Juneau Park

A Piece of Milwaukee's Soul

Stretching along Milwaukee's eastern edge is Juneau Park, a green haven dating back to the 1870s. Named after Solomon Juneau - the city's first mayor and one of its founding fathers - this historic spot keeps Milwaukee's roots alive while giving locals a place to breathe. A striking statue of Juneau himself, crafted by sculptor Richard Henry Park in 1887, stands as a silent storyteller of the city's beginnings. The park's thoughtful layout comes from the mind of Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect who designed New York's Central Park.

Lake Views That Make You Pause

Perched on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, this 14-acre green space offers stunning views that invite you to pause and take in the scenery. The panorama of blue water meeting sky, framed by Milwaukee's skyline, creates a beautiful natural backdrop. With its sprawling lawns, grand old trees, and winding paths, it offers a pleasant escape from the urban environment.

Connected to Everything

Juneau Park isn't just a standalone spot - it's part of the broader Lake Michigan Parkway network that strings together Milwaukee's waterfront treasures. The Oak Leaf Trail cuts right through, welcoming cyclists, morning joggers, and those just out for a leisurely stroll. And with the lakefront boardwalk just steps away, you can easily extend your outdoor adventure along the water's edge.

What's Happening Here

Dependable as the changing seasons, Juneau Park transforms all year long with concerts, festivals, and community celebrations. Summer brings the popular Juneau Park Beer Garden to life, where you can sip local brews from collector pint glasses while relaxing in the shade. The garden often features live music on Friday and Saturday evenings - nothing fancy, just good tunes that make you glad you came out.

If you're a local or just passing through, the park offers a fantastic backdrop for everything from impromptu picnics to planned gatherings, with plenty of tables scattered throughout.

Room to Play

The open lawns here aren't just for show. They're living, breathing spaces where you can toss a frisbee, stretch out with a good book, or simply lie back and cloud-watch. The paths wind invitingly for morning walkers and joggers, and dog owners particularly appreciate the pet-friendly atmosphere. During summer, you can even rent lawn games - because sometimes, the old-school entertainments are still the best.

The Practical Stuff

Yes, there are public restrooms - and they're kept clean, especially when the beer garden is running. The overall maintenance of the grounds reflects the care that goes into preserving this special corner of Milwaukee's outdoor spaces.