Doors Open Milwaukee
Save the Date: September 26 & 27, 2026
Doors Open Milwaukee is an annual celebration of Milwaukee's architecture, history and neighborhoods. The event opens 160+ locations throughout the metro area to tour for free. The 2025 program took place on Sept 27 & 28 and drew 81,000 site visits to locations accross Milwaukee.
Keep Doors Open Free
Doors Open Milwaukee 2026 FAQs
When is Doors Open Milwaukee?
Doors Open Milwaukee 2026 will take place September 26–27, 2026.
What is Doors Open Milwaukee?
Doors Open Milwaukee is a free community event that provides behind-the-scenes access to more than 150 locations throughout Milwaukee. Participants can explore historic buildings, cultural landmarks, neighborhoods, and unique spaces across the city.
Is Doors Open Milwaukee free?
Most Doors Open Milwaukee locations and activities are free and open to the public.
How many locations will participate?
More than 150 locations are expected to participate in this year’s event.
When will the list of participating locations be announced?
The full roster of participating locations will be published during the first week of September so visitors can begin planning their Doors Open weekend.
Are there ticketed tours?
Yes. In addition to free locations, Doors Open Milwaukee will offer approximately 40 special ticketed tours.
How much do ticketed tours cost?
Ticket prices range from free to $10 per ticket, depending on the tour.
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets for special tours will be released in two phases:
- Member presale begins September 2
- General public sales begin September 9
Will municipal tours be free?
Yes. Popular municipal tours, including Milwaukee City Hall Bell Tower and Jones Island tours, will be available free of charge beginning September 9.
Land Acknowledgement
We hope our program will not only raise awareness and appreciation of Milwaukee’s architecture and built environment, but also help protect the diversity of income, culture, race, and ethnicity that make neighborhoods livable for everyone. Read our full Land Acknowledgement.
Photo and Video Release Info
Historic Milwaukee staff, volunteers and contract employees may document the event for future promotional materials, fundraising or advertising of Historic Milwaukee, Inc. By attending Doors Open Milwaukee on September 27 and 28, 2025, participants grant full permission to Historic Milwaukee, Inc. to use photographs, videotapes, motion pictures, or any other record of this event, for any legitimate purpose without any monetary payment.
