The River Runs Through It...But Which One? A Guide to Milwaukee's Aquatic Arteries
Ah, Milwaukee! City of festivals, cheese curds, and...rivers? That's right, folks, Milwaukee boasts not just one, but three rivers that snake their way through the city. But before you grab your inner tube and dream of a lazy float, here's a crash course in Milwaukee's watery wonders:
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| What River Goes Through Milwaukee |
The Main Man: The Milwaukee River
This granddaddy of the bunch, the Milwaukee River, is a 100-mile long beauty that winds its way from Fond du Lac County all the way to Lake Michigan. Think of it as the city's backbone, dividing the east side from the west side (though some might argue it divides cheese curds lovers from butter burger enthusiasts). The Milwaukee River is a haven for kayakers, paddleboarders, and even the occasional party barge. And let's not forget the Milwaukee Riverwalk, a scenic path lined with restaurants, art installations, and enough people-watching opportunities to keep you entertained for hours.
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The Little Engine That Could: The Menomonee River
Maybe the Milwaukee River gets all the glory, but don't underestimate its little brother, the Menomonee River. This industrious guy played a key role in Milwaukee's industrial past, powering mills and factories. Today, it's undergoing a bit of a makeover, with plans for kayaking, canoeing, and even some urban fishing (though maybe catch and release is a good idea for this one).
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The "KK" River: The Kinnickinnic River
Now, this one's a bit of a local secret. The Kinnickinnic River (affectionately nicknamed the "KK" River by Milwaukeeans) might be the shortest of the bunch, but it packs a punch in terms of history. Once home to thriving Native American communities and bustling shipyards, the KK River is now working on a comeback story. With revitalization efforts underway, who knows, maybe this hidden gem will be the next big thing on the Milwaukee River scene.
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So, How Do You Pick a River?
Here's the beauty of it all: you don't have to choose! Each river offers something unique. Want a scenic float with stunning views? The Milwaukee River's your gal. Craving a historical adventure with a touch of urban grit? The Menomonee River awaits. And if you're feeling adventurous and want to explore Milwaukee's hidden gem, the KK River might just surprise you.
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FAQs:
How to get on the Milwaukee River? There are several boat launch spots along the river, and you can also rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards from local outfitters.
How long is the Milwaukee Riverwalk? The Milwaukee Riverwalk stretches for about two miles along the downtown stretch of the river.
How do you pronounce "Menomonee"? The emphasis is on the second syllable, so it sounds like "MEN-oh-mo-nee."
How do you pronounce "Kinnickinnic"? This one can trip some people up. It's pronounced "kin-ni-KIN-ik."
How can I learn more about Milwaukee's rivers? The Milwaukee Riverkeeper organization [Milwaukee Riverkeeper] is a great resource for all things Milwaukee River related.
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