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!

November 13, 2024

East Side Holiday Gift Guide

Shop exclusive deals and gift ideas from your favorite local businesses!


October 10, 2024

Food/Drink Roundup: Support East Side Businesses in their Construction Time of Need

Your guide to supporting East Side BID businesses during construction from Milwaukee Record


October 01, 2024

East Side BID Announces Appointment of New Executive Director

The East Side BID is thrilled to welcome Ryan Laessig as new Executive Director effective September 30, 2024.


September 25, 2024

The North Ave Street Improvement Project is Underway

Progress has begun on the North Ave Street Improvement Project.


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


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.