Enjoy a serene 2-hour kayak rental on Milwaukee’s Menomonee River with Milwaukee Kayak Company. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers a peaceful paddle through quiet waters with all gear and instruction included.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic endurance and upper body strength helpful but not required.
Wildlife
History
The Menomonee River was once heavily industrialized but has undergone significant restoration to become a welcoming natural oasis in Milwaukee.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to improve water quality and habitat restoration, making responsible paddling important to protect local wildlife.
Milwaukee Kayak Company
Enjoy a serene 2-hour kayak rental on Milwaukee’s Menomonee River with Milwaukee Kayak Company. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers a peaceful paddle through quiet waters with all gear and instruction included.
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-resistant shoes
Choose shoes that can get wet and provide good grip for easy boarding and exiting of kayaks.
Arrive early for your lesson
Arriving 15 minutes early ensures you receive a full safety briefing and paddling lesson before your rental begins.
Use sunscreen and wear a hat
Protect yourself from sun exposure, especially during midday paddles when the sun is strongest.
Check weather before your trip
Avoid kayaking during thunderstorms or high winds for safety and a better experience on the water.
Quick-dry clothing
Helps keep you comfortable and dry during the paddle.
summer
Layered outerwear
Keep warm during cooler water and air temperatures.
spring
Waterproof phone case
Protects your electronics in case of splashes or accidental drops.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated while out on the water.