Fun along the Milwaukee River

The Milwaukee River has played an important role in West Bend’s history since the very beginning. The city even got its name from its location along the western bend of the river, so it makes sense that so many of the great things to do here involve the waterway.

• Kayaking and tubing – Thanks to a $5 billion revival effort, the Milwaukee River is the cleanest it’s been in a century, with the area’s secluded and lush surroundings continuing to delight travelers. If you don’t own your own kayak or inner tube, check out Zodiac on the River’s rentals, 227 S. Main St. Their equipment is affordable and they’ll get you set up on any length adventure you’re in the mood for.
• Hiking, Walking & Running and biking – Check out the Riverwalk, which runs three miles (beginning at River Rd., extending northwest to Roosevelt Dr.) along the banks of the Milwaukee River and connects with one of the city’s largest parks, Regner Park. The views along the way are fantastic, but that’s not all there is to see.
• Art –Along the Riverwalk you’ll discover more than 25 outdoor sculptures created by local, regional, national and even international artists working in a variety of materials. Some straightforward and some abstract, you’ll never want for something beautiful to look at as you stroll along the river. Another artistic treat you can find along the Milwaukee is the newly remodeled Museum of Wisconsin Art at 205 Veterans Ave. This beautiful riverside building holds the largest collection of Wisconsin art ever assembled and boasts an affordable $12 membership that gets you in as many times as you’d like for a year.