Milwaukee's river cruises are a staple of summer

The name Milwaukee is derived from the Algonquian word Millioke, meaning the “good land,” and from a Potawatomi word, Minwaking, meaning “gathering place by the waters.”

But at times over the years the city has turned its back on the Milwaukee River, which runs through downtown before it meets the Menomonee River and flows into Lake Michigan.

Now, on most summer days people can explore the city from the rivers. Boat tour companies like Edelweiss Cruises, Milwaukee Boat Line, Riverwalk Boat Tours & Rentals, and Boat MKE – as well as several kayaking companies – offer a wide range of opportunities to get out on the water and cruise the Milwaukee, Menomonee and Kinnickinnic rivers, not to mention Lake Michigan. Themes include sunset cruises, historic narrated boat tours, architecture tours, happy hours, and yes, even a Wisconsin Brat Cruise. Charters and rentals are also available, because one of the few things better than being on a boat is being on a boat with a bunch of friends.

Milwaukee may be known as a “great place on a Great Lake,” but don’t forget its rivers. They’re pretty incredible, too.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee's river cruises are a staple of summer