All About The Bradley Symphony Center
Located on West Wisconsin Avenue in downtown Milwaukee, the Bradley Symphony Center is part of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra‘s first permanent home.
The MSO restored the Warner Grand Theater, a movie theater built in the 1930s, to its former luxurious glory for their new space. Adjoining the theater is a two-story glassy, modern structure perfect for weddings with downtown Milwaukee as a backdrop.
The space was designed to be modern, bright and open while still preserving the history of the former theater. In addition, you’ll find several nods to music throughout the space, including a grand staircase designed to look like a harp. This staircase makes for awesome grand entrances as well as amazing wedding photos!
There’s lots of room at the Bradley Symphony Center, with space for 250 seated guests or 350 per floor for a cocktail reception. The venue offers two levels, connected by the grand staircase, each with built-in-bars and views of downtown Milwaukee. There’s also the option of using the Warner Grand Theater as well as the theater’s historic lobby.
Weddings at the Bradley Symphony Center are limited due to the MSO’s schedule – with only 10 weeks out of the year available for private events. We think the space is amazing and that Milwaukee couples are going to love it.
The Bradley Symphony Center – Quick Facts:
- Capacity: 250 seated / 350 per floor for cocktail reception
- Location: 212 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI
- Features: Historic building with modern amenities and design, musical influenced design, glass walls, views of downtown Milwaukee.
- Exclusive catering by Resonance Food Co.
Included in Rental:
- Chairs and round tables
- Black or white linens
- China, silverware and glassware
- Sound equipment including microphones, screen and projector
- Bartenders
- Customizable accent lighting
- Onsite catering manager
Catering and Drinks
If you have your wedding at the Bradley Symphony Center, you’ll want your food to be as creative and stunning as the venue – that’s where Resonance Food Co. comes in.
As the Bradley Symphony Center’s exclusive caterer, Resonance specializes in creating one-of-a-kind unforgettable events that reflect your style. Expect restaurant-quality catering from experienced Milwaukee chef, David Zakroczymski. Check out their catering menus here, and note that they offer customizable menu options as well.
Ceremony Options
There’s several beautiful ceremony options at the Bradley Symphony Center. First is the beautifully restored Warner Theater, which seats 1,600. For a smaller ceremony of 75-100, check out the Warner Theater’s spectacular three-story lobby. Note that if you decide to hold your ceremony in the Warner Theater, an additional cost will apply.
Most couples choose to have their ceremony in the Bradley Symphony Center’s Gallery (first floor) or Atrium (second floor). We love these options due to the floor-to-ceiling windows that make downtown Milwaukee part of your ceremony. Our recommendation would be to have your ceremony in the Gallery and then move guests upstairs to the Atrium for dinner and dancing.
Location, Parking and Hotels
If you love downtown Milwaukee, you’ll love the location of the Bradley Symphony Center! Located on W. Wisconsin Ave. and N. 2nd Street, the Bradley Symphony Center is located walking distance to hotels, bars/clubs and restaurants. In fact, the awesome 3rd Street Market Hall (including its selfie museum) is right across the street and could make for some unique wedding photos!
As far as parking, there’s a covered lot that’s part of The Avenue across the street that couples can check on availability and secure themselves. Couples can also check with their hotel for a shuttle, encourage guests to use ridesharing and/or rent a bus for their guests.
