Paddle downtown Milwaukee’s rivers with a guide and riverfront views
2 hrs
Kayak, life jacket, paddle
Explore downtown Milwaukee from the water on a guided morning paddle. Your group may follow the Milwaukee or Menomonee River and head toward the harbor.
Same-day cancellations may not receive a refund. No refunds for no-shows. If the trip is closed due to weather or river conditions, you can rebook or receive a refund.
Product ID: UST4C8
Bring a water bottle filled with water, sunscreen, a camera, and an ID. Dress for the weather in lightweight clothing (avoid jeans or heavy cotton) and consider a rain jacket or windbreaker. Wear sandals, flip-flops, or thin-sole shoes; bring sunglasses and/or a hat. Small coolers are okay.
You must be 12+ to paddle your own kayak. Kids under 12 can share a tandem kayak (or canoe) with someone age 18+.
Yes. All participants must know how to swim unless a child is with a parent or guardian.
MKC main location @ Jerry's Docks, 318 South Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204
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
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