As you check gifts off your list this holiday season, there are many opportunities to give a gift that supports a local business – right here in the Near West Side! In this holiday gift guide, find local treasures from cherished restaurants, shops and businesses for everyone on your list.
For Foodie Friends
The Near West Side has an up-and-coming food scene – is a restaurant gift card on your list? Giving a local experience is a great gift your loved one can use anytime throughout the year! Both the giver and receiver win in this exchange. Check out the 2024 Near West Side Dining Guide for some of our top local foodie hubs.
For the Busy Bustlers
Treat your busy loved ones to a moment of relaxation and self-care! Whether it’s a spa day with a luxurious facial, a salon eyelash makeover, or a unique staycation at a historical Milwaukee hotel, these local businesses offer the perfect escape for you or a loved one.
- CeLani Skin and Wellness: Pamper your loved one with a rejuvenating experience at the newest spa in town. Celani Skin and Wellness offers facials, reiki healing sessions, expecting mom relaxation packages, waxing and more.
- Beauty Glam Dollz: Specializing in semi-permanent lash extensions, give the gift of effortless glam with a package at Beauty Glam Dollz. Beyond lashes, Beauty Glam Dollz also offers rejuvenating massages and expert hair styling services, making it the ultimate destination for self-care.
- Ambassador Hotel: A local stay-cation destination, Milwaukee’s iconic Ambassador Hotel provides a luxury overnight or weekend experience. The eight-story building holds the largest hotel rooms in the area, 132 rooms, including ten whirlpool suites. Guests can enjoy an award-winning 1920s dining experience at The Fitz, Gin Rickey and Deco Café, with options for every mood.
For the Artists
Give the gift of creativity to the artists in your life! The Near West Side has a variety of local artist venues and museums, from live music at The Rave to the Haggerty Museum of Art. Gift your loved one an unforgettable experience at the Near West Side’s special art businesses!
- The Rave/ Eagles Club: Treat the music fan in your life to an unforgettable experience with tickets to a show at The Rave! This iconic Milwaukee venue hosts incredible acts through January, including Steve Aoki, Babyface Ray, Yelawolf and more. Whether their vibe is EDM, hip-hop, rock or pop, music lovers will find their place here.
- Marquette University’s Haggerty Museum of Art: Is your loved one a fan of unique, innovative art from around the world? Gift them a night of dinner and art-observing at Marquette University’s Haggerty Museum of Art! With art from the late Renaissance and early modern eras featured, your art-appreciating loved one will basque in each intentional stroke of the beautiful artwork.
- Tom Fritz Studios: Have a Harley Davidson fanatic on your list? Gift them a one-of-a-kind art print painted by Tom Fritz, a renowned artist specializing in Harley Davidson Bike art. Prints depicting vintage automobiles, celebrity and event photos and more are also available for purchase. Gift your loved one a print from a top, respected artist!
For the Tech-Savvy
Need a perfect gift for the tech-savvy loved one in your life? Utilize a small business in the area known for selling and refurbishing laptops and other electronics.
- Pwd Computers: Check out PWD Computers for refurbished laptops, gaming PCs, surveillance cameras and more! Find great deals on electronics for your loved ones who need tools for school, their home or their business. Featuring top reliable brands like Windows, Dell and more, you are sure to find a device with the digital experience they need.
For the Fitness Geek
Give the gift of movement and motivation to the fitness enthusiasts in your life! From a gym membership offering kickboxing classes to classes at a dance studio where you can perfect your moves, these options are a great way to stay active during the colder months.
- Zero to 100 Fitness: This functional fitness, kickboxing and self-defense gym is all about building community while achieving your personal fitness goals. If you know someone who has been itching to take their fitness to a new level, a membership at Zero to 100 Fitness will be a great opportunity for them to experience a new way to reach their goals.
For the Person Who Has Everything
Surprise the friend who has everything with a unique gift from a local business. From a custom flower arrangement to a co-working space membership, your loved one will be thrilled to receive a gift they’ve yet to get!
- DBG (Designs by Guzzardo’s) Flowers: A personalized arrangement of flowers delivered right to their doorstep is a great way to express your sentiment this season. You can easily order a DBG Flowers custom arrangement or gift basket and have it delivered!
- Work Pass at Fruition MKE’s Co-Working Space: The perfect local hub for remote workers, Fruition MKE, offers passes to access their co-working space in various capacities. From a Day Pass to a Monthly Membership option, and options in between, the remote workers craving community will appreciate the opportunity to work in this brand new NWS amenity. With high-speed wifi and an on-site cafe, this is a great place for creative professionals to work together.
Thanks for shopping local and giving back to your community this holiday season!
For more information on Near West Side businesses, learn more on our Visit page on the NWSP website.
