Whether you’re turning 21 or 61, Milwaukee makes it easy to celebrate in style. This city loves good beer, great food, and any excuse to gather with friends for some fun. If you’re looking for something beyond the usual dinner and drinks routine, we have rounded up seven creative ways to make your next birthday unforgettable, whether you’re celebrating with a large group or a smaller affair.
Here’s how to celebrate birthdays the Milwaukee way! And while you are with us, be sure to explore our full selection of Tours and Experiences in MKE.
1. Sing Your Heart Out on a Cruisin’ Karaoke Tour
Is it even your birthday if there isn’t at least one badly-sung version of Bohemian Rhapsody or Purple Rain? With the Cruisin’ Karaoke Tour from City Tours MKE, you and your friends can hop aboard a tricked-out karaoke bus, roll through the city, and sing like no one’s watching (even though people on the sidewalk definitely are).
There’s no stage fright here, just your playlist, your besties, and a fun-loving guide to keep the vibes rolling. BYOB is encouraged, and the tour cruises past some of Milwaukee’s most iconic neighborhoods, so you’ll get a little sightseeing with your sing-along. This is an ideal choice for the birthday celebrations of any music lover!
2. Indulge in a Decadent MKE Wine and Chocolate Experience
Want something a little more indulgent? Celebrate your birthday with our Wine & Chocolate Experience in Milwaukee – a deliciously laid-back tour that takes you to some of the city’s best spots for artisan chocolate and locally-sourced wine.
This is a guided experience, but it’s never stuffy; think hand-crafted truffles, thoughtfully paired pours, and fab conversation. Perfect for couples, best friends, or a small birthday crew looking for something classy but still full of flavor.
3. Plan a Private Brewery Crawl (With a Designated Driver)
When in Brew City, do as beer lovers do. A custom brewery crawl is a fantastic way to sample Milwaukee’s rich brewing culture and a great excuse to raise a glass (or several) on your birthday. Whether you choose iconic spots like Lakefront Brewery or explore smaller gems like Eagle Park Brewing and Dead Bird Brewing, there’s no shortage of places to toast another trip around the sun.
If you’re organizing a group, consider booking transportation. This is not only for safety, but it also keeps the fun going between stops. At City Tours MKE, we offer our own Guided Brewery Tour in MKE.
4. Throw a Lakeside Picnic at Bradford Beach
If the weather is nice, head to Bradford Beach for an old-school birthday bash with a modern twist. Bring lawn chairs, a cooler filled with refreshments, and enjoy a playlist of summer tunes. The volleyball courts are a bonus if you’ve got a sporty crew, and for something a little extra, grab lunch or frozen cocktails from The Dock and toast the afternoon with your toes in the sand.
5. Get Competitive with Axe Throwing or an Escape Room
Not every birthday has to be soft lighting and birthday candles. If your style leans more toward adrenaline than ambiance, book a session at an axe-throwing venue like AXE MKE.
Want more brains than brawn? Round up your sharpest friends and see if you can beat the clock at one of Milwaukee’s escape rooms. Victory tastes even better when there’s birthday cake waiting afterward. And if you want to combine puzzle solving with a drink, you may want to consider our Milwaukee Escape Room Pub Crawl.
6. Set Sail on a Private Milwaukee Boat Tour
City Tours MKE’s Milwaukee Boat Tour gives you a front-row view of the city from the river, complete with local commentary, great vibes, and an unbeatable backdrop for birthday selfies. You’ll cruise past the Historic Third Ward, the Hoan Bridge, and out toward the lakefront — all from the comfort of your own private pontoon-style boat.
It’s ideal for groups who want something relaxed but special. Bring your own snacks and drinks, queue up your favorite playlist, and toast the good life while the city drifts by. No sea legs required.
7. See a Show at One of Milwaukee’s Historic Theaters
If you’re looking for a perfect night filled with great seats and live entertainment, Milwaukee has an amazing theater scene to offer. You can catch a touring Broadway show at the Marcus Performing Arts Center, enjoy live music at Turner Hall, or have a good laugh at a comedy night at The Laughing Tap. Pair your evening with dinner beforehand and perhaps drinks afterwards, and you’ve got a complete night of culture, excitement, and celebration.
Make It a Birthday to Remember
No matter your style, Milwaukee has everything you need to make your birthday memorable. From singing on a party bus to sipping wine paired with truffles, the city offers plenty of creative ways to celebrate another year of life. So go ahead! Gather your friends, book something fun, and create lasting memories. Any questions? Please get in touch.