Spend A Perfect Afternoon At Zeidler Union Square, The Oldest City Park In Wisconsin

In the heart of Milwaukee, there’s a park that’s been around for a very, very long time. Zeidler Union Square is surrounded by the urban bustle of the city, and it has been a park for the better part of two centuries. It’s a little oasis, a perfect place to spend an afternoon and discover Wisconsin’s oldest city park. Here’s what you need to know about Zeidler Union Square in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

There are other places in Wisconsin besides Zeidler Union Square that could arguably make the claim to having the oldest city park.

Green Bay’s Whiney Park dates back to a town square that was plotted in 1829. It later became a city park. In south central Wisconsin, Aztalan State Park is the site of an ancient city that was settled more than a thousand years ago.

But there’s no question that Zeidler Union Square is a very old city park. It was established in 1835, 11 years before Milwaukee incorporated as a city.

The park is bordered on the north by West Michigan Street, and it’s a short stroll from places like 3rd St. Market Hall, The Riverside Theater, and Hilton Milwaukee City Center.

The park was originally named after Pere Marquette, but it was later renamed for a Milwaukee mayor who died while serving as an officer in World War II. The name was further tweaked in the 1990s to recognize the city’s labor movement.

But while the name has evolved, the park has remained a constant presence. It’s not a huge park, but it has a pretty little gazebo, and it comes alive with lights during the holidays.

In the summer, there’s also a weekly Wednesday market that draws more than 60 vendors – there are some tasty food options, as well as unique artisan products, and live music in the gazebo.

There are so many unique and historic spots to discover in Milwaukee, like Wisconsin's oldest city park. The city literally grew up around this little park – it’s interesting to think about what this place must have been like in the 1830s. Planning a trip to explore Wisconsin’s parks? Here are some products that will make your adventure even better!