3 Best Sights in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Take a walking tour of one of Milwaukee's vivid neighborhoods, such as Brady Street, the Historic Third Ward, or Lake Drive, or embark on evocatively titled tours like "Naughty Ladies of Beertown" or "Gargoyles, Grotesques & Dragons." Walking tours generally last 1½ hours. Some tours require reservations, and tickets are either $7 or $20, depending on the type of tour.

Like the Chicago River, Milwaukee's namesake waterway has become a focal point of its downtown. From the Edelweiss boats, you can view the city skyline, learn some Brew City history or dance the night away. Themed cruises include a Margarita Fiesta, Beer and Brats, Kids Caribbean Pirate Cruise, and the Dinner Cruise, a primo pick for dates. Most cruises pick up passengers at the Highland Avenue dock, but check your cruise departure information before heading there, as others leave from the Port of Call Bistro at 106 W. Wells Street. Arrive about 30 minutes before tour time.

Cruise the Milwaukee River on the 45-seat Brew City Queen or the 20-seat Milwaukee Maiden; you can also rent a private pontoon. Nightly sunset cruises include drinks and snacks, while weekend brewery tours let you sample beers at three Milwaukee microbreweries.