Explore Lake Michigan's Shoreline At This Little-Known Beach Park In Wisconsin

This quiet, unassuming beach on Lake Michigan may just be South Milwaukee's best kept secret. Located approximately 20 minutes south of downtown Milwaukee, the Grant Park Beach is clean and safe with a family-friendly vibe. The beach offers a stretch of shoreline that features a pavilion with snack bar, a playground, volleyball courts, and a sense of community. The South Milwaukee Yacht club and Grant Park Golf Course are neighbors. For beachcombers, Grant Park Beach is also known for its colorful sea glass that washes up to the shore. Couples coming to the beach must see the chain link fence decorated with hundreds of "love" padlocks. 

A must-see at the beach is "The Ghost Ship," a public art installation that has been renovated and used to beautify the lovely garden beds. Volleyball leagues are held in the spring and summer, while a variety of 5K and 10K races are sponsored throughout the year.

Be sure to stop at Ferch's Beachside Grille, a snack bar that also offers events that keep things lively. Indulge in frozen custard (a Wisconsin favorite), burgers, brats and local craft beer. On Friday nights, you can enjoy a traditional Friday Night Fish Fry with all the trimmings, and rock out to the live music. Beach chairs, umbrellas, and kayaks can also be rented there. Imagine sitting with a brew on the beach looking out at the waves. You'll agree it doesn't get much better than this.

Connected to the beach is Grant Park, one of Milwaukee's oldest parks, opened in 1910. Hiking, picnicking, and escaping to this natural paradise are what brings visitors to this desirable outdoor space. Try golfing at the 18-hole Grant Park Golf Course, opened in 1920, and stop in the original 1892 clubhouse still being used today. While it may be short, this course is highly challenging, but rewarding.

Grant Park is famous for its that takes you to a higher elevation, and exquisite views of Lake Michigan with paths that twist and turn like an enchanted forest. Even though it's called Seven Bridges, there are actually 10 bridges to cross. There's a sense of magic in these woods. A rustic covered bridge welcomes you to the entrance of this 2-mile trail. Along the trail, you'll be enveloped in the embrace of the tall trees, babbling streams, and sloping terrain. Admission to Grant Park and the is free.  

Milwaukee is also a big foodie town, making this midwest city the ultimate vacation spot for food lovers.  It also boasts of the most beautiful lakes in the midwest, and is one of the underrated cities in the northern US you shouldn't skip visiting.