Activity Page
Check out the fun activity page for this neighborhood, designed by artist CK Ledema. Available in English and Spanish. Click to download and print!
Página de Actividad
Vea la página de actividades divertidas para este vecindario, diseñada por el artista CK Ledema. Disponible en ingles y español. Haga clic para descargar e imprimir!
About the Neighborhood
Located just west of Downtown Milwaukee, the Near West Side or also referred to as the "neighborhood of neighborhoods", is made up of seven separate unique neighborhoods, each with its own history. Home to a wide range of businesses and the five Anchor Institutions, this vibrant area has many jobs, thriving businesses, nonprofit organizations, high performing schools, healthcare institutions, restaurants and entertainment options. Nearly 28,000 people live in the NWS, including 10,000 university students.
The Near West Side, as defined by the City of Milwaukee, is bound by I-43 (east), HWY 41 (west), Vliet Street and Highland Boulevard (north), I-94 (south).
Near West Side neighborhoods include:
- Avenues West
- Cold Spring Park
- Concordia
- Martin Drive
- Merrill Park
- Miller Valley
- The Valley/Piggsville
History
The Near West Side is rich with architectural character and historical housing. Some historical landmarks in the area include the Pabst Mansion, Ambassador Hotel and the Historic Eagles Club.
Once known for being one of the wealthier areas in Milwaukee, the neighborhoods of the Near West Side are now known for affordable housing, plentiful businesses and a diverse demographic of residents. The area is seeing increasing investment, with more than $250 million invested over the past 5 years in institutions, housing and commercial development.
A major anchor in the neighborhood, Marquette University, has been in the area since 1881. Other major institutions and anchors include Aurora Health Care, Harley-Davidson, MillerCoors and Potawatomi Business Development Corporation – all of which contribute to a strong work force in this neighborhood.
Visit the Near West Side
You can explore Historic Concordia from the comfort of your home but this web app was specially designed as a self-guided tour while exploring our neighborhood by foot, car, or bicycle.
Near West Side Virtual Housing Resource Fair | Saturday, September 26th: NWSP and Take Root Milwaukee will host a virtual Near West Side Housing Resouce Fair at 10 AM.
Made in the Near West Side | Wednesday, September 30th & October 7th: Made in the Near West Side series continues with demonstrations from Chef Lisa McKay, of Lisa Kaye Catering, live on Facebook at 4 PM. Check out Near West Side Partners on Facebook to view the videos and place your order for a ready-to-enjoy meal from Chef Lisa.
Vliet Street Oasis | Wednesday-Friday 3-6 PM & Saturday-Sunday 1-4 PM: Visit the Near West Side's urban produce stands at the Vliet Street Oasis, 3743 W Vliet Street, and enjoy seasonal produce and homemade treats prepared by local farmers, makers, and bakers. Located next door to Triciclo Peru and Pete's Pops, the Vliet Street Oasis provides ample outdoor space to enjoy a meal or a pop with family and friends. Visit Near West Side Partners on Facebook for vendor updates daily.
Guidelines for Visiting Neighborhoods
While Historic Milwaukee is not opening buildings and sites to tour this year, we still encourage you to visit these recommended neighborhood locations for self-guided experiences. When visiting neighborhood locations please follow the mask ordinance - wear a mask and maintain social distance and respect residents and neighbors.
Acknowledgements
Special thanks to artist CK Ledesma who designed and created the Doors Open Neighborhoods Activity pages. Thanks also to the neighborhood leaders to contributed information and recommendations on things to do and places to see in their neighborhoods. And thank you to the Greater Milwaukee Foundation for their support of the Activity Booklet.
