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Getting Around Milwaukee

Getting Around Milwaukee

Milwaukee Wisconsin, USA Travel Guide

Public Transportation Systems

Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) operates an extensive bus network that covers Milwaukee County, including the city of Milwaukee and its surrounding suburbs. Buses are a practical way to reach areas not served by the streetcar or to travel longer distances within the county.

The Hop (Milwaukee Streetcar) is a modern streetcar system that has free transportation within Downtown Milwaukee, the Historic Third Ward, and extends towards the Fiserv Forum area. It is an useful option for exploring the central tourist and business districts without incurring costs. The Hop connects many hotels, attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

MCTS & The Hop Basics

  • MCTS buses cover Milwaukee County, connecting attractions and neighborhoods.
  • The Hop is free, connecting central tourist and business districts.
  • Route maps on MCTS (ridemcts.com) and The Hop (thehopmke.com) websites.
  • All MCTS buses and The Hop streetcars are wheelchair accessible.

MCTS Bus Fares

Single ride: $2.00 cash (exact fare needed) or via M-Card/Umo app ($1.75).

M-Card & Umo App

M-Card is a reusable smart card that you can load. Umo app allows digital tickets.

The Hop Streetcar

Free to ride. No ticket needed; simply board at any designated streetcar stop.

Hours & Navigation Tips

Operational Hours
  • MCTS Buses: Early morning (around 4 AM) to late night (past midnight), some 24-hour routes.
  • The Hop: Weekdays from 5 AM to Midnight, Saturdays from 7 AM to Midnight, and Sundays from 7 AM to 10 PM.
  • Streetcars typically arrive every 15-20 minutes, making it a reliable option for quick trips.
Efficient Navigation
  • Use Google Maps or the MCTS app for real-time bus tracking and route planning.
  • Utilize The Hop streetcar for free and easy exploration of Downtown and the Historic Third Ward.
  • For destinations just beyond The Hop's reach, combine a streetcar ride with a short walk or a single bus connection. Have exact cash for MCTS buses or use M-Card/Umo app.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis

Licensed cabs are marked. Hail on street in busy areas or book by phone.

Fares

Metered fares. MKE to downtown is approximately $25-$35.

Payment

Taxis accept cash and major credit cards. Confirm with driver.

Ride-Share

Uber and Lyft are widely available apps. Verify vehicle/driver before boarding.

Rental Options for Flexibility

Various rental options support greater flexibility and exploration beyond the central city.

Car Rentals

  • Need a valid U.S. Driver's license or IDP with home country license.
  • Typically 21+ to rent (surcharge under 25). Major credit card for deposit.
  • Major Car rental companies at MKE and city locations.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are limited, mainly from specialty dealers.

Bicycle Rentals

  • Bublr Bikes: Milwaukee's bike-sharing program with many stations.
  • Local bike shops offer daily or weekly rentals (road, hybrid, electric bikes).
  • Milwaukee has an expanding network of bike lanes and shared-use paths.
  • Kayaks/Paddleboards: Rentals available seasonally on the Milwaukee River.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

  • Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Drive on the right side of the road; seatbelt use is mandatory.
  • Roads within the city are generally in good condition. Potholes appear after winter.
  • If visiting in winter, be prepared for snow and ice. Roads are slippery.
  • Downtown parking can be costly, especially in garages. Research options near your activities.
  • Metered street parking is available but often has time limits. Read signs carefully.
  • Consider using parking apps to find and pay for parking spots.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas

Milwaukee RiverWalk, Historic Third Ward, and Lakefront Paths are ideal for walking.

Walking Tours

Guided tours focus on history, architecture, breweries, or ghost stories. Self-guided options are available.

Cycling Safety

Oak Leaf Trail spans over 125 miles. Wear a Giro Caden MIPS Bike Helmet for safety.

Specialized Transportation & Tours

Milwaukee has unique transportation options for sightseeing and leisure.

Tour Options

  • Private companies offer specialized bus tours (brewery, ghost, historical).
  • Milwaukee Boat Line and Edelweiss Cruises offer sightseeing and dinner cruises on river/lake.
  • Informal water taxi services may operate seasonally on the Milwaukee River.
  • These offer structured ways to see multiple attractions and unique perspectives.

Accessibility Services

  • MCTS buses and The Hop streetcar are fully wheelchair accessible.
  • Many major attractions, hotels, and public buildings comply with ADA standards.
  • Ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) offer accessible vehicle options.
  • Check individual websites or contact attractions for specific accessibility needs.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Stick to well-trafficked tourist areas, designated pedestrian zones, and marked bike paths.

Driving Cautions

Avoid walking or cycling alone in poorly lit or unfamiliar industrial areas at night.

General Caution

Exercise caution in areas with heavy vehicle traffic. Always prioritize safety.

Cycling Infrastructure

Bike Lanes & Paths
  • An expanding network of bike lanes across Milwaukee County.
  • The Oak Leaf Trail spans over 125 miles of shared-use paths.
  • The infrastructure generally supports comfortable cycling.
Cycling Safety
  • Obey all traffic laws when cycling on roads.
  • Use bike lights at night for visibility.
  • Signal turns to alert drivers and other cyclists.

Navigating with Ease

Milwaukee's public transportation system has good coverage, with buses reaching wider areas and the free streetcar for downtown.

Walking and cycling are excellent methods to experience the city's charm, especially in its pedestrian-friendly districts.

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