Restaurant with a History

Located across the street from the Bradley Center sports arena in Milwaukee, Historic Turner Hall is a popular gathering place before games and events. Since 1883 this historic landmark offers a variety of American pub fare and German specialties. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and offers fast service and tasty food at reasonable prices. But Turner Hall is more than just a restaurant. It is a Milwauke institution and the historic buiding hosts weddings, class reunions, office parties, and a variety of other special events.

The Milwaukee Turners is a group that has been a part of the city since 1853. They are dedicated to fostering the health of body and mind through various programs including public forums, gymnastics education, music, and other arts. The hall provides rental space and a unique venue for artists with a desire to showcase their talents. They have undertaken the mission of renovating the hall into one of the leading venues in Milwaukee. Through the Turner Ballroom Preservation Trust, the group has been able to establish the building as a National Landmark that can be enjoyed for generations to come.

The ballroom is a two-story, 7,000 square foot space. There is a 31 by 56 foot stage, as well as an expansive balcony. From the late 19th century until today, the Ballroom has featured a variety of social, cultural, and political events. In the 1920's, the Milwaukee art scene was dominated by German immigrant artists and many of them were able to showcase their work at Turner. In the 1930's and `40's, the venue experienced fire damage. They closed their doors for a period of time, extended due to anti-German sentiment brought about by World War II. Finally, in 2000, the trust was established and they are determined to restore this building to its original grandeur, realizing the ultimate philanthropic intent of the Milwaukee Turners.

Surrounded by some of Milwaukee's best known establishments, Turner Hall is in the heart of classic Milwaukee. Prios to Marquette basketball games, concerts, Milwauke Bucks games, and the annual Christmas performance of the Transiberian Orchestra's holiday show, Turner Hall is the place to gather. College students enjoy the noisy bar area, and hungry diners have no problem finding a seat in the huge, multi-room restaurant. Just across the stress is the arena, and following the event there are plenty of bars and nightclubs within walking distance, aside from Turner.

As years pass, the hall continues to grow and become more popular among performance artists, community members, and diners. Few who have lived in Milwaukee for an length of time have not visited the hall for one reason or another. It is a popular spot for holiday parties and get togethers, especially for area businesses in downtown Milwaukee. If you are planning a visit to Milwaukee, or you have tickets to an event at the Bradley Center, consider spending some time at Turner Hall. You will be amazed at the size, history, and ambiance of this establishment.