Going With the Flow

Milwaukee is making a splash in the world of freshwater technologies and conservation. Explore it all on the new self-guided Water Current Tour.

➞ Located at the confluence of three rivers and perched on the shimmering shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a city inextricably connected to the freshwater that runs through it. Go with the flow and explore the coursing bodies of water that make Milwaukee the freshwater capital of the world.

STOP #1 HARLEY-DAVIDSON

Rumble in to learn about the history of the 120-year-old Harley-Davidson motorcycle brand and delve into the eco-friendly initiatives incorporated into the museum. Situated along the Menomonee River, the icon revs up the urban charm, offering stunning views for visitors of Milwaukee’s downtown.

STOP #2 GLOBAL WATER CENTER

As the country’s capital of freshwater tech, Milwaukee is teeming with companies researching ways to solve the world’s water challenges. Found in the Global Water Center, The Water Council works to unlock the solution to worldwide water security.

STOP #3

PALIAFITO ECO-ARTS PARK

A park designed for the community, Paliafito Eco-Arts Park is a place where residents and visitors are invited to engage in environmental and artistic projects. Featuring a community garden planted by Escuela Vieau students, art-making workshops, and eco-education year-round, there’s so much more to this park than meets the eye.

STOP #4

Rockwell Automation

Visit the second-largest four-faced clock in the world for a sustainable surprise. Topping off the eighth floor of the Rockwell Automation Clocktower are a green rooftop and a hive of urban bees strategically situated to pollinate the neighborhood.

STOP #5

HARBOR VIEW PLAZA

Right next to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s

School of Freshwater Sciences, you’ll find a compact park with a playground and, as the name might suggest, scenic views of Milwaukee’s harbor area. Learn about native fish, the fascinating history of Jones Island, and UWM’s year-round freshwater research vessel, the Neeskay (Ho-Chunk for “Pure, clean water”).

STOP #6

BOONE & CROCKETT

One of the most stunning views in Milwaukee, with the bright lights of the Hoan as a backdrop, the tour visits Boone & Crockett, which resides in a former caskmaking building. The top- flight concert and event venue is also the home of Milwaukee Duffy Boat and Brew City Kayak. Stop by for a day on the water or a drink on the rocks, the choice is yours!

STOP #7

Confluence Point

Resting at the point where the Milwaukee, Kinnickinnic, and Menomonee rivers meet, the Confluence Point fosters a biodiversity essential to the ecosystem. Nearby, the RiverWalk connects downtown to surrounding neighborhoods. This stop also spotlights the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail, offering non-motorized crafts access to the city’s waterways.