Amidst the steep bluffs of southeastern Wisconsin, in a shallow valley where three rivers join before flowing into Lake Michigan, lies an unexpected gem. It’s a small but glittering one, a city that, despite its old world charm, geographical beauty, and longtime liberal leanings, has somehow been underrated for decades—either overshadowed by the megawatt metropolis of Chicago 90 miles south or wrongly cast as just another decaying, rust-belt ghost town.

But Milwaukee is neither. Ever since its early days as an agricultural port and brewing capitol, Wisconsin’s largest city has been a magnet for industry, immigrants, and intrigue. And now, thanks to a downtown building boom and an influx of new restaurants, bars, hotels, and shops, the city’s diverse and highly walkable neighborhoods are experiencing a revival that’s drawing visitors like never before.

Historic Third Ward, Milwaukee Photo: Alamy

“The general vibe here just feels youthful, energetic, and optimistic,” explains Jason Meyer, co-owner of Milworks, a men’s shop located in the Historic Third Ward neighborhood. “People are moving here from places like Chicago, Austin, Portland, and Nashville—and most of them say it’s because they feel a buzz here that they felt in their respective cities 8 to 10 years ago.”

Andy Noble, co-owner of Strange Town, a newly-opened, plant-based restaurant in the city’s Eastside neighborhood agrees: “Milwaukee is much, much hipper than visitors expect. The cost of living versus the caliber of cultural activities is off the scales. And the city is so diverse—there’s a large mix of Mexican, Southeast Asian, Indian, and African American populations—and I think that keeps our dining, music, and cultural options more varied and on par with many larger cities.”