The Historic Third Ward is Milwaukee’s premier destination for art, fashion, dining, and culture.

Recommended For

Shoppers
Discover unique boutiques, fashion-forward brands, and local artisan shops.

Foodies
Enjoy diverse culinary experiences, food tours, and the iconic Milwaukee Public Market.

Art & theater lovers
Explore dozens of art galleries and catch performances at the Broadway Theatre Center.

History buffs
Learn about the neighborhood’s rebirth after the Great Fire of 1892.

History

The Historic Third Ward was once Milwaukee’s commercial warehouse district, devastated by a massive fire in 1892 that destroyed 16 blocks. Rebuilt over the next 30 years, the area thrived again as a hub of commerce and shipping. In 1976, the Historic Third Ward Association was founded to guide revitalization and preserve the neighborhood’s unique architecture. Today, the district is home to over 500 businesses, 1,200 residential condominiums, and more than 5,000 employees, blending history, creativity, and commerce in a dynamic urban setting.

Shopping

The Third Ward is known for its eclectic and stylish shopping scene. Visitors can browse trendy accessories, designer fashion, home décor, and one-of-a-kind gifts. National retailers like Anthropologie and Lululemon sit alongside beloved local shops such as:

  • The Home Market – Home décor and interior design pieces
  • Broadway Paper – Fine stationery and unique gift items
  • Luminosity, Inc – Lighting and contemporary furnishings
  • Window Vogue and Inspired – Specialty home and lifestyle shops

Dining & Food Tours

From gourmet fare to casual bites, the Third Ward is packed with culinary delights. Sip locally roasted coffee, grab fresh seafood at St. Paul Fish Company, enjoy rooftop dining, or taste your way through global cuisines at the Milwaukee Public Market.

  • Food Tours: Milwaukee Food & City Tours offers a behind-the-scenes look at top eateries with full meals served in progressive tastings, local history stories, and fun over 2.5–3 hours.

Arts & Culture

Creativity runs deep in the Third Ward. With the highest concentration of art galleries in Milwaukee, the district is also home to design studios, artisan collectives, and performance venues. Highlights include:

  • Milwaukee Artist Resource Center
  • Edelman Studios LLC and independent galleries
  • Broadway Theatre Center: Home to the Skylight Music Theatre and Renaissance Theaterworks
  • Fred Astaire Dance Studio, Trinity Academy of Irish Dance
  • Harley-Davidson Museum: Just a short walk away from the heart of the district

Annual Events

  • Gallery Night and Day: Quarterly art walk featuring gallery openings and local artists
  • Third Ward Art Festival: Labor Day weekend event featuring artists from around the country
  • Sidewalk Sale: End-of-summer shopping event with major discounts from local retailers
  • Small Business Saturday: Special promotions the Saturday before Thanksgiving
  • Christmas in the Ward: Kick off the holiday season with fireworks, Santa, and festive cheer
  • Summer Sizzle: Free outdoor jazz concert (currently on hiatus)

Nearby Attractions

Visitors can also explore nearby highlights such as:

  • Henry W. Maier Festival Park: Home to Summerfest and dozens of cultural festivals
  • Milwaukee Public Market: An anchor of the Third Ward’s culinary scene
  • Lakefront trails, museums, and waterfront parks just blocks away

Visitor Tips

  • Accessibility: The neighborhood is walkable, with nearby parking structures and public transit options
  • Best time to visit: Summer and fall for festivals, art events, and outdoor dining
  • Where to start: Begin your visit at the Milwaukee Public Market, then explore shops, galleries, and theaters on foot

Location

Historic Third Ward
219 N Milwaukee Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-273-1173
Website: historicthirdward.org

Plan Your Trip