Explore Milwaukee's waterways with a 2-hour kayak, canoe, or paddleboard rental from Milwaukee Kayak Company. Perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers seeking a peaceful urban escape.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including beginners with basic balance and stamina.
Wildlife
History
Milwaukee’s waterways once supported early fur traders and helped build the city’s shipping industry, now offering recreational access to locals and visitors.
Conservation
Milwaukee Kayak Company promotes environmentally friendly practices such as cleaning gear between uses to prevent invasive species spread.
Milwaukee Kayak Company
Explore Milwaukee's waterways with a 2-hour kayak, canoe, or paddleboard rental from Milwaukee Kayak Company. Perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers seeking a peaceful urban escape.
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 a Life Jacket
Always wear the life jacket provided by Milwaukee Kayak Company for safety on the water.
Check the Weather
Milwaukee weather can change quickly; bring a waterproof jacket if the forecast calls for rain.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking near the launch site can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water to stay hydrated, especially on warm days when paddling can be physically exerting.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays reflecting off the water during sunny paddling sessions.
summer
Quick-Dry Clothing
Lightweight clothes that dry quickly keep you comfortable while on the water.
summer
Water Shoes
Provides protection and grip when launching or walking in shallow areas.
spring
Layered Jacket
Keeps you warm during cool mornings or unpredictable weather.
spring