Art Bar

Bar

722 E Burleigh
Milwaukee, WI 53212

State Region

Southeast WI

Neighborhood

Riverwest

Year Opened: 2004
Still in Business

Exact Date Opened: Unknown
Exact Date Closed: Unknown

Clientele Primarily Identified As

Mixed

Logo:

After two successful decades, Art Bar remains the cornerstone of an increasingly diverse and vibrant Riverwest neighborhood.

Don Krause opened ArtBar in Milwaukee in March 2004, driven by a post-9/11 desire to pursue his dreams and revitalize a neglected Riverwest corner with edgy alternative art. 

"For years, people kept trying to define us," says Krause. "By now, I think they realize that we're undefinable."

After two decades, ArtBar evolved from a tavern into a cultural hub. Krause recently expanded his vision to include the adjacent Meow Bar (formerly Two) and the Wonderland diner, both thriving destinations for the local community.