Milwaukee: Around The Ward In 90 Minutes

Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward is a neighborhood rich in history, where the past and present collide in a captivating way. For just 90 minutes, visitors can explore this vibrant area, uncovering its transformation from an industrial hub to a thriving arts and dining destination. From the birthplace of Milwaukee pizza to the stunning architecture that houses local artwork, this walking tour promises an engaging and flavorful journey. With knowledgeable guides and a wheelchair-accessible route, it’s an experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers. But what truly sets this tour apart is the sweet treat that awaits at the end – a delightful conclusion to an enlightening exploration.

Key Points

Explore Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, a vibrant neighborhood transformed from empty factories into a hub of entrepreneurs and community leaders.
Discover the birthplace of pizza in Milwaukee, where iconic thin-crust, wood-fired pies are crafted with high-quality ingredients.
Enjoy the neighborhood’s blend of historic buildings and contemporary art galleries showcasing the work of local artists.
Indulge in a sweet treat from a renowned local bakery, offering a taste of Milwaukee’s vibrant culinary scene.
Enjoy a guided walking tour with knowledgeable local guides, highlighting the resilience and creativity that have shaped the Third Ward’s transformation.

Tour Overview

This 1.5-hour walking tour provides participants with an in-depth exploration of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, a neighborhood that has transformed from its past hardships into a vibrant hub of restaurants, boutiques, and local art.

For $30 per person, groups of up to 10 can explore this wheelchair-accessible tour led by knowledgeable local guides.

Along the way, visitors will discover the birthplace of pizza in Milwaukee, step inside historic buildings, and enjoy a sweet treat from a beloved bakery.

The tour is offered in English, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it an accessible and flexible option for visitors to the city.

Highlights and Inclusions

Guests on the Milwaukee: Around the Ward in 90 Minutes tour can look forward to a multifaceted exploration of the Historic Third Ward. They’ll discover the neighborhood’s rich history, from its past hardships to its vibrant present-day transformation into a hub of restaurants, boutiques, and local art.

The tour highlights key sites, including the birthplace of pizza in Milwaukee, and allows visitors to step inside historic buildings and view captivating artwork. As an added treat, guests will savor a sweet delight from a beloved local bakery.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this 1.5-hour walking tour offers an immersive and engaging experience, showcasing the resilience and creativity that define the Third Ward.

Transforming the Third Ward

The Historic Third Ward in Milwaukee has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a district marred by past hardships into a vibrant hub of restaurants, boutiques, and local art.

Once home to empty factories and warehouses, this neighborhood has been revitalized through the efforts of visionary entrepreneurs and community leaders.

Today, visitors can explore the neighborhood’s rich history while seeing its contemporary offerings.

From discovering the birthplace of pizza to admiring the work of talented local artists, the Third Ward showcases Milwaukee’s resilience and creativity.

This dynamic area now stands as a testament to the power of urban renewal, offering a captivating blend of the past and the present.

Birthplace of Milwaukee Pizza

Milwaukee’s Third Ward proudly boasts the birthplace of the city’s legendary pizza tradition, which has since become a cherished part of the local culinary landscape. This iconic pizzeria, founded in the early 1900s, has been serving up its signature thin-crust, wood-fired pies for generations.

The secret lies in its time-honored recipe, featuring high-quality ingredients and a dedication to time-tested techniques. Visitors can step back in time and savor a slice at this historic hotel, which has remained a beloved fixture in the neighborhood:

Meticulously crafted dough, made fresh daily
Tangy, zesty tomato sauce bursting with flavor
Generous toppings sourced from local purveyors
Perfectly crisp and charred crust, the hallmark of wood-fired pizza

Historic Buildings and Local Art

As tour participants explore the Historic Third Ward, they’ll discover a neighborhood rich in architectural gems that have weathered the test of time.

From imposing, turn-of-the-century warehouses repurposed as modern art galleries to quaint, early 20th-century storefronts housing local artisan boutiques, the area’s historic buildings seamlessly blend the past and present.

One standout is the Pritzlaff Building, a former hardware wholesaler now home to art galleries showcasing the work of Milwaukee-based painters, sculptors, and craftspeople.

Another highlight is the Iron Block Building, whose distinctive cast-iron facade has been meticulously restored.

Throughout the neighborhood, these historic structures provide a striking backdrop for the vibrant arts scene that has blossomed within.

Sweet Treat at Bakery

After admiring the historic buildings and local artwork, the tour culminates with a sweet treat from a beloved neighborhood bakery. Participants can look forward to indulging in a freshly baked pastry or cookie, handcrafted by skilled bakers and reflective of Milwaukee’s vibrant culinary scene.

This decadent finale offers a delightful contrast to the tour’s exploration of the Third Ward’s past.

Visitors may savor a classic cream puff, a Milwaukee specialty, or a buttery, flaky croissant.

The bakery’s award-winning cookies, such as their signature chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin, provide a tempting option for those with a sweet tooth.

Local seasonal specialties, like apple turnovers or pumpkin spice muffins, allow participants to experience the flavors of the region.

The welcoming atmosphere of the bakery encourages guests to linger and appreciate the fruits of the neighborhood’s culinary renaissance.

Booking and Availability

Guests can reserve their spot on the Milwaukee: Around the Ward in 90 Minutes tour without upfront payment, allowing them to book now and pay later.

Visitors can check availability for various starting times to find the best fit for their schedules. The meeting point for the guided walking tour is the Milwaukee Public Market, located at 400 N. Water Street in Milwaukee, WI 53202. This gives tour-goers the flexibility to plan their day and secure their spot on the tour ahead of time.

With a group size limited to 10 participants, the experience provides an intimate and personalized way to explore the Historic Third Ward and discover its transformation from empty factories to vibrant restaurants and boutiques.

Tour Meeting Point

The Milwaukee Public Market, located at 400 N. Water Street in Milwaukee, WI 53202, serves as the meeting point for the Milwaukee: Around the Ward in 90 Minutes walking tour. This central location provides a convenient starting point for guests to begin their exploration of the Historic Third Ward neighborhood.

The meeting point is easily accessible, with ample parking available nearby. Guests can arrive early and explore the market’s array of local vendors, artisans, and eateries before the tour begins.

From the market, the tour guide leads participants on a journey through the neighborhood’s rich history and vibrant present. The market’s lively atmosphere sets the tone for the immersive experience that awaits participants on the Milwaukee: Around the Ward in 90 Minutes tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves significant walking, lasting around 1.5 hours. Participants will explore the Historic Third Ward, visiting key sites and historic buildings. The walking pace allows ample time to view the neighborhood’s transformation and attractions.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes several restroom breaks at various stops along the route, allowing participants to comfortably enjoy the experience. Participants can use the facilities at local businesses visited during the guided walking tour.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for this walking tour. Participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. The tour will proceed rain or shine, so bring layers as needed for the local conditions.

Can Participants Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants are encouraged to take photos during the tour. The guide will provide opportunities for great shots of historic buildings, local artwork, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Third Ward neighborhood.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the walking tour and explore the Historic Third Ward. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the 1.5-hour experience.