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The Milwaukee Art Museum’s iconic wings — the Burke Brise Soleil — follow a daily rhythm that makes them one of the most recognizable sights on the lakefront. The wings open at 10 a.m., flap at noon (weather permitting), and stay open until 10 p.m., creating a beautiful backdrop for daytime visits.
After sundown, they shift into something even more magical: the wings light up each night and glow until closing time, offering families one of the best free after-dark views in the city.
Wing Opening Schedule
MAM’s wings follow a predictable daily rhythm that’s easy to catch:
- Open: 10 a.m. (when the museum opens)
- Flap: Noon (weather permitting)
- Stay Open Until: 10 p.m.
- Light Up: At sunset
- Glow Until: Museum closing time — even on Mondays when the museum itself is closed
The lighting system runs nightly, offering a colorful, dynamic display that can be seen from various downtown vantage points.
What Makes the Wings Glow
The Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Santiago Calatrava, now features enhanced, color-changing lighting that brings movement and warmth to the museum’s architecture. The lights can shift hues, fade, or glow softly, making the wings a vibrant part of Milwaukee’s nighttime skyline.
This upgraded lighting puts the museum in good company with other illuminated Milwaukee landmarks like the Hoan Bridge.
Best Places to View the Glowing Wings
Here are three easy, family-friendly spots to catch the nightly glow:
1. Museum Center Park (End of Wisconsin Avenue)
A straight-on, postcard-perfect view of the wings.
2. The Footbridge to the Museum
A close-up angle with the lake in the background.
3. Inside Windhover Hall
If you’re visiting during open hours, the interior view offers a stunning perspective of both the wings and the lakefront.
💡 If you want to turn your visit into a fun little art adventure, check out our Milwaukee Sculpture Walk with Kids guide for an easy, stroller-friendly route to Milwaukee’s most iconic outdoor pieces.
Why Families Love It
- It’s free.
- It’s outdoors and easy with kids.
- It’s one of the best “quick stops” at night when you’re already downtown.
- It’s something uniquely Milwaukee.
For families visiting the museum during the day, the illuminated wings are a bonus reason to linger past sunset or pair your visit with a walk along the lakefront.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Milwaukee Art Museum Wings
The Burke Brise Soleil opens each day at 10 a.m., when the museum opens (weather permitting). The museum is closed on Mondays, but the wings still follow their typical lighting schedule after dark.
Yes—on days when the weather allows, the wings flap at noon. High winds or severe weather may pause the schedule.
The wings typically remain open until about 10 p.m., giving families plenty of time to see them during an evening walk along the lakefront.
The wings begin glowing at sundown and stay illuminated until around 10 p.m. The lighting system operates nightly and can shift colors or move gently, adding a dynamic look to the skyline.
Yes. The lighting continues on Monday nights and other days when the museum building is closed, as long as conditions allow.
Popular spots include Museum Center Park at the end of Wisconsin Avenue, the footbridge leading to the museum, and Windhover Hall (when the museum is open).
No. Viewing the wings from outside is free, making it an easy nighttime stop with kids.
Related Guides
10 Best Things To Do at the Milwaukee Art Museum
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
