2025 Guide to Milwaukee’s North Shore Beer Gardens
Welcome to Milwaukee’s North Shore beer garden guide for 2025! Here you’ll find family-friendly outdoor spots in Shorewood, Glendale, Fox Point, Lake Park (Milwaukee), Mequon, Whitefish Bay, and nearby communities. We’ve compiled each beer garden’s season dates, offerings, amenities, and special events so you can plan a fun outing. Grab the kids (and the dog), and prost! 🍻
Below are detailed sections for each beer garden, including more on what to expect in 2025:
Estabrook Park Beer Garden (Glendale)
Estabrook Beer Garden in Glendale
Opened in 2012 as America’s first public beer garden since Prohibition, Estabrook Beer Garden is a North Shore gem set atop a bluff in Estabrook Park. 2025 Season: Kicks off with a Maifest Grand Opening Weekend May 2–4, 2025. Opening weekend is always festive – featuring keg tappings, free beer giveaways, live music, and stein-holding contests, and you can expect similar fun in 2025. After opening weekend, Estabrook operates daily (weather permitting) through about mid-October. Hours are typically noon to 9pm with last call at 9 (park closes at 10pm).
Food & Drink
Estabrook pours imported Hofbräu München beers (the same brewed in Munich) as its hallmark, served in dimpled glass steins. They also feature local craft brews, cider, hard seltzer, and even draft root beer and soda for the non-beer drinkers. Opening day 2025 will see a special Hofbräu & Lakefront Brewery collaboration keg tapped at noon, with free beer while it lasts – a tradition that draws a big crowd of beer lovers. The food menu sticks to beer garden classics: bratwurst and hot dogs hot off the grill and the famous giant fresh-baked pretzels that pair perfectly with a pint. On weekends you might find extras like schnitzel or a fish fry (check the schedule). Note: Estabrook is cashless as of last season, so bring a card.
Family-Friendly Amenities
There’s a children’s playground within sight of the beer garden tables, so parents can relax with a beer while kids play. The park has hiking and biking trails, including the Oak Leaf Trail spur – many visitors arrive by bike or even kayak on the Milwaukee River! You’ll find a disc golf course, soccer fields, and an off-leash dog park nearby as well. This means pups are very welcome (on leash at the garden itself) and you’ll often see families with dogs in tow. Picnics are welcome too – feel free to bring your own snacks or picnic basket to supplement the simple menu (just no carry-in alcohol).
Events & Entertainment
Estabrook embraces its Munich inspiration by hosting German-inspired events. Maifest (May) will feature live German music, ceremonial keg tappings, and even contests like Masskrugstemmen (stein holding) for hardy participants. Later in the season, keep an eye out for occasional live music on weekends – the beer garden often sponsors free music in the park (announced on their Facebook page). As autumn arrives, expect Oktoberfest vibes: last year the garden tapped Hofbräu Oktoberfest and hosted polka bands in late September. There’s no formal Oktoberfest tent here (that’s down the road at the Bavarian Bierhaus), but the fall atmosphere with changing leaves along the river is hard to beat.
Seating & Atmosphere
The beer garden has plenty of communal picnic tables nestled under mature trees, providing shade on hot days. The Milwaukee River rushes over a small waterfall just below, so you get lovely river views and the soothing sound of water as backdrop. It’s an open-air, first-come seating arrangement – often you’ll end up sharing a table with new friends (as the sign says, “All tables shared – make new friends!”). In true German style, bringing your own beer stein is encouraged – they’ll fill it for you (1 liter max). Families and friendly dogs create a lively, inclusive scene. On weekends it can be very popular; fortunately, the park’s grassy areas can accommodate overflow – you’ll see people perched on blankets enjoying pretzels and beer. Overall, Estabrook offers an authentic Munich beer garden experience with Milwaukee flavor, perfect for all ages.
Hubbard Park Beer Garden (Shorewood)
Tucked away in Shorewood’s riverside Hubbard Park, this beer garden offers a slightly more intimate “hidden gem” vibe. 2025 Season: Uniquely, Hubbard Park Beer Garden is open year-round – it bills itself as Milwaukee’s only year-round outdoor beer garden. In practice, that means if the weather is fair in winter you might find them pouring, but the main action runs May through October when the outdoor garden is fully open. In summer, you can count on regular hours: typically 3–10pm on weekdays, and noon–10pm Fri–Sat (noon–9pm Sun). These extended summer hours make it a great weeknight stop. Off-season, they’ll open on nice days above about 60°F, so those surprise March warm-ups might warrant a cold beer by the river!
Food & Drink
Hubbard Park’s menu and tap list give a nod to both German tradition and local Milwaukee tastes. On tap, you’ll find a mix of German and domestic craft beers – often a Hofbräu or Spaten lager alongside Wisconsin craft brews (Lakefront, New Glarus, etc.). They also serve wine, hard cider, and a few specialty mixed drinks, plus sodas and local kombucha, so everyone in the family has options. The food offerings include Usinger’s sausages (a Milwaukee staple), jumbo pretzels with mustard, and other beer-friendly bites. A major draw here is the Friday fish fry: Hubbard Park Lodge (adjacent to the beer garden) is known for one of Milwaukee’s most iconic fish fries, and you can order the fish fry at the beer garden window too. Nothing says Wisconsin like a beer and fish fry by the river! On Sundays, they serve a “lumberjack” brunch buffet in the morning at the Lodge and will pour you a beermosa or Bloody Mary to go with it – a unique offering among beer gardens. Also available are soft pretzels and cheese spreads that make for perfect shareable snacks.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Hubbard Park Beer Garden is right on the Oak Leaf Trail, making it a favorite pit-stop for cyclists and families out for a walk. The park itself is a narrow, wooded strip along the Milwaukee River – there isn’t a playground on-site, but kids often find fun watching the ducks or exploring the trail. The atmosphere is relaxed and safe for families; children are welcome with parents (the rule is max 3 minors per adult, per typical park regulations). For groups, the beer garden offers summer cabana rentals – these private cabanas can be reserved and come with dedicated seating and even special food/drink packages, which can be a fun option if you have a big family gathering or birthday. The Hubbard Park Lodge next door sometimes hosts events (like winter chili cook-offs or holiday gatherings) that spill into the beer garden, so there’s often something happening. Restrooms are available in the lodge building.
Events & Entertainment
This beer garden prides itself on a low-key, community atmosphere. You won’t usually find loud bands or trivia nights here, but there is live accordion or polka music on Fridays during the fish fry inside the lodge (you can often hear it from the garden), adding a charming touch of old Milwaukee. On some summer weekends, they have featured acoustic music or a small local band outside – keep an eye on their social media for announcements. Hubbard Park Lodge hosts a Sunday Brunch Buffet year-round (9am–2pm) which pairs nicely with the beer garden (grab a post-brunch pint!). Also, look out for special beer tappings or brewery spotlight nights – the garden likes to showcase local breweries on occasion by featuring a tap takeover. Finally, Shorewood’s community events like the Spartan 5K run or River Clean-up often end at Hubbard Park, so the beer garden becomes part of larger family events, with games or raffles. It’s a community hub in that way.
Seating & Atmosphere
Hubbard Park Beer Garden offers an “Old World” European beer garden feel, complete with string lights and a rustic wood-and-stone service hut. It’s smaller than Estabrook, with seating consisting of classic beer garden tables and benches on a gravel patio under leafy oak trees. The setting is cozy – you’re flanked by a bluff on one side and the river on the other. Because of the intimate space, you’ll likely end up chatting with the folks at the next table, and the vibe is very friendly and neighborly. Even on cooler evenings, they’ll often light a fire pit or patio heaters to keep things comfortable. Dogs are welcome here too (on leash). One unique feature: you can rent private cabanas, which are like little open-air tents with sofas, for a more upscale lounging experience – popular for small celebrations. Overall, Hubbard Park feels like a wooded hideaway – you have to walk down a lit pathway to reach it, which makes it feel special (strollers can navigate it fine). Once there, you’ll forget you’re in the city at all. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon pint or a cozy evening with family, listening to polka music drift through the pines.
Fox Point Beer Garden (Longacre Pavilion)
The New Barons Coop taps at the Fox Point Beer Garden
The Fox Point Beer Garden is a seasonal community beer garden series held at the village’s Longacre Pavilion, 7343 N. Longacre Rd. This one pops up on Friday evenings throughout the summer.
2025 Season: The Fox Point Beer Garden is starting the party a month early this year on Saturday, April 26, 2–7 pm. The full season schedule will be released at the opening weekend.
Food & Drink
This beer garden is hosted by New Barons Brewing Cooperative, a local member-owned brewery. New Barons brings a great selection of their craft beers – typically a mix of hoppy ales, refreshing wheats, and maybe a dark beer – and often a guest tap or two. Since it’s a one-night-per-week event, they make each evening special. The beer is served from taps right inside the pavilion, giving it a cozy pub feel. In addition to beer, you can usually find hard cider or seltzer options, and non-alcoholic sodas (often from Sprecher or another local producer) for the kiddos.
Food is a highlight: each week features a different local food truck or vendor. One week you might feast on wood-fired pizza, the next it could be barbecue or gourmet tacos. There’s always something new to try, and dessert is sometimes available too (look out for local ice cream or bakery vendors on select nights). You’re also welcome to carry in your own snacks. Between the rotating taps and rotating food trucks, each Friday offers a fresh experience.
Family-Friendly Amenities
The Fox Point Beer Garden is very family-centric. Longacre Pavilion is situated in a village park area with plenty of grassy space. Kids often bring a soccer ball or frisbee to play in the open field while parents relax. Sometimes the event organizers put out free lawn games like bean bag toss (cornhole), giant Jenga, or ring toss for everyone to enjoy. Adjacent to the pavilion is the Fox Point municipal ice rink (in summer it’s just open space), which becomes a space for kids to run around. There’s also a playground in the general area (near Village Hall) that younger children can enjoy. Importantly, live music is a staple of every Friday beer garden, and it’s family-appropriate local talent (think acoustic guitar, folk duos, or light rock covers). The music isn’t too loud, so kids can still run around safely. The event is also dog-friendly – many families bring their dogs on leashes, and water bowls are usually set out. Restrooms are on-site at the pavilion, which is convenient for families.
Events & Entertainment
Each beer garden night feels like an event on its own. Live bands or musicians play from about 6–8pm, providing a fun backdrop
In past summers, the lineup included solo artists like Roxie Beane, duos, and even a night labeled “Party Marty” which got folks dancing. There’s no cover charge – just free entertainment. Community groups sometimes use the beer garden nights to host special activities: for instance, the local library might do a storytime early in the evening, or the village might combine a Movie Night in the park after the beer garden wraps up. The culmination of the season is an Oktoberfest-style celebration. In 2024, they extended the season into late September with an all-day Saturday beer garden finale featuring German beer styles, an oompah band, and festive games. Keep an eye on Fox Point’s announcements for any themed nights; sometimes there’s a “Pups in the Park” night or a charity tie-in.
Seating & Atmosphere
The beer garden takes place both inside and around the open-air pavilion. Under the pavilion roof there are picnic tables and benches, and more picnic tables are placed just outside on the lawn. Seating can fill up by early evening, so many people bring their own bag chairs or blankets and set up picnic-style on the grass. All ages mingle easily. Since it’s only 5-9pm, the crowd tends to peak right after work and then again after dinnertime as some come just for the music and dessert. You might see families with toddlers heading out around 7, and a younger adult crowd staying later. Dogs on leashes wander about getting pats.
Traveling Beer Garden at Doctors Park (Fox Point)
Milwaukee County Parks’ popular Traveling Beer Garden in Fox Point rolls into Doctors Park on the North Shore, transforming this lakeside park into a pop-up beer garden. 2025 Dates: Mark your calendar for August 6–17, 2025 at Doctors Park. During this run, the beer garden is open every day – typically 5–9pm on weekdays, 11am–9pm on Saturdays and Sundays. (Hours are standardized across all traveling beer garden stops.)
Food & Drink
The Traveling Beer Garden is a partnership with Sprecher Brewery, so the libations center on Sprecher’s lineup of craft beers. Expect a rotating selection of 8–12 beers on tap, usually including Sprecher staples like their Amber lager, Hefeweiss, IPA, and a seasonal brew or two. Milwaukee County Parks has also started featuring some guest taps from other local breweries, so beer aficionados will have a variety to choose from. In addition, you’ll find Sprecher’s famous craft sodas – Root Beer, Orange Dream, Cream Soda – which can be enjoyed straight or as awesome root beer floats with ice cream.
On the food front, the menu is simple but satisfying: bratwurst and hot dogs, usually sourced from local butchers, served on pretzel buns; jumbo pretzels with beer cheese or mustard; plus nachos, chips, and other snack items. It’s classic beer garden fare meant to tide you over at dinnertime. If you’re hungry for more, feel free to bring your own picnic spread – outside food is allowed (just no outside beverages). For a sweet treat, Sprecher sometimes offers root beer floats (as mentioned) or you might catch the parks staff handing out free Sprecher root beer candy. Everything is ordered from a converted fire truck bar, giving a fun “festival” feel.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Doctors Park is a destination park for families, even without the beer garden! The beer garden sets up in the upper picnic area near the playground and tennis courts. That large playground is a huge perk – kids will be scrambling over the jungle gym and swings all evening, within view of parents at the beer garden. Just a short hike down a path from the beer garden is Lake Michigan’s shoreline – the park includes a beach (Tietjen Beach) that’s accessible via a ravine trail or stairs. Many families make a day of it: beach in the afternoon, then trek up for beer and dinner as the sun starts to set. The park has lots of wooded trails and open lawn, so kids can also explore nature or play catch in the grass. The Traveling Beer Garden brings a few lawn games too (often bag toss/cornhole and giant Connect Four). And because it’s a public park event, children are very much welcome – it’s common to see strollers, babies, and teens all hanging out. Milwaukee County enforces a rule of max 3 minors per adult guardian at the beer garden, mainly to keep things orderly, but in practice it’s a very family-safe scene. Bathrooms: permanent restrooms are on-site near the parking lot (always a plus with kids). Also noteworthy – dogs are allowed on leash in Doctors Park and at the beer garden. In fact, the staff usually have water bowls out for furry friends.
Events & Entertainment
The traveling beer garden is generally about laid-back leisure rather than programmed events, but there’s definitely a celebratory feel. On opening day at each park, they often do a ceremonial keg tap (with a free beer giveaway to the first few patrons) and possibly a ribbon-cutting with local officials – it’s a little event in itself, which could happen at Doctors Park on Aug 6. Throughout the two-week stay, there might be a live music night or two; Milwaukee County Parks sometimes books a local musician for evening entertainment, especially on a Friday or Saturday. It’s not guaranteed, so it’s a bit of serendipity if you catch a guitarist or polka band playing. One thing to check out: if you purchase a souvenir glass stein, you can get refills at a discount, and the proceeds support the parks – a fun memento and a good cause. Sometimes the traveling beer garden coincides with other events: for example, if there’s a volunteer beach cleanup day or a nature hike at Doctors Park, volunteers might gather at the beer garden after. If you’re a morning person, note that on Saturdays the beer garden crew often does a “Roll Out The Barrel” 5K run/walk at that week’s park before the beer taps open.
Seating & Atmosphere
The traveling beer garden brings its own sturdy picnic tables, which they arrange under the shade trees at Doctors Park’s picnic grove. It creates a beer-garden-in-the-woods ambiance. There’s plenty of seating initially, but on peak nights (like a perfect Friday evening) it can overflow – people then happily stand or sit on the grass. Many folks also bring their own bag chairs to set around the area, creating little picnic circles. The atmosphere is very relaxed and communal. You might find yourself sharing a table with a family on a bike ride or chatting with neighbors you just met about the great beer you’re trying. Since it’s a park, the crowd is a real mix: craft beer aficionados, parents with kids, elderly couples out for an evening, and everyone in between. The setting is gorgeous – towering trees overhead, the lake bluff just a short walk away, and maybe a glimpse of the lake if you wander a few yards. As dusk falls, string lights and the glow from the fire truck add warmth.
Bayside Park Beer Garden
Bayside beer garden series takes place at Ellsworth Park and Village Hall
The Bayside Beer Garden series returns in 2025 with eight community-focused events, each featuring craft beer from Torzala Brewing Co., live music, and a rotating lineup of local food trucks. Most gatherings take place at Ellsworth Park, with special events hosted at Village Hall. These family-friendly evenings offer a relaxed atmosphere, complete with a playground and open green spaces for children to enjoy.
2025 Bayside Beer Garden Schedule:
May 3: 3:30–9:00 PM @ Ellsworth Park
May 24: 3:30–9:00 PM @ Ellsworth Park
June 21: 3:30–9:00 PM @ Ellsworth Park
July 12: 3:30–9:00 PM @ Ellsworth Park
August 2: 12:00–5:00 PM @ Village Hall (myBlue Day Out & Car Show)
August 30: 3:30–9:00 PM @ Ellsworth Park
September 20: 2:00–9:00 PM @ Village Hall (Fall Fest & Movie)
October 18: 3:30–9:00 PM @ Ellsworth Park
Enjoy delicious eats food trucks and live music in a beautiful neighborhood park setting. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets—this family-friendly event is open to all and perfect for soaking up spring with great beer and community vibes.
JCC Pop-Up Beer Garden (Whitefish Bay/Fox Point)
JCC pop-up beer garden
Location: Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center (JCC), Whitefish Bay
Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Time: 4:30–6:30 pm
Location: Outdoor Courtyard
Food & Drink:
Celebrate Lag B’Omer with a festive pop-up beer garden featuring craft beer from New Barons Brewing Cooperative and mouthwatering BBQ from Paul’s Smokehouse & BBQ. Expect smoked classics and local brews in a laid-back setting.
Family-Friendly Amenities:
This is a casual, bring-your-own-lawn-chair event in the JCC’s outdoor courtyard. While there are no formal kids' activities, children are welcome to come and play while families relax and enjoy the music and food.
Events & Entertainment:
Enjoy live music by Jon Hintz, a Milwaukee favorite known for his acoustic, soulful performances. This special night captures the joy and community spirit of Lag B’Omer with music, food, and fellowship.
Atmosphere:
Free and open to the community, this event welcomes everyone—whether you’re a JCC member or just part of the wider North Shore neighborhood. Bring blankets or chairs and make it a relaxed early evening outing.
Learn more: jccmilwaukee.org/BeerGarden
Traveling Beer Garden at Lake Park (Milwaukee’s North Shore)
In mid-summer, the traveling beer garden also makes a stop at Lake Park, a historic Milwaukee park that straddles the North Point and east-side/north-shore area. For North Shore families, this is another convenient spot to enjoy the traveling beer garden experience. 2025 Dates: The beer garden will be at Lake Park July 23 through August 3, 2025. Hours will mirror the standard: roughly 5–9pm on weeknights, 11am–9pm on weekends. Situated near Lake Park’s picnic area and golf course, this stop often coincides with the height of summer fun.
Food & Drink
The offerings are identical to the Doctors Park stop (and all traveling beer garden stops), courtesy of Sprecher Brewery. You’ll find an assortment of Sprecher craft beers – perhaps their malty IPA, a fruity summer seasonal, a classic lager, etc., plus a couple of taps from other Milwaukee breweries for variety. Many people love to get the commemorative glass stein or boot at the traveling beer gardens – you pay once and can reuse it all summer. Don’t miss the Sprecher root beer, which is on tap and can be made into frosty floats; it’s a huge hit with kids (and adults with a sweet tooth). The food truck (fire truck) menu features brats, hot dogs, and giant pretzels just as at Doctors Park. At Lake Park, because it’s a larger urban park, sometimes additional local food trucks park nearby to catch the crowd – for instance, you might see an ice cream truck or a taco truck augmenting the options on a busy Saturday. You’re also right by Lake Park’s own picnic sites, so feel free to bring your grillables or snacks and have a cookout; then grab beers from the beer garden to complete the meal. As always, no outside alcohol, but picnic baskets with food are welcome.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Lake Park is packed with family amenities. The beer garden is typically set up near the open area by the picnic shelter and the children’s playground (the one just south of the golf putting green). That playground will keep little ones entertained for hours. Additionally, Lake Park has a second playground by Lincoln Memorial Drive and plenty of room to run. One unique draw is the miniature golf course (“Lake Park Golf”) right next to the beer garden area – it’s a vintage 18-hole mini golf that families can play during summer afternoons. You could play a round with the kids, then reward yourselves with root beer floats and beers afterward. Lake Park is threaded with paths and gardens – take the kids on a walk to see the famous Lion Bridges or to spot butterflies in the pollinator garden. For history buffs, the North Point Lighthouse Museum is in the park, and sometimes it has extended hours in summer; checking it out could be part of your beer garden outing. Another plus: on Tuesday evenings during summer, Lake Park hosts Musical Mondays/Tuesday concerts at the nearby Lake Park Summer Stage (by the playground). If the beer garden overlaps with a concert, that’s a double treat – you might hear jazz or classical music floating in the background as you sip your beer. Bathrooms are available at the Lake Park Pavilion building. With Lake Michigan just a short walk east, families often wander to the overlook to catch a lake breeze or walk down the grand staircase to the waterfront (if you’re adventurous – remember you have to walk back up!). The environment is very kid-friendly; the presence of park playgrounds and wide sidewalks make it stroller-accessible too. And yes, dogs on leash are allowed and common here as well.
Events & Entertainment
While the traveling beer garden itself doesn’t program events, Lake Park’s active community means there’s often something happening. The stop might coincide with Lake Park’s “Wonderful Wednesdays” nature walks or kids’ activities organized by Lake Park Friends (check their calendar for late July). If any special brewery promotions are happening, you’ll learn about them via signage at the beer truck – for example, Sprecher has been known to do a “buy a pint, plant a tree” promo or discounts for folks in Hawaiian shirts on a theme night. Keep an ear out for any pop-up music; sometimes a local musician will start strumming a guitar under a tree, adding to the ambiance even if not officially scheduled. One highlight in 2024: Lake Park was the site of a Traveling Beer Garden 10th Anniversary celebration, so in 2025 they may continue a tradition of special toasts or giveaways at this popular stop. Also, if you’re a Beer Garden Passport stamper – Milwaukee Parks offers a passport to get stamped at each beer garden – Lake Park is one of the coveted stamps (a fun scavenger hunt for the family over summer). Essentially, the entertainment is the setting itself: picture families and friends clinking mugs at communal tables, while kids laugh on the playground and the sun filters through the old oak trees.
Seating & Atmosphere
The Lake Park beer garden stop has a festive, picnic-like atmosphere. Milwaukee’s East Side and North Shore residents flock here, so you’ll see a diverse mix of park-goers. The setup includes many picnic tables, often arranged in long rows which encourage chatting with neighbors. If those fill, plenty of people sit on the grass on blankets. Because it’s perched near the bluff, you might catch a cool lake breeze – very refreshing on a July evening. The backdrop of historic park pavilions and well-kept landscaping gives it a slightly more urban park feel compared to the wilderness of Doctors Park, but it’s still very much laid-back and family-friendly. Kids with face-paint from the playground, dogs sniffing under tables for crumbs, cyclists stopping off the Oak Leaf Trail – it’s a lively scene. The beer garden lights up with string lights as dusk falls, which, combined with the twinkle of fireflies in the park, feels almost magical. Noise level stays moderate; even with happy crowds, it’s easy to have a conversation. Parking can be competitive in the park drives, so some visitors park on Lake Drive and walk in – but that just adds to the communal flow of people streaming to the beer garden with lawn chairs in hand. One neat thing: table sharing is the norm, and you might end up making a new friend or two. Whether you’re in tennis attire after a match on the nearby courts or coming straight from work with your family, you’ll feel comfortable here. It’s this blend of neighborhood familiarity and scenic beauty that makes the Lake Park beer garden stop a must-visit in 2025.
Klode Park Beer Garden (Whitefish Bay)
Whitefish Bay’s Klode Park Beer Garden is a newer tradition that has quickly become a summer favorite on Milwaukee’s North Shore. Hosted by 1840 Brewing Company (a popular Milwaukee “urban farmhouse” brewery), these are pop-up beer garden events that happen on select Saturdays in Klode Park, offering a fun weekend outing by the lake. 2025 Season: The village hasn’t announced the dates yet, but based on past years, expect about four Saturday events spread from June through August (for example, in 2022 they were held on May 28, June 18, August 6, and September 10). In 2024, the series expanded and even included an Oktoberfest weekend in late September. For 2025, anticipate a similar schedule: likely one Saturday per month in summer (afternoons into evening, roughly 2pm–9pm), plus possibly a special Oktoberfest in the Park event as a finale.
Food & Drink
1840 Brewing Company brings an impressive lineup of their craft beers to each Klode Park event. 1840 is known for creative brews – from hazy IPAs to fruited sours and barrel-aged ales – so beer enthusiasts will have unique options beyond the standard fare. In fact, 1840 often collaborates with other local brewers like MobCraft Beer on these events, so you might find a mix of taps from both breweries available. That means you could be sampling a tart cherry saison and a classic Pilsner in the same visit. They typically set up a portable bar station or tent near the park’s picnic area. Besides beer, they have wine or cider sometimes, and definitely sparkling water or soda for non-drinkers. Each event also features at least one food truck or food stand, ensuring you won’t go hungry. In previous events, vendors like Greek Street Eats (Mediterranean), local taco trucks, or even specialty cheese curd stands have shown up. The variety changes each time. Additionally, community groups have sold snacks like popcorn or baked goods on occasion as fundraisers. You’re welcome to bring your own food as well – many families pack a picnic basket or get takeout from Silver Spring Drive eateries and enjoy it at the park. The combination of gourmet beer and local food in a park setting really feels like a mini festival.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Klode Park itself is extremely family-friendly. It sits right on Lake Michigan, with a big open grassy field up top and a path down the bluff to a beach. During the beer garden, you’ll see kids dashing around on the playground, which is located just a few yards away (with swings, slides, and climbing structures). That proximity means parents can relax with a beer and still keep an eye on the little ones playing. The park usually has sports equipment lying around – don’t be surprised if a spontaneous soccer or kickball game starts among the kids. 1840 often complements the scene with giant yard games like oversized Jenga or cornhole sets, free for anyone to use.
Live music from local bands or musicians
It might be an acoustic duo playing folk-rock, or a full band playing classics. Either way, families often bring blankets and spread out on the lawn to listen, almost like a concert in the park. With Lake Michigan’s bluff in the background, sometimes folks will take a break to walk to the overlook or even down to the beach — the older kids especially roam in packs between the beach and the beer garden (with the park being safe and enclosed by the bluff, parents can feel comfortable with these mini-adventures). The atmosphere is safe, well-lit (they bring extra lights as needed), and restrooms are available at the park shelter. And of course, dogs are welcome on leash; you’ll find plenty of pooches enjoying the grass and attention (Whitefish Bay even had a “Bark in the Park” theme one year). Given that these events are Saturdays from afternoon to evening, they attract a lot of families looking for a relaxing day. There’s also easy parking around the park and on residential streets, making it convenient with kids.
Events & Entertainment: The live music is a big draw at Klode’s beer gardens. Bands usually play for several hours (with breaks), covering genres from laid-back acoustic to upbeat covers that might have kids dancing and parents singing along. The Village sometimes schedules special themes: for example, an 80s Night with a cover band, or a Family Fun Day where they add activities like face painting or a bounce house before the beer garden officially starts. In 2024, they tried a full Oktoberfest weekend in late September at Klode Park – complete with German music, beers served in steins, and perhaps some contests – indicating that might become an annual tradition. If so, 2025 could see an Oktoberfest event with maybe a beer stein race or a costume contest for best Bavarian outfit. Throughout the summer, the beer garden events might partner with community happenings; for instance, aligning one date with the Whitefish Bay Art Festival (as they did by providing a beer tent during the art fair).
Also, Whitefish Bay’s Civic Foundation sometimes uses these gatherings to promote upcoming events (like their Fourth of July celebration or Summer Movie Nights) – they might have an info table or give out goodies to families. It’s all very community-oriented. Expect at each event: Music, great beer, tasty food, and maybe a raffle or charity aspect (New Barons and 1840 have been known to raffle off swag or donate proceeds to local causes now and then). By twilight, it can turn into a really festive scene – one memory from a past event is a crowd of neighbors dancing together on the grass as the band played into the evening. Free entertainment, open to all ages, and no tickets required – just show up and enjoy.
Seating & Atmosphere
Klode Park has a few permanent picnic tables, but for the beer garden, it’s mostly a bring-your-own seating scenario. Many attendees come prepared with picnic blankets spread out on the gentle slope facing the band, or bag chairs clustered in groups. This creates a cozy patchwork of family picnics and friend circles across the lawn. There is a small pavilion where the beer is served and some people stand or sit nearby, but most prefer to lounge in the open. The atmosphere is like a big community picnic meets lakeside concert. It’s lively but not rowdy – you’ll hear kids laughing, people chatting, music playing, but it never feels unruly. The view is wonderful: to one side, you have Lake Michigan’s blue expanse (some evenings, if you’re lucky, the moon rises over the water in spectacular fashion); to the other, the charming neighborhood of Whitefish Bay. As dusk falls, the string lights and the stage lights for the band create a warm glow. Cleanup is well-handled, with volunteers ensuring trash and recycling are managed – part of what keeps the vibe so pleasant is the community pride in keeping the park clean and family-friendly. Neighbors greet neighbors, and even if you’re from out of town, you’ll feel welcomed – North Shore folks are friendly and often strike up conversations (“Have you tried this beer? It’s great!”). Late in the evening, the crowd thins to mainly adults, and the beer garden usually wraps by 9pm, keeping things reasonable. In short, Klode Park’s beer gardens offer a chill, friendly, and scenic ambiance that showcases the best of summertime in Whitefish Bay.
Beer Garden “Road Show” Pop-ups (Mequon/Thiensville)
Not to be left out, the Mequon and Thiensville area hosts its own pop-up beer garden road shows during the summer. These are occasional events – think of them as mini beer garden festivals – often held at local parks like Mequon Community Park or Thiensville Village Park. They bring craft beer, food, and music to the community on select dates. 2025 Season: Details will come from the City of Mequon or Village of Thiensville, but if 2024 is an indicator, expect a few events spaced through the summer. In 2024, for example, there was a beer garden event in early June, another in early August, and one in early September, typically on Friday evenings from about 4–8pm. Keep an eye on late summer too – sometimes an event coincides with Mequon’s “Summer Ending” festivals or concerts.
Food & Drink
These pop-ups are spearheaded by craft brewers like 1840 Brewing Company (who has a second taproom in nearby Cedarburg) and occasionally in collaboration with others like MobCraft or local brewpub Foxtown. The result is a great beer selection beyond the usual mass-market brews. You’ll find a handful of taps pouring fresh craft beer – often including some IPAs, a pilsner, and perhaps a fruited sour or a special release – all from these hip breweries. In a previous Mequon event, 1840 and MobCraft teamed up to offer a “rotating taps” menu that satisfied a range of palates. They typically serve beer in plastic cups or sometimes branded glassware (souvenir pint glasses have been sold at times). Non-beer options usually include a hard seltzer or cider and soda or lemonade for kids. Food trucks are a key feature as well. One event might have BBQ and grilled corn, another might feature a local pizza oven or taco stand. For instance, in 2023 at Mequon Community Park, Greek Street Eats (a local food truck serving Greek cuisine) provided delicious eats. At Thiensville’s Village Park, you might see a stand from a local restaurant or a dessert truck (the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary has been known to serve burgers at some events). The idea is you’ve got tasty local beer and food all in one place. Pricing is usually reasonable, and some events are cash-only for smaller vendors, so it’s good to have some cash on hand (though the breweries take cards). Because these are one-off events, there’s a bit of a “get it while it lasts” vibe – the most popular beer flavors or food items can occasionally run out by the end, which just attests to their popularity!
Family-Friendly Amenities
Mequon and Thiensville’s beer garden pop-ups are designed with families in mind. Often they coincide with other community entertainment. For example, a beer garden night at Thiensville’s Village Park might align with a free outdoor movie or concert at the park’s new stage. Mequon’s Community Park, where events have been held, is home to baseball diamonds and a huge inclusive playground (the Rotary Park playground, if that’s where it lands, is fantastic for kids). So, if the beer garden is at Community Park, parents can expect their kids to be happily climbing and sliding nearby. If at Village Park in Thiensville, there’s the splash pad and river boardwalk – fun to explore. The organizers know kids are present, so they often provide activities like face painting, balloon animals, or kids’ craft tables courtesy of local sponsors or the recreation department. Teens sometimes volunteer to supervise games like sack races or water balloon tosses. With the events usually ending by 8pm, it’s very family-friendly timing. Live music is a staple at these as well – and it’s typically upbeat but not too loud, so kids can dance or play without being overwhelmed. A musician like Jeff Hinnendael playing acoustic guitar (as happened on a Friday in Mequon) sets a pleasant mood. Families often bring lawn games too – you might see kids playing catch or adults setting up their own cornhole sets off to the side. The parks have plenty of open space, so there’s room to spread out. Restrooms: Community Park has a shelter with restrooms; Village Park has new facilities as well – so diaper changes and quick clean-ups are easy. And of course, dogs are commonly seen; Mequon in particular has a large dog-loving community, so expect some friendly pups saying hello. If the event aligns with a holiday, like a 4th of July weekend beer garden, there might even be fireworks later at night (as Mequon often has fireworks at Rotary Park) – another bonus for families to enjoy.
Events & Entertainment
These pop-up beer gardens often double as community mini-festivals. You’ll frequently find live music – maybe a local cover band or a singer on a small stage – providing entertainment throughout. The organizers (sometimes the local Rotary or Parks & Rec) might incorporate extras like a charity raffle, where you can win brewery merchandise or gift cards to local businesses, with proceeds supporting park improvements. If at Village Park, it might be part of their “Village Park Reimagined” series – they’ve had things like a Nautical Night gala, etc., but on a more casual night it’s just a free gathering. Mequon’s Park events have in the past been tied to things like “National Night Out” (with the beer garden there for the adults while kids meet local firefighters and police in a community-building event), or to their summer concert series. In September, Thiensville hosts “Taste of Mequon”, a larger food festival, and while that’s a separate event, the beer garden road show sometimes appears there or the vibe is similar – lots of food, beer, and music. One highlight is that these events often invite multiple breweries: for instance, an event might have 1840 Brewing AND The Fermentorium (another local brewery) both serving, turning it into a mini beer fest where you can sample from each. They aren’t shy about the “beer” aspect – in fact the term “Beer Garden Road Show” is used by 1840 for these traveling events, giving it a fun, carnival-like identity. There could be a limited edition beer release timed for the event – e.g. a special IPA brewed in honor of Mequon or a collaborative beer between breweries, which adds excitement for beer geeks. If an event occurs around a holiday, expect some theming: a late October one (if ever held) would surely have pumpkin beer and Halloween decor; a July one might have patriotic flair and kids in red-white-blue outfits. Essentially, these pop-ups are an excuse for the community to celebrate – you get live tunes, local brews, food, and a very neighborly atmosphere all in one.
Seating & Atmosphere
Because these events are one-day affairs, seating is often bring-your-own or informal. There may be a few picnic tables or folding tables set up by organizers, but most people come with their own portable chairs or blankets. As evening falls, the parks can get a beautiful golden glow and maybe a view of the sun setting over the trees or river. If at Village Park, the Milwaukee River flows right next to it, offering a peaceful backdrop. These events usually wrap up by twilight, so they rarely go late into the night – most families head out just as it’s getting truly dark, keeping things on the wholesome side.
Whether you’re exploring a classic beer-in-the-park experience at Estabrook, enjoying a lakeside family picnic at Klode, or catching a one-night-only beer garden party in Mequon, Milwaukee’s North Shore has an outdoor beer garden for everyone. These spots make it easy to unplug and unwind with good food, good beer, and good company. Here’s to a fun-filled 2025 beer garden season – cheers! 🍻
Welcome to Milwaukee’s North Shore beer garden guide for 2025! Find family-friendly outdoor spots in Shorewood, Glendale, Fox Point, Lake Park (Milwaukee), Mequon, Whitefish Bay, and nearby communities.