City of Neighborhoods: Milwaukee Walking Tour of Brady St & the Lower Eastside

With 191 different blocks, it should come as no surprise that Milwaukee is known as a ‘City of Neighborhoods’. On this walking tour, you’ll be introduced to two of its most interesting suburbs, Brady Street and the Lower Eastside, and their architecture.

You’ll begin by discovering the impact that Polish and Italian immigrants had on Brady Street Historic District, including delicious Italian cuisine at Sciortino’s Bakery and Glorioso’s Deli. From there, you’ll visit Lower Eastside landmarks like the world’s largest Tiffany glass window at St. Paul’s Church and a building rumored to be a spite house, next to the historical and very ornate Miller House and Downer House. From there, you’ll find a park with a statue of Solomon Juneau, the city’s first mayor, and a replica of the cabin he lived in with his wife and twelve children. Finally, you’ll stroll down the city’s former Gold Coast to end this tour at the Oak Leaf Trail on Prospect Avenue, giving you the opportunity to continue your Milwaukee adventure independently on the Lake Line Trail.

On this one-hour walk, you’ll also:

• Learn how St Rita’s Parish emulates the beloved Blessed Virgin of Pompeii Church, the original heart of the East Side’s Italian community
• Spot Marina Lee’s colorful sculptures in Cass Street Park
• Skip past the house that featured on the popular 1970’s sitcom, Laverne & Shirley
• Meet the writer who composed 'Auld Lang Syne' at the city’s Robert Burns Statue

This family-friendly tour is an easy stroll, with the option to pop inside some of the city’s most interesting churches. Come hungry, there are plenty of opportunities to grab snacks, or discover your new favorite restaurant along the route.

Let’s explore these vibrant neighborhoods together!