Reservations and walk-ins accepted. There is a way to pretend that the Milwaukee River is actually a Venice canal and that the starry evening is a romantic one. Antonio Treviso operates two gondolas from the first week in June through the second week in September. Gondola rides last about 20 minutes and head north, passing under three or four bridges as far as North Ave. Music plays on board, and if you ask, the gondolier might even break into song for you.
Patrons are welcome to bring champagne or a picnic basket.
Rides are offered all night beginning at 6 p.m. Friday and 5 p.m. Saturday. They run as late as midnight, depending on weather and customer traffic. For a quick view of the city's shoreline, try a Jet Ski. Reservations are not required for the Jet Ski but are necessary for the kayak. You will need cash or a credit card for a deposit.