Explore downtown Milwaukee from indoors! Stroll through the skywalk system and learn about significant Milwaukee landmarks from a new angle – one story up!

The City's 1.75-mile skywalk system connects numerous buildings across 8 city blocks. This tour will venture through some of the skywalks sharing the transformation of buildings including The Grand Avenue Mall (1982), Plankinton Arcade (1916), the Warner Theater (1930) and more. In addition, the tour covers Indigenous history, important Milwaukee political and cultural figures as well as public art, new residential conversions and local businesses.

After the tour, check out the Third Street Market Hall or Canary Coffee Bar. Nearby, you can see the newly created Vel R. Phillips Plaza.

Duration: 1.5 hours

1 mile, moderate pace

Great For:

  • Locals & Visitors
  • Winter Fun
  • Architecture
  • Urban Planning

Starting Location

Meet your guide at the John Plankinton statue inside The Avenue, formerly the Grand Avenue Mall, in the rotunda.

I loved the architecture , the history, seeing the river and the city from that unique view of the skywalks.  It was very interesting and fun!

Our tour guide was a native of Milwaukee and had great personal stories to share. We really enjoyed learning more about the history of Milwaukee. Thank you!