Summer won’t last forever, but there’s still time to stretch out on the grass, chase sunsets and linger by the lake.
From romantic picnic spots in Milwaukee to family-friendly beaches with sweeping Lake Michigan views, here are 8 of the best places to enjoy what’s left of summer in Milwaukee (plus spots to grab carry-out for an impromptu picnic nearby).
1. Steps to Lake Park Pavilion
3133 E. Newberry Blvd., (414) 257-PARK (7275)
lakeparkfriends.org
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Skip the lawn and head around to the area behind Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro. The sweeping steps behind Lake Park Bistro overlook the lake and double as built-in seating. So they're ideal for everything from an early-morning coffee to a late-night snack under the stars.
Easy picnic: Grab coffee, a snack or a sandwich from Valentine Coffee or a sandwich from Cafe Hollander on Downer
2. North Point Lighthouse
2650 N. Wahl Ave., (414) 332-6754
northpointlighthouse.org
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It’s worth climbing the 84 steps to the top of the 74-foot tower for the view alone. But even just spreading out beneath this historic East Side landmark with lunch on a sunny day feels like quintessential summer in Milwaukee.
Easy picnic: Grab coffee and a snack from Stone Creek Coffee on Downer or burritos or bowls from BelAir Cantina
3. Doctors Park beach
1870 E. Fox Ln., Fox Point, (414) 352-7502
doctorsparkfriends.org
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Follow the wooded path down to the water and veer left. The concrete steps tucked against the shoreline are quieter than the main beach, offering a peaceful perch for an afternoon escape.
Easy picnic: Carry-out sushi from Ginza Japanesein Bayside or sandwiches from Benji's Deli
4. Virmond Park bluff
10606 N. Lake Shore Dr., Mequon, (262) 241-5868
cityofmequonwi.gov
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Just minutes from the suburban cul-de-sacs of Mequon, this blufftop gem feels worlds away. Bring a blanket, let the lake breeze do its thing, and soak up wide-open views you wouldn’t expect this close to home. Then take a walk down the floating staircase, a remarkable feat of engineering that offers breathtaking views of the lake.
Easy picnic: Chinese carry-out from Yen Ching or sandwiches from Crave Bar & Food in Mequon
5. Lake Park waterfall
3133 E. Newberry Blvd., (414) 257-PARK (7275)
lakeparkfriends.org
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Hidden just south of the parking lot, this 30-foot waterfall feels like a secret oasis. Bring snacks and stay awhile. The sound of rushing water is as relaxing as it gets.
Easy picnic: Wraps from Shawarma House on Oakland
6. Pier at Atwater Beach
4000 N. Lake Dr., Shorewood, (414) 847-2650
villageofshorewood.org
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Everyone gathers at the bluff, but the real magic is near the water. Walk out onto one of Atwater’s piers, surrounded by nothing but lake and sky. Sunrise or sunset, you can’t go wrong.
Easy picnic: Fried chicken sandwiches from Foxhole Craft Beer Shop & Kitchen or burgers from Crave Cafe
7. Estabrook Beer Garden
4600 N. Estabrook Dr., (414) 219-9065
estabrookbeergarden.com
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Not exactly a hidden gem, but always a classic. Bring your own food (or get a brat there), grab a stein, and settle in beneath the trees for one of Milwaukee’s most beloved summer traditions. If you’ve got a little extra time, wander the wooded path down the hill to the west, where the Milwaukee River’s rushing rapids offer the perfect soundtrack for clearing your head.
Easy picnic: Fried chicken from Nino's Southern Sides in Shorewood
8. Veterans Park
1010 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr., (414) 257-PARK (7275)
county.milwaukee.gov
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From kites to kayaks, this Downtown lakefront park is never short on activity. Find a quiet patch of grass, enjoy the sweeping skyline and lake views, and linger until the sun dips behind the city.
Easy picnic: Sandwiches from Colectivo Coffee on the Lake or carry-out from Milwaukee Public Market
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.
