires flexibility and change at a moment’s notice. One of the key things I have learned over the years is you can’t get too attached to an idea or direction. Flexibility is the key to success — and everything has its moment.”
WHAT’S YOUR ITINERARY?
NO MATTER HOW LONG YOU’VE LIVED OR WORKED IN THE WARD, THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW TO TRY. TRY THESE FUN ITINERARIES FOR YOUR NEXT NIGHT OUT, DAY OFF OR STAYCATION
BY JORDAN DECHAMBRE
A perfect day in the Historic Third Ward? What a simultaneously easy and incredibly difficult question. There’s so much to do and so many places to go, where do I start?
I could write a novel on all the amazing reasons the Historic Third Ward is the city’s hottest destination for shopping, dining, art, culture and more — but I’ll keep it brief and share with you some of my personal favorites.
MORNING VIBES
Kick off the day with a jolt of caffeine at Likewise, where you can decide which you love more: the cult-fav coffee or the tranquil, plant-centric interior. If breakfast is on your mind, stroll on over to Sweet Diner for some of the best brunch fare in town (and a mimosa or two), or keep it clean with a bowl from Forage Kitchen at the Milwaukee Public Market.
AN ARTFUL START
The Historic Third Ward is consistently named one of the top art districts in the country for good reason. With nearly 20 galleries in the iconic Marshall Building alone, it’s a must-stop for any art lover. Plus, don’t miss one of my favorite places for Milwaukee garb, 414 Milwaukee. Continue the flex of your creative muscles at Tory Folliard Gallery or Lily Pad | West.
LET’S LUNCH
Ready for a refuel? You can’t miss with lunch on Broadway, where you can hit up Onesto, Bavette or Tre Rivali, all within steps of one another. Or grab a bite in the Milwaukee Public Market, where you can choose from a dozen local restaurants to satisfy any craving — from Mexican, Indian or Thai food to barbecue, vegan, seafood and everything in between.
FIND YOUR STYLE
Whether you’re looking for women’s fashion, men’s attire, home goods or even picks for your pup, you’ll find something for everyone at the dozens of shops that dot the Historic Third Ward. Start strong at The District Row, Shoo, Mainstream Boutique or Lela — one of my must-shop boutiques that recently celebrated 20 years of new and sustainable style. MODGEN: A Modern General Store and Broadway Paper are top-notch boutiques for home décor and gifts. Or, prep for a night out with a blow out from Drybar, nails at Neroli and lash extensions at Lash Dolls.
RELAX AND RESET
Take a stroll down the Riverwalk to wind down your day with a glass of wine at 2A Wine Merchants, where the vibe is cool and the wine selection is hot. (Tip: The vinyl record selection is not to be missed!). Or stop by the St. Paul Fish palapa to have a kiki at the tiki — stiff margarita and lobster roll in hand. Then, indulge in a pictureperfect (and Insta-worthy) dinner at The Edison, Dandan or Saffron
KEEP THE PARTY GOING
Feeling festive? Take in a show at Broadway Theatre Center, which hosts performances by Skylight Music Theatre and Milwaukee Chamber Theater. Top it off on top of the Ward at The Outsider, The Journeyman Hotel’s rooftop bar with sweeping views of the city, or the garden oasis Tied House.
LELA, PHOTO BY MATT HAAS
TRE RIVALI, PHOTO BY MATT HAAS
Now that you’ve learned about one of my perfect days in the Ward, let’s take a look at a few more ways to enjoy your time in Milwaukee’s coolest neighborhood:
FOR THE GUYS
Get your day started: Brunch at The Wicked Hop, home to one of Milwaukee’s signature Bloody Mary cocktails.
Catch the game: District Fore is the place to watch or create your own game with immersive darts or golf simulators; visit Camp Bar for a nod to the Northwoods and prime sports viewing.
Take a little off the top: No appointment needed, walk-ins welcome at Groom for Men and Hollywood Cuts
Find your best ‘fit at one of these local menswear retailers:
• Milworks for a rugged selection of timeless apparel
• MODA3 for an eclectic mix of streetwear, including your new favorite kicks
• Harleys Co. for a dapper shopping experience
• NL Suits for custom looks
Hop over for happy hour: Taste the magic of locally brewed beer at Wizard Works Brewing, Copper Turtle Brewery & Taverne or Explorium Brewpub.
Grab a bite:
• Take in the great outdoors along the river at Milwaukee Sail Loft (Old Bay fries, anyone?) or the Mediterranean must Brisa Do Mar
• Enjoy a juicy burger at Café Benelux (don’t miss the newly redesigned rooftop!) or neighborhood fav Club Charlie’s
• Make every day taco Tuesday at Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria or the new Las Gardenias at the Pritzlaff
WITH YOUR FAMILY
Start your day on a sweet note: Enjoy a doughnut (or two) from Donut Monster.
Walk and shop:
• Support local small businesses with a gift from Harmonic Harvest
• Treat your VIP (very important pet) at Salty Paws, the Third Ward’s first doggie ice cream shop
• Grab some MKE merch for the family at Brew City Brand Apparel
• If your fam is of the furry variety, venture into Riley’s Social House for a cool drink and delectable bite for you (and your pup)
Family photo spots:
• Snag a pic with the historic fireman and dog sculpture on Broadway
• Check out the two 5-foot pink “Cracking Art” birds at Riverwalk Commons, one of Milwaukee’s can’t-miss urban art installations
• Pose next to any of the eight Gallery Night MKE collaboration outdoor paintings, found throughout the neighborhood
Activities:
• Hitch a ride on The Hop and explore the city (for free!)
• Take a hike around Lakeshore State Park, adjacent to Discovery World at Pier Wisconsin and the Henry W. Maier Festival Grounds
• Visit Northwestern Mutual Community Park for modern playground vibes and Sunday Family Fun Days held from June to September
After a long day of activities, time to refuel at Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop with a waffle cone of your favorite flavor. Sprinkles, please!
YOUR FOODIE FIX
NOTABLE CHEF DAN JACOBS, CO-OWNER OF LOCAL FAVE DANDAN, SPILLS THE TEA ON THREE OF HIS MUST-TRY THIRD WARD EATERIES
1 BAVETTE
“Karen has built an amazing space at Bavette. The menu is a great choice for lunch. You can really see why the place shines with amazing shareables, a really smart wine list and great service. Meat and cheese boards, steak tartare, the roast beef sandwich, and the pate sandwich.”
2 DONUT MONSTER
“Jackie and his team are the best. The doughnuts are outstanding — but the English muffins … He still won’t give me the recipe. Come on, bud? I guess I’ll just have to go all the time. Any doughnut really, but definitely the seasonal fritter. And the Benedictish.”
3 LIKEWISE
“It’s the best coffee in Milwaukee. Sorry to the rest, which are all awesome, but this is the best. Pour-over, whatever they have. Iced Coffee with oat milk is my go-to.”
Looking for even more ideas for spending a perfect day in the Ward — for art lovers, sustainable shopping, foodies or even with your fur baby? Visit historicthirdward.org/plan-yourvisit or scan the QR code.
DAN JACOBS
SUPER STRUCTURES
Have you ever wondered which neighborhood buildings are most admired by local architects? We asked four Third Ward-based architects to share their picks for notable architecture and design. Did your favorite structure make the list?
By Jordan Dechambre
“As an architect, my favorite landmark is the Milwaukee Public Market, which was designed by TKWA. It serves as a vibrant gateway and social hub for the community all year round. Its open, flexible layout and modern façade invite people in and encourage interaction — creating a lively atmosphere where locals and visitors naturally gather and sample Milwaukee’s food and spirits.
“The blend of industrial materials and warm interior finishes fosters a sense of authenticity and connection, making it more than just a marketplace; it’s a shared civic space.
“Architecturally, it’s a brilliant example of how thoughtful design and reclaiming unused space by a highway can cultivate community and urban vitality.”
NICHOLAS BLAVAT, AIA, NCARB Principal | Architect Deep River Partners
“While there are many buildings in the Third Ward that I love and respect, the structure at 333 E. Chicago St. comes to mind as a building that shook my thinking early in my career as an architect.
“This building, built in 1900 as a shoe factory, also served as a clothing manufacturing plant, a warehouse, a corporate headquarters for a large architecture firm, and as a café/restaurant. I am fairly certain it would also make a good apartment building or art school. My main point here is that this building could be used for just about anything, and seems endlessly adaptable and sustainable.
“My second point regards the extreme simplicity of this building. It completely fills its rectangular site and is essentially a simple box in form, but the skill and sophistication of its repetitive masonry facade and fenestration makes it a thing of beauty. Together, these two points challenged everything I had been taught in architecture school — and sent me onto a new way of thinking about how to design buildings.”
JAMES W SHIELDS, FAIA
333 E. CHICAGO ST.
Design Principal HGA
“The Historic Third Ward is woven together by many architecturally significant buildings and landmarks, each contributing to the district’s unique character. Among them, 221 N. Broadway stands out to me as a building with its own distinct charm. Its two-story Queen Anne façade, adorned with second-story bay windows, offers a striking yet harmonious contrast to the surrounding warehouse-style architecture.
“WHETHER I’M FREQUENTING 221 OR SIMPLY PASSING BY, THE BUILDING’S RESIDENTIAL SCALE AND INVITING DETAILS EVOKE A COMFORTING SENSE OF HOME — AN INTIMATE PRESENCE IN A NEIGHBORHOOD DEFINED BY ITS INDUSTRIAL PAST.”
LISA CHANG, AIA, LEED GREEN ASSOCIATE
Senior Project Manager - Associate EUA
“My favorite historic building in the Historic Third Ward is the 174 N. Broadway building. The quality of the restoration of that landmark building, both on the exterior and interior, is quite exquisite — setting the bar high for other buildings in the Third Ward to follow.
“In contrast, my favorite newer addition is the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, which has added a grand hospitality element and nighttime vitality in a modern yet complementary architectural style that further enhances the surrounding neighborhood.
“TOGETHER, THESE BUILDINGS REFLECT THE DYNAMIC BLEND OF OLD AND NEW THAT MAKES THE THIRD WARD SUCH A COMPELLING ARCHITECTURAL DESTINATION.”
STEPHEN P. SMITH, AIA, LEED AP President
Stephen Perry Smith Architects
Palate Pleasing The Wicked Hop
WALK THIS WAY
A CELEBRATED CITY LANDMARK FOR DECADES, WE LOOK BACK ON THE MILWAUKEE RIVERWALK’S PATH TO SUCCESS — AND PLANS TO EXPAND
By Kristine Hansen
Winding through the heart of the city, Milwaukee’s RiverWalk isn’t just a path — it’s a downtown jewel polished daily by the footsteps of locals and visitors alike.
Spanning 3.7 miles, the equivalent of 20 blocks, the pedestrian-only access traces both sides of the Milwaukee River in the Beerline District, downtown and Third Ward. It starts at the former North Avenue dam and continues south. The paths allow for strolls and jogs alike, with or without a furry friend.
But it wasn’t always here. To understand its origins, you must go back to the ‘80s and early ’90s, when one of the city’s other precious assets — fresh water — wasn’t given the same acclaim as it is today.
“Like so many former industrial cities, our rivers had been neglected,” says Alyssa Remington, economic development specialist with the City of Milwaukee’s Department of City Development. “We had turned our back to the river. There was trash on it. People would joke you could walk across it in the middle of summer, given the pollution and contamination.”
BUILDING A LANDMARK
With an eye on creating a RiverWalk like the one in San Antonio, Texas (which dates back to the 1920s), work began to remove a dam at the northern end, clean up river pollution and improve wastewater treatment.
Soon, the question — posed loudest by the Greater Milwaukee Committee, local developer Gary Grunau and former mayor John O. Norquist — became “how can we get people to this asset?” says Remington. Milwaukee’s Department of City Development, in collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, published a document called “Riverlink Guidelines.” It stated the
importance of providing “physical, psychological, visual and economic access to the waterways,” says Remington. “People want to be near water. It’s just nature’s way.”
The guidelines also outlined 12 potential segments for development. “It was clear this could not happen as a public sector on its own — or a private sector on its own. It had to be a collaboration,” says Remington, alluding to how both sectors assisted in the planning and the financing. “Without Grunau’s leadership in creating the Milwaukee RiverWalk District, and getting the other property owners on board, that would not have happened.”
At first, only an eight-block section of the RiverWalk downtown was the focus. Today, the RiverWalk on the Milwaukee River is 85 percent complete and uses concrete or Brazilian hardwood as its walking surface, depending on the segment.
“WE’VE
BEEN VERY SUCCESSFUL IN TERMS OF THE MILEAGE OF ACCESS WE HAVE, COMPARED TO OTHER CITIES,” SAYS REMINGTON. “WE HAVE CREATED ONE OF THE DENSEST CORRIDORS OF RESIDENTIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN THE STATE. YOU’RE IMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE, AND THAT’S WHAT BRINGS PEOPLE TO IT.”
She estimates that values for properties along the RiverWalk have increased by $1.5 billion dollars.
The RiverWalk has won several design awards since it opened — including a 2007 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Honor Award for Regional and Urban Design for the Historic Third Ward RiverWalk and the 2017 Urban Land Institute (ULI) Global Awards for Excellence award.
THE THIRD WARD EXPANSION
During the late ‘90s, Business Improvement District (BID) #2 created plans to develop a RiverWalk section through the Third Ward neighborhood.
Planning for the $11 million project began in 1999, resulting in the Common Council’s adoption of design guidelines specific to the RiverWalk within the Historic Third Ward neighborhood boundaries, extending from the north side of East Clybourn Street to the Lakefront and a portion of the west side of the Milwaukee River, extending from the north side of West Clybourn Street southerly to the centerline of the Menomonee River.
The City established a Tax Incremental Financing District (TID) to pay for the upfront costs of construction, with BID #2 reimbursing the City for 22% of the RiverWalk costs from yearly assessments, over a 20 year period.
Built from Ipe wood, a tropical hardwood, the Historic Third Ward RiverWalk construction began in 2002. In 2004, the nearly one-mile long segment within the Historic Third Ward neighborhood opened to the public. By the summer of 2005, a connection to the Downtown RiverWalk was complete. New segments were built, and by 2018 the original plan was complete.
LOOKING AHEAD
The newest RiverWalk addition in the Third Ward — which is financed by a TID amendment and private dollars invested from the adjacent property
owners/operators — will occupy the Milwaukee River’s west bank, linking Westown and the Third Ward. It is expected to be completed later this year in conjunction with the Downtown Milwaukee Dog Park and the future Foxtown Brewing development on North Plankinton Avenue. That addition will link to new segments that are part of the RiverWalk’s expansion west.
“There really is no connection underneath the Clybourn Bridge linking to downtown on the west side,” says Paul Schwartz, executive director of BID #2 and the Milwaukee Public Market. “You’d have to walk up to Plankinton Avenue and cross the street. It’s certainly not the precedent that’s set with other RiverWalk sections in the city. We’re going to have a seamless connection.”
This also creates an enriching environment for wellness, and another access point for the Third Ward’s many shops, condos, apartments, galleries and restaurants.
Over the years, new attractions were added to the Milwaukee RiverWalk system, such as the “Bronze Fonz” statue, public art, and even buskers sponsored by the MKE Theater District to entertain passersby.
A rowing regatta in early October of each year also brings people to the river and is sponsored by the Milwaukee RiverWalk District, with spectators gathered along bridges for a good view.
Now in progress, Milwaukee Downtown BID #21, the Downtown Placemaking Task Force and the Milwaukee RiverWalk District are leading an initiative to install four new murals along the
RiverWalk. Four areas between Mason Street and Knapp Street have been activated with new murals to engage pedestrian and waterway traffic, as part of the new Milwaukee RiverWalk Mural Collection.
Different from the other parts of the RiverWalk, where the City of Milwaukee financed the initial construction and ongoing maintenance is incurred by property owners based on assessments, BID #2 owns 100 percent of the RiverWalk section on the east side of the River (from Clybourn Avenue to the Water Street bridge). Maintenance costs are absorbed largely by the BID, and a portion of that is shared among adjacent property owners through a RiverWalk assessment.
Keeping in perfect pitch with the charming, historic streets of the Third Ward, the RiverWalk is no exception. Public art, banners and hanging baskets adorn the RiverWalk.
“IT’S AN INCREDIBLE ASSET TO OUR NEIGHBORHOOD AND THE ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS,” SAYS SCHWARTZ. “HAVING THE AWARDWINNING RIVERWALK IN YOUR BACKYARD IS NOT ONLY STUNNING AESTHETICALLY, BUT A GREAT USE OF PEDESTRIAN ACCESS.”
Structural work is currently underway to repair wear and tear on the pathway. In addition, 35 new light poles — matching the existing Third Ward streetlights in the neighborhood — are being installed by year’s end.
“We have heard from people that the RiverWalk is beautiful but it’s dark in the evening,” says Schwartz. “From a safety standpoint we explored upgrading the lighting. We want to encourage people to use it in the evening.”
Respecting condo owners, these lights will be dimmable and directed onto the RiverWalk, so they aren’t shining in people’s windows.
“Having pedestrian access along the RiverWalk is a natural fit,” says Schwartz. “It speaks to the appeal of the RiverWalk. From a qualityof-life perspective, if you’re living down here or experiencing a restaurant or bar, having the RiverWalk access adds value to the experience.”
BUILDING A BRIDGE
Although it now sits immobile, like the hulking shell of a ship run aground, the Union Pacific railroad bridge used to swing even harder than Art Blakey & the Jazz Messengers.
In fact, the more than 800-ton bridge once swung around to allow 100 steam trains a day to cross the waterway. Pivoting on a center point, it linked railroad tracks on either side of the Milwaukee River between the Third Ward and Walker’s Point. The bridge is a key remnant of an era when the city was a major player in the railroads that girdled and connected the nation.
Now, one Milwaukeean has a vision for bringing new life to this innovative and important structure.
While he was a student at UW-Milwaukee’s School of Architecture and Urban Planning, architectural designer John Everitt formulated an idea for the Milwaukee River Line. He says he was inspired by
projects like New York’s High Line and Minneapolis’ Mill City Museum, which found creative ways to adapt and reuse important, but moribund, industrial infrastructure.
In addition to plantings, planked walkways, a performance space and more on the bridge’s two levels, the River Line proposal also includes a Harbor Park on the south bank of the river — directly across from the swing bridge and the existing Trestle Park on the north bank.
In 2023, Everitt presented the proposal – which was his UW-Milwaukee thesis – to the Third Ward’s Architectural Review Board, which found it intriguing.
“This iconic and abandoned piece of railroad infrastructure seemed ripe for a bold example of adaptive reuse – in a way Milwaukee hadn’t seen before,” says Everitt.
By Bobby Tanzilo of OnMilwaukee.com
“I WAS AWARE OF THE NOVELTY OF THE IDEA, BUT I NEVER EXPECTED IT TO GENERATE THE KIND OF BUZZ IT DID WHEN THE THIRD WARD ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD ENTERTAINED MY PRESENTATION.”
The out-of-the-boxcar idea is ambitious and alluring in large part because it would preserve the rusting ironwork of the 32-foot-wide, 243-footlong overhead truss-type bridge, one of the few of its kind left in Wisconsin. It is the highest profile example of four such bridges in Milwaukee. This one, dubbed Railroad Swing Bridge #1556, is the largest ever built in Milwaukee and the best surviving example, according to a historic designation report written by the city’s Historic Preservation office in 2006.
The report says the bridge, built to serve the Chicago and Northwestern Railway station at the foot of E. Wisconsin Avenue (razed in 1968), also “recalls Milwaukee’s stature as a major railroad hub during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.”
The bridge is thought to be the third swing bridge at its location. The first one – a 201-ton, singletrack span, likely erected in the 1870s – was replaced 20 years later with a 500-ton, twin-track bridge that was built at a cost of $100,000.
However, like most swing bridges of that era, the fancy new bridge was too light to accommodate
the trains it was built to carry. Thus, a new bridge – the current one – was constructed under the supervision of W. C. Armstrong, who was chief engineer of bridges for the Chicago & Northwestern Railway.
In 1914, the old bridge was moved to a temporary foundation about 60 feet upriver so train traffic could continue during construction of the new bridge, which required a new foundation. Once the new foundation was in place the next year, the new span was floated on pontoon barges and set upon its foundation, and the old bridge was removed and floated away. The entire process that day took a mere six hours.
The current bridge, reportedly still functional (“a little grease” is what Everitt has been told it would require to swing again) became the property of Union Pacific when that railroad bought Chicago & Northwestern Railroad in 1995.
The bridge seems to have last moved in 2003 to bring a train car to the Milwaukee Art Museum for its “Industrial Strength Design: How Brooks Stevens Shaped Your World” exhibition. Ten years later an idea to transform it into an “Art Island” failed to make it out of the depot.
These days, the span is a “Bridge to Nowhere,” as the tracks on both banks of the river have now long since been removed. However, Everitt’s idea is
RENDERING COURTESY OF JOHN EVERITT
bringing new attention to the bridge. In fact, Union Pacific’s Senior Manager of Communications, Mike Jaixen, says the railroad “is open to discussions with state and local government officials regarding divesting the bridge to enhance development along the river.”
Though there hasn’t been a cost calculation or funding source yet, Everitt believes Milwaukee River Line, or some other use, remains viable. “I think repurposing the bridge into an occupiable space is entirely realistic,” he says. “I have no doubt it would be an instant success.
“WHETHER IT BECOMES AN EVENT SPACE, PART OF A TRAIL OR SOMETHING ELSE IS ULTIMATELY UP TO FUTURE INVESTORS. MY GOAL WAS SIMPLY TO SPARK IMAGINATIONS – BEYOND JUST ADMIRING THE RELIC FROM THE SHORE AND WATCHING IT FALL FURTHER INTO RUIN.”
Learn more about Everitt’s vision for the bridge at everittarchitecture.com/the-milwaukeeriver-line.
Guadalajaran Inspired Flavor
