Paddle a quiet Milwaukee River stretch near Lakefront Brewery
Up to 4 hours
Kayak, paddle, life jacket
Launch from Schlitz Park for a relaxed paddle along a quiet, residential stretch of the Milwaukee River. Explore downtown Milwaukee from the water, with Lakefront Brewery a short trip downriver.
Same-day cancellations may not receive a refund. If closed due to weather or river conditions, you can rebook or receive a refund. No-shows are nonrefundable.
Product ID: SW67YK
No. The Schlitz Park location has single kayaks only.
You must be age 12 or older to paddle your own kayak. If you’re under 12, you can share a tandem kayak or canoe with someone age 18 or older.
Yes. Everyone who rents must know how to swim (as noted on the waiver). Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Milwaukee Kayak Company @ Schlitz Park, 1555 N. RiverCenter Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Milwaukee River kayaking gets consistently high marks from paddlers who appreciate the combination of friendly, knowledgeable staff and a scenic urban route. The team here clearly knows how to make newcomers feel comfortable, with instructors like Paul and Sherry getting specific shout-outs for their patience and expertise. First-timers mention feeling safe and well-prepared, while repeat visitors keep coming back for the convenient launch point and well-maintained equipment. Free dry bags and storage cubbies are nice practical touches. The location in the Third Ward offers surprisingly good paddling in both directions along the river, with interesting views of downtown Milwaukee and landmarks like the Harley Museum. The rental process is smooth and efficient, with easy online booking and staff who provide helpful route suggestions. Families seem particularly happy with how accommodating the operation is across different skill levels and ages.
We booked Milwaukee Kayak Company based on price after researching a few kayak companies in MKE. We had an enjoyable experience kayaking on the Milwaukee river with a guide (Paul, I believe) who provided some narration. He was quite the character! We've kayaked several times before, but it was a unique experience paddling through the center of a city with buildings and bridges all around. We booked easily online prior to our vacation and they were very responsive by text when we asked to change the date. Life jackets and instruction were provided. Porta-potties were availabe for use. The guide was kind enough to take everyone's photo in front of a nearby bridge and e-mail the photos. There were 6 people tandem kayaking the day we did the tour, including us, plus the guide. Look for the signs for Milwaukee Kayak Company as you approach Jerry's Docks. It was easy to find. If I had any feedback, we would have liked a little more in-depth narration. Note: We tipped our guide, as did others on the tour.
E J
September 2, 2026
We booked Milwaukee Kayak Company based on price after researching a few kayak companies in MKE. We had an enjoyable experience kayaking on the Milwaukee river with a guide (Paul, I believe) who provided some narration. He was quite the character! We've kayaked several times before, but it was a unique experience paddling through the center of a city with buildings and bridges all around. We booked easily online prior to our vacation and they were very responsive by text when we asked to change the date. Life jackets and instruction were provided. Porta-potties were availabe for use. The guide was kind enough to take everyone's photo in front of a nearby bridge and e-mail the photos. There were 6 people tandem kayaking the day we did the tour, including us, plus the guide. Look for the signs for Milwaukee Kayak Company as you approach Jerry's Docks. It was easy to find. If I had any feedback, we would have liked a little more in-depth narration. Note: We tipped our guide, as did others on the tour.
E J
September 2, 2026
Soak and cruise the Milwaukee River in a self-guided hot tub boat
Trace Milwaukee’s growth through downtown’s landmark architecture
Trace Milwaukee’s riverfront renewal through historic architecture and public art
Paddle Milwaukee's rivers with time to explore and stop along the way
Explore Milwaukee’s rivers with a self-paced paddle and included instruction
Paddle Milwaukee's waterways before the city wakes up