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Harbor View Plaza in Milwaukee is a lakefront playground and public waterfront space tucked at the east end of Greenfield Avenue in the Harbor District. Opened in 2019, it’s the first waterfront public park in this area and an easy, breezy stop for families who love water, climbing structures, and industrial-meets-nature vibes.
💡If you’re exploring more playgrounds around the metro area, don’t miss our guide to the Must-Visit Playgrounds Around Milwaukee.
Key Info
- Location: End of E. Greenfield Ave., Milwaukee
- Parking: Street parking near the plaza
- Restrooms: None (plan ahead!)
- Best For: Kids who love climbing, water play, and big-sky lakefront spaces
- Vibe: Industrial waterfront meets family-friendly play zone
About Harbor View Plaza
Harbor View Plaza was created as the first step in the long-term revitalization of Milwaukee’s Harbor District. It’s a welcoming, easy spot for families, walkers, and paddlers, and sets the tone for a future network of connected riverwalks and waterfront parks.
What You’ll Find at Harbor View Plaza
Play Tower
The bright orange play tower is the signature feature of the plaza. Inspired by the shipping containers found around major ports, it’s a tall, imaginative climbing space where kids can explore, climb, and take in lakefront views from up high.
Water Play Area
During warm weather, the water play zone becomes the heart of the plaza. Kids can splash, experiment with water flow, and cool off under the sun. It’s simple but incredibly engaging for younger visitors.
Canoe & Kayak Launch
For paddlers, the canoe/kayak launch offers the only public access point south of the Milwaukee River within the inner harbor. Whether you’re experienced or just trying it out, it’s an easy way to access Milwaukee’s waterways.
Amenities
- Bike lock stations
- Bottle fill station
- No restrooms
Tips for Visiting
- Bring swimsuits or extra clothes — kids almost always get wet.
- Expect to climb — the orange tower is the main event.
- Take a look at the Komatsu equipment nearby — big, impressive machinery that adds to the Harbor District’s industrial feel.
Nearby Food & Things to Do
Allie Boys Bagelry & Luncheonette
Just a three-minute drive away, and a great stop if you want to grab food before or after your visit.
National Bobblehead Museum & Hall of Fame
A fun, quirky stop just a short drive north. The museum features the world’s largest collection of bobbleheads, rotating exhibits, and plenty of kid-friendly photo ops.
💡Visit our full overview of the National Bobblehead Museum.
What Makes Harbor View Plaza Special
Harbor View Plaza represents Milwaukee’s commitment to opening up a once-industrial waterfront for public use. With climbing, splashing, paddling, and exploring all in one compact space, it’s a perfect addition to any Milwaukee family’s go-to parks list.
More Must-Visit Playgrounds
- Northwestern Mutual Community Park Now Open at Summerfest
- Fox River Park: A Natural Playground in Waukesha
- Village Park in Menomonee Falls Now Open!
- Imagination Station: Waukesha County’s Inclusive Gem
- Kayla’s Playground
- Possibility Playground in Port Washington
Frequently Asked Questions About Harbor View Plaza
Yes — the water feature and play tower are big hits, especially for younger children.
No — it’s a warm-weather activity only.
No, so plan ahead.
Yes — there is a public kayak/canoe launch on site.
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.
