Milwaukee: Brew City by the Lake

• HelloHey
  [hey]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see ya]
• YesYeah
  [yeah]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [please/no problem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [excuse me/my bad]
• How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how ya doin']
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. you?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak english?]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [i don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu, please
  [menu, please]
• I don't eat meatNo meat for me
  [no meat for me]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [check, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help!]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [get a doctor!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [i'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [i'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [i wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just browsing]
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
• That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [can you do better?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [it's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
• MorningMorning
  [morning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvening
  [evening]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
• 1One
  [one]
• 2Two
  [two]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [what's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Show me on the map?
  [show me on the map?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [when's the next bus?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ticket to...
  [ticket to...]

Milwaukee was officially founded in 1846 when three competing settlements, Juneautown, Kilbourntown, and Walker's Point, merged to form a single city. Solomon Juneau, Byron Kilbourn, and George H. Walker were the prominent figures behind these settlements, each contributing to the growth and development of the area.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Milwaukee earned the nickname 'Beer Capital of the World.' The city became home to several major breweries, including Pabst, Schlitz, Miller, and Blatz. This brewing heritage not only shaped the local economy but also influenced the city's culture and identity.

Milwaukee saw a significant influx of German immigrants in the mid-19th century. These immigrants brought with them their customs, traditions, and skills, particularly in brewing and manufacturing. The German influence is still evident today in the city's architecture, cuisine, and cultural festivals, such as Oktoberfest.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked an era of industrial growth for Milwaukee. The city became a hub for manufacturing, with industries ranging from machinery and electronics to leather goods. Companies like Harley-Davidson and A.O. Smith Corporation played pivotal roles in establishing Milwaukee as a major industrial center.

Milwaukee has a rich artistic heritage, highlighted by institutions like the Milwaukee Art Museum, which opened in 1888. The museum is renowned for its extensive collection of American and European art, as well as its iconic Quadracci Pavilion designed by Santiago Calatrava. The city's vibrant arts scene is also reflected in numerous galleries, theaters, and public art installations.

Milwaukee played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Activists like Father James Groppi and the NAACP Youth Council led protests against segregation and discrimination, particularly in housing and education. The struggle for civil rights in Milwaukee brought about important social changes and laid the groundwork for future progress.

Since its inception in 1968, Summerfest has grown to become the world's largest music festival, attracting over 800,000 visitors annually. Held on the shores of Lake Michigan, the festival features performances from a diverse array of artists, spanning genres and generations. Summerfest is a cornerstone of Milwaukee's cultural identity and a major draw for tourists.

Milwaukee is serviced by General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), which is located about 8 miles south of downtown. The airport offers flights from major carriers with connections to numerous destinations. Alternatively, Milwaukee is accessible by train via Amtrak's Hiawatha Service, which provides frequent service between Chicago and Milwaukee. For those driving, Milwaukee is connected by several major highways including I-94, I-43, and I-41.

Milwaukee's public transportation system includes buses operated by the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS), which covers most of the city and surrounding areas. The city also offers The Hop, a free streetcar service running through downtown. Taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, and bike rentals are readily available. For those driving, be aware that parking can be limited and metered in busy areas.

The official currency in Milwaukee, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors.

Milwaukee is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any urban area, it's important to remain vigilant. Areas such as the North Division and Metcalfe Park have higher crime rates and it's recommended to avoid these neighborhoods, particularly at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The city has several hospitals, including Froedtert Hospital and Aurora Sinai Medical Center, for medical emergencies. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, you can find numerous pharmacies throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress casually but neatly; jeans, t-shirts, and comfortable shoes are generally acceptable. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious customs, especially when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a transit card for bus fares. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a 'hello'. A simple handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods like cheese curds and bratwurst. Don't forget to tip your server, usually around 15-20%.

To experience Milwaukee like a local, explore the city's diverse neighborhoods such as the Historic Third Ward for its shops and eateries, or Bay View for its vibrant arts scene. Attend a Milwaukee Brewers baseball game at American Family Field. Don’t miss the Milwaukee Public Market for a taste of local cuisine. Enjoy a stroll or bike ride along the picturesque Lakefront Trail. Visit during summer for festivals like Summerfest, the world's largest music festival.