Drunken City
Every year in August, thousands of people come from around the world to visit Gen Con, the ultimate in gaming, geeking, and good times. However, even the most dedicated of geeks needs a break from the crowds and games every so often. Any time of year (other than the first weekend of August) Milwaukee is known first and foremost for drinking, and does she ever deserve that reputation. Beer connoisseurs everywhere will have heard of the rich beer history of Milwaukee, from the famous Pabst family to the giant Miller Corporation.
Because my knowledge of drinking establishments is deep, and I wish only the best for our readers, I have compiled an extensive list of the best places in Milwaukee to drink. No matter your preference, Raisted has something for you on this list. So grab your calendar or Palm Pilot or sticky pad, and plan the nightlife aspect of your trip to Gen Con.
Brewery Tours
Raisted's Pick:
Miller Brewery
4251 West State St.
414-931-2337
I know brewery tours aren't exactly "Places to drink", but no self-respecting beer aficionado can spend much time in Milwaukee without going to where the magic happens. Also, say it with me... "Free samples"
Runner-up:
Lakefront Brewery
1872 North Commerce St.
414-372-8800
For a location a bit closer to downtown, Lakefront Brewery offers outstanding tours and samples of different beers every month.
Taverns
Raisted's Pick:
Wolski's
1836 N. Pulaski St.
414-276-8130
When all you need is a place to drink, and drink hard, Wolski's is the place. While not pretty to look at, every taste and alcoholic pleasure can be sated here. If your needs are simple, this is the place to be. http://www.wolskis.com
Runner-up:
Dubliner
922 2nd Street
414-672-5488
Another great drinking hut. This one gets points for hosting authentic live Irish music on a regular basis. http://dubliner.hypermart.net
Sports Bars
Raisted's Pick:
Hooligan's
2017 East North Avenue
414-273-5230
Often considered one of the best all around bars in Milwaukee, this haven of Brewer's and Packer's fans is rarely empty. Enjoy your favorite sports while enjoying good bar food and good company. Hooligan's also serves excellent Bloody Mary's, for that morning-after-the-all-night-gaming-session boost. Just don't come wearing a Dallas Cowboy's jersey.
Runner-up:
Major Goolsby's (great sports bars are required to be in the possessive)
340 West Kilbourn Avenue
Fourth Street
414-271-3414
So close to the convention center, you can stagger back to your game after a few rounds. And I love the name.
Dance Clubs
Raisted's Pick:
The Tom Tom Club
618 North Broadway
414-291-5555
Although I'm not much into the club scene, this place throws one hell of a party. The club scene usually catches my fancy when I'm looking to meet a young lady friend. The Tom Tom Club has plenty of young ladies, plus great DJs, and "shagadelic" décor. I love leopard print lounge couches. http://www.tomtomclubmilwaukee.com
Runner-up:
Nomad World Pub
1401 East Brady St.
414-224-8111
Okay. This isn't a club. But a lot of girls go here. I told you I don't do clubs so well. It's much easier to get a drink in this place. http://www.nomadpub.com
THE BEST
Okay, now you've seen the rest, here's the best. If you want to know where Raisted is going to be during the nights... and probably days of Gen Con, this is it.
The Safe House
779 N. Front St.
414-271-2007
This bar is a big tourist spot. This bar is a bit overpriced. This bar is hard to find. This bar is amazing. Walking down Front Street, you'll not see a sign for Safe House; however, you will see a sign for International Exports, Ltd. The theme of this theme bar begins on the street. The concept: it's a safe house for spies to escape pursuit or a dry whistle. The whole place is cloaked in all things espionage. Once inside the front door, you will reveal a secret entrance and a guard that will ask you for the password. If you do not know the password (I'll not tell you, I swore) you will have to prove that you are spy material, and the patrons inside will get to watch your tests on closed circuit tele's throughout the bar. Once admitted in, you will be awash in spy memorabilia. Even some of the drinks are so secret that you will not know what's in them. I'll not tell all the secrets, but I will tell you to look for Burt's happy spot, and exit through the secret phone booth. Trust me, dear readers. It is worth the trip. Even the website is fun. http://www.safe-house.com
Etc...
A host of other establishments I've encountered in my travels that are worth seeing.
Club Anything
807 S. 5th St.
414-383-5680
A local Goth bar. Lots of dark atmosphere.
Powtawami Bingo
1721 West Canal St.
800-PAYS-BIG
Don't let the name fool you. This is a reservation casino. Gamblers need beer too.
Club Paradise Gentlemen's Club
813 S. 1st St.
414-647-0130
Uhm... yeah. If you're into that kind of thing.
There you have it, friends. Raisted's recommendations and favorite places. I hope this helps you to enjoy your trip to Gen Con or any other trip you make to Milwaukee. If you do not feel I've offered enough selection, click your way to http://www.digitalcity.com/milwaukee/bars. They have a great set of reviews and selections by genre.
I'll see you in Milwaukee.
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