09/28/2026
The Milwaukee River Challenge returns Saturday, October 3, marking 25 years of competitive rowing on Milwaukeeโs rivers! More than 800 high school, collegiate, and club rowers will take on the three-mile course through the heart of downtown Milwaukee. ๐ฃโโ๏ธ
The race begins at 25th and Canal Streets on the Menomonee River before heading into the Milwaukee River, with crews racing beneath 18 bridges and finishing near Schlitz Park. There are plenty of spots to catch the action along the route, including the MOTOR Bar & Restaurant at the Harley-Davidson Museum, The Twisted Fisherman Crab Shack, and Lombardi Brewing Company (now serving coffee for the morning start time โ๏ธ).
Racing runs from 9amโ2pm, so grab a spot along the river and watch this unique Milwaukee tradition unfold on the water.
Learn more and find spectator information at milwaukeeriverchallenge.com.