McKinley Park

Historic Origins

Perched along Lake Michigan's shore in Milwaukee, McKinley Park spans a generous 102.2 acres of public green space. It wasn't always known by this name though - back in 1887, locals called it Flushing Tunnel Park (not exactly the most glamorous name). The park actually has some surprisingly practical roots, as it was originally built around a flushing tunnel designed to back flush the Milwaukee River - basically an early public sanitation project with a park bonus.

Landscape Features

Today, McKinley Park has evolved into one of Milwaukee's treasured outdoor spaces. With its sprawling lawns and leafy deciduous trees scattered throughout, it offers an ideal escape from the urban hustle.

The park's position right on Lake Michigan's western shore means you're treated to some absolutely gorgeous views of the water. The open, clean space provides room to wander, whether for a solitary walk, family time, or just finding a peaceful spot to relax.

McKinley Marina

McKinley Marina is the only public lakefront marina in Milwaukee County. With 655 boat slips featuring floating docks, it provides good access to Lake Michigan for boating enthusiasts.

If you have your own boat, you'll appreciate the public boat launch facility right next to the marina - making it easy to get out on the water without much hassle.

Park Development

Like any long-standing public space, McKinley Park has seen its share of changes over the decades. A notable addition came in 1989 with the construction of McKinley Beach, which cleverly served two purposes: giving people a place to swim and creating a buffer between the lake and Lincoln Memorial Drive.

The beach hit a rough patch in 2020 when safety concerns forced its closure, but renovation work in 2023 aimed to address these issues and improve the space for future visitors.

Lakefront Connection

McKinley Park isn't an isolated spot - it's actually part of the broader Lake Michigan Parkway system that connects various lakefront parks throughout Milwaukee. This connectivity means you can enjoy extended walks or bike rides along the shoreline without interruption.

The thoughtful layout makes the park versatile enough for everything from quiet contemplation to active recreation, depending on what you're in the mood for.

Visitor Experience

The park features well-maintained grounds and excellent lake views. At night, the experience transforms as the sounds of water rushing and crashing against the pier create an almost meditative backdrop.

The boardwalk trail offers a particularly pleasant way to enjoy the waterfront without feeling cramped or crowded. If you're into bird watching, you'll find plenty of opportunities here - it's especially fun for families with kids who can burn off energy in the open spaces while learning a bit about local wildlife.

Amenities

When hunger strikes during the warmer months, you don't have to leave the park - a casual food concession serves up burgers and other hot meals that taste even better when enjoyed at the picnic tables overlooking the lake.

You'll find public restrooms available throughout the grounds, and there's plenty of free parking, which is always a plus for a city park. Cyclists will appreciate the bike-friendly pathways, making McKinley Park a natural stop when exploring Milwaukee's scenic lakefront.