I've been at the Gallery a couple of times in the last two months and it just feels like such a…read morenice space for art browsing and grabbing a beer (or wine, or tea). I actually grabbed a beer yesterday and read for a bit being surrounded by their current exhibit while waiting for a couple of friends. Beverages range between $5-$10. It actually is a great place for a first date or a pre-dinner drink. Or, of course, for a post-dinner night cap. Close to National on 2nd, and on the 19, 23, and Blue lines; also close to the 15 and Green Line.

We discovered Var Gallery while walking down 2nd Street one unseasonably warm Saturday in January…read more A quick glance in the windows was all it took to get us to stop in and take a look. The gallery displays an eclectic mix of creative works, which currently includes a number of multimedia pieces. One series plays with line art on looped video screens in a way that emphasizes seemingly random moments of action in a static fashion. Another trio of pieces contain exposed electronics and speakers, each one with a prominent button that dares you to push it. (Go ahead and do it -- you'll be rewarded!) A small bar in the center of the first floor offers bottled beer, wine, cocktails and sodas. Given how art can be.a conversation starter (and the creative works at Var will get you talking), this Gallery is a great alternative to a bar or coffee shop when meeting someone for a first date (or planning date night with that special someone who's been your first date for the last decade). Var Gallery is open 11 AM to 4 PM on Tuesday and Wednesday, and open 11 AM to PM on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Fun, playful, creative and unexpected -- it's definitely worth checking out!

Milwaukee has some nice little galleries and this one is excellent. It's two rooms with a little…read morehallway and perfect for a one artist show. The location is a little tricky, the address is listed on South 5th Street but the actual entrance is off Walker (west side).

From the owner: Contemporary Art Galleryread more

No urban spelunking adventure in Walker's Point is complete without a visit to the Lamer's…read moreBuilding. Located just down the street from Botanas on 5th and National, this 1880 building has been lovingly restored by its owner, artist and sculptor Celine Farrell. It houses her studio, Grove Galleries, as well as rotating exhibits in Comb Gallery and N. Adam Beadel's studio honoring the lost art of Linotype, Team Nerd. The space is beautiful with features including cast iron window frames, high ceilings, exposed beams and hardwood floors. The hand tile work evokes the period and pays homage to its former use as a shoe store. In Team Nerd's space, Beadel has a working letter press from circa 1917 as well as an extensive collection of Linotype letters. He spins the wheel, and one by one his pieces are created, in the same fashion of the period. Next to the press is a vintage paper cutter, circa 1909, that is operated by throwing a large switch with the arms. A bevy of examples of pressed art adorn the walls. On a particular visit to Comb Gallery, owner Khine Cho Hline displays examples of Farrell's cast iron sculptures and prints in the adjoining gallery which features a generous loft space. Behind the gallery is Farrell's studio and the second floor is living space. Farrell is proud to provide tours of the space she elegantly transformed into a showcase of creativity for artists in the area. Her finished result is a treasure in the up-and-coming neighborhood. Comb Gallery is open Thursday and Friday evenings from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. Team Nerd and Grove Galleries are also open by appointment.

I've been to this spot on a few occasions now and love this little gem nestled in the Third Ward…read more Most recently, we were holiday shopping in the Third Ward and needed a break from the hustle and bustle of shopping. We stopped in here for one of their velvety smooth and delicious caramel lattes and a little lunch. For lunch, I got their veggie wrap. It was super basic but the toppings were fresh. It wasn't anything special but fortified me for more shopping. The service is always lovely, the atmosphere is bright and relaxing, and the prices are reasonable. Get to it!

A fun space right in the heart of the Third Ward! Full coffee menu, and was surprised to see a wine…read moreand cocktail menu, even a sangria flight too! It was later in the day so they were running low on bakery items, but spotted a red velvet cookie, YUM! Was doing some shopping and decided to pop in for a pick me up. Service was friendly, and decided to get my chai for dine-in, to enjoy a moment with all of the fun artwork and to catch up with a friend. Chai was delicious, and chairs by the window were a comfy spot to take a moment and people watch along Broadway. Pretty cool conference space that you can rent, looked like it had all the bells and whistles for a productive meeting. Nice to be able to peruse the art gallery and art pieces for sale as I waited for my beverage. Highly recommend, and prices are competitive to any other coffee shop in the neighborhood!

I stopped in on a snowy day after spotting some fun looking prints in the window while passing by…read more My visit was completely unplanned I zero expectations. I was impressed with the drawings of colleges and stadiums available by state. I loved the framed display with a diploma and the college/university drawing on top. I think I'm going to have to get that for both my bachelors and masters degree. It looks so nice and is a unique way to commemorate one's school achievements (as a first-gen college grad my degrees mean a lot to me!) I also loved the random Hoan Bridge lamp. It may have been decoration but it looks sharp. The large collection of stickers also caught my eye. There were many Wisconsin / Milwaukee themed ones which would make for a nice souvenir (or stocking stuffer). While perusing things I noticed a lot of people stopping in just to check things out. Seemed like many out-of-towners looking for a piece of Milwaukee to bring him with them which made me happy to see. The third ward location is prime! Definitely worth a stop especially if you're already going to be downtown or checking out the public market (it's very close by).

Originally came in to look for some magnets since I'm only visiting, but left with serval pieces of…read moreart. If you're looking for super touristy magnets, I wouldn't recommend this place. They do have magnets of their art which would be a sweet gift. We loved the style and the lady working was very friendly and helpful. We were not planning to purchase any art, but could t resist, the simple, but clean design.

I went to the summer camp and it was amazing learned a lot and found my hidden skills number 1 campread more

Such a fun space and great food. Great way to spend a Saturday - get a breakfast panini with egg,…read morecheese and bacon. Staff super friendly and food made with care.