While Milwaukee’s African American community is primarily located in the city’s northern half, distinct neighborhoods offer a variety of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. Discover activities from canoeing to concerts, basketball to Bronzeville, and festival to food.
Bronzeville
Explore Milwaukee’s premier African American hub of activity and culture.
- Home of Milwaukee’s Juneteenth Festival
- Discover the neighborhood during Bronzeville Week
Sherman Park
Resiliency and rebuilding in Sherman Park has led to an influx of Black restaurants, beauty shops, and wellness studios.
- Discover Sherman Phoenix, Milwaukee’s premiere African American social space
- Stroll through the city’s largest permanent Black art gallery, Greenwood Park Gallery and Framing
West Side
The West Side offers a diverse range of food, beauty, and shops for its residents.
- Compete against gamers at The Battle Box
- Bite into tasty treats with Bougie Berries sweets
Downtown
World class dining, nightlife, and entertainment are no stranger to downtown and the trendy Third Ward.
- Explore events and festivals, including Black Arts Fest
- Cheer on the Milwaukee Bucks NBA team at Fiserv Forum
North Side
The North Side is an expansive area of the city and houses an ample selection of restaurants and lounges.
- Cool off at Schulz Aquatic Park in Lincoln Park
- Take a hike through Havenwoods State Forest
Near West Side
From music, to scenic relaxation, to historic homes the Near West Side offers activities for everyone.
- Canoe on the lake in Washington Park
- Sing your heart out at The Rave/Eagles Club concert hall
Near North Side
Nestled between the Sherman Park and Bronzeville areas, the Near North Side is home to many of Milwaukee’s oldest Black businesses.
- Discover the past in the Wisconsin Black Historical Society
- Eat chicken and waffles at Coffee Makes You Black (be sure to try the mango tea)
Northwest Side
Milwaukee’s Northwest Side is undergoing a revitalization to better serve its community, leading to an increase of dining and shopping options.
- Eat and Drink at the Hideaway
Riverwest/East Side
West of the Milwaukee river is Riverwest, an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants. Across the river is the East Side, home to college students, young professionals and the city’s beach life.
- Enjoy the city’s best view while listening to Skyline Music
- Have a night out on North Avenue or Brady Street bars
South Side
While the city’s South Side lacks a strong African American community, explore food and culture in Milwaukee’s Latino neighborhoods, and nightlife in Walker’s Point and Bay View.
- Venture to Milwaukee’s LGBTQ Social Scene in Walker’s Point
- Visit the Mitchell Park Domes
Suburbs
Most of the Milwaukee area’s African American residences live in the city, however a number of Black owned businesses have thrived in the Suburbs.
- Breakout of an escape room at Catch-22
- Shop at Mayfair, Mayfair Collection, Southridge, and Brookfield Square