On a hot summer day in Milwaukee, there’s only one place to be: Bradford Beach. This mile-long stretch of white sand on the shores of Lake Michigan is Milwaukee’s summer living room — the place where the city comes to swim, play volleyball, eat ice cream, and remember why living in Milwaukee is actually pretty great.
The Beach That Almost Wasn’t
Bradford Beach has had its ups and downs. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the beach fell into disrepair — the sand eroded, the facilities deteriorated, and attendance dropped. But Milwaukee didn’t give up on its most beloved beach. A major renovation in the 2000s restored Bradford Beach to its former glory, and today it’s busier than ever.
What to Do at Bradford Beach
Swimming is the obvious answer — the lake water is cold but refreshing, and the swimming area is well-marked and supervised by lifeguards during the summer season. But Bradford Beach is also home to one of the most active beach volleyball scenes in the Midwest, with courts available for pickup games and organized leagues.
The Bradford Beach Concessions stand serves food and drinks right on the beach. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from the water sports concession. Watch the sunset over the city skyline from the water’s edge. Or just spread out a towel and do absolutely nothing — sometimes that’s exactly what Milwaukee needs.
Getting There
Bradford Beach is located at 2400 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, just north of the Milwaukee Art Museum. Parking is available in the lot off Lincoln Memorial Drive, or take the bus. The beach is free and open to the public.
