Experience Downtown Blog

Bundle Up! Best Spots to MKE a Snowman

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What’s winter in Wisconsin without snow? Once you’re done with sledding and snow ball fights, the chillest activity this season is making a snowman. 

Cathedral Square Park

Imagine creating a snowman amongst life-sized bears… you can in Cathedral Square Park! Enjoy Milwaukee’s newest public art installation, “Massimals” by Jason Scroggin as you make your own snow art. 520 E Wells St.

Close spots to warm up or grab a bite: Real Chili, Taylor’s

Pere Marquette Park

Along the Milwaukee River, break out of hibernation and dress up your snowman near the Pere Marquette Park's gazebo. Plus, the park’s wide open space is great for making snow angels. 900 N Plankinton Ave.

Close spots to warm up or grab a bite: Major Goolsby’s, Mader’s, Milwaukee Brat House, or anywhere on Old World Third Street 

O'Donnell Park 

This hidden gem has great views in all directions. You’ll see the Milwaukee Art Museum on the edge of Lake Michigan to the east. When you look west, you’ll see our vibrant downtown and the bright orange “The Calling” by Mark di Suvero. 910 E Michigan St.

Close spots to warm up or grab a bite: Stella Van Buren, 600 EAST Cafe

Zeidler Union Square

Build your own Frosty the Snowman as you walk through a Westown wonderland! After you’ve made a frosty friend, indulge in a snowball fight. You can use Zeidler’s gazebo as a homebase. 301 W Michigan St.

Close spots to warm up or grab a bite: The Coffee Bean, Stone Creek Coffee Factory, Canary Coffee Bar 

Lake Park

The view of Lake Michigan from Lake Park will melt your heart, but hopefully not your snowman. If you are feeling adventurous, walk down to the beach and create a snowy summer scene. 2975 N Lake Park Rd.

Close spots to warm up or grab a bite: Cafe Hollander, Pizza Man, or anywhere on Downer Avenue

Juneau Park

Your snowperson will fit in among the two permanent sculptures in Juneau Park: the “Juneau Monument” by Richard Park and “Leif, the Discoverer” by Anne Whitney. You’ll be singing “let it snow” as you play in this park located between downtown and the lakefront. 900 N Prospect Ave.

Close spots to warm up or grab a bite: Buckley’s Restaurant & Bar, Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea 

Burns Commons 

If you’re looking for a smaller park, check out Burns Commons on the East Side. Enjoy public art like Cleopatra’s Wedge by Beverly Pepper  in the heart of the park and get there easy with The Hop. 1300 N Franklin Pl.

Close spots to warm up or grab a bite: Pasta Tree, The Knick

About the Author: Terese Radke is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the Special Events & Marketing Intern with Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21, advancing downtown's strategic priorities through marketing, events and social media.