Imperfectly Press'd

Take in the celebrated art, dramatic architecture and scenic gardens at the Milwaukee Art Museum, the city's premier destination for art and culture. Whether you only have an hour or the day to spend at the museum, be sure to see the collection highlights of the 1,500 pieces on display. Missed the scheduled drop-in tour? Try the self-guided tours instead.

The Grohmann Museum is a fairly new museum located at Milwaukee School of Engineering, whose artwork is dedicated to the evolution of human work. After you explore the three main levels, be sure to make a trip up to the roof. At the Rooftop Sculpture Garden you will see a dozen 9-foot tall, bronze sculptures depicting men toiling the fields and foundries.

Continue the long tradition of the Wisconsin State Fair by joining in on the eleven-day festivities in West Allis, right outside of the Milwaukee city limits. Since 1851, this festival has drawn in vendors and citizens from all across the state. Yearly venues include regional and national bands, carnival rides, specialty vendors, agricultural exhibits and a variety of food and drink, including the popular cream puffs.

Think all operas are tragedies? Be proven wrong at the Skylight Opera Theatre, known for its light, comedic operas. Uplifting performances are done in an all-English repertoire rather than traditional Italian. Since 1959, Skylight has produced 30 world and three American premieres, over 70 original cabaret shows and 29 touring productions.