Top 13 Bars to Visit in Milwaukee

Milwaukee is known as Brew City, and for good reason. It’s not hard to find a place to enjoy a drink in this vibrant city. While discovering a bar is easy, identifying the right bar that aligns with your tastes can be a bit challenging if you’re unfamiliar with the Milwaukee nightlife scene. Local taverns offer a cozy spot for engaging conversations with residents, while places like Water Street are ideal for celebrating your newfound age with friends in a lively atmosphere. Other bar districts to explore include North Avenue on the East Side and the RiverWalk in downtown Milwaukee, especially during warm summer evenings.

Water Street Brewery

Address

1101 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA

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Phone +1 414-210-4516

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One of Milwaukee’s original brewpubs, Water Street Brewery’s first location is still valued for its atmosphere, even with newer sites emerging in Grafton, Oak Creek, and Lake Country. With five craft beers on tap, including a Honey Lager Light and an Octoberfest, this brewpub offers a unique selection. Customers can also purchase beer to-go in growlers. The culinary experience is diverse, serving everything from brunch on weekends to elegant dinners featuring tacos, salads, pizza, and burgers.

Mo’s Irish Pub

Address

142 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203, USA

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Phone +1 414-272-0721

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Mo’s Irish Pub offers an authentic Irish experience with a menu full of popular items like Guinness, Jameson burgers, and shepherd’s pie. The lively atmosphere is perfect for meeting friends before events, making it a popular choice even outside of the St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

Camp Bar

Address

4044 N Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211, USA

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Phone +1 414-962-5182

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Inspiring a lake-lodge experience, Camp Bar features a North Woods theme with taxidermy decor and pine furnishings. With three locations in Shorewood, Wauwatosa, and the Third Ward, this bar is a great choice for watching games or socializing with friends. Camp Bar hosts exciting events during football season, making it a go-to destination on Sundays.

Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge

Address

1579 S 9th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204, USA

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Phone +1 414-383-2620

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With a mid-century-modern atmosphere, Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge mixes timeless cocktails with an intimate dining experience. The absence of a menu adds an air of surprise, as servers craft drinks to suit the patrons’ preferences.

Milwaukee Ale House

Address

233 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202-5729, USA

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Phone +1 414-276-2337

During the summer, Milwaukee Ale House features a two-story patio offering stunning river views. This brewpub serves beers brewed on-site, ranging from IPAs to stouts, alongside a menu that includes healthy salads and hearty dishes like Stout Pot Roast and Friday Fish Fry.

Burnhearts

Address

2599 S Logan Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207-1865, USA

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Phone +1 414-294-0490

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Burnhearts supports local music by hosting outdoor festivals and a wide selection of craft beers from various regions. The bar’s cozy home-like atmosphere creates an inviting space for patrons to relax and enjoy.

Sugar Maple

Address

441 E Lincoln Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207-1756, USA

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Phone +1 414-509-6035

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With up to 60 craft beer taps and a fantastic atmosphere, Sugar Maple is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. Special events and tap takeovers enhance the experience, and while food isn’t served, nearby options offer great pairings.

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery

Address

740 N Plankinton Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203, USA

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Phone +1 414-276-3030

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Despite being part of a chain, Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery is known for its local, small-batch beers and scenic riverfront setting. The culinary options elevate typical bar fare, offering dishes ideal for dining alongside drinks.

Branded

Address

500 W Florida St, Milwaukee, WI 53204-1534, USA

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Phone +1 414-374-4766

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The Iron Horse Hotel features Branded, an industrial-style bar decorated with engaging art. The bar experience varies by season, with a lively patio in the summer and a cozy indoor atmosphere during colder months.

Nomad World Pub

Address

1401 E Brady St, Milwaukee, WI 53202-1614, USA

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Phone +1 414-224-8111

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Nomad World Pub serves as a beloved venue for soccer matches and offers a vibrant bar experience in the Brady Street district. The unique layout accommodates both standing and sitting room, ideal for enjoying the atmosphere.

Paddy’s Pub

Address

2339 N Murray Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211-4404, USA

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Phone +1 414-223-3496

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Paddy’s Pub embodies the quintessential Irish bar experience in a cozy, wood-paneled space. Live Irish music on Thursdays enhances the authenticity, making it a fantastic spot for a relaxed evening with friends.

Thief Wine Shop & Bar

Address

400 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA

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Phone +1 414-277-7707

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Thief Wine Shop & Bar stands out for its extensive by-the-glass wine selection. The adaptable wine list reflects current trends, and wine tastings are regularly hosted, making it a perfect location for wine enthusiasts seeking new experiences.

The Outsider

Address

310 E Chicago St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA

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Phone +1 414-291-3980

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Opened in 2016, The Outsider offers Milwaukee’s first rooftop bar experience at a remarkable height, featuring soothing sofas and stunning views of the surrounding area. Seasonal cocktails and a unique food menu elevate the entire experience, making it a sought-after destination.