With over half a million residents, Milwaukee is Wisconsin's largest and most diverse city. Downtown Milwaukee is filled with plenty of young professionals and families happy to take in the urban vibe, historic charm, world-class cuisine, and breath-taking views of Lake Michigan. Finding the right area for your perfect apartment is crucial to making yourself feel at home. We're here to help you find the perfect place whether you're looking for a luxury apartment downtown or a condo in the suburbs.
When to Search
Most apartment searching starts in January, peaks in the late summer, and dies off by September. However, compared to some other cities hunting for Milwaukee apartments remains a viable option year-round.
Remember that property managers like renters with great references so check with a former landlords to see if they will recommend you. Also, while we certainly don't recommend paying a security deposit before touring the apartment, the faster you submit your application and security deposit, the faster your application can be processed. If you are going to be living with roommates, it is important that the property manager meets with them as so bring them along for the tour if possible. If you are not signing a joint lease, it is possible the landlord will require a co-signer for each lease agreement.
Searching for an apartment home can be tough. That's why we scour the web to get all best listings around town. And our team of local experts verify the quality and accuracy of those listings to make sure that you have the best prices, images and information available. So unlike searching on Craigslist, you can be sure that Rentable's listings are safe, trustworthy and accurate.
Life in Milwaukee
Transportation
Currently ranked as the 15th most walkable city according to Walkscore, there's a great blend of accessible public transportation, with some downtown parking access. As a happy medium, transportation options will really depend on what you're used to. If you're used to driving, be prepared to search for a few minutes to find parking. On the other hand, if you're used to the complexities of big city public transportation, prepare to get from A to B with a reliable, if slightly underwhelming, bus system.
Where to play
If you like baseball, symphonies, and museums, the downtown residential area has you covered. The Symphony Orchestra draws in top musical talent, while the Art Museum brings in world class art. However, if neighborhood haunts and festivals are more your thing, you can take your pick there too. Many neighborhoods make living there feel like an exciting place to live. From indie bands and motorcycle tours, to the State Fair and Summer Fest, you will not be bored and everything should be within walking distance or a quick drive away.
Attractions
Though it has plenty of attractions that can occupy your time on days off, there are few local favorites that keep people returning again and again. The County Zoo spans over 200 acres and features over 2,000 creatures, though the Giraffe feeding and Safari Sky Ride are visitor favorites. You can also visit the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory anytime of the year, a three-domed botanical wonderland featuring unique plants from a wide variety of climates. Is the cold cramping your style? Don't worry. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the beautiful architecture that the city has to offer. Take a tour of the stunning Basilica of St. Josaphat, a Franciscan church complete with decorative dome, sky high ceilings, and stained glass that rivals that of old French cathedrals! If you're a beer fan or simply love unusual places, take a tour of the Pabst Mansion, once the home of the beer company's famous founder.
Dining
There are a number of exceptional restaurants that offer delectable cuisines from across the world. For fluffy omelets and to-die-for homemade Greek yogurt, stop by the Mad Rooster. If you're looking for a more unique breakfast, grab an unusual calamari scramble or shrimp omelet at Blue's Egg. Looking for a lunch destination? Take a leisurely walk at the Milwaukee Public Market, an indoor market that caters to many different tastes and makes for the perfect lunch spot. Of course, St. Paul's Fish lobster rolls are considered a must-have.
There are plenty of restaurants with views along the Milwaukee River as well; check out Milwaukee Ale House, Canvas, or the Riverfront Pizzeria & Grill.
Other popular dinner spots include RuYi, an exceptional restaurant mix of Asian cuisines, and Maxie's, which offers a delectable menu featuring classic Southern comfort food.
If you've saved room for dessert, grab some delicious old-fashioned ice cream at Purple Door Ice Cream or unique Indian confections at Bombay Sweets. Still hungry after a trip to the bar? Grab late night tacos at Taqueria Buenavista or a bowl of hot chili from Real Chili.
Bars
It's no secret citizens here love its bars, so any nightlife lover will have more than their fair share of options to choose from. Lovers of the craft cocktail can head over to Bryant's, a depression era bar that has become synonymous with quality. People looking to get their foot in the door of the nightclub scene should head over to The Mad Planet, a funky club that brings people of all different cliques together for a shot or two. Lovers of quirk and geekery can frequent the 42 Lounge, a relaxing joint named after Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy that offers a unique atmosphere and many games for visitor enjoyment. Enjoy the dive bar atmosphere? Check out Axel's Inn, the closest bar to the campus residential that offers unbelievable drink specials. Those searching for a more diverse crowd can take a look at Hooligan's Super Bar, which boasts the city’s most generous collection of micro beers and famous Bloody Mary's.
Culture
Boasting some world-class cultural attractions that are sure to please any artistic person. For a little taste of the region’s performing arts culture, check out the Repertory Theater, which offers a wide variety of shows ranging from classics to cabaret. For something a little more music-oriented, head over to the Symphony Orchestra or the Ballet. You can also hit up the historic Pabst Theater for a concert or two. They hold around 100 shows per year, meaning that you're sure to find something to love! More of a visual arts person? Don't fret! You can visit Marquette’s Haggerty Museum of Art and enjoy exhibitions featuring Italian Renaissance "Petite Masters," as well as the work of several American artists. For something a little more off the beaten path, take a look at the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum, which is housed in a stunning Renaissance-style villa.
Events
Earning the title "City of Festivals" for good reason! There always seems to be something going down year-round. Aside from the summer's weekly ethnic festivals, Home to the Wisconsin State Fair, this 11-day celebration of the city's beloved state features a little something for everyone, ranging from amusement rides to food stands to petting zoos. Summerfest is the world's largest music festival, featuring over 800 acts and garnering visits from around the world. For a winter celebration, be sure to check out the Holiday Lights Festival, which paints the historic downtown in thousands of glittering Christmas lights in honor of the holiday season!
Shopping
There are many ways you can shop the day away, the North Avenue District offers several unique stores, including hip clothing shops and a world jeweler. Brady Street also has many funky boutiques and singular food shops, allowing you to spend hours browsing for great finds. The most hip shopping area is definitely the Third Ward, which has a lovely mix of clothing stores, art galleries, and home décor.
For a more traditional shopping experience, look to the Mayfair Mall to access upscale national chains like Banana Republic and Pottery Barn. Some other shopping malls in the area include Southridge and Brookfield Square.
Sports
Proud of its many sports teams and known for being home to some notable snapshots in sports history. One of the city's most beloved sports traditions is tailgating before Brewers' baseball games at American Family Field (formerly Miller Park) just outside of downtown. The NBA's Bucks at Fiserv Forum are also an area favorite. On the college level, it's basically unheard of not to attend UWM Panthers game. Even if you're not a sports lover, it can be a blast watching these talented athletes shoot hoops at the U.S. Cellular Arena.
Outdoors
Winning national awards for its well-maintained park system. Lake Park runs right along Lake Michigan and was designed by the same landscape architect who created Central Park. This lovely park is known for its ravines, natural landscaping, golf course, and historic North Point Lighthouse. Play a game or two of beach volleyball along the shores of the Lake at Bradford Park. Ride bikes or go fishing at Lakeshore State Park, 22 acres of green space with jogging paths set just east of downtown. You can also give the Horticultural Conservatory a visit at Mitchell Park. Your options for outdoor activity are virtually endless!