Milwaukee Public Market
A bustling indoor marketplace offering a diverse array of local foods, artisanal goods, and vibrant culinary experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Milwaukee Public Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling indoor marketplace offering a diverse array of local foods, artisanal goods, and vibrant culinary experiences.
"This place is a must-visit to experience the lifestream of the city, with its earnestness and love for food."
Cash is King for Some
Many vendors are cash-only! An ATM is available, but it's best to come prepared.
Sit Down and Savor
Take your delicious finds upstairs to the seating area for a comfortable dining experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. Paul Fish Company
Ground floor
Savor incredibly fresh seafood, from lobster rolls to Alaskan king crab. A must-try for seafood lovers!
Global Flavors Galore
Various vendors
Embark on a culinary journey with options like falafel wraps, Thai dishes, and Mediterranean delights.
Local Artisan Finds
Various vendors
Discover unique local products, from artisanal cheeses and meats to handcrafted goods and spices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Market Buzz
Culinary Delights Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash is King for Some
Many vendors are cash-only! An ATM is available, but it's best to come prepared.
Sit Down and Savor
Take your delicious finds upstairs to the seating area for a comfortable dining experience.
Explore Beyond the Main Floor
Don't forget to check out the upstairs vendors for more unique treats and local goods.
Vegan & Vegetarian Options
Plenty of delicious choices for plant-based eaters, from falafel to Thai curries.
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash is King for Some
Many vendors are cash-only! An ATM is available, but it's best to come prepared.
Sit Down and Savor
Take your delicious finds upstairs to the seating area for a comfortable dining experience.
Explore Beyond the Main Floor
Don't forget to check out the upstairs vendors for more unique treats and local goods.
Vegan & Vegetarian Options
Plenty of delicious choices for plant-based eaters, from falafel to Thai curries.
Check the Directory Online
Plan your culinary adventure by browsing the vendor list before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Milwaukee Public Market for its diverse culinary offerings and vibrant atmosphere, often comparing it favorably to renowned international markets. While some note that many vendors are cash-only, the overall experience is highly recommended for its variety and local charm.
"Visiting from Melbourne Australia and this is my second time here. This is a place that I would recommend everyone visit in Milwaukee, the market is small but it is diverse and capacious enough that there is likely something for everyone regardless of one's interests. There's a sense of movement in vitality pulsating throughout the market, and the clocks depicting the times in other great markets around the world is a bit of symbolism that feels earned. Yes, this place does feel about as culturally rich as the likes of Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne and that is a high compliment. This is probably the place one should go in order to experience the lifestream of the city, and all its earnestness and all its love of beer and cheese and many different varieties of meats. St Paul Fish Company is our go which is a particular specialty. Even vegetarians and vegans can find something to love and enjoy here: it's that large and cavernous."
Maricar Peralta
"What a super cool place, a hidden gem, you don’t even know it’s here! One of the oldest in the country, all kinds of places to eat and get drinks. All kinds of food here from Seafood to Mediterranean to Italian to Mexican, all kinds of cheeses and ! You can even go up top on the walk around and sit down and enjoy a table and some space to eat or drink what you bought! Highly recommend if you’re going to visit Milwaukee!"
Babes N Bladez
"This is a place that I would recommend everyone visit in Milwaukee, and it is diverse and capacious enough that there is likely something for everyone regardless of one's interests. There's a sense of movement in vitality pulsating throughout the market, and the clocks depicting the times in other great markets around the world is a bit of symbolism that feels earned. Yes, this place does feel about as culturally rich as the likes of Granville Market in Vancouver, and that is a high compliment. I do not know if this is my favorite place in the city, as that would probably be the art museum here, but this is probably the place one should go in order to experience the lifestream of the city, and all its earnestness and all its love of beer and cheese and many different varieties of meats. Bratwursts are a particular specialty. Yet even vegetarians and vegans can find something to love and enjoy here: it's that large and cavernous."
Joshua Fagan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Milwaukee Public Market is conveniently located downtown at 400 N Water St. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby.
Yes, there is parking available next to the market, making it easy to access. For the Milwaukee Night Market, Interstate Parking offers a flat $3 rate.
If you're staying downtown, the Milwaukee Public Market is within walking distance of many hotels and attractions. It's also close to the lakefront, though it can get chilly there.
Absolutely! The Amtrak train from Chicago to Milwaukee is about an hour and 30 minutes and can be quite affordable, making it a perfect day trip.
Milwaukee is a very walkable city, especially downtown. For longer distances, consider ride-sharing services or local buses.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the Milwaukee Public Market is free. You only pay for the food and goods you purchase from the vendors.
The market's hours can vary, but it's generally open daily. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date Milwaukee Public Market hours before your visit.
Yes, the Milwaukee Public Market hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular Milwaukee Night Market and special anniversary celebrations.
Yes, Milwaukee Public Market gift cards are available, making them a great option for gifts or for trying a variety of vendors.
The market is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available. It's designed to be a welcoming space for all visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find an incredible variety of food, including fresh seafood, Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican, Thai, sushi, and more. There are also bakeries, cheese shops, and specialty food vendors.
Many visitors rave about the lobster rolls and seafood from St. Paul Fish Company. Other popular choices include falafel wraps, tacos, and artisanal pastries.
Yes, the market offers a good selection of vegan and vegetarian options, with vendors like Aladdin and various international food stalls providing plant-based choices.
Absolutely! You can find a variety of beverages, including local beers, wines, and specialty drinks like Bloody Marys.
Prices vary by vendor, but many offer good value, especially considering the quality and variety. Some Reddit users mention affordable tacos and margaritas.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere, colorful food displays, and unique vendor signs. The architecture of the building itself is also quite photogenic.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and vendors, and always ask permission before taking close-up shots of people.
Look for the clocks displaying times in other great markets around the world – a unique symbolic feature. The 'Milwaukee Public Market' sign is also a popular spot for a quick snap.
Daytime offers the best natural light, especially if you're focusing on the food and vibrant displays. Evening events like the Night Market offer a different, atmospheric vibe.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm or a prime lens with a wide aperture (like a 50mm f/1.8) can be great for capturing both the ambiance and detailed food shots.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors
The market features a diverse range of vendors, including specialty food shops, restaurants, bakeries, cheese mongers, butchers, and local artisan shops.
Yes, you can find local products, spices, whiskey, pastries, and other unique items that make great souvenirs.
Beyond the food stalls, explore shops offering local crafts, spices, and artisanal goods. Indulgence Chocolatiers is a popular spot for sweet treats.
The Milwaukee Public Market directory lists all the vendors, their locations, and often their specialties, which you can usually find on their official website.
While some vendors might sell branded merchandise, the primary focus is on food and specialty goods. Specific Milwaukee Public Market t-shirts might be available at select souvenir or gift shops within or near the market.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
to savory options, there's a culinary adventure for everyone. The lively atmosphere is engaging for children, and the upstairs seating area provides a convenient place to refuel. Consider grabbing some local snacks or pastries to enjoy on a walk along the nearby riverwalk. 💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
to decadent chocolates from Indulgence Chocolatiers. Enjoy a drink together at one of the market's bars or grab a coffee and people-watch from the upstairs seating area. The vibrant atmosphere makes for a fun and engaging outing. 🚶 Day-Trippers from Chicago
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Food Lover's Paradise
Beyond the main attractions, the market is a fantastic place to discover unique ingredients and prepared meals. Whether you're a dedicated foodie or just looking for a delicious lunch, the Milwaukee Public Market offers an exciting and diverse gastronomic experience. Many visitors appreciate the availability of vegan and vegetarian options, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy.
Pro Tip: Many vendors are cash-only, so be sure to have some on hand!
Beyond the Bites: Shopping and Atmosphere
The market's industrial-chic architecture, with its exposed brick and high ceilings, creates a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. It's a place where locals and tourists mingle, creating a lively buzz that's palpable. Keep an eye out for special events like the Milwaukee Night Market, which transforms the area into an outdoor festival with food trucks, vendors, music, and entertainment.
These events offer a different perspective on the market and the surrounding downtown area. The market's location near the lakefront also adds to its appeal, though it can be a bit breezy, so bringing a jacket is advisable. Community Insight: The market is often compared to renowned international markets, highlighting its cultural richness and diverse offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit