Public access to historic Milwaukee buildings through Doors Open
Doors Open is a unique opportunity to explore more than 175 different churches, unique buildings and historic sites that paint a picture of Milwaukee. Amy Grau, the program manager says, “This project is my baby, because it takes me a full nine months to plan and execute it, and like a baby, it is growing so fast every year!”
Participants could experience tours of the BMO Harris Bradley Center, U.S. Bank building, Brady Street, Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge, the oldest cocktail lounge in Milwaukee, a planetarium, German Milwaukee tour, Ghosts of Milwaukee tour, Harley- Davidson Museum, Historic Yankee Hill, the Milwaukee Club and Milwaukee Haunts.
Most events are free to the public, with some venues charging an entrance fee. Milwaukee is one of only three cities in the U.S. that currently offers this fun and exciting way to explore the city. New York and Chicago are the other two. Pittsburgh and Cincinnati are currently contemplating joining the ranks of this worldwide movement. The Best Place Speakeasy and the Newsroom Pub are two places that have passwords or secret entrances to join in the fun. One of the most enlightening stops is the Milwaukee Police Academy. They demonstrate several ways officers are trained, including how to determine if someone is drunk, and they even hire people to drink for this training, but not for the tours.
Stacy Swadish, executive director of Historical Milwaukee Inc., said, “More than 25,000 people participated in the program last year. This year, we offered a scavenger hunt with prizes for the winners.” Free Uber rides up to a $25 value, and free Bublr bike rentals were available.
Here is a gorgeous view from the U.S. Bank looking out at the Milwaukee city hall and beyond.
The ceremonial courthouse is used for special occasions.
This is the lobby ceiling of the historic Pfister hotel.
Looking up at the American flag in the atrium of the Federal Courthouse.
The BMO Bradley Center houses not only the Bucks, but also the Admirals and Marquette.
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