Work-Life Balance: A Guide to Work and Play in a City of Vibrant Arts, Culture, and Outdoor Activities

Milwaukee is a city that should be on the radar of any tech industry professional seeking a great work-life balance. Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers a wide range of arts, culture, and outdoor activities just steps from corporate offices and coworking spaces. With its beginnings as a manufacturing hub in the late 19th century, Milwaukee attracted people from all over the world who brought their cultures, traditions, and customs, shaping the vibrant city we know today. Thanks to its strong manufacturing roots, Milwaukee has become a prosperous place to live and work, now boasting a hub for tech professionals. With so many things to do, Milwaukee makes it easy to find the perfect balance between work and play. From immersing yourself in the arts and culture scene to enjoying the great outdoors or simply relaxing with a pint of local craft beer, Milwaukee has something for everyone. Let’s dive into some of this vibrant city’s top activities and experiences.

Where Art Takes Center Stage

Begin your exploration of Milwaukee’s art scene with a visit to the iconic Milwaukee Art Museum, designed by world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. In addition to its impressive collection of over 30,000 works of art from around the world, the museum is famous for its unique architecture featuring a signature moveable sunscreen with wings that open and close like a bird’s wings. Make sure to attend MAM After Dark and Yoga virtual events that happen throughout the year. Plus, the Kohl’s Art Studio offers hands-on art projects for the whole family to create something truly unique.

Milwaukee Ballet is another local treasure that showcases incredible performances throughout the year. You can also find a wide range of music venues, including The Pabst Theater, The Riverside, Marcus Performing Arts Center, The Rave/Eagles Club, Miller High Life Theatre, The Riverside Theater, and Turner Hall, bringing in top headliners and world-class talent. Don’t miss the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, which regularly performs at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts.

Brews, Bikes, and Afternoon Tea

Milwaukee is known for its beer and brewing heritage. Take a tour of the Miller Brewery or check out one of the many craft breweries in the city. Harley-Davidson’s headquarters is also here, so you can tour the museum and see some amazing motorcycles. And if you’re looking for a more laid-back cultural experience, head to The Pfister Hotel for afternoon tea, a tradition that has been around for decades. Sip on tea and enjoy the panoramic views of Milwaukee and Lake Michigan from the 23rd-floor cocktail lounge, Blu.

City of Festivals

Milwaukee, also known as the City of Festivals, is a cultural melting pot with a rich history of different peoples settling here. And what better way to celebrate this diversity than with year-round cultural festivals, such as German Fest, Irish Fest, and Mexican Fiesta? But the biggest party of them all is Summerfest, the world’s largest music festival that draws in thousands of music fans every year. With 11 stages and 75 acres of festival grounds, Summerfest is a massive celebration of music, food, and culture that truly captures the spirit of Milwaukee and is not to be missed!

Home of the Bucks and Brewers

Milwaukee is a sports town through and through. The Milwaukee Bucks, the city’s NBA team, play at Fiserv Forum in the Deer District. You can also catch a Milwaukee Brewers baseball game at American Family Field. The Milwaukee Admirals hockey team plays at the UW-Panther Arena. Plus, exciting news for soccer fans is that a professional team is set to launch in Milwaukee soon. And if football is your game, make the short drive to Green Bay to cheer on the iconic Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.

Outdoor Activities

Milwaukee is a city that’s truly in touch with nature. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a relaxing outdoor experience, there’s something for everyone. Kayaking the Milwaukee River is a popular activity, where you can take in the city’s skyline and enjoy the peaceful waterway. For hiking enthusiasts, Kettle Moraine State Forest is just a short drive from the city and offers miles of trails for all levels of hikers. If you prefer biking, the Oak Leaf Trail spans over 120 miles throughout the city and surrounding areas, providing scenic views and a great workout. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even try surfing on Lake Michigan’s waves, a unique experience for those who love to ride the waves. For a more serene outdoor experience, head to the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum for some yoga in the gardens. The museum’s stunning Renaissance-style villa provides a beautiful backdrop for a yoga class, and the peaceful gardens are the perfect place to unwind and relax.

Milwaukee was built for work and play. Find plenty of ways to balance your life while working in the tech industry in this vibrant city that offers an abundance of arts, culture, and outdoor activities. With so much to explore, you will find your perfect work-life balance in Milwaukee.