This is one of Milwaukee's most vibrant mixed used gentrified neighborhoods. It's where many restaurants, unique shopping, art, galleries, performing art, theaters, salons, and spas are in a historic warehouse setting. It's now listed on the National Register of Historic Places as Milwaukee's oldest center of commerce and housing. It's now home to more than 400 businesses & is a hub for artistic activity. The Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, Artist Resource Network, Odessa, School of Fashion, and the Broadway theater center are here. We previously explored the Milwaukee Public Market & the Riverwalk, which are considered within the Third Ward. read more

Historic Third Ward - Sign - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Cute, quaint area but sad to see Mod Gen, Bavette, and Restoration Hardware closed this year. And Francesca's is closing as well. I am hopeful more businesses will come in soon! I enjoy visiting this area. read more

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Throughout my life, I've visited the Historic Third Ward countless numbers of times and seen business come in and out. Through all of this, the variety of different restaurants and shops is always amazing regardless of which businesses are here. It should be no surprise that the coffee options here are amazing including colectivo coffee, anodyne coffee, grace coffee, and likewise coffee. A spot that's always worth a stop is also the milwaukee public market with a dazzling array of different shops and lines that aren't crazy busy for a spot with so many options. As a Chicagoan, it's amazing to be able to park relatively close to where I dine here with fairly reasonable parking rates. Though I don't usually shop inside the shops in the area, I do love taking a stroll around here on a warm day, as the sidewalks are generally not too busy and the architecture looks nice from the outside. The entire area is well kept and great for bringing friends and family to visit. For such a nice area, I am happy that the businesses in general have relatively affordable prices as well. read more

Historic Third Ward - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The Historic Third Ward is the place to be in Milwaukee. We enjoyed the Free outside live concert. People were singing, dancing and out enjoy the beautiful weather. There are restaurants, Public Market, stores to shop, wine bars and many other things for you to enjoy. A great place to add to your agenda if your ever visiting Milwaukee. There is so much to explore. You will always find something to eat or something to do down at The Historic Third Ward. The neighborhood is nice and the people were friendly. FYI... There are parking meters around in the area. The signs will have a different price than the meters. The meters charge a higher price for parking. I will becoming back in the summer time to enjoy the music. The world largest music fest and Summerfest is held here as well. Rating: 4.5 · 1,306 reviews read more

Historic Third Ward - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The historic third ward (HTW) as it's called is located in the downtown area off the river. It's Milwaukee's oldest center of commerce area in the city. There are many very neat buildings including the original firehouse and the commerce building among others. There's many great little shops, theaters, eateries and parks to enjoy too. read more

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Such a fun place to walk around and enjoy the sights. The River Walk is also near by. There are small shops and many restaurants and cafes for you to step into, as well as the Milwaukee Public Market. I felt safe walking around, and there wasn't any litter on the streets. There was some construction, but nothing too bad to block the streets. The one thing I have to note is that there is very limited parking- you have to find street parking or park in a private lot. read more

The Milwaukee Public Market is a giant food court in the historic third district. When I went here on a Saturday night, the parking lot was almost full. The food court was difficult to navigate, a map would have been very helpful. The lines were ridiculously long. We ended up hanging out with our friends and got food elsewhere. read more

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4 stars because, good God, ADD SOME PARKING!!!!! A cute, kitschy area of the city, with lots of great little shops and restaurants! The parking, however, is atrocious! It's free after 7 pm(?), but then you are STILL competing with others for a free spot. I feel bad for the people that live there....where do your friends park? Apparently, there are 3 parking garages, but I only know of one, and it can be a pain to get out of. I will continue to visit because of all the festivals, the Public Market, MODGEN, and Blue Bat, but I will continue to curse the parking! 31/2023 read more

So damn cool. Little restaurants, wine bar, oyster bar, food and shops and all inside. It's a damn cool spot in Milwaukee. read more

Historic Third Ward - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Strange I haven't written a review for the 3rd Ward previously. We've been coming here for close to 15yrs. Each time we stop by something seems to have changed, a new restaurant, bar, store..etc. One constant is our favorite part of the Ward; the Milwaukee Public Market. Whether it's for a full-blown meal or just drinks or a post dinner sweet, it's fun to walk through. We've been to most of the restaurants in the Ward and most stores as well. I also enjoy the area for it's ghost signs, which I photograph. They've also recently added a giant Solo Cup piece of art. Be sure to take your picture with it. Cheers. read more

I absolutely love the Third Ward! There's such a variety of things to do there such as grabbing drinks, getting a bite to eat, shopping, working out, and more! They also hold lots of fairs/events down there which is really fun and you even have access to the Public Market and riverwalk right there! Overall, I love taking new people down here as it's always a blast with all the people and the variety of foods and drinks. Parking is the toughest part with this area as it can be difficult, especially free parking! Not impossible at least since there is a parking lot area under the bridge and it may require more walking. read more

Welcome to the arts and fashion district in Downtown Milwaukee! I visited the Third Ward on a Sunday afternoon so it wasn't as busy as I expected. My best friend and I enjoyed walking around and visiting the different local shops and eateries. Make sure you stop at the Milwaukee Public Market for the various eateries; come hungry as there are tons of options. It's a great place to hang out to spend a day while you're in Milwaukee, but honestly, there's not much to do. Don't expect tons of stores that will catch your interest. It's literally called Old Downtown because there is nothing really to see. Make sure to check out the Riverwalk, which is a two-mile wander through downtown Milwaukee with direct access to some of the city's best shops, bars, and restaurants. It's a great way to get a feel for the city, as well as get some exploring in! I was able to capture great photos of the signage of Historic Third Ward and the lakefront. For lunch, make an effort to check out the restaurant called Bavette La Boucherie: Try the Chicharrones, Deviled eggs, Cuban sandwich or the corned beef tongue Reuben. Within the area, you can check out different breweries, wine tasting bars, shopping The Historic Third Ward is a cute area in beautiful old Downtown Milwaukee. Whenever you're in Milwaukee you should definitely check this place out for their great restaurants, waterfront views, and the lovely local shopping. My all-time favorite restaurants were Rustico, Water Buffalo, Café Benelux, Milwaukee Ale House, and the Milwaukee Market. Enjoy one of our city's distinctive neighborhoods. read more

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Meh...just my opinion and all...I know everyone just **loves** the third ward. But I'm kind of never feelin it. Driving, parking, or even biking is a nightmare to me. There's those d$%@ drawbridges. There's not many bike lanes. There's a bunch of stores I'm probably not going to buy anything at. Its not far from everything but with the 794 cutting it off from the rest of downtown, I feel like I'm in some far off country. Wicked Hop and Milwaukee Ale House.... I'll just pass, thanks. But, hey, everyone is giving it 4 or 5 stars, so what do I know? And anyhow, I really enjoy the colectivo location here (although its questionable as to whether that's actually in Walker's Point...hm...) Sorry, Third Ward. You may not be havin me either, but I'll just pass thru you on my way to Walker's Point and Bay View. read more

The Third Ward, in Chicago, would be on about it's fourth life by now. This is Milwaukee's "Next Great Area" that has been "up and coming" since about . . . 1978. The Memphis-inspired (the art movement, not the city in TN) restaurant is gone now, and a few new, cool looking restaurants have opened up. The vegetable market stalls are shuttered, and a few have turned into a bar, and an upscale pet boutique (pet strollers? Huh?!). There are several good furniture stores and a thrifty shop that had some great things. What it lacks is, are . . . people. I suppose we'll hibernate in the Public Market and wait for summer, eh? read more

First time in Milwaukee, we visited the spectacular art museum and then walked to the Third Ward. Great place for people watching, the river walk, the public market, great restaurants and for us, a beautiful place to hunt books at Downtown Books. Excellent rethinking of what a historic neighborhood can be while retaining its character. If you're looking for a great rooftop bar, try the Benelux Cafe! read more

For someone who knows little (nothing?) of Milwaukee history and geography like me, crossing under the Interstate to a different section of town is... scary. For the first couple of weeks I was here, I wouldn't venture to "that" part of town. But the lights beckoned me. The bookmarks called my name. The five star reviews sang a siren song that I could no longer resist. So I screwed up my courage and made the journey. It was TOTALLY worth it! Pizza and beer and barbecue and oysters and more beer. Why did I wait so long? Converted warehouses and lofts are now vaguely hipster-ish restaurants where there is great food to be had. It's not so bad over here. Try it. You'll like it! Tip: Walk along the river. It's perfectly safe if you remain aware of your surroundings and it will take you to great eats. read more

Great neighborhood. Am I biased because I live here, I suppose yes. Is it Trendy, of course. But it's also walkable, and I love that. It also has green space (Catalano park I'm looking at you), sunmerfest (rock on) and the hoan bridge. It's got bars I dig, both coffee (alterra) and beer (ale house). Art galaries like Oil. Places to eat like swig and water buffalo. Places to paint (splash studio), remote work (Hudson) or indulge (red elephant). Still has character and charm. Just lots of condos.... So lots to do in a neighborhood we call the ward. Ymmv read more

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One of my most favorite neighborhoods in Milwaukee. When I'm in town, I usually come here to enjoy the galleries, eat at the Public Market or browse the boutiques all in a historic warehouse setting. It's a great place for a wander, and a glass of something cold at one of the many fine pubs around the area. There is also a good range of unusual shops to find something different to buy. Best place to walk up to for an energy kick near the river especially on a Sunday afternoon. read more

Historic Third Ward - Historic Third Ward - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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One of the best place in town to have fun, eat and shop. There are numerous shops and a great variety of restaurants. We brought family visiting from Canada and they loved it. read more

I have to agree with what Lisa A. said in her review. to me this area is just kinda meh. Although I was entertained by the whole drawbridge thing. I had never seen that before in my life so I thought it was pretty awesome; the first time it happened anyways. I had a wild thought that was a cross between jumping the bridge and going full on Dukes of Hazard style with my car. LOL! Anyways it was okay walking the street and seeing the businesses. I might have missed them but I wish there were signs outside that said "you are here" with a map. A business owner was kind enough to give me a paper version after they saw we were confused. It reminds me a lot of the old market back in Omaha,Ne. I imagine after the first or second time you visit it would get boring. read more

It's really become the trendiest spot in dwntwn Milwaukee... it's a little nook that reminds me of Chicago, a bunch of cool and hip places all within walking distance. read more

Great place to shop and really see a different side to the city. They have done amazing things with all the great shops and restaurants in this part of the city. Parking is a bit of a challenge but so worth it. It has that chic New York feel with the fun of being here in Milwaukee. If you have the time take it and explore the Third Ward! read more

Always a great time in the third ward! Went for a run around the summer fest grounds and then visited Wicked Hop for Fish Fry and Bloody Mary. Both are worth your time and possibly the best in the city! read more

Nice neighborhood to just wander around. Plenty of trendy stores/boutiques & galleries & restaurants & bars & coffee shops, etc. to have something for everyone. Even that guy. That guy over there. Yeah, YOU. YOU will find something you like there. There's even a little park with some funky sculptures & art. read more

Beyond beautiful especially Christmas time always something new to do from shopping to great restaurants,from great local artists selling one of a kind pieces from jewelry,original paintings to fresh flowers,produce,GREAT WINE,BEER selections.Check it out summertime&winter time,luv old world third street. read more

Honestly, what's the fuss about? It's just another commercial district, and it's not even that pretty - the Public Market is worth visiting, but is hardly exceptional. Just some restaurants and shops in a historic district close to the Riverwalk. read more

On a bucolic day, the Historic Third Ward is a delightful place to visit. Heck its fun hip and trendy almost every day. Is it expensive? Well, in some ways yes, in some ways no. If you know how to work an angle, you can find bargains here. Retique is an outstanding place to find clothing and household items. For example I got a Dolce and Gabbana purse there for $6.99. Other stores are not as inexpensive, but offer good value. The entertainment here is what makes the Third Ward shine. I mean, all kinds of theater. Hello! Summerfest! Events at Catalano Square. Merchant promotions. The Milwaukee Public Market is not to be missed for lunch. Bars and Restaurants. Awesome art galleries. The Third Ward can be tough to find parking. I am glad they sited a Bublr Bikes station across from the Public Market. That's going to make it an easy place for me to commute to over the summer. My company recently did a scavenger hunt here and boy did we have fun checking places out and learning about them. There is a lot more to the Third Ward than meets the eye. You owe it to yourself to check it out sometime! read more

A great place to meet up with the parents of your stepdaughters boyfriend, there are a lot of options for dining, chatting, shopping, browsing, walking, etc. I've been here once before and greatly enjoy the vibe. It reminds me a bit of the meat packing district in Chicago meets San Francisco meets New York. It's cool, urban, and I never feel like I'm in the *cheese state* when I come here. You'll see lots of business meetings happening at the lunch hour, fun dress shops and gift shops to pop in to, and stopping into the Public Market where you can select from all sorts of vendors is a must! And I don't just mean just because they have ginormous and tasty blueberry muffins for a nosh, but because you can score an hour of free parking with your purchase! It's a bit pricey here, but that's not surprising and makes for great window shopping. Here you come for the experience of hanging with the hipsters. read more

I simply love third ward. After living in walkable cities, this place really feels active compared to most of Milwaukee with active retail stores, local fares and events, gallery nights, etc.... All it really needs is a grocery store. Maybe one or the high end furniture stores could make some room for one. read more

I dig the Third Ward. I used to think it pretentious and devoid of content. But I like the area for what it offers these days... truly, I do. There's a lot of great stuff in the Third Ward, folks. Yes, most of the people that live here drive luxury cars and own expensive condos. Yes, most of the stores are higher end. I love the ward for the Public Market, the Aveda Institute, the Milw. Cupcake Co., Broadway Paper, the Irish Pub, Hinterland, Hot*Pop, Artasia, Nanakusa (come back soon!), the Marshall Building, SPiN, Anthropolgie, etc. Parking? Depends on the time of day. It also depends on festival festivities, as the ward is situated precariously near the Henry W. Maier festival grounds. (This is a constant struggle for Third Ward biz owners... to stay open or not to stay open in the summer during Summerfest/other festivals... ) Good for out-of-towners, good for a day of shopping (window and otherwise), eating/drinking, and general bumming. Yay Third Ward! read more

Lots of shopping, bars and restaurants worth visiting. Love this little area - always good vibes whenever I'm here.

I like to think of the Third Ward as where I view myself if I was still working in suits, making management money and being a hip urban professional. I also like to hate myself for thinking of myself that way. It's as pretentious as most of the people that I know who live there. I'm sure some of them will tell me that it's a hip urban neighborhood that has an art school, trendy stores and a nice collection of bars and restaurants. And I won't disagree with them. But I will ask them how often, if ever, they set foot in them. They show their friends what a great neighborhood they have, how convenient it is that they can walk to have a drink or get food, how up and coming the place is... But they do this from their car, as they drive through, and couldn't tell you what the Irish has on tap (other than a stereotyped suggestion) or tell you what exactly you would buy at HotPop (impulsive things that you don't envision buying), or whether or not you could buy greeting cards at Broadway Paper (you can). There's a lot of great stuff in this area, minus the parking headaches. The Market, the Irish, the Hop and the Alehouse are some of my favorites. Do a little footwork and you can find other places for hanging with your more intimate friends, like the lighthouse out by the Amphitheater (cool spot for a sunrise) and the occasional rooftop party. I love the people who work here. And the people who hang here. And the people who appreciate what here really is. I'm just not a fan of the ones who moved here just to have another accessory in their life. read more

I like the 3rd Ward so much...we decided to call it home. This historic (pardon the obviousness) part of Milwaukee offers so much. First and foremost the history of the old buildings which have been preserved and give the area such a cool vibe of the past. Then there is the food (Yelpers paradise). I could go on about The Wicked Hop, Cafe Benelux, SweetDiner and obviously the Milwaukee Public Market. My last check-in was for the annual Christmas Tree lighting. What an amazing evening. Families everywhere (little kids are so cute with winter clothes on), horse drawn carriage rides for $3 adult $1 kids, food trucks, the tree at the end of Broadway and Santa. We met people who came from Green Bay Area just for he evening. Thus if you live in the Milwaukee area do not deprive yourself of all that the Third Ward has to offer. Oh and did I mention you are less than 2 blocks from SummerFest... read more

I've been to Milwaukee a dozen times, and sadly never knew about the Historic Third Ward. I have really been missing out! We found out about it because we come up for a weekend to take part of their Gallery Night/Day they host once a quarter. A lot of the galleries throughout Milwaukee, but mainly in the third ward, host an event to show off their spaces. It was fun, interesting, and we really had a great time. I'd highly recommend it. The Milwaukee Public Market is also in the Third Ward. Love it!!! You have to check it out. We had a wonderful lunch and stuffed ourselves silly. They had a nice outdoor market right outside on Saturday. They have cute shops, boutiques, restaurants, bars, and you could spend days here and not get bored. Unless you are a grump. read more

First time visiting here in years, place has really grown. There are so many great shops , restaurants and bars to visit,kind of like a little town of it's own. read more

Milwaukee's Third Ward is the land of the Neutron Mortgage - the buildings remain standing but there are no people. Ghost town, except for MIlwaukee Public Market. read more

Great neighborhood, many nice stores, summer fest. Parking a little limited but once you found a spot your set. Plenty of restaurants to choose from within walking distance. read more

Kind of a neat part of town almost makes you forget you're actually in Milwaukee. Some cool shops and what look to be decent resturants.

Always bring my MKE visitors here. Check out the public market and restaurants along the river walk read more

Historic Third Ward - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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The Historic Third Ward can be a fun place to go if you have a couple of hours to burn. They have a lot of different events happening year round. My problem with this area is the amount of stores and restaurants that close frequently. Just when I planned to go to Jeanerations, it was closed (I think it lasted about six months). Parking is not always easy to come by either. This is not my first neighborhood to turn to in Milwaukee. I much prefer the east side (Brady Street area) or Wauwatosa Village. read more