BY: STACIA THOMPSON, SHERMAN PHOENIX 

FIND MORE OF THE BEST OF MILWAUKEE 2024 HERE

Editor’s Note: This year, Milwaukee Magazine asked several notable Milwaukeeans for their takes on the Best of Milwaukee. Many responded with much more great stuff than we could publish in our print issue, so we just had to share more of their picks here! Stacia Thompson is executive director of Sherman Phoenix.

I am thrilled to share some of the city’s most exciting and innovative spaces, activities and organizations that have made a significant impact in 2024. These highlights reflect both my personal interests and the broader community’s vibrant spirit. Milwaukee continues to evolve and innovate, offering fresh, locally made, and impactful experiences that embrace change while staying true to the city’s roots.

The Milwaukee Wine Academy has been a revelation for wine enthusiasts as well as novices like myself. Their engaging classes, led by expert instructors, offer a fun, interactive environment to learn about wine. The academy’s diverse wine selections, carefully curated from around the world, enhance the tasting experience.

The academy also hosts personalized wine tastings perfect for corporate gatherings, family reunions or social get-togethers. With a focus on inclusivity, the academy caters to all backgrounds and tastes, creating a vibrant community of wine lovers.

Culture X Design has been a game-changer in the city’s event scene. Their monthly events, ranging from panel discussions to live karaoke, have brought the city out to vibe to local artists performing celebrities’ music with live bands.

Their Groove Theory Series and the newly curated Summer of Soul have been particularly impactful. The latter, a free series in the heart of Downtown, focuses on inclusivity and accessibility, centering performers, businesses and audiences of color. 

Sherman Phoenix has always been a hub of community activity, and I may be biased, but this year it has truly outdone itself. New storefronts like J.Riley, Classic Shoppe and House of Vitali-tea have joined the ranks of The Table and Queens Closet, creating a diverse and dynamic shopping experience.

House of Vitali-tea has been hosting Wellness Our Way every first Saturday of the month, an event that has quickly become a community favorite, thanks to the charismatic hosting by radio personality Promise.

On the culinary front, new eateries Fully Loaded and Richmond’s Food for Your Soul have joined Baked Dreams and Planted Vibes, offering a gastronomic delight for every palate. The Summer Front Porch series continues to bring live music and entertainment, making Sherman Phoenix a must-visit destination.