Why Milwaukee is the Perfect Accessible Summer Destination for Families

Wisconsin is a great destination for family travelers no matter what time of year you visit — there is the Bronze Fonz, plenty of outdoor art to explore, endless museums, Saint Josaphat Basilica and a thriving food scene. But, in summer, when families are in search of outdoorsy adventure, it’s Bradford Beach that attracts them.

This beach sits along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan and has established a firm commitment to making the beach accessible for all. Not only is it located ideally close to the downtown area with its multitude of shopping, dining and activity options, but the beach itself also has thoughtfully designed features to ensure everyone can enjoy the water on a hot day. A permanent concrete pathway extends all the way to the water, so you can get there using any type of mobility-assistive device. Additional rollout mats are brought out when seasonal tourists make the beach more crowded.

If you want to explore beyond the pathway and hit the sand, beach facilities also offer two different types of beach wheelchairs for daily use. The wheelchairs are free to rent (you’ll want to reserve one ahead of time to make sure they aren’t all taken when you get there), and can not only help you maneuver around in the sand but also into the cooling water of the lake, as well.

Milwaukee offers other great beaches like Grant Park Beach, McKinley Beach, Tietjen Beach and South Shore Park, all great for swimming and enjoying the summer sun, but Bradford Beach is a standout for its accessibility, a distinction that has made it one of the most accessible beaches in the country.