The Mitchell Building & Grain Exchange
A historic Milwaukee gem offering breathtaking architecture and exceptional catering for unforgettable weddings and events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for events
The Mitchell Building & Grain Exchange
Best Time
Prime time for events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Milwaukee gem offering breathtaking architecture and exceptional catering for unforgettable weddings and events.
"The food was outstanding and we truly did not worry about a thing, knowing Maria and Bartolotta had it covered."
✨ Stunning Ambiance
The venue's inherent beauty means you can often keep decor minimal and still have a spectacular event.
🍽️ Rave-Worthy Food
Expect top-notch catering from Bartolotta's; many guests call it the best wedding food they've ever had.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Ballroom
Main event space
A breathtaking space with soaring ceilings and elegant architecture, perfect for unforgettable celebrations.
Historic Architecture
Throughout the building
Admire the stunning original details, from intricate woodwork to grand windows, offering a timeless ambiance.
Exceptional Catering
Event catering
Experience outstanding culinary creations, with many guests raving about the delicious food and attentive service.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Event Early
Consider Event Packages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Stunning Ambiance
The venue's inherent beauty means you can often keep decor minimal and still have a spectacular event.
🍽️ Rave-Worthy Food
Expect top-notch catering from Bartolotta's; many guests call it the best wedding food they've ever had.
🤝 Phenomenal Staff
The event planning team is praised for being responsive, professional, and detail-oriented.
🎶 Immersive Experiences
Special events like Dickens Dinner offer a unique, engaging atmosphere with live entertainment.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Stunning Ambiance
The venue's inherent beauty means you can often keep decor minimal and still have a spectacular event.
🍽️ Rave-Worthy Food
Expect top-notch catering from Bartolotta's; many guests call it the best wedding food they've ever had.
🤝 Phenomenal Staff
The event planning team is praised for being responsive, professional, and detail-oriented.
🎶 Immersive Experiences
Special events like Dickens Dinner offer a unique, engaging atmosphere with live entertainment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Grain Exchange is overwhelmingly praised as a stunning and exceptional venue for weddings and special events. Guests consistently highlight the breathtaking architecture, outstanding catering by Bartolotta, and the highly professional and attentive staff. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, some guests have noted that certain buffet experiences, particularly for Mother's Day, may not always align with the high price point in terms of perceived value compared to past visits.
"My son and new daughter-in-law just got married at this venue and it was more than amazing. The food was out of this world, the service was amazing. Bartenders were prompt and we had the best celebration."
Sally Luehman
"Went there for this years Dickens Dinner and it was beyond beautiful! The carolers had great voices and it was a great immersive experience. The original movie was projected above the carolers, which i thought was a nice touch :)
I got Marcella as my server and she took very good care of my table! She was very funny and attentive.! The vegetarian option was super yummy."
NCY hrdz
"Went for the Mother’s Day buffet. 25 minute wait after the reservation time. Food was good, but definitely not for that price. The prime rib texture was anything but prime. There was a lot of tasty options. I really liked the seafood options. I took my family a couple years ago for Mother’s Day and we all remembered it being a bit more grand and the food being quite a bit more satisfying than this year. The mom in our group kindly asked if we could avoid due to lack of value for the $$$ moving forward."
Tim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mitchell Building & Grain Exchange is located in downtown Milwaukee. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation, including bus routes, also serves the area.
Yes, there are typically parking garages and street parking options available near the venue. It's advisable to check for specific event parking instructions provided by the venue or event organizer.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Milwaukee and can drop you off directly at the venue.
The venue is generally accessible, but it's always best to confirm specific accessibility features with the venue management when planning your visit or event.
Using GPS navigation on your smartphone is the most straightforward way. Be aware of potential downtown traffic, especially during peak hours or major events.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Mitchell Building & Grain Exchange primarily functions as a private event venue. Entry is typically by invitation or ticket for specific events like weddings, galas, or special holiday dinners.
Keep an eye on the venue's official website or their social media pages. They often announce special events like holiday dinners or ticketed celebrations.
Pricing varies significantly based on the type of event, guest count, and services chosen. For weddings and large events, expect a premium investment due to the venue's exclusivity and catering quality.
Tours are generally offered for prospective clients interested in booking the venue for an event. It's best to contact the venue directly to inquire about tour availability.
The dress code depends on the specific event. For weddings and formal galas, cocktail or formal attire is common. For holiday dinners, it might be festive or smart casual. Always check your invitation for guidance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The venue partners with Bartolotta Catering, known for its exceptional quality. They offer a wide range of customizable menus, from elegant plated dinners to gourmet buffets, with options for various dietary needs.
Yes, Bartolotta Catering is highly accommodating and can prepare delicious vegetarian, vegan, and other special dietary meals upon request.
Guests frequently praise the seafood options and prime rib. The culinary team excels at creating memorable dishes, and many wedding guests have called the food the best they've had.
For booked events, tasting sessions are typically arranged to help you finalize your menu selections. This allows you to sample the quality and taste of the proposed dishes.
The bar service is consistently described as prompt and excellent, with skilled bartenders ensuring guests are well-served throughout the event.
📸 📸 Photography
The venue itself offers stunning backdrops with its historic architecture, grand ballroom, and elegant details. The exterior of the Mitchell Building also provides a classic Milwaukee setting.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own professional photographer. The venue's beauty provides ample opportunities for creative and memorable shots.
Generally, there are no major restrictions for event guests. However, for commercial or extensive personal shoots outside of an event, it's best to inquire with venue management.
The venue itself typically doesn't offer photography packages, but they can often recommend talented local photographers who are familiar with the space.
The venue features beautiful natural light from its large windows, as well as elegant interior lighting. This combination creates a wonderful atmosphere for photography at any time of day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If attending a wedding, the venue's beauty provides a memorable backdrop. Parents should note that it's a formal setting, so keeping younger children engaged and comfortable is key. The attentive service from staff can be helpful in managing family needs during an event.
💍 Couples Planning a Wedding
Couples consistently praise the phenomenal event planning staff, particularly mentioning individuals like Maria and Christean for their responsiveness, professionalism, and attention to detail. They help alleviate stress, ensuring the day runs smoothly and exceeds expectations. The venue's beauty also means you can be minimalistic with decor, saving on additional costs while still achieving a spectacular look.
🥂 Event Planners & Hosts
Planners will appreciate the flexibility in menu customization and the high level of service provided by both the venue staff and Bartolotta's team. The venue's reputation for excellence means you can confidently deliver a high-quality event that reflects positively on your organization. It's a venue where attention to detail is paramount, from initial consultation to the final farewell.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grain Exchange Experience
Beyond the visual appeal, the culinary experience is a major draw. Bartolotta Catering consistently receives rave reviews for its delicious food, with many guests declaring it the best they've had at an event. The team is praised for its attentiveness, professionalism, and ability to cater to diverse dietary needs, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience for all attendees.
From initial planning to the event's conclusion, the staff at The Grain Exchange are commended for their outstanding service. They are described as responsive, kind, and meticulous in handling every detail, allowing hosts to relax and fully enjoy their celebration. This combination of a magnificent setting and top-tier service makes The Grain Exchange a premier choice for significant life events in Milwaukee.
Bartolotta Catering Excellence
Guests frequently laud the outstanding food quality, with specific mentions of delicious seafood options and perfectly prepared prime rib. The catering team's ability to create memorable vegetarian and vegan dishes also receives high marks, ensuring that all guests have a delightful dining experience. This attention to detail and culinary expertise transforms any event into a gastronomic celebration.
Beyond the food itself, Bartolotta's professional service is a key factor in the venue's success. Their staff are known for being attentive, efficient, and friendly, contributing significantly to the overall positive guest experience. This seamless integration of exceptional food and service makes Bartolotta Catering a vital component of any successful event at The Grain Exchange.
Special Events and Ambiance
This ability to curate distinct ambiances is a testament to the venue's versatility. Whether it's the grandeur of a wedding reception or the cozy festivity of a holiday gathering, the space adapts beautifully. The original architecture plays a crucial role, providing a rich backdrop that enhances any theme or celebration.
Visitors often note the attentive service during these special events, with servers like Marcella being highlighted for their humor and attentiveness. This focus on guest comfort and enjoyment, combined with the venue's inherent beauty and well-executed themed events, makes The Grain Exchange a memorable destination for a variety of occasions.
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