For thousands of incoming students, New Student Orientation is the first step in learning how to thrive at Marquette. Along with making connections and discovering campus resources, students are introduced to essential tools they’ll use throughout their college experience, including one that can help them get around Milwaukee with ease: the U-PASS.
The U-PASS is a Milwaukee County Transit System bus pass included in every student’s tuition, providing free transportation throughout the city. Students can activate their U-PASS by downloading the UMO app and inputting their specialized code from CheckMarq.
“MCTS provides a solid value program that allows students to have an unlimited bus pass at a very affordable rate,” says Rob Mullens, Union Station manager in the Alumni Memorial Union.
The Milwaukee County Transit System runs through Marquette’s campus on Wisconsin Avenue and is easily accessible to students. The two main buses that run on this street are the 30 and Connect 1. The 14 bus also goes through campus but not as frequently.
Below are 10 popular places for students to visit using a U-PASS.
1. Bradford Beach
Enjoy a relaxing beach day on one of Milwaukee’s most loved beaches. Take the 30 bus all the way to Lake Michigan to enjoy a game of volleyball, relax in the sand or take a swim.
2. Milwaukee Art Museum
Just a short bus ride away on the 30, the Milwaukee Art Museum sits on Lake Michigan with beautiful art displays. Enjoy galleries displaying European, contemporary and Haitian art. On Thursdays, the MAM offers art and entertainment with pay-what-you-wish admission from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
3. Discovery World
Located right next to the Milwaukee Art Museum, Discovery World helps cultivate a space of wonder for science and gives visitors a sense of exploration. Discovery World offers an aquarium, railroad exhibit, a driving and flight simulation, Les Paul’s House of Sound and much more. Discovery World offers a discount to college students with a valid ID.
4. Oriental Theatre
Catch a newly released movie or a classic film at one of the oldest theaters in Milwaukee. Operated by Milwaukee Film, the Oriental Theatre is also one of the local theaters that hosts the Milwaukee Film Festival every spring. Students can take the 30 to this location.
5. Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward
This historic Milwaukee neighborhood has much to offer Marquette students. You can ride either the 30 or Connect 1 to this area and explore. Check out clothing shops like Goodwill: Retique and Pink Moon Bay, coffee shops such as Colectivo and Valentine and art galleries inside the Marshall Building, housing 19 independent galleries.
6. Milwaukee Public Market
Another Third Ward favorite, the Milwaukee Public Market has been nationally ranked as one of the best public markets in the country. With options such as seafood, pizza, empanadas and tacos, it is a go-to spot for many students. Grab the 30 or Connect 1 to arrive here.
7. Riverside Park
A beautiful aspect of Milwaukee is its urban features, but it’s also close to nature. Riverside Park is just one example. Enjoy a beautiful hike or bike ride through the park’s trails. After a walk, students can visit the Urban Ecology Center to check out its informational exhibits and environmental resources. Take the 30 bus to this location.
8. Milwaukee County Zoo
With a wide range of exotic animal exhibits, the Milwaukee County Zoo is a fan favorite. By taking the Connect 1, you can explore all that the zoo has to offer.
9. Mayfair
Mayfair offers over 160 retail locations for students to shop in a relaxing and unique environment. After riding the 30, students can also grab a bite to eat at one of the area’s many restaurants.
10. American Family Field
Catch a game with Milwaukee’s Brew Crew! There are plenty of opportunities to see the Milwaukee Brewers, rain or shine, with the stadium’s large retractable roof and plenty of opportunities to receive a student discount on tickets. Take the Connect 1 to the ballpark and enjoy the game with friends.
