The only thing that makes downing a great beer all the more enjoyable might be getting to indulge in one at a beer garden. Between the airy outdoor setting, vibrant company and a fresh selection of light bites (most of which pair excellently with a classic ale, too) beer gardens have all the makings of a go-to summer destination. And fortunately for Wisconsin locals, the state is home to more than a few.
Here are the best beer gardens to visit in Wisconsin this summer and beyond:
Hubbard Park Beer Garden
Shorewood
Hubbard Park Beer Garden might have a reputation for its great selection of beers and pristine, lush property. But a single visit to the destination will prove it’s so much more—with a year-round schedule, dinner and Sunday brunch offerings, and cozy, heated dome dining options that are perfect for an outdoor winter excursion. For more information, visit www.hubbardparkbeergarden.com.
Estabrook Beer Garden
Milwaukee
This Milwaukee hotspot is as fun as it is historic—holding the title as the first-ever public beer garden in the U.S.A. since prohibition. While Milwaukee’s own Estabrook Beer Garden features a great selection of local ale flavors, the destination also specializes in serving up beers with more global flair—including beer brewed in Germany by Staatliches Hofbräuhaus. For more information, visit www.estabrookbeergarden.com.
Kegel’s Beer Garden
West Allis
Who knew authentic German beer and fare could be found right in the heart of West Allis? Kegel’s Beer Garden has an expansive selection of outdoor seating that’s available on a first-come, first-served basis. Plus, every Friday, the space even transforms into a musical hub, too—with alternating sets from Tally Ho and Alpenbläser, two musicians that bring the essence of Europe to life through German and Bavarian tunes. For more information, visit www.kegelsinn.com.
Whitnall Beer Garden
Franklin
Whitnall Park is one of the more scenic spots in Milwaukee—and now you can enjoy the lush destination with a beer in-hand too, thanks to the beer offerings (24 craft types, to be exact) from Whitnall Beer Garden. For more information, visit www.whitnallbeergarden.com.
The Beer Gardens
Kenosha
The Beer Gardens of Kenosha prove that sometimes the simpler the beer garden, the better. This eccentric outdoor venue serves up comfort food and decadent beer offerings all within an airy space—complete with a 1,500-sq.-ft. deck that’s perfect for hosting events. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/thebeergardens.