Experience Milwaukee’s rivers in a whole new light with a peaceful guided kayaking trip under the moon. Perfect for all ages, enjoy gear, instruction, and the soothing glow of night paddling.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners and anyone with basic physical ability to paddle comfortably while seated.
Wildlife
History
Milwaukee’s rivers once powered local industry and remain important natural corridors through the city.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain clean waterways and protect local wildlife help preserve this unique urban river ecosystem.
Milwaukee Kayak Company
Experience Milwaukee’s rivers in a whole new light with a peaceful guided kayaking trip under the moon. Perfect for all ages, enjoy gear, instruction, and the soothing glow of night paddling.
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.
Bring a waterproof flashlight
A waterproof flashlight or headlamp ensures you can navigate safely and enjoy the scenery on dark stretches of the river.
Wear layered clothing
Temperatures drop at night, so come dressed in layers to stay warm and comfortable during your paddle.
Listen to your guide
Follow all safety instructions and stay close to your group to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Protect your phone and valuables
Use waterproof cases or dry bags to keep electronics and personal items safe from water exposure.
Waterproof headlamp
Illuminates your path and allows hands-free paddling at night.
Layered clothing
Keeps you warm when temperatures dip after sunset.
spring
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and other bugs near the water.
summer
Dry bag
Keeps your personal items safe and dry during your paddle.