Growing up as a Milwaukeean brings a certain feeling about. Whether it be shopping in large department stores or small shops run by your neighbors, there are many stores we spent much time in and still think fondly of. Check out these ten stores that if you grew up in Milwaukee you will definitely remember!
1. Gimbels
Every Milwaukeean thinks fondly of the old Gimbels department store downtown! This department store mimicked ones of Manhattan and brought life to Wisconsin Avenue. This store dates all the way back to 1900, and will be missed!
2. Renaissance Books
In the early 1960s, Renaissance Books was born. This beloved bookstore was a Milwaukee gem until there was argument that it was an "eye sore." The original store, which was located in an old warehouse, eventually closed due to concerns about the structure of the building, but there is still a branch in the General Mitchell International Airport!
3. Art Smart's Dart Mart
This little Brady Street gem with the funny name opened it's door on April Fool's Day in 1985. This store is beloved by many, and people travel from all over to check it out. Whether you need darts, disc golf supplies, or a rubber chicken, Art Smart's is the place for all of it.
Art Smart's Dart Mart & Juggling Emporium is located off of Brady Street at 1695 N. Humboldt Ave., Milwaukee.
3. Sentry Foods
Growing up in Milwaukee meant walking to the store to get your parents ingredients for dinner, and for a lot of us, that meant going to Sentry. These charming independent grocery stores have everything you need, including a friendly smile! There are many Sentry Foods throughout Milwaukee.
4. Kehr's Candies
During the Great Depression, the Kehr's decided to open a store to sell candy corn and chips. They ended up buying recipes from candy makers and Kehr's Candies was born. They've had a few different locations, but the most well-known is the one on North Avenue. Even though the original owners don't run the shop anymore, the wholesome business has been taken over by a stock boy who started in 1938.
Kehr's Candies operates a shop in the Milwaukee Public Market at 400 N. Water St., Milwaukee.
5. Netzow's Pianos
This Wauwatosa piano shop was around for over 100 years! It was the go-to for all of your musical needs. Unfortunately, it closed its doors in 2016 and will be missed by many.
6. The Spice House
The Spice House is a Milwaukee gem that was founded in 1957 by the Penzey family. For over 50 years, this business has been successful and is loved by many, near and far. You can't get better or rarer imported spices you can at The Spice House.
The Spice House operates at two locations: 1031 N. Old World 3rd St. and within the Milwaukee Public Market at 400 N. Water St., Milwaukee, as well as a couple locations in Illinois.
7. The Exclusive Company
If you're truly a Milwaukeean, you'll remember the commercials exclaiming, "Say it with me, The Exclusive Company! " As a teenager, you probably remember going to The Exclusive Company to pick up the latest record from your favorite band. This cool music store is still going strong!
The Exclusive Company still operates at 1669 N. Farwell Ave. in Milwaukee, as well as in other locations throughout the state.
8. Wisconsin Cheese Mart
Wisconsin Cheese Mart has been the go-to for quality cheese since 1938. They truly take cheese seriously... as they should! They sell artisan Wisconsin cheese on Old World 3rd Street, but they ship all over the world. They also own Uber Tap Room , which is a popular cheese bar for craft beers and more cheesey menu items than you can handle.
Wisconsin Cheese Mart is currently located at 215 W. Highland Ave., Milwaukee.
9. Daly's Pen Shop
America's oldest pen shop has called Milwaukee home since 1924. It's always given us that 1920s feel, and has been a go-to for gifts for any Milwaukeean. Unfortunately, Daly's Pen Shop will be closing its doors at the end of January 2018 - so pay a visit to this incon while you still can!
10. Winkie's
Everyone knows Winkie's in Whitefish Bay! Since 1964, this little shop has been a community gem. The friendly gift shop is well-loved by many and is a treasure trove of eclectic gifts, as well as all the essentials you need.
Winkie's is located at 629 E. Silver Spring Dr., Whitefish Bay.
Ah, the good ol’ days! This is by no means an extensive list, so what would you add to it? What are some of your favorite shopping memories in Milwaukee? Share your stories with us in the comments!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.