Milwaukee Bars with Outdoor Seating
Enjoy Milwaukee's beautiful weather at the best bars with patios, rooftops, and outdoor spaces. Perfect for summer cocktails, warm evenings, and al fresco dining.
Milwaukee's Outdoor Bar Scene
When the weather warms up in Milwaukee, there's nothing better than enjoying drinks on a patio or rooftop. The city's bars offer some of the best outdoor spaces in the Midwest, from riverside patios with stunning views to cozy beer gardens perfect for summer evenings.
Milwaukee's outdoor bar season typically runs from May through September, with many patios opening as early as April when temperatures allow. Whether you're looking for a romantic rooftop setting, a lively beer garden atmosphere, or a quiet patio for conversation, Milwaukee's outdoor bars deliver unforgettable experiences.
Best Outdoor Bar Areas: Third Ward (riverfront patios), Brady Street (street-level patios), Walker's Point (rooftop bars), Downtown (urban beer gardens)
17 Milwaukee Bars with Outdoor Seating
Campsite 131
131 N Jackson St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Shaker's Cigar Bar
422 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
The Wicked Hop
345 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Up-Down Milwaukee
615 E Brady St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Pabst Brewery and Taproom
1037 W Juneau Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Lakefront Brewery
1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Barnacle Bud's
1955 S Hilbert St, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Foundation
2718 N Bremen St, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Von Trier
2235 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Jack's American Pub
1323 E Brady St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Nomad World Pub
1401 E Brady St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
The Waterfront
2001 N Commerce St, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Boone & Crockett
2151 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Goodkind
2451 S Wentworth Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Hamburger Mary's
730 S 5th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Company Brewing
735 E Center St, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Blackbird
4423 N Oakland Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Why Milwaukee Outdoor Bars Are Special
Milwaukee's location on Lake Michigan provides perfect summer weather for outdoor drinking. Many bars capitalize on this with creative outdoor spaces that range from simple sidewalk patios to elaborate rooftop decks with fire pits, string lights, and panoramic city views.
The Third Ward's riverfront location makes it a hotspot for outdoor bars, with many establishments featuring patios overlooking the Milwaukee River. You can watch boats pass by while enjoying craft cocktails or local beers. Other neighborhoods like Brady Street offer vibrant street-level patios perfect for people-watching.
Milwaukee's outdoor bar culture also embraces the city's German heritage with several traditional beer gardens offering communal seating, live music, and a festive atmosphere that feels transported straight from Bavaria.
Types of Outdoor Spaces in Milwaukee Bars
- Rooftop Bars: Elevated spaces with city skyline or lake views, often featuring fire pits and upscale cocktails
- Riverfront Patios: Third Ward favorites with views of the Milwaukee River, boat traffic, and sunset views
- Beer Gardens: Traditional German-style outdoor spaces with communal tables, string lights, and family-friendly vibes
- Street Patios: Sidewalk seating perfect for people-watching on busy streets like Brady or Water Street
- Courtyard Spaces: Hidden gems tucked away from the street, offering quieter, more intimate settings
- Lakefront Decks: Rare but spectacular spaces near Lake Michigan with beach-like atmospheres
Best Times to Visit Outdoor Bars in Milwaukee
Peak Season (May-September): This is when Milwaukee's outdoor bars truly shine. Summer weekends get busy, so arrive early for the best patio seating. Many bars offer special outdoor menus and seasonal cocktails during these months.
Shoulder Season (April & October): Brave the cooler weather for less crowded patios. Many bars provide blankets and heat lamps, making outdoor drinking comfortable even when it's chilly. October is particularly beautiful with fall foliage.
Golden Hour (5-7pm): Sunset is magical on Milwaukee patios, especially riverfront locations facing west. Arrive for happy hour and stay for the sunset views.
Weekend Brunch (10am-2pm): Many outdoor bars serve brunch on weekends, offering bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys with your patio seating.
What to Expect at Milwaukee Outdoor Bars
• Seasonal Hours: Most outdoor spaces close for winter (November-March)
• Weather Dependent: Patios may close during rain or extreme weather
• First Come, First Served: Many outdoor bars don't take reservations for patio seating
• Pet Friendly: Many outdoor spaces welcome dogs (check individual bar policies)
• Live Music: Summer weekends often feature outdoor live music or DJs