easy
2–4 hours
Suitable for individuals with general fitness; no prior paddling experience required.
Milwaukee Kayak Company brings urban paddling to life with easy rentals and guided tours along the city’s scenic rivers. Discover why this resource is perfect for new and seasoned paddlers seeking a fresh Milwaukee perspective.
Milwaukee Kayak Company offers a distinctive gateway to Wisconsin’s urban waterways, delivering hands-on paddling experiences right in Milwaukee. Situated along the Milwaukee and Menomonee Rivers, the company’s main location and satellite docks at Twisted Fisherman and Schlitz Park Riverwalk provide easy waterfront access for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Whether you’re after a quick 2-hour paddle past the iconic bronze Fonz statue or a longer 4-hour rental delivering more time upriver, MKC fits riders of all skill levels.
The city’s rivers cut through a unique mix of industrial relics and urban parks, making this an eclectic journey framed by rippling water, well-maintained docks, and the occasional passing heron or kingfisher. One of MKC’s standout offerings includes Lunchtime and Rise 'N Shine Morning Paddles, where quiet hours on the water reveal a side of Milwaukee invisible from the streets. Moonlight Paddles add a distinct flavor, with the city skyline shimmering on the water after dark.
Beyond rentals, MKC emphasizes accessibility and education with beginner kayaking classes and private tours tailoring the experience to novices or groups seeking a deeper connection with Milwaukee’s waterways. Reviewers highlight the company’s well-maintained, sturdy boats, user-friendly dock launches, attentive staff, and thoughtful extras like dry bags and clean portable facilities.
This company is a pivotal connector between Milwaukee’s urban fabric and its waterways, transforming a recreational outing into an insightful way to witness the city from an uncommon vantage point. For locals and visitors alike, Milwaukee Kayak Company offers an engaging escape that’s effortless to book, approachable for families, and unforgettable for all who paddle.
Paddling in morning or weekday hours reduces boat traffic and makes for a more peaceful experience on Milwaukee’s rivers.
Expect to get splashed; lightweight, moisture-wicking gear ensures comfort throughout your time on the water.
MKC provides dry bags—use them to protect phones, snacks, and valuables from water exposure.
Plan your paddling time to avoid rushing back; the 2-hour routes are manageable for most beginners along calm urban waterways.
Milwaukee’s rivers once powered mills and factories, shaping the city’s industrial growth and today provide accessible recreation corridors.
MKC encourages eco-conscious paddling to protect local waterways, promoting catch-and-release and minimizing shoreline disturbance.
Keeps you cool and dry during warm-weather paddling.
summer specific
Protect your feet during dock launches and in shallow river sections.
Provides warmth and wind protection during cooler mornings.
spring specific
Safeguards belongings from splashes and sudden river moisture.