East Side Business Improvement District
Welcome to the East Side
Building a coalition to create Milwaukee’s most vibrant neighborhood

East Side Business Improvement District

Welcome to the creative crossroads of the East Side Milwaukee. The East Side Business Improvement District is responsible for the management, promotion, and staffing for the commercial area.

We are a Destination

We are a Destination

We are the original 'lifestyle' center that malls tried to recreate. We are a community. We are a destination.

We are unlike any other area in Milwaukee.

You'll find iconic, old-school businesses mixed in with exciting new venues.
We buzz with the energy and vitality from the influx of creative newcomers to the community alongside longtime Eastsiders who make Milwaukee what it is today. 
We're the bike hub between the lakefront and the river trails. This is where you can walk to, bike to, or drive your car and park to eat, drink, shop, and enjoy nature all within a few block radius.

GET AROUND

Explore the East Side Neighborhood

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EAST SIDE BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Discover the businesses within the creative crossroads of Milwaukee’s East Side. The BID offers a wide range of services to residents and visitors alike. Find everything you need within our business directory by quickly accessing their business information, directions, and social media platforms.

Come Join our Growing Community

Growth and opportunity...these two words capture what is happening on the East Side of Milwaukee.
Our revitalization strategies align with the community’s vision of building a walkable, vibrant urban core.

EAST SIDE NEWS

Stay up to date on all the latest East Side News and happenings!

April 24, 2024

East Side Pub & Grill Is Closed, Redevelopment Coming

East Side Pub & Grille has closed - but big plans are in progress for the space


February 14, 2024

Here's the Date for Summer Soulstice 2024

Summer Soulstice Music Festival is featured by OnMilwaukee


January 09, 2024

East Side BID January 2024 Newsletter

A celebration of top memories and accomplishments on the East Side in 2023


December 10, 2023

You may have noticed new lane markings on Highland, Walnut, North Avenue. Here's what's behind that…

Learn more about the East Side BID's new bike lanes in this article by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel


November 15, 2023

East Side BID Holiday Gift Guide

Shop unique gift ideas from your favorite East Side businesses!


October 24, 2023

Celebrate Halloween on the East Side on October 28

Enjoy Halloween-themed events for all ages at multiple businesses and locations throughout the East Side.


October 13, 2023

New Mural Completed in Black Cat Alley

The East Side BID and Black Cat Alley are happy to announce that Ruben Alcantar has completed his new mural in Black Cat Alley.


September 21, 2023

Black Cat Alley Concert Series Extended

Milwaukee's East Side residents can look forward to an exciting fall season as the East Side’s Black Cat Rising concert series, presented by Crossroads Collective, has been extended due to its immense popularity.


RECENT BLOG POSTS

June 03, 2024 | David Smulyan

Let's Welcome these New Businesses to the East Side

I’d like to extend a warm welcome to several new businesses that have opened their doors in the last few months. I'm also excited to announce a couple of other businesses that I know will be coming to the East Side.

May 18, 2024 | David Smulyan

It Takes a Team to Put on the Summer Soulstice Musical Festival

June 15th is only 4 weeks away… It’s hard to believe. My team and I have been preparing for this event since February. Putting on an event like this takes an unbelievable amount of time and energy. I’m fortunate to have a team of people helping me out.

May 11, 2024 | David Smulyan

Ivanhoe Plaza is Turning One Year Old

It is hard to believe but the Ivanhoe Plaza is just about to complete its first year in existence. The Plaza was established on May 25, 2023. The creation of this pedestrian zone in the neighborhood provides a safe gathering space for families and a venue for activities and events.