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Parks

Grant Park

4.7 · 4,404 reviews
Naturalistic and rugged woodland.
Grant Park, 100 Hawthorne Ave, South Milwaukee, WI 53172, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park's iconic stone bridges were constructed by the Works Progress Administration during the 1930s.

2

The Seven Bridges Trail is a ravine-carved path that features a series of staircases leading directly to the Lake Michigan waterline.

3

The site is part of the Milwaukee County Park System, which was historically designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted’s firm.

4

Grant Park serves as a significant stopover for migratory birds due to its location on the Lake Michigan shoreline.

5

The park was originally established in the early 20th century, serving as one of the oldest developed park lands in the Milwaukee County system.

Overview

Grant Park in South Milwaukee is defined by its dramatic Lake Michigan shoreline, featuring high bluffs and a public beach accessed by a historic staircase. The park covers over 380 acres of land along the Oak Creek Parkway. It houses an 18-hole golf course managed by Milwaukee County Parks. A network of multi-use trails winds through the forested ravine and meadows, connecting to the broader Oak Creek trail system. The WPA-era stone bridges and structures remain visible throughout the landscape. The area is notable for its proximity to the Seven Bridges Trail, which descends through a wooded ravine to the beach.

Photo spot

The mid-point of the ravine on the Seven Bridges Trail looking toward the stone bridges.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the ravine trails and uneven stairs.

Bring binoculars if visiting during spring or fall migration periods for bird watching.

Check local water quality reports before planning a beach swim, as conditions can fluctuate.

What to avoid

Attempting to hike the Seven Bridges Trail during or immediately after heavy rainfall, as paths become slippery and prone to mud.

Good to know

Beach lifeguards are only on duty during the peak summer season; park grounds are accessible year-round, though some trails may be seasonal.

Etiquette

Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion in the fragile ravine ecosystem; carry out all trash to keep the natural areas pristine.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-4 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in autumn for cooler temperatures and bird migration sightings.
Address
Grant Park, 100 Hawthorne Ave, South Milwaukee, WI 53172, United States
42.919, -87.847
Get directions
Details
TerrainRavine, wooded bluffs, and sandy beach
Recreational Features18-hole golf course and regional trail access

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in autumn for cooler temperatures and bird migration sightings..

The mid-point of the ravine on the Seven Bridges Trail looking toward the stone bridges.

Close by you'll find Seven Bridges, Sheridan Park, Lake Vista Park.