Jewish Heritage
From 1840 through 1930, thousands of Jews migrated to the Wisconsin city from Russian, Germany, Hungary and Eastern Europe looking for religious freedom and economic opportunity.
Site to See: Jewish Museum Milwaukee
The Milwaukee Jewish Federation, begun in 1902, preserved archives from Jewish immigrants to Milwaukee. These artifacts now line the walls of the Jewish Museum Milwaukee.
“It is dedicated to Jewish people and celebrating their culture, not only in the city but nationally,” said Settle. “They have a lot of group tour opportunities as well. You can have guided tours or workshops.”
Built in 2008, the museum features exhibits about Jewish immigration, community, religion and businesses in Milwaukee and beyond. Photographs, manuscripts, oral histories and interactive exhibits tell these immigrants’ stories.
Festival to Attend: Jewish Film Festival
The five-day Jewish Film Festival each October showcases contemporary works relating to the Jewish experience. Groups can attend one of the festival’s lectures before watching one of the films or documentaries.
Restaurant to Visit: Benji’s Deli
Traditional Jewish sandwiches mixed in with some familiar American fare make this quintessential Jewish deli a local favorite. Options range from Hear O Israel, a half-pound sandwich with four kinds of meat, to the Hoppel Poppel breakfast special of scrambled eggs, fried salami and hash browns.
Polish Heritage
In 1905, Polish immigrants were Milwaukee’s second-largest ethnic group, second only to the Germans.
Site to See: Polish Center of Wisconsin
The Polish Center of Wisconsin teaches visitors how to perfect the pierogi as one of its many workshops that teach everything Polish, such as music, art, language, crafts and cooking.
Built in the style of a Polish country manor house, the Polish Center of Wisconsin honors Polish immigrants with exhibits, an art gallery, classes and cuisine.
“They are most famous for their Lenten fish fry,” said Settle. “They have tours that talk about their history and heritage.”
Festival to Attend: Polish Fest
For three days in June, Milwaukee’s lakefront showcases the traditional smells, sounds and sights of Poland. Groups can choose from numerous activities, among them vodka tastings and craft demonstrations like how to make decorated eggs called “pisankis.”
Other festival favorites include a Polish sheepdog exhibit, concerts, dancing, cuisine and the Sukiennice Marketplace’s Polish vendors.
Restaurant to Visit: Polonez
Polish sausage, stuffed cabbage and a wide selection of fish keep Polonez busy year-round. Opened by a Polish immigrant, the restaurant stays true to its roots with a decor recalling the Slavic eastern Europe.
For more information contact Visit milwaukee at 1-800-554-1448 or go to www.visitmilwaukee.org.
