Discover the Artistic Charm of Black Cat Alley
Explore Black Cat Alley, Milwaukee's hidden gem of urban art, where creativity and community come alive in vibrant street murals.
A brief summary to Black Cat Alley
- E Ivanhoe Pl, Milwaukee, Lower East Side, Wisconsin, 53202, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Nestled in the heart of Milwaukee’s Lower East Side, Black Cat Alley is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. This enchanting alleyway serves as an open-air gallery, showcasing a vibrant collection of murals created by talented local artists. From whimsical designs to thought-provoking pieces, each artwork tells a story, adding depth to the urban landscape. As you stroll through the alley, the lively colors and creative expressions invite you to pause, reflect, and capture amazing photographs. The atmosphere at Black Cat Alley is lively and inviting, often filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation as visitors explore this artistic haven. It has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists, making it a perfect place to relax and soak in the creativity that surrounds you. Don’t forget to bring your camera; the art installations provide countless opportunities for amazing photos that will surely enhance your travel memories. The community spirit is palpable, with many events held throughout the year, including art walks and pop-up markets, which further enrich the experience. While visiting, take a moment to appreciate the effort and talent that goes into the artworks. Each piece is a reflection of Milwaukee's rich cultural heritage and the diverse voices of its artists. Whether you are an art lover or simply looking for a unique spot to visit, Black Cat Alley promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Milwaukee's artistic community.
Local tips
- Visit during the day for the best natural light to capture photos of the murals.
- Check local listings for any events or art walks happening during your visit.
- Respect the artwork and the space; avoid touching the murals to preserve the artists' work.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby cafes or shops to fully enjoy the local culture.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from downtown Milwaukee, head east on Wisconsin Avenue toward the Milwaukee River. Continue walking until you reach Water Street. Turn left on Water Street and walk north until you reach East Knapp Street. Make a right on East Knapp Street and continue east until you hit North Broadway. Turn left on North Broadway and walk until you reach East Ivanhoe Place. Black Cat Alley will be on your right side between the buildings at 222 E Ivanhoe Pl. Keep an eye out for the vibrant murals!
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Public Transit
From downtown Milwaukee, take the Milwaukee County Transit System bus #30 or #10 from any nearby stop towards the east side. Get off at the stop on North Broadway Street near East Knapp Street. From there, walk east on East Knapp Street until you reach North Broadway. Turn left on North Broadway and walk until you arrive at East Ivanhoe Place. Black Cat Alley will be on your right side. Make sure to check the current bus schedules for the most accurate transit times.
Attractions Nearby to Black Cat Alley
- North Point Water Tower
- Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum
- Charles Allis Art Museum
- North Point Lighthouse
- Kadish Park
- Lake Park Waterfall
- Jewish Museum Milwaukee
- Lake Park
- Swing Park
- Veterans Park
- Lakefront Brewery
- Juneau Park
- Milwaukee County War Memorial Center
- Milwaukee Art Museum
- America's Black Holocaust Museum
Landmarks nearby to Black Cat Alley
- Historical Marker 288: Civil War Camp
- McIntosh | Goodrich Mansion
- Wisconsin State Historical Marker 535: North Point Light Station
- Burns Commons
- Judge Jason Downer Mansion
- Frederick Miller Mansion
- Historical Marker 308: The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Quadracci Pavilion by Santiago Calatrava
- Historic King PLACE
- Wisconsin State Historical Marker 446: Lueddemann’s-On-The-River
- Wisconsin State Historical Marker 131: First Milwaukee Cargo Pier
- Red Arrow Memorial Monument
- Untapped Tours | Milwaukee City Tours
- Milwaukee City Hall
- Wisconsin State Historical Marker 333: Kilbourntown