Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Milwaukee, Wisconsin!

Milwaukee City Hall

Why Visit?

Discovering Milwaukee City Hall: A Wheelchair-Friendly Tour

Morning

Start your day at the stunning Milwaukee City Hall, an architectural marvel completed in 1895. Known for its Flemish Renaissance style and once holding the title of the tallest habitable building in the world, its beauty is matched by its accessibility. Wheelchair users and those on mobile scooters can enter through the Market Street entrance, where automatic doors and elevators make navigation easy. Inside, a self-guided tour (grab a brochure from the entrance) will lead you through the building’s rich history, showcasing its unique bell tower and exquisite interior.

Lunch

Just a short roll from City Hall is the Milwaukee Public Market, where accessible dining options abound. Choose from a variety of local and international cuisines, all served in an easy-to-navigate venue with ample wheelchair-friendly seating. The bustling atmosphere and array of choices will cater to any palate.

Afternoon

Post-lunch, head to the nearby Milwaukee Art Museum, a mere 15 minutes away via the #30 bus, which is equipped with wheelchair lifts. The museum is renowned for its Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Santiago Calatrava, with its stunning movable sunscreen known as the "wings." The museum offers wheelchairs at no cost, ensuring that all galleries and exhibits are accessible. Don’t miss the collection of American decorative arts, which includes pieces from Milwaukee native designers.

Evening

Conclude your day with a serene ride along the RiverWalk, accessible from City Hall by the #15 bus. This wheelchair-friendly pathway offers breathtaking views of the city and the Milwaukee River, with plenty of spots to rest and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Each site on this tour not only highlights Milwaukee’s cultural offerings but also ensures a smooth and accessible experience, making it a perfect outing in this vibrant city.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Milwaukee Art Museum

Why Visit?

Discover the Marvels of Milwaukee Art Museum: A Wheelchair-Friendly Adventure

Welcome to the Milwaukee Art Museum

Begin your journey at one of Milwaukee"s most iconic landmarks, renowned not only for its extensive collection of over 25,000 works of art but also for its stunning architecture. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring all visitors can explore with ease. Arrive via the accessible parking available in the museum"s underground garage, or if you’re using public transport, many of the city buses that stop near the museum are wheelchair-friendly.

Stunning Architecture

As you approach, you"ll be greeted by the breathtaking Quadracci Pavilion, designed by the celebrated architect Santiago Calatrava. Its movable, wing-like brise-soleil opens and closes twice daily and is a sight to behold — a perfect photo op!

Inside the Galleries

Navigating inside is a breeze with wide corridors and elevators serving all exhibition levels. Start on the main floor with the Collection Galleries; here, you"ll find everything from European masterpieces to American Decorative Arts. Special audio tours are available, and docents are also on hand for guided tours tailored to guests with mobility devices.

Take a Break

For a mid-visit rest, roll over to the museum"s Café Calatrava. The café is accessible and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a light meal before continuing your art exploration.

More Than Just Art

Don’t miss the museum"s roster of accessible programs, including multisensory tours and artist talks, which provide a deeper understanding of the exhibits and are designed to be inclusive for all visitors.

Plan Your Visit

The Milwaukee Art Museum is open Thursday through Sunday. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Wheelchair users and one companion receive discounted admission.

Enjoy your visit to this jewel of artistic and architectural achievement, where accessibility is as important as aesthetics!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Lake Park

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Day Out at Lake Park

Embark on an accessible and enchanting journey through Lake Park, a haven of tranquility and natural beauty crafted for everyone to enjoy. Begin your day with ease, as Lake Park offers ample disabled parking near the main entrance, clearly marked for convenience.

Morning: Exploring the Botanical Gardens

Your first stop is the Botanical Gardens, a short roll from the entrance. Paved pathways wind through vibrant floral displays and lush greenery, making navigation a breeze. The garden is famous for its sensory plant collection, which is not only a feast for the eyes but also designed to be enjoyed through touch and smell.

Midday: Picnic by the Lake

As lunchtime approaches, head towards the lakeside picnic area, fully equipped with accessible tables and an unbeatable view of the lake. Enjoy a peaceful meal while watching ducks glide by. If you didn’t bring a picnic, the nearby visitor center offers a café with accessible counters and a variety of meal options.

Afternoon: Stroll or Roll Along the Lake Trail

Post-lunch, make your way to the Lake Trail, starting right next to the picnic area. The trail boasts smooth, wide paths suitable for wheelchairs and scooters, offering picturesque views across the water. The trail also features several resting spots with benches, where you can stop and perhaps catch sight of the local wildlife.

Late Afternoon: Reflection and Relaxation

Conclude your park visit at the Meditation Garden, a peaceful retreat designed for reflection and relaxation. The garden paths are flat and firm, ensuring easy mobility. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the park.

Lake Park closes at dusk, so plan your visit to make the most of the daylight. With its accessible amenities and beautiful landscapes, Lake Park ensures a fulfilling outing for all visitors.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Bronze Fonz

Why Visit?

Start your adventure in Milwaukee by visiting the iconic Bronze Fonz statue, a beloved homage to the 1970s TV show "Happy Days." Situated along the scenic RiverWalk at Wells Street, the statue is easily accessible and makes for a fun photo opportunity.

First, park your vehicle at the closest wheelchair-accessible parking spots available near the intersection of E Wells St and N Water St. From there, the RiverWalk is seamlessly accessible, offering smooth paths for both wheelchairs and mobile scooters.

As you approach the Bronze Fonz, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the RiverWalk, lined with various artworks and plaques that celebrate the city"s history and culture. Feel the cool breeze from the Milwaukee River and watch boats gently pass by. The Bronze Fonz statue is not only a tribute to the character Fonzie but also to the actor Henry Winkler, who played the role. Created by artist Gerald P. Sawyer, this life-size bronze statue was unveiled in 2008 and stands as a symbol of Milwaukee"s place in television history.

After snapping some photos with the Fonz, continue your tour by exploring nearby attractions. Just a short roll away is the Milwaukee Public Market, an accessible spot bustling with vendors selling local goods and delicious treats. The market has ramps and elevators, ensuring easy navigation.

Finish your day by dining at one of the accessible riverfront restaurants, offering beautiful views and a variety of cuisines. Consider the Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery for some hearty American dishes and craft beers, all within an accessible setting.

With easy pathways, engaging sights, and a touch of nostalgic charm, your visit to the Bronze Fonz and Milwaukee’s RiverWalk promises to be delightful and memorable.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Milwaukee Lakefront Trail

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating, wheelchair-accessible journey along Milwaukee’s scenic Lakefront Trail, a paved pathway that promises both natural beauty and interesting stops. This tour provides a seamless experience, allowing everyone to soak in the vibrant culture and stunning lake views this city offers.

### Starting Point: Discovery World

Begin your adventure at Discovery World. Park in the accessible parking spots available close to the entrance. Inside, explore interactive science and technology exhibits that are fully accessible. Don’t miss the Reiman Aquarium for a touch of underwater magic.

### Venture to the Milwaukee Art Museum

Next, roll towards the Milwaukee Art Museum, just a short distance along the trail. The path is smooth and flat, offering an easy ride with a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan. The museum itself is known for its stunning architecture, including the Burke Brise Soleil—a moveable, wing-like sunscreen that folds and unfolds twice daily. All galleries are wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs can be borrowed at no cost.

### Break at Lakeshore State Park

Continue along the trail to Lakeshore State Park. This urban oasis features a 17-acre accessible island park connected to the mainland via a fully accessible bridge. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic while watching boats glide by. Accessible restrooms are available, and the paths are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth ride throughout the park.

### End With a Refreshing Treat at Northpoint Custard

End your day with a sweet treat from Northpoint Custard, located right on the trail near Bradford Beach. This spot is famous for its creamy custard and offers accessible ordering windows and tables.

Each of these attractions is linked by the Milwaukee Lakefront Trail, ensuring smooth transitions and continuous lakefront vistas. Enjoy the freedom and beauty of Milwaukee’s shoreline, accessible to all!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.