Why Milwaukee Is a Hidden Gem for Active Travelers in the Midwest

This Midwestern City Is an Underrated Destination for Active Travelers

With lakeside bike routes, scenic trails, and unexpected sporting experiences, Milwaukee offers an outdoor adventure in every season

For travelers seeking a dynamic blend of culture, physical activity, and nature in one of the Midwest’s most under-the-radar destinations, Milwaukee delivers—big time. Often overshadowed by Chicago to the south, Wisconsin’s largest city quietly holds its own as a haven for active experiences that stretch from downtown’s waterfront trails to golden prairie hikes just outside the city limits.

On a recent visit, I discovered firsthand that Milwaukee doesn’t just support an active lifestyle—it thrives on it, offering everything from winter curling to e-biking along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Curling in Wauwatosa: A Sport of Precision and Personality

At the Wauwatosa Curling Club, just outside of central Milwaukee, I was introduced to the unexpectedly complex sport of curling. While the ice itself is not as slippery as one might assume, the technique involved—balancing on a sliding foot, pushing off with force, rotating the wrist just right—is harder than it looks. My efforts were wobbly, but the fun was undeniable.

The club’s charm extends well beyond the ice. In the basement bar, beer flows freely and curling lore decorates every corner. From vintage trophies to tongue-in-cheek signs, the space encapsulates a deep local pride and affection for the game. Whether you're a first-timer or a fan of the Winter Olympics, it’s an engaging way to experience a uniquely northern sport.

Pedal Power: Exploring Milwaukee on Two Wheels

Milwaukee’s compact grid and scenic lakefront make it a fantastic city for cycling. A visit to Ben’s Cycle in the Lincoln Village neighborhood provided not just a rental e-bike, but a local’s route to explore the city’s best byways. With a custom Google Maps itinerary, I set out on a ride that wound through peaceful neighborhoods and past iconic sights, including the red Milwaukee Pierhead Lighthouse and the breezy trails of Lakeshore State Park.

Fuel came courtesy of a latte from Colectivo Coffee, a Milwaukee staple, which powered me through to the RiverWalk and the Historic Third Ward. From local cheese shops to indie boutiques, the ride revealed a side of the city that’s accessible, vibrant, and best experienced at a casual pace.

Hiking the Ice Age Trail: Prairie Solitude and Scenic Escapes

Just 20 minutes from downtown, Milwaukee gives way to the rolling hills and glacial beauty of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. At Lapham Peak, a section of the 1,200-mile Ice Age Trail winds through oak savannas and wetland prairies. On my late-spring hike, golden light filtered across the landscape, and deer bounded through the tall grasses.

This quiet escape is ideal for trail runners, hikers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a deeper connection to the land. Whether you spend a single afternoon or explore additional trailheads, the region’s pastoral beauty offers a peaceful counterpoint to the urban energy of Milwaukee.

Where Active Meets Unexpected

From curling stones and bike gears to hiking boots and coffee stops, Milwaukee presents a compelling argument for a new kind of Midwestern getaway—one rooted in movement, local character, and a sense of discovery. Whether you're tracing the shoreline of Lake Michigan or chasing the setting sun across the prairie, the city proves that adventure doesn’t always require a plane ride to the mountains or coasts.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for more active travel inspiration and unexpected destinations across the U.S. and beyond.