Milwaukee’s Great Historic Architecture
History buffs will love exploring the diverse array of historic places and unique architecture in Milwaukee. The city’s commitment to preservation and revitalization means many historic buildings from mansions to churches are still in use today.
Basilica of St. Josaphat
The crown jewel of churches in Milwaukee, this became the third church in the United States honored with the title of “basilica” in 1929 and is still the largest church in the city. Self-guided tours are available all week, or stop by after Mass on Sunday for a formal tour.
https://thebasilica.org/
2333 S 6th St
Milwaukee, WI 53215-3203
7 minutes drive from Baird Center
(414) 645-5623
sjbdome@archmil.org
Frank Lloyd Wright Houses
Six of 13 known American System-Built Homes by Wisconsin-native Frank Lloyd Wright line West Burnham Street. Guided interior tours of the Model B1 are available two Saturdays each month, and architecture buffs should note that
one of the other homes is available as a vacation rental.
https://historicmilwaukee.org/doors-open/buildings/frank-lloyd-wrights-burnham-block
http://wrightinmilwaukee.com
Iron Block Building
Built in 1861, the Iron Block is a landmark of special architectural significance. It belongs to a vanishing breed of American structures with façades entirely composed of cast iron.
https://urbanmilwaukee.com/building/iron-block-building
https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/ironblockspelunk
205 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
3 minute drive from Baird Center
Mackie Building
Also known as the Chamber of Commerce, the building is a Victorian landmark built in 1879 to house what was once the world’s largest grain exchange.
225 E Michigan St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
3 minute drive from Baird Center
https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/mackie-bell-tower-tour
Milwaukee City Hall
Milwaukee City Hall is a National Historic
Landmark and an excellent example of classic Flemish Renaissance architecture. Upon its completion in 1895, City Hall was the second tallest building in America, exceeded only by the Philadelphia City Hall. Inside, an expansive atrium rises up eight stories. The bell tower stands 353 feet, inhabited by a 22,500-pound bell.
https://city.milwaukee.gov/BasicFacts
200 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
3 minute drive from Baird Center
(414) 286-2489
North Point Lighthouse
Established in 1855, the North Point Lighthouse is an architectural and historic treasure. Located on a high bluff in Lake Park, one of Milwaukee’s oldest public parks, the lighthouse remained operational until its
deactivation in 1994. It stands 74 feet high, and its keeper’s quarters and lighthouse are open for touring.
https://northpointlighthouse.org
2650 N Wahl Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211
11 minute drive from Baird Center
(414) 332-6754
keeper@northpointlighthouse.org
