My Bartender
Whether you’re new to Milwaukee or planning to visit the area, learning about the nightlife will surely enhance your experience in “Cream City.”
No doubt you already associate Milwaukee with some of the best breweries in the country. This city is host to some excellent night-out spots where you can try some of that famous Wisconsin beer.
I rounded up my favorite places to go out for a drink below! Check out my list of the best bars in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge
1579 S 9th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: (414) 383-2620
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If you consider atmosphere a key ingredient in a great bar, treat yourself with a visit to Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge. Funky lighting and bold decor give this spot an unmatched cool vibe.
I love coming here to enjoy a classic signature drink in a plush booth at Milwaukee’s oldest cocktail lounge. Notably, they run on a first-come, first-serve basis here.
At Random
2501 S Delaware Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Phone: (414) 481-8030
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This charming spot is at the corner of Russell and Delaware. Open since 1964, At Random is my go-to for old-timey drinks, a retro theme, and quality service.
John Dye of Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge and The Jazz Estate runs the show here, so you can count on a good time. At Random opens at five every Wednesday to Saturday.
Black Sheep MKE
216 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: (414) 223-0903
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A friendly staff is quite important to me, and for that reason, I always enjoy a night out at Black Sheep. They have a super large selection of drinks, and their food is arguably just as good.
Black Sheep has a chic, modern atmosphere. If you get a chance, check out their Saturday-Sunday brunch- it’s amazing!
Boone & Crockett
818 S Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: (414) 212-8115
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This is a lively spot and a local favorite. I like Boone & Crockett’s bold drink selection and ever-changing seasonal menu. The taco truck out back is quite popular.
Come for a fantastic night out in its cool, vintage ambiance. If you visit in October, try and make it to their annual family-friendly Flannel Fest!
Burnhearts
2599 S Logan Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Phone: (414) 294-0490
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For a true locals-only taste of Milwaukee, check out Burnhearts. They’ve got the best beer list and craft cocktails around.
It’s a pretty laid-back spot, so party how you want– you won’t run into any judgment here. Expect quality music and service. If you like pool and shuffleboard, Burnhearts is your place!
Camp Bar Third Ward
525 E Menomonee St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 930-9282
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Camp has a cozy cabin feel that provides the perfect environment for a good time. This family-run business is a personal favorite as I always feel welcomed and attended to.
Friendly staff and lively theme nights make Camp a great night-out destination. Do you have a private party? Rent out their back bar!
Holler House
2042 W Lincoln Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53215
Phone: (414) 647-9284
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Holler House earns its national recognition with its consistent quality and charm. A couple of things to know about Holler House: it has the nation’s oldest sanctioned tenpin bowling alley downstairs, and it’s ranked in the top 10 best bars in the country.
If that doesn’t tell you enough, visit this polish bar and see for yourself why Holler House has ruled Milwaukee’s nightlife since 1908.
Koz’s Mini Bowl
2078 S 7th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: (414) 383-0560
As far as hidden gems in Milwaukee, Koz’s Mini Bowl is my personal favorite. It’s a fun place to grab drinks and get some bowling in.
Located on the South Side, this spot captures the friendliness and jovial essence of Milwaukee. I particularly appreciate the kind-hearted owners and staff.
Paddy’s Pub
2339 N Murray Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Phone: (414) 223-3496
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Want a taste of the best Irish pub in Milwaukee? Head to Paddy’s Pub! Any night here is an unforgettable one. Located on the East Side, this eccentric tavern opens at 5 pm seven days a week.
You can host your private party in one of their rooms or on their quaint patio if the weather permits.
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
740 N Plankinton Ave Fl 1, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: (414) 276-3030
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Though not original to Milwaukee, Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery remains a local favorite. From wine to margaritas to specialty in-house-brewed beer, their craft drinks appeal to every palate.
Rock Bottom offers a spectacular lunch and dinner menu as well. It’s an upscale destination for both food and drinks.
Sugar Maple
441 E Lincoln Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Phone: (414) 509-6035
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Sugar Maple has the sort of relaxed ambiance that makes every guest feel welcome. Don’t let the casual vibe fool you- their staff is extremely knowledgeable of their 60+ American craft beers.
I like their wide drink assortment and fair prices. Come for the drinks, and stay for an enjoyable night out.
The Outsider
310 E Chicago St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 291-3980
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The Outsider boasts an elevated night-out experience – quite literally! Their 9-stories-up rooftop bar is a sleek backdrop for your evening.
You can enjoy their elegant food and beverage menu inside or outside. Keep in mind The Outsider is strictly first come, first served.
Wolski’s Tavern
1836 N Pulaski St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 276-8130
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Located on the Lower East Side, Wolski’s Tavern is a family-owned bar with over a dozen beers on tap. I love sipping a drink at Wolski’s while enjoying the pool table, darts, and free popcorn.
If you’re up for the challenge, the famous “I Closed Wolski’s” bumper stickers are earned, not bought!
Blu
424 E Wisconsin Ave 23rd Floor, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 298-3196
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If you’re looking for an elegant destination with a spectacular view, look no further than Blu. This elegant venue is on the 23rd floor, and hosts live jazz music.
It’s voted as Milwaukee’s most romantic bar, best martini, best date night, and best hotel bar. Enjoy tasteful drinks at this stylish location!
The Tin Widow
703 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: (414) 412-6131
The Tin Widow is a cozy bar located in Milwaukee’s oldest neighborhood, Walker’s Point. Whiskey and gin lovers in particular will enjoy this spot, as it features over 200 different kinds of both.
In addition, the atmosphere is very friendly, and the bartenders are adept at preparing all manner of cocktails, so there’s always something fun and exciting to try at The Tin Widow.
Due to its renowned reputation and relatively small size, you can expect a crowd but also a great time whenever you come to the Tin Widow.
Final Thoughts
Milwaukee is a charming historic city with endless opportunities for good times. Here, we’ve listed the best bars in Milwaukee, but don’t leave without taking a scenic walk along the water, tasting some cheese, or catching a sports game! You’ll have the perfect nightcap at any of these bars!
Did we leave a bar out of this list? Make sure you leave us a comment, and we’ll check it out!
Best Bars in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge
- At Random
- Black Sheep MKE
- Boone & Crockett
- Burnhearts
- Camp Bar Third Ward
- Holler House
- Koz’s Mini Bowl
- Paddy’s Pub
- Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
- Sugar Maple
- The Outsider
- Wolski’s Tavern
- Blu
- The Tin Widow
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