How To Get To Summerfest 2023: Freeway Flyer, Parking And Construction

MILWAUKEE, WI — Summerfest fans across Wisconsin and Milwaukee County will have a variety of ways to get to the music this year, organizers announced on Monday.

The festival takes place over three weekends, June 22-24, June 29-July 1, and July 6-8. Visitors will get the chance to hear from big artists such as Smokey Robinson, Earth Wind and Fire plus Yung Gravy and more.

See also: Summerfest 2023 Lineup Announced: 3 Weekends Of Concerts

Public transit is likely to be a popular option across the county between the return of two freeway flyers and the debut of the east-west Bus Rapid Transit Connect down Wisconsin Avenue. Those who prefer to drive themselves will also have plenty of parking options, but construction and downtown expansion may make it a little harder, organizers said in a news release.

If you're driving to 2023 Summerfest

In a statement, Milwaukee World Festival Inc. CEO Don Smiley encouraged fans who are driving to plan ahead by finding the best routes and parking options.

People planning on driving should expect impacts from construction in downtown and the Third Ward. Left turns from Lincoln Memorial Drive to Clybourn Street will not be allowed during the festival. Drivers are also encouraged to get off the highway at a downtown exit before the lakefront, and to utilize a downtown parking structure.

You can find a variety of tips for parking and driving from the "2023 Summerfest Get Around Guide."

If you're using public transit for 2023 Summerfest

Two Freeway Flyer bus routes are back this year from the Milwaukee County Transit System to transport patrons between suburban Park and Ride lots and the festival. This year riders will be able to use the Park and Ride at Brown Deer Road and the one College Avenue. Fare for a round trip will be $10 not payable by cash. Organizers said the freeway flyers will make a great option for the north and south trips.

For the riders heading east to west, there is the MCTS Connect 1. The line runs from the Watertown Plank Road Park and Ride to the end of Wisconsin Avenue. It's new this year, and will be free throughout the festival. Other local bus routes around the city will be within walking distance of Summerfest's North Gate.

Want to have someone else drive you?

For people using rideshare services, the pick-up and drop-off will be outside the north gate. Other bars and establishments around the city may also offer shuttles, festival organizers said.

Want to take your bike?

A couple of different bicycling trails intersect near the Summerfest grounds, located at the city's lakefront. Festival organizers said the Hank Aaron State Trail and the Oak Leaf Trail will offer a pathway with bicycle parking near the mid, north and south gates.

This year marks the 55th year of Summerfest with hundreds of performances across a dozen stages. You can buy tickets and find more information about Summerfest 2023 on its website.