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Parks #11 in Milwaukee

South Shore Park

4.7 · 2,135 reviews
Relaxed and community-focused
South Shore Park, 2900 S Shore Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53207, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park serves as a migration stopover for various bird species due to its position along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

2

It is home to the South Shore Yacht Club, which has been a local institution since 1913.

3

The park is situated adjacent to the South Shore Marina, which provides docking facilities for local watercraft.

4

The beer garden often hosts live music performances during the peak summer season.

5

The land for the park was historically acquired and developed as part of Milwaukee's early 20th-century waterfront expansion.

Overview

South Shore Park is a lakeside recreational space located on the shores of Lake Michigan in the Bay View neighborhood of Milwaukee. It features a prominent beer garden operated by the Milwaukee County Parks system, which serves local craft beers. The park provides direct access to the Oak Leaf Trail, a major regional multi-use path system. Visitors can utilize the South Shore Yacht Club, which is situated on the park's grounds. The park also hosts a public beach area and a pavilion available for community events. It offers expansive views of the Milwaukee skyline across the lake. The facility serves as a primary outdoor gathering spot for the local Bay View community. A playground and picnic areas are maintained on-site for recreational use.

Photo spot

The breakwall area near the yacht club at sunset for panoramic views of the downtown Milwaukee skyline.

Insider tips

Bring a light jacket, as lake breezes can make temperatures significantly cooler than inland Milwaukee.

Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride along the adjacent Oak Leaf Trail for a scenic tour of the shoreline.

Check the county parks website for live music schedules before planning your beer garden visit.

What to avoid

Visiting the beach during high-wind advisories, as lake conditions can become unpredictable.

Good to know

The beer garden operates seasonally during warmer months; park grounds remain open year-round.

Etiquette

Carry-in/carry-out trash policy applies; keep pets on a leash in designated areas.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Late afternoon on a summer weekday to enjoy the sunset over the skyline with fewer crowds.
Address
South Shore Park, 2900 S Shore Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53207, United States
42.996, -87.882
Get directions
Details
AmenitiesBeer garden, playground, beach access, picnic areas
ConnectivityDirect access to Oak Leaf Trail

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon on a summer weekday to enjoy the sunset over the skyline with fewer crowds..

The breakwall area near the yacht club at sunset for panoramic views of the downtown Milwaukee skyline.

Close by you'll find Milwaukee Art Museum, Basilica of Saint Josaphat, Bay View Park.