Black Cat Alley
Black Cat Alley is a vibrant, expansive outdoor art gallery located on Milwaukee’s east side. Located near the Oriental Theater, this one block alleyway is filled with large scale murals painted by local and visiting artists. The alleyway is constantly evolving as artists from the United States and abroad introduce new murals. With over 30,000 square feet of murals, there’s always something new to see!
Location
You can access Black Cat Alley at the intersection of E. Ivanhoe Place and North Avenue. This is near the Crossroads Collective food hall. There is no cost to visit the alleyway. You metered street parking is available nearby.
Local Restaurants/Coffee Shops
For a unique local stop, check out Sip & Purr Cat Cafe, located at 833 East Brady Street. This unique cafe offers hot and cold drinks, treats, and snuggle time with resident cats. Reservations for the Cat Lounge are suggested ($10) for 1:1 time with the cats. Sip & Purr is open from 12-8pm Wednesday – Saturday, and 12-6pm Sunday.
Colectivo is my favorite coffee stop, and there just happens to be one a block from Black Cat Alley! Located at 2211 N. Prospect Avenue, Colectivo is open Monday – Sunday from 6:30am-4pm. Stop in for a drink or a treat.
Black Cat Alley Murals
I’ve shared my photos of the many of the wonderful murals at Black Cat Alley. I’m planning a return visit to see the alleyway as it evolves with the introduction of new artists. The alleyway is a unique, vibrant area of Milwaukee. It’s a must see! Check out the Archive of Murals.
40 Foot Frog Mural
At the south end of the alleyway, a 40-foot frog mural is an eye-catching landmark, and one of my favorites! You can’t miss this mural as you walk south through the murals.
Local Milwaukee Area Recreation
Milwaukee is filled with opportunities for outdoor recreation. From hiking and biking trails to farmer’s markets and outdoor festivals, there is always something to see.
While you’re in town, be sure to check out Milwaukee’s South Shore Farmer’s Market, held at South Shore Park at 2900 South Shore Drive. You can find fresh produce, artisan cheeses, honey, baked goods, and other crafts. The market is held from 8am-12pm every Saturday from June through October, with street parking available in the residential area surrounding the park.
If you’re interested in local bike trails, a favorite scenic bike trail in the Milwaukee area is the Ozaukee Interurban Trail. Read more about this beautiful trail in my blog post: Bike the Beautiful Ozaukee Interurban Trail | Mequon to Belgium, WI.
If you enjoy walking the beach, searching for fossils, beach glass or unique treasures, there are some beautiful beaches in the Milwaukee area. For information on three of southern Lake Michigan’s best beaches, read more here: Lake Michigan’s Hidden Treasures: Southern Wisconsin’s Best Beaches.
Enjoy your time exploring Black Cat Alley and this unique area of Milwaukee. It is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon!
-Erin