Welcome to Milwaukee, Wisconsin — the Cream City and the Brew City!
On this tour, we’ll explore a city with deep roots on the western shore of Lake Michigan, where Native peoples, French traders, German immigrants, and modern makers have all left their mark.
The name “Milwaukee” comes from Native American languages — most often said to mean “good land” or “gathering place by the water.” It’s an appropriate name, because for centuries people have gathered right here at the confluence of three rivers: the Milwaukee, Menomonee, and Kinnickinnic.
Milwaukee boomed in the 19th century, thanks to its breweries, tanneries, and factories, fueled by waves of German immigrants who brought with them traditions of beer, music, and sausage-making. That’s how the city earned its other nickname, “Brew City.” By the late 1800s, Milwaukee was home to some of the biggest beer dynasties in America — names like Pabst, Schlitz, Miller, and Blatz.
Another fun fact? Milwaukee is sometimes called the “Cream City” — not for dairy, but for the creamy, golden-colored bricks made from local clay, which give many historic buildings their distinctive look. And if you’ve ever tuned into Happy Days or watched Laverne & Shirley, you’ve already had a pop-culture taste of Milwaukee’s spirit.
Today, Milwaukee is a city of festivals, lakefront beauty, iconic architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods that celebrate its past while creating new stories. From world-class museums and music halls to cozy taverns and lively markets, Milwaukee is a city that knows how to work hard, play hard, and welcome you in.
So buckle up — we’re about to discover the good land together, one stop at a time.
