Historic Riverwest Music Venue
Linneman's Riverwest Inn opened in 1993 and has since become one of Milwaukee's most beloved intimate music venues located in the vibrant Riverwest neighborhood. This tavern combines divey charm with serious musical programming creating a unique atmosphere where local and touring artists can connect with appreciative audiences. The venue is owned and operated by a husband-wife duo who bring personable and welcoming energy to every event.
Venue Layout and Atmosphere
The space is sectioned into two separate but unified areas. The front room houses the bar complete with a pool table and TVs that often play concert footage or music documentaries. The back room features the stage - smaller in size but perfectly suited for solo performers acoustic acts or minimally equipped bands. This intimate setting allows for close connection between performers and audience creating memorable musical experiences. The venue is known for its unique microphone holders that accommodate performers' pint glasses making it convenient for artists during their sets.
Regular Music Programming
Linneman's hosts multiple weekly music events that have become Milwaukee institutions. Every Wednesday at 8 PM the venue presents its renowned open mic night. Doors open at 7 PM with sign-up sheets available at 7:30 PM. The open mic features a featured artist who performs for about half an hour providing inspiration and entertainment. Monday nights host Poet's Monday - Milwaukee's esteemed and longest-running poet's open mic beginning at 7:30 PM with featured readers throughout the year. Weekend programming includes live concerts showcasing diverse musical genres from folk and acoustic to indie rock and experimental music.
Sound and Technical Quality
Owner Jim Linneman personally operates the soundboard for events ensuring professional audio quality in the intimate space. His expertise and dedication to proper sound reinforcement sets Linneman's apart from typical bar venues. Musicians appreciate the attention to detail and the venue's commitment to making performers sound their best. The combination of quality sound personable ownership and devoted audiences has made Linneman's Riverwest Inn a cornerstone of Milwaukee's independent music scene for over three decades.