South Shore Park

Lakefront Escape

Stretching along the shores of Lake Michigan in Milwaukee's Bay View neighborhood, South Shore Park spans a generous 47.4 acres of public space. Here you can pause and take in beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the Milwaukee skyline - a lovely backdrop for your morning coffee or evening stroll.

The park blends natural beauty with thoughtfully developed areas. While there's a sandy beach area along the shoreline, just note that swimming isn't always an option due to water quality issues. That said, nothing beats claiming a bench along the water's edge to watch the sun paint the sky during sunrise or simply to sit back and let the lake waves provide some natural therapy.

Trees on the grassy area near the shore

Photo: Matt Schilder (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Paths and Play

Winding through the park is a smooth, paved section of the Oak Leaf Trail system - a favorite among local fitness enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike. Regardless of whether you're training for a marathon, taking the kids for a bike ride, or just stretching your legs, this trail offers stunning lakefront scenery every step of the way.

For the little ones, South Shore has a well-designed playground featuring separate areas for toddlers and older children. If volleyball is your game, you'll appreciate the sand courts where you can bump, set, and spike to your heart's content.

Looking for a spot for a casual picnic? The park has open grassy areas well-suited for blankets and baskets, while scattered picnic tables accommodate impromptu lakeside meals.

A section of the park's sandy beach

Photo: Aaron Volkening (CC BY 2.0)

South Shore Terrace

A highlight of the park is the South Shore Terrace - a beer garden nestled in a historic 1930s bathhouse. This collaboration between Milwaukee County Parks and MillerCoors has created a gathering space that feels both timeless and thoroughly modern.

The Terrace serves up an impressive selection of brews alongside hearty fare like burgers, sandwiches, and wings. On cooler evenings, gas fire pits provide a cozy glow, creating a fantastic atmosphere for conversations that stretch long into the evening. Both families and four-legged friends are welcome here, and if you're feeling playful, giant yard games like Connect Four await while the magnificent lake provides a constant, calming presence.

Green shores and blue waters with Milwaukee's skyline behind

Photo: Aaron Volkening (CC BY 2.0)

Boating and Beyond

Water enthusiasts will appreciate the South Shore Yacht Club marina adjacent to the park. There's also a public boat launch for those looking to get out onto Lake Michigan. It's not uncommon to strike up conversations with local fishermen returning to the piers, often eager to share stories of the day's catch.

Looking north toward the Milwaukee skyline

Photo: Tim Femal (CC BY 2.0)

Community Hub

The park functions as a community gathering place year-round. Saturday mornings bring a vibrant farmers market where you can browse local produce and artisanal foods, grab freshly made crepes, or indulge in kettle corn - all at prices that won't break the bank.

The park's versatile indoor and outdoor spaces are used for everything from weddings to community meetings.

Rocky shoreline meets the waters of Lake Michigan on a clear day

Photo: Aaron Volkening (CC BY 2.0)

Good to Know

You'll discover clean, accessible restrooms in the main pavilion building, and the park is well-equipped with garbage bins within the grounds. If you're planning a barbecue, just be aware that hot charcoal disposal sites are limited.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 10PM, with rules enforced at closing. While your four-legged friends are welcome to join you, they must stay leashed at all times, as this isn't a designated off-leash area.