Totorus

Photo credit by Atelier Teee

Milwaukee is not only the largest city in the state of Wisconsin, but also has one of the more unique histories of any community in the area. Over the years the city has accumulated a number of nicknames such as Cream City, Brew City, Mil Town and The City of Festivals. Milwaukee was largely formed and influenced by the many European immigrants the city received between the mid 1800s and the early 1900s. The city went through a downturn in population and development in the 1960s, but has responded well of late with new neighborhoods getting built and old ones getting restored. Here is a look at some of the must-visit places in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Basilica of St. Josaphat

Built in the Polish Cathedral style of architecture, the Basilica of St. Josaphat is the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. Beyond its religious significance, the building features one of the largest copper domes in the entire world. Like many churches of the time, it is modeled after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy. It was constructed around the turn of the 20th century and was dedicated in 1901.

US Bank Center

When construction completed on what would later be named the US Bank Center in 1973, the building stood at 601 feet tall and would remain to this day the tallest building in all of Wisconsin. The building not only houses the US Bank offices, but is also home to IBM and the Milwaukee offices of Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig.

St. Joan Of Arc Chapel

One of the more original buildings in Milwaukee, the St. Joan of Arc Chapel possesses some of the most unique history as well. The building was originally constructed in France in what is thought to be the 15th century. After falling into ruin, it was disassembled and relocated to Jericho, New York following World War I. After being left in a will to the college, it was transfered and rebuilt on the campus of Marquette University in Milwaukee. The chapel remains one of the more popular attractions at Marquette.

Allen-Bradley Clock Tower

Many people would never guess that the world's largest four faced clock tower resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, but that is just the case. The Allen-Bradley Clock Tower was originally built in 1962 and was purposefully made without chimes out of respect for London's Big Ben so that it could remain the world's largest chiming four-faced clock.

Milwaukee Public Museum

One of the best ways to get a taste of Old Milwaukee is by a visit to the Milwaukee Public Museum. The museum is devoted to the city's entire history, and there is no better place to learn about Milwaukee and the surrounding area than this museum. It was originally opened to the public in 1884, and moved into its present building in 1960. One of the most popular attractions is the Streets of Old Milwaukee exhibit which recreates an actual neighborhood and street scene from Milwaukee's distant past.

From its time as a frontier town to its development as the foremost brewing city in the nation and beyond, the city of Milwaukee has possessed a fascinating history. Any visitor that chooses Milwaukee as a destination for a vacation or excursion will be well entertained by all that the city has to offer. They will be exceptionally entertained and occupied if they have even the slightest interest in history or historical sites. Visiting the city of Milwaukee is a great way to witness and learn about much of the history of this extraordinary part of the United States. A trip to Milwaukee is a great way to spend any leisure time anyone has available.