Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Milwaukee Airport, WI

THIRD WARD DISTRICT. Milwaukee jazz fans love Caroline's for its laid back yet classy ambience. Both regional and...

THIRD WARD DISTRICT. Milwaukee jazz fans love Caroline's for its laid back yet classy ambience. Both regional and national acts grace the large stage ­ past performers have included such notables as the Count Basie Band, the Dinah Washington Band, Julie Wood, Manty Ellis, Paul Spencer Band, Sam Kidd, and Adekola.

Hours: Wed 8pm-1am; Thu 8am-1am; Fri-Sat 9pm-1:30am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card

DOWNTOWN. This mini-chain, with additional locations in Soho, NYC and Scottsdale, AZ, is owned by the Kopp family of...

DOWNTOWN. This mini-chain, with additional locations in Soho, NYC and Scottsdale, AZ, is owned by the Kopp family of frozen custard fame. Housed in a beautiful Victorian brownstone overlooking the park, Elsa's has a decidedly contemporary look and laid-back atmosphere inside that appeals to a young professional crowd. Specialty cocktails ­ martinis, cosmopolitans, and the like ­ are the beverages of choice, and inventive burgers and sandwiches are the nosh. Try the burger au poivre with bacon and bleu cheese and the pork chop sandwich.

Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-2am; Fri 11am-2:30am; Sat 5pm-2:30am; Sun 5pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

BRADY STREET DISTRICT. Although popular for business lunches, The Knick also has a thriving after-work bar scene,...

BRADY STREET DISTRICT. Although popular for business lunches, The Knick also has a thriving after-work bar scene, complete with specialty cocktails. The menu has selections that are ideal for grazing with friends, or for dining with a date. Starters include a massive antipasto platter, hummus, and crispy calamari. Meal-size salads and hearty sandwiches are popular at lunch. At dinnertime, the menu features plenty of fish and chicken entrees, plus beef and pork for heartier appetites. Favorites include black olive and herb crusted chicken and grilled salmon.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-Midnight; Sat-Sun 9am-Midnight

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

DOWNTOWN. Named for the fictional Milwaukee club in the movie "This is Spinal Tap," Shank Hall is something of a...

DOWNTOWN. Named for the fictional Milwaukee club in the movie "This is Spinal Tap," Shank Hall is something of a local proving ground for regional musicians. It's rather on the small side, but that just adds to the intimate feel of attending a concert here ­ no matter where you stand or sit, you can always see the performers faces. Relaxed atmosphere, full bar. Tickets usually available at the door, but call ahead. 21+ only.

Hours: Show times vary; Box office Tue 11am-2pm and on show dates

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express

DOWNTOWN. Serving great cocktails since 1934, this downtown bar is an integral part of Milwaukee's nightlife. Christmas...

DOWNTOWN. Serving great cocktails since 1934, this downtown bar is an integral part of Milwaukee's nightlife. Christmas lights throughout the year, good live music, great bottled beers and a renowned jukebox. Private corporate and party rooms available.

Hours: Mon-Thu 4pm-2am, Fri-Sat 4pm-2:30am, Sun 6pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express