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Milwaukee Adventures // Part 3

I'm the WORST these days. We were in Iowa one weekend, Up North another weekend, we had friends in town from out of state, and the list goes on...

But how about I give you a more exciting list, ehh?

Here's my third installment of the adventure series - and take note, because one of these is an AWESOME annual event that is happening this coming weekend! In fact, let me plan the most PERFECT Sunday for you. On June 22nd, just plan on this itinerary. You won't regret it!

First of all, you need to start your day off with an absolutely amazing cup of coffee. Anodyne Coffee Roasters is currently my favorite coffee joint. Their dark roasts are have such depth and arrays of flavor, just drink it black. They have locations in Bayview and Walker's Point, but I personally love their Walker's Point Roastery locale - seriously give these awesome people your business!

Hang onto your hunger for a few hours because next you need to go on your adventure. Side note, Thomas and I came upon this last year by complete accident. We were doing our usual putzing around downtown after church and the Milwaukee Air and Water Show was happening on the lakefront! It gets super packed, but the show is amazing! Helicopters upside down? Planes writing in the sky? You name it, it's there. It goes from 10-3, but just show up whenever and enjoy the people watching :) Oh, and be wary of parking, it's a zoo.

This gem. Ohhh this GEM. Be prepared to take this meal slow. Balzac is a wine bar just off of Brady St. Sundays, they have a deal for their wine - HALF OFF ALL BOTTLES UNDER $60. Thomas and I split a bottle between us and work on a good buzz. You are required (by me) to try their Sac Mac. It's mac'n'cheese like you wouldn't believe. Perfection. Everything else is small plates that are meant for sharing and you probably can't go wrong with anything on their menu.

If you're looking for some "heavier" food, try Stubby's Gastrogrub and Beer Bar. Cheese curds, nachos, flat-breads, wings, burgers...typical Wisconsin fare. But be careful how much you eat! We were full through the following morning!

After lunch, get back to the A&W Show or finish off your day with a walk or bike ride on the gorgeous trails found all over the MKE area.

Happy Adventuring!

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Travel Joy Johnson Travel Joy Johnson

Milwaukee Adventures // Part 2

Alright folks.

Here is another food and adventure list for you!

In the mood for an interesting beer? Maybe NOT one from Wisconsin?...or even the U.S.? Head over to Rumpus Room (a Bartalotta restaurant!). The atmosphere feels intimate and reserved while serving up their high quality drinks and food, but it's also super relaxed and their service in superb and friendly. Expect bar food, but amped up to gourmet. Their menu will seriously knock your socks off. (Ummm you can order bacon as a snack??)

Maybe you're more in the mood for wine. The Ruby Tap let's you grab a glass, and fill it up a little, a little more, or a lot and pay for only what you fill to...hence the "Wine on Tap." Try all sorts of wines or just find a favorite! Add some of their truffle popcorn or some incredible meats and cheeses to please your palate. Fill out your own menu sheet, hand it to the waitress and she'll bring you your personalized order in just a few minutes.

Sometimes I get in that mood where I don't know WHAT I want to do...I just know I don't want to be in the house anymore. In that case, grab some take-out or a pizza and find your way to Big Head Brewing Company. They're basically just a micro-brew in a big garage/warehouse. Buy a flight of their awesome brews, pick one of their many board or card games from a shelf, and watch whatever game is on. Then head over to the other room and play a game of bags, enjoy the free pinball machine, or throw a few free darts. Whatever you're in the mood for, Big Head will be a pleaser.

This week's adventure is...*drum roll*.........the Racine Lighthouse!

There is a small museum there that is open from 10AM - 4PM on Saturdays. You get a gorgeous view of Lake Michigan and the lighthouse is just a great sight to see up close! Not far from the lighthouse are a bunch of great trails for hiking and being "nature-y."

Hope these give you some inspiration for adventuring! Happy Sunday!

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Travel Joy Johnson Travel Joy Johnson

Milwaukee Adventures // Part 1

So I've mentioned in previous posts that Tom and I have become a couple of Milwaukee foodies. This place is the best kept secret in the Midwest for its foodie culture, and we are digging in! Milwaukee Food Tours does a great job shedding light on the hidden gems of this city.

On that note, I've decided it's time to start a series.

Not only will I include some short reviews or recommendations on restaurants, but I'll also offer a few tidbits on what to do! We aren't big spenders and tend to find adventures in everything we do, so I'll share a few of those secrets with you...some mostly free date ideas!

This blog post idea came on when a girl from work made a comment on how I always find such cool places - so I threw together a little Milwaukee adventure list for her (knowing she loves some good date ideas) and then decided it was blog-worthy info.

Welcome to Milwaukee Adventure Series - Part 1!

Ever wondered what Whiskey flavored ice cream was like? How about Balsamic Strawberry? Or Blackberry and Quark? Check out the 5th Ward for a taste at Purple Door Ice Cream! Their Salted Caramel is definitely a winner.

If you appreciate a strong cup of joe, like we do, Valentine Coffee Company is an absolute must. Every cup is single pour brewed...to perfection.

Need some yummy American-fare? The Wicked Hop has a burger that's sure to please and a bloody (that I have yet to try) that'll have you coming back for more. Check out their menu online and try not to let your mouth water.

For a fun adventure - we discovered that with a Student ID, you can go to the ticket counter at the Marcus Center for Performing Arts a couple hours before the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra plays and pay only $12 for any seat in the house. A perfect excuse to dress up a little and feel cultured!

Have a fabulous weekend!

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