Reception Sites 101: Downtown Milwaukee

In search of a unique wedding reception site? Downtown Milwaukee offers the best of all words. Whether vintage or sleek, all-out urban or nature-loving, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you know what they say: Location, location, location. In the heart of the city, you’ll find ample hotel options for guests as well as restaurants and leisure activities. A downtown wedding is not only more convenient for out-of-town guests, it’s also more exciting!

For the classic, timeless couple, consider all of Milwaukee’s gorgeous hotels and ballrooms. There are lots of options in a concentrated area, and many hotels have more than one ballroom available to suit the size of your wedding. Ballrooms offer sophisticated grandeur and often include on-site amenities, such as catering. You’ll also be able to easily reserve a block of rooms for your guests — something they’ll thank you for.

For the bride dreaming of a wedding with a decidedly urban feel, there’s no better place to be than downtown. Whether your idea of urban is sleek and contemporary or more rustic with exposed brick and wood beams, you can easily find a range of venues in Milwaukee that buzz with that electric, city vibe. Some of these sites might offer all-inclusive packages (very convenient for you!), while others are blank canvases — perfect for brides looking to transform a space with their own décor, accent lighting, and furniture.

Of course Downtown Milwaukee is a blend of new and old, and the old is full of historic architecture and culture — ideal if you and the groom are dreaming of a wedding set to a backdrop of old world charm. Milwaukee’s unique landmarks and decades-old buildings offer built-in wow factor, lending inherent character and uniqueness to your reception.

Whatever your style of wedding, you’re sure to find it reflected in a Downtown Milwaukee venue. These spaces can accommodate parties of all sizes, from ballrooms packed with hundreds of guests to intimate restaurant receptions. And since Milwaukee is located on Lake Michigan, there’s even something for the nature lovers: Many lakefront venues will host an outdoor ceremony and/or tented reception, giving you the beauty of the lake and the city in one swoop.

Scroll down for photos from some Downtown Milwaukee weddings and for a list of venues to explore!

1451 Renaissance Place
The Astor Hotel
Bacchus- A Bartolotta Restaurant
The Black Swan
Canal Street
Grain Exchange Room
Hilton Milwaukee City Center
Hotel Metro
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
Intercontinental Milwaukee
Iron Horse Inn
Kimpton-The Journeyman Hotel
Lake Park Bistro
The Marcus Center for the Performing Arts
Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee Athletic Club
Milwaukee County War Memorial
Milwaukee Yacht Club
The Pfister Hotel
Pier Wisconsin
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
Pritzlaff Events
South Second
The Seeboth
Tripoli Shrine Center
Villa Terrace
Wisconsin Club-City Club