Explore Milwaukee’s Menomonee River Valley on a private guided kayak tour. Enjoy history, nature, and a complimentary beverage stop on this fun, safe adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical condition and able to paddle steadily for a few hours without strain.
Wildlife
History
The Menomonee River Valley was once an industrial hub and has undergone extensive environmental restoration, transforming it into a thriving urban green space.
Conservation
Local groups actively monitor water quality and habitat restoration, ensuring the river supports native flora and fauna while preventing pollution.
Milwaukee Kayak Company
Explore Milwaukee’s Menomonee River Valley on a private guided kayak tour. Enjoy history, nature, and a complimentary beverage stop on this fun, safe adventure.
Milwaukee Kayak Company is a Milwaukee, Wisconsin outfitter offering guided kayak tours, instructional classes, and short-term rentals. The business operates multiple launch sites and rental locations including a main location with 2- and 4-hour kayak, canoe, and paddleboard options, Twisted Fisherman downtown rentals, and Schlitz Park weekend rentals.
Guided experiences include seasonal offerings such as the Moonlight Paddle, Rise 'N Shine Morning Paddle, Lunchtime Kayak Tour, and the Menomonee River Valley Kayak Tour — an educational outing led in partnership with Menomonee Valley Partners. Trips highlight local landmarks like the Milwaukee Art Museum, Lake Michigan shoreline, the Historic Third Ward, and the Harley-Davidson Museum when routes pass downtown waterways.
Milwaukee Kayak Company provides all necessary gear and includes brief lessons or safety orientation with rentals and many guided tours. The Introduction to Recreational Kayaking class is a 2.5-hour session focused on fundamentals, safety, and paddling technique for beginners. Rental options list 2- and 4-hour durations and accommodate kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards depending on location.
The company’s offerings are positioned for a range of visitors — beginners, families, friends, or date nights — with guided instruction, educational tours, and flexible rental periods. Partnerships and clearly described trip formats aim to make paddling accessible and straightforward for people exploring Milwaukee waterways.
Location
Milwaukee, WI
Launches from multiple downtown locations
Rental Durations
2 & 4 hours
Flexible 2- and 4-hour rentals
Tours Offered
11
Guided paddles and educational tours
Beginner Class
2.5 hours
Intro kayaking class, 2.5 hours
Choose a guided tour, sign up for a beginner class, or book a 2- or 4-hour rental — gear and instruction provided.
Wear Quick-Dry Clothing
Opt for moisture-wicking or quick-dry clothes as you’re likely to get splashed while paddling.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time for a smooth start and safety briefing.
Bring Sun Protection
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from sun exposure on the water.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water or use provided beverages to stay hydrated during the tour, especially on warm days.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keep your belongings dry and safe during the kayak tour.
UV Protection Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare and UV rays while on the water.
summer
Light Rain Jacket
Stay dry if April showers appear during your paddling adventure.
spring
Paddle Gloves
Provide grip and warmth for cooler, brisk paddling days.
fall