Milwaukee saw a huge influx of German immigrants in the late 1800’s and as a result has always been known for its brewing traditions. It also has many German food traditions that can still be found today. By 1856, there were more than two dozen breweries in Milwaukee, most of them German-owned and operated. Miller, Blatz, Pabst and Schlitz were all bottled there. Only Miller remains today, but there are several craft breweries that have started in the last few years. To experience the beer traditions make sure to see and visit:
Milwaukee Brewing Company: Sign up for a tour of the MKE 2nd St. Brewery. This is a local micro-brewing company making some excellent craft beers. Make sure to try Louie’s Demise, their medium-bodied amber ale and Outboard, their cream ale. Their Snake Oil Stout flavored with Anodyne Coffee’s express is also good and very unique. 613 S. 2nd St. They also have an ale house at 233 N. Water St. and the MKE 9th St. Brewery at 1128 N. 9th St.
Lakefront Brewery: At 1872 N. Commerce St., along the River Walk in Milwaukee, this is a well-known microbrewery founded in 1987. There are tours available along with a large tasting hall where you can sample their many beers. I liked a lighter lager but can’t wait to try the pumpkin lager on my next visit!
The Brewhouse Inn & Suites: At 1215 N. 10th St., this is a great place to stay if you are a beer fan. This is a 90 room all-suite, green, boutique hotel in the former Pabst brewery that operated for 150 years. The highlight is the five-story atrium featuring a stained glass window featuring King Gambrinus, the patron saint of beer and brewers, plus exposed brick, steel, the six original large copper brewing kettles and wood of the original factory. The hotel is somewhat isolated from downtown and for pedestrians, so a car is recommended. On site is a Jackson’s Blue Ribbon Pub featuring local beers, on tap, and American pub food. The former Pabst administration building across the street from The Brewhouse Inn & Suites, Best Place Milwaukee, can be visited as part of the history tour plus there is a tasting room for Pabst, Schlitz and root beer. 901 W. Juneau Ave.
