Experience kayaking on Milwaukee River at Schlitz Park with a 4-hour rental. Perfect for beginners and those looking to unwind on the water near downtown Milwaukee.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; suitable for beginners and those comfortable with light physical activity.
Wildlife
History
The Milwaukee River played a key role in the city’s industrial growth and today remains central to its recreational life.
Conservation
Milwaukee Kayak Company promotes eco-friendly practices, encouraging paddlers to respect wildlife and avoid disturbing natural habitats.
Milwaukee Kayak Company
Experience kayaking on Milwaukee River at Schlitz Park with a 4-hour rental. Perfect for beginners and those looking to unwind on the water near downtown Milwaukee.
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 water-friendly shoes
Footwear that can get wet and offers grip will help you get in and out of the kayak comfortably.
Bring sun protection
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat since you'll be exposed to direct sunlight on the river.
Arrive early for the lesson
Plan to get there 15 minutes ahead to complete the quick safety briefing and basic paddling instruction.
Stay hydrated
Bring a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated throughout the 4-hour paddle.
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects your skin from the strong sun reflecting off the water.
summer
Water shoes
Provides grip and comfort while launching and exiting kayaks.
Lightweight rain jacket
Keeps you dry in case of sudden spring showers.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout your paddle.