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Harley-Davidson Museum

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Attraction | "Remarkable Collection of Americana"

Harley Davidson Museum Photo - Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Harley Davidson motorcycles represent the legacy of over 100 years of American history and the contributions to innovation before American manufacturing and industry lost its luster. Founded in 1903, anyone living in Milwaukee will remember the 100th anniversary celebration that took over the city and much of the state. For me, I left the city for the "Harley Centennial" and returned when all the hub-bub was over!This museum chronicles mostly life in America but there are snippets of the contributions the company and their motorcycles played particularly during in the 30's and 40's, during times of war. The self-walking tour starts on the second floor where visitors can view a col...Read More

Harley Davidson motorcycles represent the legacy of over 100 years of American history and the contributions to innovation before American manufacturing and industry lost its luster. Founded in 1903, anyone living in Milwaukee will remember the 100th anniversary celebration that took over the city and much of the state. For me, I left the city for the "Harley Centennial" and returned when all the hub-bub was over!

This museum chronicles mostly life in America but there are snippets of the contributions the company and their motorcycles played particularly during in the 30's and 40's, during times of war. The self-walking tour starts on the second floor where visitors can view a collection of Harleys unlike any other in the world. Dating back to "Serial Number One" (c 1903) the "oldest Harley in the world" visitors will see the vast collection of unrestored bikes as well as those that have been acquired and restored for exhibit. I was actually surprised at just how many mint motorcycles they had on display that had never been touched! Take a look at this odometer in one of the photos attached . . . yes it says "12". I was told by another visitor that HD routinely took them off the production line and put them into their corporate archive storage, apparently for just such an occasion. Pretty smart forward thinking, wouldn't you say?

Harley Davidson merged with AMF back in the 1960's . . . AMF of bowling fame today. In 1981 AMF was not very committed to the Harley brand or motorcycle manufacturing so 13 of the HD executives ponied up $1M each and secured $90M in additional bank loans. A few years later, with a continued poor economy, the privately held company faced bankruptcy. Fortunately on New Year's Eve 1986 they were able to ink a restructuring deal that staved off the bankruptcy that allowed the company to go public the following year . . . and survive to see their 100th anniversary.

The museum has a little bit of something for everyone. While I enjoyed the 100 years of motorcycles on display, and the video exhibit chronicling Harleys on the big and small screen . . . gear-heads and biker elites can enjoy the Engine Room. It is there that a wall features all of the engines used by HD in their line, along with an interactive media display where you could press a button to see and hear a particular engine.

On the lower level (main/first floor) is where the more current bikes are, along with an area that explains their R&D efforts including testing and manufacturing. It is also on the first floor that you can take a seat on a Harley for that photo op. As you will see in the photos attached, I took my place on a cute HD scooter. HA!

It was a nice way to spend a fall day off from work. David and I enjoyed a leisurely two hour walk about. Admission is $16 per person, which like Harley's motorcycles seemed a bit over priced. But all in all, it is a nice museum and does a good job to telling Harley's story. They do offer discounts for kids, seniors, those in the military and of course, HOG members.
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Member Rating 4 out of 5 on October 29, 2010

Harley-Davidson Museum
400 W. Canal St.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
(414) 287-2700

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Marcus Center for the Performing Arts

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Attraction | "Broadway Across America's "Wicked""

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We took in the closing performance of Milwaukee's three week run of "Wicked" at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts in the Uihlein Hall.Having purchased our tickets back in May, I was pleased to land what I thought were third row seats. How happy do you think we were to find out that the orchestra pit came out a bit further than the standard seating plan, and row CC was in fact the front row ?!?!At little about Uihlein Hall, named after the Uihlein Family of Schlitz beer fame. The most elegant and largest of the venues at the Marcus Center, the 2,300 guests feel right up on the stage. Given the Milwaukee Symphony and our hometown Milwaukee Ballet, as well as other perf...Read More

We took in the closing performance of Milwaukee's three week run of "Wicked" at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts in the Uihlein Hall.

Having purchased our tickets back in May, I was pleased to land what I thought were third row seats. How happy do you think we were to find out that the orchestra pit came out a bit further than the standard seating plan, and row CC was in fact the front row ?!?!

At little about Uihlein Hall, named after the Uihlein Family of Schlitz beer fame. The most elegant and largest of the venues at the Marcus Center, the 2,300 guests feel right up on the stage. Given the Milwaukee Symphony and our hometown Milwaukee Ballet, as well as other performing arts call Uihlein Hall home, you know the accustics are great!

When patrons arrive, there is the opportunity to purchase a glass of wine or soft drink . . . but please, no beverages (or food) in the theatre. Parking may be found throughout the area on the street (for free) or in the parking structure connected by a third floor skywalk, which is nice on those cold snowy Wisconsin nights or perhaps the hot stormy summer like was present during our visit.

The show was superbly put together. The costuming and choreography were enchanting; the musical production the perfect accompaniment to the mood of the play. This is the traveling production of the Broadway play, with a nationally recognized group of actors and an assembly of orchestral musicians supplemented by a handful of local Milwaukee talent.

If you are not familiar with the story, "Wicked" is somewhat of a prequel to the movie "The Wizard of Oz" telling the story of the Wicked Witch of the West, her sister who met an untimely death thanks to a small Kansas farm house, and Glinda the Good (Witch) . . . who we learned was actually "Gaaa-linda". HA!

Of course, there are the other key characters tied into the story including the Tin Man, Scare Crow and Cowardly Lion; as well as the Wizard himself . . . who was not a good man! But I say too much. You will learn why the Wicked Witch of the West was green and why she was so distressed over the ruby slippers.

If you have an opportunity to see any one of the many productions of "Wicked" making the rounds throughout the US or abroad, I would highly recommend making a date night with your significant other or a friend. We found it entertaining even if they did take some creative liberties in telling the story before Dorothy made her way to Oz.

For more information on the show, including theatres across the US that will be staging "Wicked" check out: http://www.wickedthemusical.com/# . In looking through the schedule, the same ensemble of actors will be performing next in Minneapolis (8/11 - 9/19), Madsion (9/22 - 10/10) and Memphis 10/13 - 10/31. I cannot think of a better way to spend Halloween! Read Less

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on August 9, 2010

Marcus Center for the Performing Arts
929 N. Water Street
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
(414) 273-7121

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Milwaukee County Zoo

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Attraction | "A Good Way to Spend a Morning"

Milwaukee County Zoo Photo - Milwaukee County Zoo, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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In preparation for my upcoming African Safari, I wanted to get out and test out some of my camera equipment, and what better place than our local zoo.The Milwaukee County Zoo is located on 200 acres in Wauwatosa, a suburb of the City of Milwaukee. Home to some nearly 3,000 animals representing 300+ species and all seven continents, it is known throughout the Midwest as a leader in zoological studies, with a number of first time births occurring during its rich history.As zoos go, it does a decent job in providing acceptable quarters for the animals. They have done a good job in obtaining major contributors allowing for significant renovations to their animal habitats. It had...Read More

In preparation for my upcoming African Safari, I wanted to get out and test out some of my camera equipment, and what better place than our local zoo.

The Milwaukee County Zoo is located on 200 acres in Wauwatosa, a suburb of the City of Milwaukee. Home to some nearly 3,000 animals representing 300+ species and all seven continents, it is known throughout the Midwest as a leader in zoological studies, with a number of first time births occurring during its rich history.

As zoos go, it does a decent job in providing acceptable quarters for the animals. They have done a good job in obtaining major contributors allowing for significant renovations to their animal habitats. It had been over ten years since I had last been here, and I was quite surprised at all of the improvements made. That said, having seen many of these animals in their natural environment, it kills me to see them caged and maintained in such small areas.

In addition to the animals on exhibit, visitors can take in a number of shows and other interactive activities. One popular area is the "Giraffe Experience." There are two scheduled times each day when guests may participate in feeding them. Of course, there is a fee ($10 adults; $5 for kids 12 and younger) for this opportunity, as space is limited to just 16 people for each scheduled feeding time.

Many of the shows are free and are a nice way to break up what could be a long day of walking throughout the zoo. The Birds of Prey and Animals in Action are two very popular shows. A $2 admission fee to the Oceans of Fun Seal/Sea Lion Show seems reasonable for the 30 minute show. (Show times are offered throughout the day at 10:30a; 12:00n; 1:30p and 3:00p.)

Other ways to spend your money include the Sky Safari (sky glider) $3; Safari Train $2.50 adults & $1.50 kids 3-12; Carousel $2 and animal rides (camel and/or ponies) $4. These are all nice features of this zoo and something that kids really enjoy. They also provide parents with an additional way to entertain the children while visiting the park.

There are several food and beverage pavilions and carts throughout the grounds. Picnic areas are also available for group functions, including school field trips and corporate events. In the past, I have attended a couple of company picnics at the Milwaukee County Zoo which always seem to be a big hit with the families.

The Milwaukee County Zoo is open year round, 365 days a year . . . with county residents receiving discounted admission rates on Wednesday . . . and free admission on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. Their hours of operation and admission pricing is a bit complex so it is best to go to their website for additional information: http://www.milwaukeezoo.org/visit/hoursfees.php .

I believe zoos serve a purpose to provide educational opportunities, especially for children. A well funded zoo can also be a leader in research and conservation, which I also believe is worthy. Supporting the Milwaukee County Zoo through paid admissions is a good way for a community to ensure that such efforts will continue in the future. To that end, I’m glad to have done my small part!
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Member Rating 3 out of 5 on August 10, 2011

Milwaukee County Zoo
10001 West Blue Mound Road
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226
(414) 771-5500

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Riverside Theater

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Attraction | "An Intimate Venue for a Show"

Riverside Theater - Milwaukee Photo - Riverside Theater, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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The Riverside Theater first opened in 1928 as a house of vaudeville in downtown Milwaukee right on the Wisconsin River. After several decades of being host to some of Milwaukee's finest ladies and gentlemen, the Riverside Theater was destined to be closed and turned into commercial (office) space. Fortunately, a rich philanthropist stepped forward in 1982, donating $1.5M to restore her to the original French baroque beauty of the early 20th century.Today the Riverside Theater is a nice, small venue, perfect for comedy and musical acts when you want to be able to connect with the performer. I believe there are approximately 2,500 seats here.Shortly after my return to live in M...Read More

The Riverside Theater first opened in 1928 as a house of vaudeville in downtown Milwaukee right on the Wisconsin River. After several decades of being host to some of Milwaukee's finest ladies and gentlemen, the Riverside Theater was destined to be closed and turned into commercial (office) space. Fortunately, a rich philanthropist stepped forward in 1982, donating $1.5M to restore her to the original French baroque beauty of the early 20th century.

Today the Riverside Theater is a nice, small venue, perfect for comedy and musical acts when you want to be able to connect with the performer. I believe there are approximately 2,500 seats here.

Shortly after my return to live in Milwaukee, I picked up tickets for local homeboy, Frank Caliendo. Born and raised in Waukesha County (the first county west of the city), you may know Frank from his stints on Fox Sports NFL pregame show as the blubbering John Madden. This comedy club routine throughout the Midwest gained him quick notoriety and national acclaim. Today he has a 10 year contract at the Monte Carlo Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. More info on Frank can be found here: http://www.frankcaliendo.com/ .

For this particular show, it was Frank's birthday bash at the Riverside. Wearing a Packers' number four jersey, the Maddenisms were flying all night because as all Packers' fans know, John Madden has the man-love crush on Brett Favre!

The show was outstanding, hilariously funny in a PG sorta way. Not too colorful that you had to leave your teens at home. Some of Caliendo's other more popular impressions include George W. Bush, Charles Barkely ("You're just a knucklehead!") and Robin Williams.

Coming soon to the Riverside is Melissa Etheridge on 8/11 as well the Black Crowes on 8/13. A fun show on 8/28 should be Weird Al Yankovic, who has been a Summerfest fave in Milwaukee for many years! Darius Rucker of "Hootie" fame turned country will perform on November 4th; with BB King coming to town a couple weeks later on 11/13. Looking through the line-up for the rest of this fall, I just may have to pick up tickets for Jackson Browne in September.

Anyway, The Riverside Theater is a nice place to go and experience our downtown Milwaukee renewal. For more information on upcoming shows and tickets, check out their website http://www.pabsttheater.org/events .
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Member Rating 4 out of 5 on August 7, 2010

Riverside Theater
116 W Wisconsin Ave
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Sprecher Brewing Company Inc.

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Attraction | "Milwaukee's First Microbrewery"

Sprecher Brewery Photo - Sprecher Brewing Company Inc., Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Randy Sprecher brought his love for German beers home to Milwaukee and in 1985 started Sprecher Brewing Company. To be honest, they are better known in these parts for their nationally acclaimed root beer but they also have a great line up of adult beverages and other sodas.The brewery is a small and very unassuming building located in the middle of a middle class neighborhood on the north side of the city in the Village of Glendale. The brick building is gorgeous, with parking on either side as well as street parking. You enter through their large gift shop area where you can buy tee-shirts, hoodies, caps and other apparel as well as beverages by the singles, 4 pack or case (24 bottles...Read More

Randy Sprecher brought his love for German beers home to Milwaukee and in 1985 started Sprecher Brewing Company. To be honest, they are better known in these parts for their nationally acclaimed root beer but they also have a great line up of adult beverages and other sodas.

The brewery is a small and very unassuming building located in the middle of a middle class neighborhood on the north side of the city in the Village of Glendale. The brick building is gorgeous, with parking on either side as well as street parking. You enter through their large gift shop area where you can buy tee-shirts, hoodies, caps and other apparel as well as beverages by the singles, 4 pack or case (24 bottles).

Tours are offered on a very limited and on a "by reservation" basis. Generally there are tours daily at 4:00pm with some afternoons including a 3:00pm. On the weekends, guests can take in a "beer & cheese" pairing event that includes the tour and sampling. (Check out their website to see what is offered on the day you're interested in visiting them: www.sprecherbrewery.com .)

Our tour actually started with a sample which we were encouraged to bring along out in the brew house area. The first stop was where the fermentation process starts, with an explanation of mixture involved in making beer: yeast, water, hops and grain. We were not able to go into the "clean room" area where the large stainless steel drums contained the yummy liquid that would soon be bottled as yummy beverages.

It was interesting to see the bottling area even though it has stopped for the evening. They have one bottling line, with the majority of time spent with root beer as they sell more of that beverage than all of the others (beer and sodas) combined.

After the bottling area, we were invited back to the beer garden area to sample additional choices. At the time that guests pay for the tour ($5) they receive a row of tickets good for four adult beverage samples . . . soda samples are unlimited.

I was surprised at the number of choices they had. For me, I did try their cherry cola before the tour, and a couple of beers afterwards including the Generation Porter and Hefe Weiss. David went for the hardcore stuff including Black Bavarian, Dobble Bock and Irish Ale which he liked the best. Overall, I think I counted around 20 beer options and eight sodas. After you're done with your sampling(s), you get to keep your Sprecher Brewery etched glass.

They were getting ready for an evening event being held in their bar area, complete with hard alcohol and food. If you're interested in hosting a small intimate party (probably 100 people or less) this would be a nice location to share some good times and beverages with friends or co-workers.
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Member Rating 4 out of 5 on November 4, 2010

Sprecher Brewing Company Inc.
701 W Glendale Ave.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53209
(414) 964-7837

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