The Gateway to the Lake
Milwaukee County Parks are your gateway to life on the lake! Beaches, boat launches and bluffs provide access to Lake Michigan for boating, fishing or sailing. Veterans Park is the hub for summer activities in downtown Milwaukee. Explore your lakefront.
Veterans Park
This is where summer happens in Milwaukee. Veterans Park connects the city to the lake and hosts dozens of special events throughout the summer, including the Air & Water Show, Brewfest and kite festivals.
Head to Veterans Park for downtown views, to rent a bicycle to explore the Oak Leaf Trail, to rent a paddleboat for fun on the lagoon or to visit local businesses including Gift of Wings kite store or Colectivo Coffee.
With 600 boat slips, McKinley Marina is the largest public marina in the area. Annual and transient slip rentals are available and seasonal or per-use passes are available for the boat launch.
The marina is also the place to visit for fishing charters or jet ski rentals.
Bradford Beach
Bradford is the main beach in Milwaukee and the only beach guarded by lifeguards. Visit the nearby custard stand for frozen treats, or rent a cabana at the beach.
Volley Life organizes beach volleyball leagues and soccer tournaments throughout the summer.
Lake Park
The historic Lake Park is one of three parks designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Climb the Northpoint Lighthouse for views across the city and lake; stroll over the Lion Bridges or play a round of golf at the par 3 course. Lake Park is also home to a Lawn Bowling Club, tennis courts and the Lake Park Bistro restaurant. Free concert series are held at the Summer Stage on Monday and Wednesday nights in the summer.
McKinley Beach
McKinley Beach is a smaller beach next to the Marina. McKinley Beach is also home to the Community Sailing Center, where kids and adults can take sailing lessons.