EAST SIDE
The East Side blends historic charm with a youthful, artsy edge. It’s got that dense, walkable feel with tree-lined streets, a mix of older homes and quirky apartment buildings, and tons of character.
Expect a mix of architectural styles—from Victorian homes and craftsman bungalows to unique duplexes and condos. Lots of properties have original woodwork, stained glass, and other vintage details.
It’s the kind of neighborhood that feels like its own little world and so full of personality!
WHY BUYERS LOVE THE EAST SIDE
Neighborhoods within the East Side
- Upper East Side – Around UWM; more residential, with stately homes and leafy streets
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Lower East Side – Closer to downtown; includes Brady Street, North Avenue, and parts of Prospect Ave (more bars, restaurants, nightlife).
Diverse and Charming Housing Options
- When looking on the East Side think...classic brick walkups from the early 1900s—wood floors, radiators, big windows.
- Condos & Lakefront High-Rises - Along Prospect Avenue especially, you’ll see more luxury condos with lake views, underground parking, and on-site amenities.
- Duplexes and Triplexes
Very common in this area, they offer great investment potential to live in and rent out the other units!
Foodie & Cocktail Hotspot
- Lake Park Bistro – Quaint bistro featuring upscale French fare, an extensive wine list & Lake Michigan views.
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Sala – Destination for Sicilian pastas & pizzas in a red-walled, art-rich space with a patio.
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Canela Cafe– One of the most delicious breakfast & lunch restaurants you can find on the lower eastside.
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BelAir Cantina - a Wisconsin staple with a famous lineup of tacos, mouthwatering margaritas, and more.
WHY LIVE ON THE EAST SIDE?
DISCOVER THE EAST SIDE
Shopping & Local Boutiques
- Little Monsters - a local children’s boutique that carries clothing, toys, accessories, books and so much more … even candy!
- Art Smart's Dart Mart -in addition to darts & juggling supplies, they have expanded to golf discs, boomerangs, yo-yos, foot bags and a wide array of other items. Care for some chattering teeth? A rubber chicken? They have them!
- Beans & Barley -Started in 1973 as a small neighborhood health-food store, they've become a neighborhood specialty store and restaurant, with a market that has everything from groceries to gifts.
Lakefront & Outdoor Vibe
- Bradford Beach - The most popular beach in the Milwaukee park system, with beach volleyball, a custard stand, and known as a birding hotspot.
- Colectivo Lakefront Cafe - A great place to hang out all year round, but especially when the warm weather arrives. Enjoy an expansive patio, unbeatable lake views, strong coffee and handmade baked goods!
Culture & Entertainment
- Villa Terrace Art Museum is a Mediterranean country house dropped into an urban setting. Museum visitors may enjoy the view along with a stroll through the Villa's award-winning gardens.
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Oriental Theatre -Since 1927, the theatre has been an iconic landmark on the East Side. With three screens, full-service concessions & bar offerings, and its ornate East Indian décor, the Oriental Theatre is consistently recognized as one of the top movie palaces in the country.
HOW DOES THE EAST SIDE RANK?
It's known for its vibrant atmosphere, with tree-lined streets, historic homes, and plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants within walking distance.
It's a great area for pedestrians, whether you're exploring, enjoying the lakefront views, or strolling through the neighborhoods.
