Things to Do in Milwaukee During the 2026 World Series
There’s something special about visiting a city when it’s on the verge of making history.
I arrived in Milwaukee for the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) Conference, expecting a few days of professional development, good food, and opportunities to explore a city I hadn’t spent much time getting to know.
What I hadn’t anticipated was being here just as the Milwaukee Brewers prepared to face the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2026 World Series.
For Milwaukee, it’s a particularly exciting moment. The Brewers haven’t appeared in a World Series since 1982, and this year’s matchup guarantees that one of the two teams will celebrate its first championship.
Suddenly, there’s another reason for travelers to put Milwaukee on their radar.
And here’s the thing: You don’t have to be a baseball fan, or even have tickets to a game, to enjoy a visit.
I’ve spent the past several days discovering Milwaukee’s food scene, museums, and local hospitality. Whether you’re coming for the World Series or planning a Wisconsin weekend getaway, here are some places worth adding to your itinerary.
Milwaukee World Series 2026: What Visitors Need to Know
The Milwaukee Brewers will host the Tampa Bay Rays at American Family Field for the first two games of the 2026 World Series.
Milwaukee home games:
- Friday, October 23 — Game 1, 7 p.m. Central
- Saturday, October 24 — Game 2, 7 p.m. Central
- Friday, October 30 — Game 6, if necessary
- Saturday, October 31 — Game 7, if necessary
With the city welcoming baseball fans and visitors, it’s a good idea to make hotel and restaurant reservations early.
For official game information and tickets, visit MLB.com.
Where to Stay in Milwaukee: Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
During my Milwaukee visit, I’ve been staying at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, which offers an interesting option for visitors who want accommodations, dining, and entertainment in one location.
The property has a variety of restaurants and bars, along with a casino and a dedicated sportsbook.
One particularly appealing feature during the World Series is the Potawatomi Sportsbook. With a massive video wall, additional televisions, food, and bar service, it offers an alternative for fans who want to watch the games surrounded by other sports enthusiasts.
You don’t necessarily need a ticket to American Family Field to enjoy the excitement of World Series baseball.
Potawatomi also advertises shuttle transportation to Milwaukee Brewers home games, although visitors should confirm availability during the World Series and check the requirements before making plans.
For more information, visit Potawatomi Casino Hotel.
Milwaukee Art Museum: More Than Just a Pretty Building
One of the highlights of my Milwaukee visit was the Milwaukee Art Museum.
Even before you step inside, the building makes an impression. Its striking architecture overlooking Lake Michigan has become one of Milwaukee’s most recognizable landmarks.The museum’s Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Santiago Calatrava, features enormous movable wings that give the building an almost sculptural appearance. Inside, visitors can explore art collections spanning centuries and cultures.
For travelers who enjoy architecture, art, or simply discovering something beautiful in an unfamiliar city, this is a worthwhile stop.
And don’t overlook the setting. The lakefront provides opportunities for photographs and a little fresh air between museum visits and restaurant reservations.
Visit Milwaukee Art Museum for current exhibitions, admission, and hours.
Milwaukee Public Market: Come Hungry
Another stop I thoroughly enjoyed was the Milwaukee Public Market in the Historic Third Ward.
Our conference held an event here, giving me an opportunity to wander around and see what was available. The market is filled with food vendors, specialty shops, and plenty of tempting options for something to eat or drink.
I treated myself to a margarita while exploring, because sometimes the best way to appreciate a destination is with a beverage in hand.
The Public Market is an especially good choice for groups or families because everyone can find something different to enjoy. It’s also an easy place to stop for lunch while exploring the surrounding Historic Third Ward neighborhood, known for its shops, restaurants, and converted warehouse buildings.
Visit Milwaukee Public Market.
Where to Eat in Milwaukee: A Memorable Dinner at High Stakes
One of the unexpected pleasures of travel is discovering a restaurant that stays with you long after the meal is over. For me, that happened at High Stakes.
During the conference, I joined the group for dinner at this upscale Milwaukee restaurant, where I enjoyed what may have been one of the best steaks I’ve ever eaten. And I’ve eaten my share of steaks.
The evening became even more memorable when I had the opportunity to meet Chef Paul Bartolotta and take a photograph with him.
I love learning about the people behind memorable dining experiences, particularly chefs whose careers and dedication have helped shape a city’s culinary reputation. High Stakes is a restaurant I’d consider for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or simply an evening when you want to splurge on an exceptional meal.
Reservations are especially advisable during a busy weekend such as the World Series.
More Milwaukee Restaurants and Places for a Drink
Milwaukee’s culinary scene goes well beyond traditional Wisconsin fare, although there’s certainly nothing wrong with enjoying cheese curds, sausages, and a locally brewed beer. While attending the conference, I also chatted with a local wine professional who shared several recommendations worth exploring.
For cocktails and nightlife, Agency and Major Goolsby’s were among the suggestions. Wine enthusiasts may want to investigate Thelma Carol Wine Merchants, while visitors interested in discovering a different side of Milwaukee might enjoy exploring the city’s neighborhood bars and locally owned establishments.
Other restaurants worth considering include Onesto, an Italian restaurant in the Historic Third Ward, and Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria, which features globally inspired street food and an extensive tequila selection.
These are recommendations for further exploration rather than restaurants I’ve personally visited on this trip.
For a distinctly Wisconsin experience, consider seeking out local favorites such as Usinger’s sausages, Milwaukee Pretzel Company, and Kopp’s Frozen Custard. After all, visiting Wisconsin without trying frozen custard seems like a missed opportunity.
Harley-Davidson Museum: A Milwaukee Classic
You don’t have to ride a motorcycle to appreciate the Harley-Davidson Museum. Milwaukee is the birthplace of Harley-Davidson, and the museum celebrates the company’s history, motorcycles, and influence on American culture. It’s a popular attraction for motorcycle enthusiasts, but also an interesting stop for visitors who appreciate design, engineering, and American history.
The museum makes a good addition to a weekend itinerary, especially for couples or families traveling with older children.
Visit Harley-Davidson Museum.
More Things to Do in Milwaukee Between World Series Games
If you have an extra day or two in Milwaukee, there are plenty of attractions beyond baseball.
Discovery World
Located along Milwaukee’s lakefront, Discovery World offers interactive science and technology exhibits, making it an appealing destination for families traveling with children.
National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum
For something a little quirky, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates those familiar nodding collectibles. Several conference attendees who visited spoke enthusiastically about the experience. Baseball fans may find this an especially entertaining stop.
Pabst Mansion
Milwaukee’s brewing history is reflected in its architecture, including the historic Pabst Mansion. Visitors interested in history and historic homes can learn more about the family behind one of America’s most recognizable beer brands.
Haggerty Museum of Art
Located at Marquette University, the Haggerty Museum of Art offers free admission and is another option for visitors interested in arts and culture.
Milwaukee RiverWalk and Historic Third Ward
If the weather cooperates, make time to explore the city’s RiverWalk and the Historic Third Ward. Both offer opportunities to experience Milwaukee beyond its major tourist attractions.
Milwaukee’s Brewing History Is Worth Exploring
There’s a reason Milwaukee is often called Brew City.
Beer and brewing have played an important role in the city’s history, and visitors can explore that heritage through historic sites, brewery tours, and modern craft breweries.
The Pabst Mansion, Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery, and Milwaukee’s brewery attractions offer different perspectives on the city’s brewing past.
For those more interested in contemporary craft beer, Third Space Brewing and Pilot Project Brewing are among the establishments to investigate. I did get a chance to sample a variety of local beers at a tasting event, including Third Space Brewing and could see their brewery from my hotel window.
The Brew City Trail is another resource for travelers who want to explore Milwaukee’s beer culture.
Visit Brew City Trail for more information.
Tips for Visiting Milwaukee During the World Series
If you’re planning a last-minute Milwaukee getaway during the World Series, a little preparation can make the experience more enjoyable.
Book accommodations early. World Series weekends can create significant demand for hotel rooms, particularly around downtown and the ballpark.
Make dinner reservations. Popular restaurants may be especially busy on game nights.
Consider transportation before heading to the ballpark. Check official parking information, rideshare options, and any hotel or restaurant shuttles that may be operating.
Plan a few activities beyond baseball. Milwaukee has enough museums, restaurants, and attractions to fill an entire weekend.
Pack for Wisconsin weather. Late October can bring cool temperatures, wind, and changing conditions. Layers and comfortable walking shoes are a good idea.
And if you can’t get tickets? Find a comfortable spot to watch the game, order something delicious, and enjoy being in a city celebrating its team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Milwaukee for the World Series
Where is the 2026 World Series being played in Milwaukee?
The Milwaukee Brewers will host World Series games at American Family Field. Games 1 and 2 are scheduled for October 23 and 24, with Games 6 and 7 potentially returning to Milwaukee if necessary.
Can you visit Milwaukee during the World Series without game tickets?
Absolutely. Visitors can enjoy restaurants, museums, breweries, and other attractions while experiencing the excitement surrounding the games. Sports bars and venues such as Potawatomi Sportsbook offer options for watching televised baseball.
What are the best things to do in Milwaukee for a weekend?
Popular choices include the Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Market, Harley-Davidson Museum, Discovery World, Historic Third Ward, and attractions connected to the city’s brewing history.
Is Milwaukee a good destination for families?
Yes. Families can explore interactive attractions such as Discovery World, visit museums, enjoy local food favorites, and discover Milwaukee’s lakefront and public spaces.
How many days should you spend in Milwaukee?
A two- or three-day weekend provides time to explore several major attractions, enjoy the local dining scene, and experience some of Milwaukee’s distinctive neighborhoods.
Why Milwaukee Deserves a Visit Beyond the World Series
My trip to Milwaukee began with a professional conference, but it’s become an opportunity to discover a destination with far more to offer than I initially expected.
From an extraordinary steak dinner to wandering through the Milwaukee Public Market and exploring the Art Museum, I’ve found plenty of reasons to recommend a visit.
The World Series may be putting Milwaukee in the national spotlight this October, but the city’s museums, restaurants, brewing traditions, and local character are worth discovering any time of year.
And sometimes, the best travel experiences happen when you arrive for one reason and leave with several more reasons to return.
Disclosure: I attended Milwaukee as part of the 2026 IFWTWA Conference. I personally paid for my accommodations at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino and dinner at High Stakes. Complimentary admission to the Milwaukee Art Museum was provided, and I attended a conference event at Milwaukee Public Market. All opinions are my own.
