Milwaukee School of Engineering

MilwaukeeUnited States 43° N · 87° W Updated Oct 2026

The Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), located in the vibrant heart of downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a distinguished institution with a rich legacy…

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Milwaukee School of Engineering Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

About the Milwaukee School of Engineering

The Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) is in downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Its compact, pedestrian-friendly urban campus combines historic and modern architecture, state-of-the-art labs, academic buildings, residence halls, and cultural spaces. MSOE is nationally recognized for academic excellence and architectural significance, and has a longstanding place in Milwaukee’s industrial heritage and urban fabric.

For the latest updates on hours, events, and tour bookings, see the official MSOE Visit and Grohmann Museum websites.

History

Founded in 1903 by Oscar Werwath, MSOE is a leader in engineering education. Its connection to Milwaukee’s industrial legacy is reflected in the Grohmann Museum, whose “Man at Work” collection explores the history of human labor and industry.

What to See

Campus

Explore MSOE’s historic and modern architecture, classrooms, labs, student facilities, and cultural spaces. The campus is compact enough to explore on foot.

Grohmann Museum

At 1000 N. Broadway, the Grohmann Museum has more than 1,500 paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from the 16th to the 21st centuries. Its rooftop sculpture garden offers panoramic city views and features bronze figures representing various trades.

The museum hosts rotating exhibitions, public lectures, and community events. Check the museum calendar for current and upcoming programming.

Programs and Events

MSOE offers week-long summer STEM, business, and healthcare camps for high school students (MSOE Summer Programs). Open Houses and ROAR Days for prospective and admitted students feature expanded tours and sessions (MSOE ROAR).

Practical Visiting Information

Hours and Admission

  • Campus Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Some buildings may have extended or event-specific hours.
  • Grohmann Museum Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM. Closed Mondays and major holidays.
  • Admission Campus and general museum admission are generally free, and most museum exhibits are free. Special exhibitions may require advance booking or tickets; check the Grohmann Museum website or Grohmann Museum events for details.

Tours

Guided campus tours are available by appointment and should be scheduled in advance through the MSOE Visit Page. Individual tours are offered Monday–Friday at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM by appointment. They include a meeting with an admissions counselor, a walkthrough of classrooms, labs, and student facilities, and opportunities to interact with current students.

Group tours are available on a limited basis; contact the Admissions Event Coordinator to arrange one (MSOE Group Tours). Spanish-language tours are available on request. Grohmann Museum tours are available by appointment for groups and educational programs.

For those unable to visit in person, MSOE provides a virtual campus tour with interactive maps, photos, and videos. Additional webinars and virtual events are available through MSOE Virtual Events.

Getting Around, Parking, and Accessibility

Use the interactive campus map to plan a route and locate buildings and parking areas.

Free visitor parking is available in designated State Street Lots A, B, or C at 501 E. State Street for scheduled campus events and tours (MSOE ROAR Days). Additional city garages and metered street parking are nearby. The Grohmann Museum has a dedicated lot behind the building; pre-register through MSOE’s parking system. Street parking and garages are also available near the museum.

The campus and museum are ADA-compliant and accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Clear signage helps visitors navigate the museum. Notify the admissions office in advance if you need special accommodations.

Amenities, Safety, and Accommodation

The campus Raider Shop sells MSOE apparel, gifts, and supplies. On-campus dining is available at Spitzer Dining Commons, with numerous restaurants and cafes nearby. Complimentary guest Wi-Fi is available throughout campus, and restrooms and lounges are in all major buildings.

MSOE follows current public health and safety guidelines. Consult MSOE announcements for updates on campus access, mask policies, and event protocols.

Downtown Milwaukee has hotels within walking distance, including the Hyatt Regency and Hilton Milwaukee City Center, as well as boutique options in the Historic Third Ward. Early booking is recommended during major campus or city events.

Tips

Plan ahead by scheduling tours, exploring interactive guides, and checking MSOE’s official channels for updates. Mobile apps like Audiala offer audio guides and insider tips.

Nearby Attractions and Milwaukee Historical Sites

The following sites are within walking distance:

(Waves and Cobblestones)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are MSOE’s visiting hours?
A: Campus hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. The Grohmann Museum is open Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, and Sunday, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM; it is closed Mondays and major holidays.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: Campus admission and most museum exhibits are free. Some special exhibitions may require tickets or advance booking.

Q: Are tours available in languages other than English?
A: Yes. Spanish-language tours are available upon request.

Q: Is the campus accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes. The campus and museum are ADA-compliant and have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: How do I schedule a tour?
A: Book in advance through the MSOE Visit Page.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Use designated visitor lots or nearby city parking. Pre-registration may be required for museum parking.