McKinley Marina & Park - Image 1
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McKinley Marina & Park

4.6
·87 reviews·Milwaukee, United States

A vibrant lakeside oasis on Lake Michigan, offering stunning views, a bustling marina, and relaxing spots like the Roundhouse Beer Garden.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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McKinley Marina & Park - Image 1

McKinley Marina & Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant lakeside oasis on Lake Michigan, offering stunning views, a bustling marina, and relaxing spots like the Roundhouse Beer Garden.

4.6
(87 reviews)

"Lovely harbor, great scenery, and well-maintained facilities make this a top spot."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Lakeside Strolls

Enjoy the beautiful lake walkway for stunning views and a relaxing experience. :athletic_shoe:

🍻 Beer Garden Vibes

Don't miss the Roundhouse Beer Garden for a refreshing drink with a view. :beer_mug:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Michigan Waterfront

Lake Michigan Waterfront

Along Lake Michigan shoreline

Stroll the scenic lake walkway, enjoy breathtaking views, and watch boats glide by on the vast expanse of Lake Michigan.

Roundhouse Beer Garden

Roundhouse Beer Garden

McKinley Marina

Relax with a drink at this unique round building beer garden, offering a perfect spot to unwind by the water.

Fishing Derby Fun

Fishing Derby Fun

McKinley Park Lagoon

Witness or participate in the annual fishing derby, a lively event for all ages, especially kids.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Lakeside Vibe

McKinley Marina & Park offers stunning Lake Michigan views and a vibrant harbor atmosphere. Plan for a relaxed day exploring the waterfront, enjoying the marina's amenities, and soaking in the scenic beauty. It's a perfect spot for boaters and landlubbers alike.

Best Times for a Visit

Weekends can be busy, especially during events like the fishing derby or air shows. Consider a weekday visit for a more tranquil experience. Check the local event calendar to avoid or plan around popular gatherings.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour views, pleasant breeze
Crowd
Medium
When
During local events
Why
Lively atmosphere, unique experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

6 Things to do when in #McKinley ✨ #KaCraveTravels #McKinleyVlogPart2 #Fun #LearnItOnTikTok #FoodiePH #fyp
@thecravingcassie
11.2K likes • 722.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Lakeside Strolls

Enjoy the beautiful lake walkway for stunning views and a relaxing experience. :athletic_shoe:

🍻 Beer Garden Vibes

Don't miss the Roundhouse Beer Garden for a refreshing drink with a view. :beer_mug:

More than a hundred children made their way to the annual Fishing Derby on Saturday, casting their lines into the McKinley Park Lagoon. #news #chicagonews #chicago #fish #fishing
@abc7chicago
4.4K likes • 145.4K views
Slip away to a lakeside oasis at Roundhouse Beer Garden at McKinley Marina 🍻 In partnership with Milwaukee County Parks, Roundhouse Beer Garden is part of the ongoing marina beautification project and is in its 2nd year of operation on Lake Michigan. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Roundhouse is just that, a round building reminiscent of an old boathouse with nautical décor an...
fabulouswisconsin
62 likes • 1.2K views

🎣 Family Fishing Fun

The annual fishing derby is a hit with kids! Check dates for this fun event. :fishingpoleand_வத:

⚓ Boat Watching

Marvel at the variety of boats, from small vessels to houseboats, docked at the marina. :sailboat:

It's time to go fishing! 🚨 Stewart would like everyone to know we are in the water 😂 Boat is docked in Racine for a couple weeks then we move to McKinley Marina in Milwaukee. . #fishing #wisconsinfishing #letsgofishing #milwaukeefishing
king_of_kings_charter
65 likes • 3.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Lakeside Strolls

Enjoy the beautiful lake walkway for stunning views and a relaxing experience. :athletic_shoe:

🍻 Beer Garden Vibes

Don't miss the Roundhouse Beer Garden for a refreshing drink with a view. :beer_mug:

🎣 Family Fishing Fun

The annual fishing derby is a hit with kids! Check dates for this fun event. :fishingpoleand_வத:

⚓ Boat Watching

Marvel at the variety of boats, from small vessels to houseboats, docked at the marina. :sailboat:

☀️ Summer Beach Access

Close proximity to McKinley Beach for sunbathing and swimming. :sun:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(87 reviews)

Reviews Summary

McKinley Marina & Park is praised for its beautiful Lake Michigan setting, well-maintained facilities, and friendly atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the scenic lake walkway, modern amenities like clean restrooms and showers, and the convenience of the Roundhouse Beer Garden. Some note it's a great spot for events and boat watching.

"McKinley Marina is beautifully set along Lake Michigan front and center! It’s very well kept and has over 600 boat slips for all sizes of boats. There were even a few houseboats docked there.
There’s a beautiful lake walkway and a bunch of nice places to sit, relax and watch the boats sail by! They also have nice public restrooms if you plan on spending the day there."

Michelle Foy

"Lovely harbor, great scenery. I do not have a boat docked there, but my friends do. They seem happy with the service. Area seemed well maintained, but I’m not a nautical expert"

Travis (Doughboy_Food_Reviews)

"Nice marina facilities that are modern and clean. Nice harbor staff."

Doug Koch

What People Like

Beautiful lakefront views
Well-maintained facilities
Friendly harbor staff

What People Dislike

Can get crowded during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

McKinley Marina & Park is located at 1600 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It's easily accessible by car, with a newly remodeled parking area. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the lakefront area. Instagram

Yes, there is a newly remodeled parking area available at McKinley Marina. It's convenient for visitors, especially those planning to spend a good portion of their day enjoying the park and marina facilities. Reddit

Absolutely! McKinley Marina & Park is conveniently located near other popular spots like Veteran's Park and Bradford Beach, making it easy to combine with a day of exploring Milwaukee's lakefront. Instagram

While specific routes can vary, the Milwaukee County Transit System often serves areas along the lakefront. It's recommended to check the MCTS website or app for the most current bus routes and schedules that go near McKinley Marina & Park. Instagram

Walking is a great option for exploring between McKinley Marina, McKinley Beach, and Veteran's Park, as they are all in close proximity along the lakefront. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

McKinley Marina & Park is generally a public park and marina, so there is no general entrance fee to access the park grounds and lake walkway. However, specific activities or events held within the park might have associated costs. Reddit

The park grounds are typically open from dawn until dusk. The Roundhouse Beer Garden has specific operating hours, usually Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. It's always a good idea to check their official hours before visiting. Instagram

For events like the annual fishing derby, it's best to check with the Milwaukee County Parks or event organizers for specific registration details and any associated fees. TikTok

Yes, boat slips at McKinley Marina are available for rent. Fees will vary based on the size of the boat and the duration of the rental. Contact the marina directly for current pricing and availability. Reddit

Absolutely! The Roundhouse Beer Garden is open to the public, whether you're a boater or just looking for a place to relax and enjoy the waterfront views. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy leisurely walks along the lakefront, watch boats, relax at the Roundhouse Beer Garden, and visit nearby beaches. The park also hosts events like the annual fishing derby. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, McKinley Marina has nice public restrooms that are well-maintained, making it comfortable for visitors spending the day. Reddit

Definitely! The marina offers beautiful scenery with boats, the lake, and the Milwaukee skyline in the distance, making it a great spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. Instagram

Amenities include over 600 boat slips, a fish cleaning station, clean bathrooms and showers, a snack bar, and the popular Roundhouse Beer Garden. Reddit+1

While swimming is not permitted directly within the marina, McKinley Beach and Bradford Beach are located nearby and are popular spots for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, McKinley Marina features a snack bar and the popular Roundhouse Beer Garden, offering a place to grab a bite and enjoy a drink with a view of the water. InstagramReddit

The Roundhouse Beer Garden typically offers a selection of drinks and casual food options suitable for a beer garden setting. It's a great spot to relax after a walk or boat outing. Instagram

Picnicking is generally allowed in public parks. You can bring your own food and enjoy it at designated areas or on the lake walkway, though specific rules might apply. Veteran's Park nearby is also a popular picnic spot. Instagram

Yes, McKinley Marina is equipped with a fish cleaning station, which is a convenient amenity for anglers who have been fishing in the area. Reddit

While the marina has its own food options, the surrounding Milwaukee lakefront area and nearby neighborhoods offer a variety of restaurants and dining experiences to explore. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire lakefront offers fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the boats docked, the expansive Lake Michigan, and the Milwaukee skyline. The Roundhouse Beer Garden area also provides a unique perspective. Instagram

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography at McKinley Marina, casting a warm glow over the water and boats. Midday can also be good for capturing the vibrant blue of Lake Michigan. Instagram

Yes, photographing the diverse range of boats docked at McKinley Marina is a popular activity. You can capture everything from sleek yachts to charming sailboats. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, for commercial photography or drone usage, it's advisable to check with the marina management or Milwaukee County Parks for any specific permits or regulations. Instagram

From McKinley Marina, you can capture panoramic views of the Milwaukee skyline across the water, especially beautiful during the day or when the city lights up at night. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

McKinley Marina & Park is a fantastic spot for families. The annual Fishing Derby is a highlight, offering a fun and engaging activity for children. TikTok The park's lake walkway provides a safe and scenic area for kids to explore, and the nearby McKinley Beach is perfect for a day of sand and sun. Instagram Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, and take advantage of the clean public restrooms for convenience. Reddit

⚓ Boaters and Anglers

For those with boats, McKinley Marina offers extensive facilities with over 600 slips, catering to a wide range of vessel sizes. Reddit The marina staff are known for being friendly and helpful, ensuring a positive experience. Reddit Anglers will appreciate the convenient fish cleaning station, making it easier to prepare their catch. Reddit The modern and clean facilities, including showers, add to the comfort of a boating or fishing trip. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Visitors

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Boating Life at McKinley Marina

McKinley Marina is a significant hub for boaters, boasting over 600 slips that accommodate vessels of various sizes, including some houseboats. Reddit The facilities are described as modern and clean, with friendly harbor staff ensuring a smooth experience for boat owners. Reddit For those who enjoy fishing, the marina offers a fish cleaning station, a practical amenity for anglers. Reddit Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just enjoy watching the boats, the marina provides a lively and well-maintained waterfront environment. Instagram

Beyond the slips, the marina has undergone beautification projects, enhancing its appeal. Instagram It serves as a docking point for various charter services, indicating its importance in the local recreational boating scene. Instagram The presence of a beer garden and snack bar adds to the convenience and enjoyment for those spending extended time at the marina, making it a complete destination for water enthusiasts. InstagramReddit

Exploring the Lakefront and Park

McKinley Marina & Park is beautifully situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, offering visitors a picturesque escape. A key feature is the lovely lake walkway, perfect for leisurely strolls with stunning water views. InstagramReddit Visitors can find numerous pleasant spots to sit, relax, and watch the boats sail by, making it an ideal location for a peaceful afternoon. Reddit The park's proximity to other popular lakefront attractions like Veteran's Park and McKinley Beach further enhances its appeal, allowing for a full day of outdoor enjoyment. Instagram

The park is also known for hosting community events, such as the annual Fishing Derby, which draws many families and participants to the McKinley Park Lagoon. TikTok This event highlights the park's role as a community gathering space. With its well-maintained grounds, clean public restrooms, and scenic beauty, McKinley Marina & Park provides a refreshing blend of urban accessibility and natural lakeside tranquility. Reddit

Dining and Relaxation at Roundhouse Beer Garden

A unique highlight of McKinley Marina is the Roundhouse Beer Garden, a distinctive circular building offering a relaxed atmosphere by the water. Instagram This establishment is part of the marina's ongoing beautification efforts and has become a popular spot for visitors. Instagram Open from Wednesday to Sunday, it provides a great opportunity to unwind, enjoy a drink, and soak in the marina's ambiance. Instagram

The beer garden is a perfect complement to the marina experience, whether you've just returned from a boat outing or are simply enjoying a day by Lake Michigan. Instagram It offers a casual dining option with views of the harbor, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists looking for a pleasant place to eat and drink. Reddit

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