The Riverside Theater Milwaukee

The Riverside Theater Milwaukee does not always get the best reviews.

Usually, there’s applause for the acoustics in the theater and the intimacy of the venue, but there are some complaints about the lines for the bathrooms, the wait to get drinks, and the level of “niceness” of the staff.

I say 'to heck with all that'! I love this theater!

Many people attend this theater and have a wonderful experience, and I would have to agree! Although I do have to admit that my '40-year-old bones' don't necessarily care to stand an entire concert (for some reason most people on the ground floor tend to stand during performances at the Riverside) when you're rockin' out to someone like Melissa Ethridge, how can you justify sitting down??

For some reason, the Pabst Theater Milwaukee tends to be more of a 'sit back and enjoy the show' type of theater than the Riverside does.

As far as the complaints go, it's true...the bathroom lines in the basement are kind of long for the ladies (although there are other bathrooms on other floors), but I certainly found the staff to be pleasant and helpful while I was there. I was able to refresh my drink quickly, and staff were directing people to empty bathrooms.

I do notice that the seats at the Riverside don't have as much leg room as the Pabst...maybe that's why everyone is standing?!?!

Regardless, I like the Riverside, and while it may not be my first choice for a concert, I will go there when one of the entertainers peaks my interest!

For summer concerts in particular, I'd highly recommend eating on the patio at the Rock Bottom Brewery, and parking in their lot on the corner of Plankinton and Wells. Special event parking was $10 in 2010 - you can eat and have a few beverages, and then walk one block along the Milwaukee Riverwalk to the Riverside Theater. So convenient! Get there early to make sure you get a parking spot!

You won’t find a website solely dedicated to the Riverside as it is part of the Pabst Theater and Turner Hall, however the link will take you to the list of upcoming events.

Tickets can be purchased on the website, OR directly from the Box Office, Monday – Friday, Noon – 6:30pm, and open starting 2 hours prior to any event.

Enjoy your show at the Riverside Theater Milwaukee!

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