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Mosey on Down to Milwaukie: The Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit

Milwaukie feeds a person rather better than a town of only 21,000 people has any right to feed at all out there. Bob’s Red Mill runs the whole of the factory tour and hands out the samples for nothing at all. The Farmers Market covers the whole of Sunday morning from May right the way through to October. Breakside pours the beer out there. Cheap enough.

Planning a trip to Milwaukie, Oregon? This charming former mill town on the east side of the Willamette River is full of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions and unusual experiences. Outdoor adventures, strong food and drink, or fun entertainment, Milwaukie covers all three.

Milwaukie runs deep on history going back to the 1800s, and you can work some of that history at the Bob’s Red Mill Factory Tour. This popular attraction runs a behind-the-scenes look at the milling process, along with a chance to sample some of their products. Interested in outdoor activities? Take the Trolley Trail, a 6.5-mile paved path that runs a picturesque and easy ride for cyclists of all skill levels. And after an unusual shopping run, visit the Milwaukie Farmers Market, where you find fresh produce, handmade crafts and more.

Key Takeaways

• Milwaukie, Oregon is a charming former mill town with a rich history dating back to the 1800s.
• Top attractions in Milwaukie include the Bob’s Red Mill Factory Tour, the Trolley Trail, and the Milwaukie Farmers Market.
• Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, delicious food and drink, or fun entertainment, Milwaukie has something for everyone.

History of Milwaukie

Milwaukie may not be the most well-known city in Oregon, but it runs deep on history worth working. The city was founded in 1847 and was named after Milwaukee, Wisconsin. However, a spelling error dropped the e at the end of Milwaukee, and the city became known as Milwaukie.

In the 70s and 80s, Milwaukie was known as the Dogwood City of the West because of the abundance of dogwood trees in the area. The city was also home to several historic buildings, the Milwaukie Museum among them, which was built in 1865 and moved to its current location on Adams Street.

Despite its small size, Milwaukie played an important role in the development of Oregon. The city was a major transportation hub, with several railroads passing through the area. It was also home to several factories and mills, which provided jobs for local residents.

Today, Milwaukie is a lively and growing city, with a population of over 21,000. The city has preserved its historic charm, with several buildings and landmarks going back to the 19th century. Interested in working the history of Milwaukie? Several museums and historic sites here are worth taking.

Top Attractions in Milwaukie

Milwaukie may be a small town, but it runs a lot on attractions. Here are the top things to do and see in Milwaukie:

Milwaukie Museum

Want to learn more about the history of Milwaukie? Then head over to the Milwaukie Museum. You find exhibits on everything from the town’s early settlers to its industrial past. And the museum sits in a historic building worth taking on its own.

Elk Rock Island

After a little adventure? Take a hike over to Elk Rock Island. This small island in the Willamette River is a strong place to work, with plenty of trails and long views of the river.

Wunderland Milwaukie Cinemas

In the mood for some indoor fun? Take the Wunderland Milwaukie Cinemas. This classic movie theater runs a mix of new releases and old favorites, along with plenty of snacks to munch on while you watch.

Milwaukie Bay Park

Want to get outside and take some fresh air? Head over to Milwaukie Bay Park. This park sits right on the Willamette River and runs plenty of space for picnics, frisbee, or simply lounging in the sun.

Things from Another World

Fans of comics, sci-fi, or pop culture in general should not miss Things from Another World. This comic book store runs deep on geeky goods, graphic novels through action figures.

George Wise House

History buffs should take the George Wise House. This historic home was built in 1889 and is now open to the public for tours. You get a glimpse into what life was like in Milwaukie over a century ago.

Whatever your interests, Milwaukie runs something. So get out there and work it.

The mill tour takes a whole morning and the samples keep the children quiet out there. Milwaukie Bay Park sits right on the river with room to run around in. The cinema handles the rain out there, and the mini golf course handles the whole sun. Nothing at all needs booking out there.

Outdoor Adventures

Milwaukie, Oregon suits an outdoor enthusiast. With hiking trails, the Willamette River, North Clackamas Park, the Trolley Trail and riverfront parks, the adventure here runs plenty.

After a leisurely stroll? Head to the Trolley Trail. This 6.2-mile trail suits a scenic walk or bike ride. You pass through charming neighborhoods and even get a glimpse of the historic streetcar that once ran through the area.

For a more challenging hike, take the trails at North Clackamas Park. With over 22 miles of trails, you can spend all day working the park’s lush forests and rolling hills. Keep an eye out for wildlife, deer and coyotes and even the occasional bald eagle among them.

Feeling adventurous? Rent a kayak or paddleboard and hit the Willamette River. You get an unusual angle on Milwaukie as you paddle past riverfront parks and under historic bridges. Just wear a life jacket and keep an eye out for motorboats.

For a slower day, pack a picnic and head to one of Milwaukie’s riverfront parks. You can spread out a blanket and take the sunshine while watching boats cruise down the river. And if you are lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a river otter or two.

So grab the hiking boots, the kayak paddle, or the picnic basket and get ready for some outdoor fun in Milwaukie. You never know what kind of adventure waits in this charming Oregon town.

Milwaukie Farmers Market

After a fun and exciting way to spend Sunday mornings in Milwaukie, Oregon? The Milwaukie Farmers Market is the answer. From May to October, this market is the place to sample fresh produce, try new food trucks and find unusual crafts and jewelry.

With vendors across the range, the Milwaukie Farmers Market covers everybody. Fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan cheeses, or handmade soaps, you find all three here. And in the mood for a strong meal? You cannot go wrong with one of the many food trucks that set up shop at the market each week.

But the Milwaukie Farmers Market is not only food. It is also a strong place to find unusual crafts and jewelry. Hand-knitted scarves through one-of-a-kind earrings, you find plenty to take home.

Of course, with all the strong vendors and products at the Milwaukie Farmers Market, parking runs a bit of a challenge. But do not worry, because plenty of spots run there if you get in early enough. And trust us, finding a spot is worth the effort. Where else do you find such a selection of fresh produce and prepared foods, all in one place?

So after a fun and exciting way to spend Sunday mornings in Milwaukie, head down to the Milwaukie Farmers Market. You will not be disappointed.

Food and Drink

You are in Milwaukie, Oregon, and you are hungry. Luckily, this town runs a strong selection of restaurants to satisfy any craving. In the mood for battered fish or a fancy wine list, Milwaukie covers both.

Start the culinary run at Breakside Brewery. This craft beer haven runs a rotating selection of beers behind the bar to pair with their menu. The chef at Breakside knows how to take classic dishes and add an unusual twist, using rolled oats and flax seed in their seasoning mixes. Trust us, you will not be disappointed.

In the mood for classic battered fish? Head over to the local favorite, The Bomber Restaurant. Their cod and halibut are always fresh, and their portions run generous. And feeling adventurous? Try their corned beef and cabbage, because it is a crowd pleaser.

After a more upscale dining experience? Wine:30 Bar and Bistro is the pick. Their wine list is extensive, and their food is even better. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always expect high-quality ingredients and expertly prepared dishes.

Wherever you choose to eat in Milwaukie, a strong meal follows. So go ahead and work some tasty treats, because you are on vacation after all.

Entertainment and Events

Milwaukie is a city that knows how to have fun. Live music, special events, or concerts, you find plenty of all three. Here are the best entertainment options in Milwaukie:

Live Music

Live music fans are in luck. Milwaukie runs a thriving music scene, with plenty of venues to choose from. Steve Hanneman on sax is worth catching, or Jim Chan’s Island Trio for some island-inspired tunes. Whatever your taste in music, something will land in Milwaukie.

Special Events

Milwaukie is home to special events across the range through the year. The Milwaukie Farmers Market through the Milwaukie Daze Parade, something is always on in this lively city. Do not miss the annual Milwaukie Sunday Farmers Market, where you can sample some of the best local produce and artisanal goods around.

Concerts

Milwaukie is a strong place to catch a concert. Rock, jazz or classical music, you find plenty of options here. Keep an eye on the local event calendars to see who is playing at the Milwaukie Community Center or other venues around town.

So get out there and take all the entertainment options Milwaukie runs. You will not be disappointed.

Sports and Fitness

You are probably thinking you are on vacation and do not want to work out. But hear us out, because Milwaukie runs some sports and fitness options worth taking.

First up, feeling competitive? Head to the bowling alley. Milwaukie Bowl has been around since the ’50s and runs everything you need for a fun night out. And who does not love the sound of crashing pins?

After something a little more active? Take the fitness classes at the North Clackamas Aquatic Park. They run everything from yoga to Zumba to water aerobics. And let us be real, because exercising in water works like cheating on the joints.

But to really show off the athletic prowess, head to the mini golf course. Yes, you read that right. Milwaukie runs a mini golf course and it suits a sunny afternoon. Just be warned, because the course runs pretty challenging, so do not get too cocky.

So there you have it, folks. Seasoned athlete or simply somebody after some fun, Milwaukie covers both.

Shopping in Milwaukie

You do not have to be a shopaholic to take the shopping in Milwaukie. The city runs shops and stores across the range that suit every taste and budget. Souvenirs, gifts, or simply something to treat yourself, Milwaukie covers all three.

A strong place to shop in Milwaukie is Main Street. This lively street is home to stores and boutiques across the range selling everything from clothing to jewelry to home decor. You find something here shopping for yourself or looking for a gift for somebody.

Comic book fans cannot miss Dark Horse Comics. This iconic comic book store has been a fixture in Milwaukie for years and should not be skipped by any comic book enthusiast. You find a huge selection of comics, graphic novels and collectibles here, along with knowledgeable staff who can help you find exactly what you are after.

After unusual gifts? Milwaukie runs plenty of options. Take the gift shops in the city, where you find everything from handmade crafts to locally-made products. These shops suit finding one-of-a-kind gifts you will not find anywhere else.

Overall, shopping in Milwaukie is a fun run. After something specific or simply browsing, you find plenty of options here either way. So put on the walking shoes and get ready to shop till you drop.

Nearby Places to Visit

Milwaukie is a strong place to visit, but after more adventure, plenty of nearby places run here to take. Here are the best options:

Portland

Portland. The city where everybody has a beard, a bike and a book club. But do not let the stereotypes fool you, because Portland is a fine place to visit. It sits only a 20-minute drive from Milwaukie, and plenty runs there to see and do.

Eaters will love Portland’s food scene. Food trucks run on every corner, and some of the best restaurants in the country sit here. Into beer? You are in luck, because Portland runs more breweries than any other city in the world. And fans of weird stuff fit right in, because Portland is known for its quirky shops, art galleries and museums.

Oregon City

A short way south of Milwaukie is Oregon City, the first city west of the Rocky Mountains established by European Americans. It is a charming town that runs deep on history. You can visit the Oregon City Municipal Elevator, the only outdoor municipal elevator in the United States. It takes you from downtown Oregon City to the top of a cliff, where you take long views of the Willamette River.

Oak Grove

Oak Grove is a small community sitting just north of Milwaukie. It is a strong place to get away from the noise of the city. You can take a walk along the river, take a picnic in the park, or go fishing. Oak Grove is also home to the Milwaukie-Portland Elks Lodge, which hosts events across the range through the year.

Clackamas

Clackamas is a suburb of Portland sitting to the east of Milwaukie. It is a strong place for outdoor activities. The Clackamas River runs through the town, which opens up rafting, kayaking and fishing. You can also go hiking in the nearby Mount Hood National Forest.

Happy Valley

Happy Valley is a small city sitting to the southeast of Milwaukie. It is a strong place for family-friendly activities. The city runs several parks and playgrounds, along with a community center with a swimming pool and gym. Happy Valley is also home to the Clackamas Town Center, one of the largest shopping malls in the state.

Overall, the nearby places to visit from Milwaukie run plenty. Food, history, nature or shopping, everybody is covered.

Travel Tips

You are all set to work Milwaukie, Oregon. Here are the travel tips to make the trip smooth.

Getting Around

Milwaukie is a small city, so getting around is a breeze. You can walk or bike to most of the attractions. Prefer to drive? Plenty of parking runs here. Just check for any parking restrictions before leaving the car.

Tours

Want to learn more about Milwaukie’s history and culture? Consider taking a guided tour. Plenty of options run here, walking tours and bike tours and even Segway tours among them. Take TripAdvisor for reviews and recommendations.

Convenient Location

Milwaukie sits just south of Portland, which makes it a strong day trip destination. Staying in Portland? Consider a day trip to Milwaukie to work all it runs.

Day Tours

Short on time? Consider taking a day tour of Milwaukie. Plenty of companies run day tours, which lets you see the city’s highlights in a short time.

Other Tips

• Milwaukie Farmers’ Market is a must-visit if you’re in town on a Sunday morning.
• Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
• Don’t forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

That is it for our travel tips. Have a strong trip to Milwaukie.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Milwaukie, Oregon? Is it worth visiting?

Milwaukie may not be as famous as Portland or Seattle, but it is worth a visit. Sitting just south of Portland, Milwaukie is a charming city with a small-town feel. It runs fine parks, unusual shops and strong food. And it is less crowded than other cities in the area, so you can actually take the time here.

Are there any fun activities to do in Milwaukie besides counting the population?

Yes, plenty of fun things to do run in Milwaukie. You can go hiking or biking in the nearby parks, visit the local museums, or work the downtown area. Several breweries and wineries run in the area too, so you can take some local drinks.

Is there a downtown area in Milwaukie or is it just a ghost town?

Do not worry, because there is a downtown area in Milwaukie. It is not as big as some other cities, but it runs a charming main street with plenty of shops and restaurants. And several events run through the year that bring the community together, the Sunday Farmers’ Market and the Milwaukie Daze festival among them.

Can you see the Statue of Liberty in Milwaukie, Oregon? Asking for a friend.

No. Sorry to disappoint your friend, but the Statue of Liberty is in New York City. However, Milwaukie runs its own landmarks, the Milwaukie Riverfront Park and the Milwaukie Station food cart pod among them.

Are there any cool apartments in Milwaukie or is it just a sea of beige?

Some cool apartments run in Milwaukie. A modern high-rise or a cozy historic building, you find both here. And many of the apartments run strong amenities, swimming pools and fitness centers among them.

What’s the best way to spend a day in Milwaukie without getting bored?

So many things to do run in Milwaukie that getting bored is hard. You can start the day with a hike in the nearby parks, grab lunch at a local restaurant, and then work the downtown area. In the afternoon, you can visit a museum or take a brewery tour. And in the evening, you can catch a show at the local theater or take some live music at a nearby venue. The possibilities run endless.

Frequently asked questions about Milwaukie, Oregon

How exactly did the town get the name that the Milwaukie Museum still explains right out there, then, really now, in the end?

It was named after Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and a spelling error dropped the final letter. The city was founded in 1847 and the name has stood ever since. The museum on Adams Street went up in 1865 and still holds the story. Settled early.

What exactly was the whole of the Trolley Trail actually before it was a trail right out there, then, really now, in the end?

The Trolley Trail took its name from the rail line that ran right through here. The trail follows the same route now and the neighborhoods sit either side of it. Milwaukie was a transportation hub once, with railroads crossing the whole of the town. Same ground.

What exactly did the whole of Milwaukie run on before the parks and the trail arrived out there, then, really now?

It ran on mills and factories, and the George Wise House went up in 1889. Railroads crossed the town and the jobs came with them at the time. The city keeps buildings from the 19th century standing right across town. Still there.

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