By CGN Staff

There is no shortage of art to see at home in Chicago but fall also offers chances to venture elsewhere for the day or for a weekend.

In Milwaukee right now, and through October 6, is a new Milwaukee initiative that brings together museums, galleries and public art with a free passport to help visitors explore the city’s cultural offerings easily.

Organized by Sculpture Milwaukee, Milwaukee Art Escape runs through October 6, 2026, with participants including the Milwaukee Art Museum, Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum, Lynden Sculpture Garden, Haggerty Museum of Art and Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design Galleries. Sample itineraries are available.

The free Milwaukee Art Escape Passport offers a starting point for building a day trip or weekend itinerary, connecting art destinations with dining, hospitality and other local partners. Participating locations offer a range of visitor incentives, including special experiences and, at some stops, prize giveaways. The specially created Welcome Packet includes participating partner offers, transportation tips, and your Milwaukee Art Escape Passport. Organizers say that as you explore, you can take advantage of exclusive offers and visit participating partners, using the Passport as a guide and tool to access exclusive offers by visiting in person. Examples are a Lion’s Tooth bookstore 10% discount, and 15% off general admission or $10 off the annual membership at Villa Terrace Museum & Gardens. There is even a free streetcar that connects several destinations.

“There are so many great cultural institutions in Milwaukee, and collectively we are building a culture of collaboration,” said John Riepenhoff, Executive Director of Sculpture Milwaukee. “By working together, we are increasing the visibility of the arts and sharing our Milwaukee art experience with visitors from Chicago, Madison, and beyond.”

Launched August 21 with a few days left of summer, the initiative has received support from Travel Wisconsin and Baird, as the campaign also encourages Milwaukee residents to explore their own city. For returning visitors, the roster offers a reason to pair a familiar museum stop with a sculpture garden, gallery or historic site they have yet to visit.

Find participating destinations and register for the free passport at milwaukeeartescape.com.