Spend A Day Downtown (and Find Your Dream Dress!)

We know exactly how exciting a bridal shopping experience can be. We also know that it's an experience best shared with your friends and family.

Whats exceptional about Miss Ruby Boutique's location downtown is that we are right next door to some of the Milwaukee's most fabulous bakeries, restaurants, coffee shops, and more. Our recommendation for a day of bridal shopping that you and your girls will never forget? Make it a designated "girls trip" and spend the entire day (or weekend if you're from out of town!) enjoying all the great things that downtown Milwaukee has to offer. 

Read on for our favorite places to eat, drink, and be merry in Milwaukee's fashionable Third Ward. We'll leave it up to you to figure out how to arrange your schedule. Just make sure that saying "Yes" to a dress at Miss Ruby Boutique is also on your itinerary. 

So many great places to visit - all just across the bridge from Miss Ruby!

Breakfast / Brunch - 

Before your appointment, you want to eat light and make sure you are properly caffeinated. Check out these great coffee shops and restaurants that will perk you up immediately!

Holey Moley Donuts - 316 North Milwaukee Street

This donut counter is a favorite of Milwaukee insiders. The grab-and-go locale is better for brides who are on the move rather than those looking to linger, but don't let that dissuade you. With unique flavors (the Maple-Bacon donut comes to mind), gluten-free options, and coffee by local Hawthorne Coffee, your entourage will be impressed with your knowledge of this great little place. 

Wicked Hop - 345 North Broadway

To be fair, Wicked Hop has great food all day long. But their massive and delicious Bloody Mary's will make you want to stop here in the morning. If you live by the mantra "It's 5-o-clock somewhere," then take your party here for brunch and a bloody before walking to Miss Ruby!

Collectivo - 223 East St. Paul

This iconic Milwaukee coffee shop is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Miss Ruby Boutique. Perfect for grabbing a cup of coffee to go, they also have great pastries and a full menu if you are looking for something more substantial. 

Lunch - 

If you are a late riser and scheduled your appointment at Miss Ruby later in the afternoon, picking a great lunch spot is of the utmost importance. Luckily, we are within walking distance of many of the areas most amazing restaurants. 

Cafe Benelux - 346 North Broadway

Belgian-inspired Cafe Benelux is our go-to for lunch recommendations. Cocktails and an extensive beer menu are just the beginning - they also have a menu with something that everyone in your party can enjoy. If you are lucky enough to visit during the summer months, be sure to sit on their rooftop for an incredible view of Milwaukee's downtown. 

Milwaukee Ale House - 233 North Water Street

Bar food at its best, the Milwaukee Ale House has a relaxed atmosphere for brides who want to kick back after a long day of shopping. Also a local micro-brewery, this restaurant is located right on the river and has great views from the back deck. 

The Milwaukee Public Market - 400 North Water Street

One of downtown Milwaukee's most iconic locations (you can't miss it from the highway!), the Public Market has dozens of different vendors and you don't need reservations, making it a great place to go with a big group! There's even a wine bar if you want some champagne to celebrate finding your gown. 

Shopping & More - 

If you are staying for a weekend, want to bring home some souvenirs, or just want to get even more shopping under your belt, we've got you covered! Here are some great spots to stop if you have money left over after buying your wedding gown. 

Anthropologie - 301 North Broadway

This retailer's adorable website merely hints at how fashionable this store is. If you have never been to an Anthropologie box store, it is definitely worth a visit. From oven mitts to bedding to formal wear, this store is a charming treasure-trove and a great place to browse. 

West Elm - 324 North Water Street

The newest addition to Milwaukee's shopping scene, West Elm has a huge selection of unique furniture and home accessories. Scope out some wedding gifts from this fabulous store. 

Red Elephant Chocolate - 333 North Broadway

Two words: Chocolate Cafe. There really is nothing more to say, other than a trip to Milwaukee deserves a stop at Red Elephant Chocolate. Stop here with your girls for a decadent dessert or (at the very least) to bring back a treat for your fiance.