At Vegas on Wheels, we love partnering with venues that share our passion for creating unforgettable experiences, and 3rd Street Market Hall in downtown Milwaukee does just that. We recently spoke with Allie, their Director of Events, to learn more about what makes this vibrant space a standout location for hosting everything from corporate outings to private parties. Here’s what she shared.
A New Life for a Milwaukee Landmark
Located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, 3rd Street Market Hall has transformed the iconic Grand Avenue Mall into a thriving hub of food, fun, and community. “We’re downtown’s latest developmental project,” Allie explained. “The hall brings together the best of the Brew City, featuring 18 locally owned and operated food vendors that highlight Milwaukee’s incredible food scene and cultural diversity.”
It’s not just the locals who’ve taken notice—3rd Street Market Hall was recently named the second-best food hall in the country by USA Today’s expert panel. “Last year, we weren’t even on the list. To go from that to being ranked number two is incredible,” Allie said.
Events for Every Occasion
Whether you’re planning a low-key networking event or a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, Third Street Market Hall has a space to match.
“If you’re looking for a space for a business meeting, we have something more private. If it’s a happy hour or networking mixer, we’ve got plenty of semi-private areas. And for major life events—weddings, mitzvahs, quinceañeras—we have large, customizable spaces that make those celebrations extra special,” Allie said.
Playful Spaces and Modern Amenities
More than just a food hall, the venue boasts an array of semi-private and private spaces that are perfect for events of all kinds. “We have three semi-private and three private spaces, each designed with engagement and interaction in mind,” Allie shared.
One standout amenity? A 50-by-50-foot indoor turf space complete with shuffleboard—ideal for colleagues looking to unwind or teams interested in playful competition. There’s also an ever-changing 30-tap self-serve beer wall, two Topgolf Swing Suites, and a variety of bars throughout the venue.
Their newest private event space, Venue Three, serves as a flagship destination for larger-scale events like weddings, galas, and corporate functions of 250+ guests. Meanwhile, the Starlight Room offers a trendy downtown vibe with garage doors that open right into the energy of the market hall.
Supporting Milwaukee’s Food & Business Communities
Community is at the core of 3rd Street Market Hall’s mission. As Allie explained, “Our food vendors are all local business owners—many of them startups testing their concepts or building toward a brick-and-mortar location.”
Located in the Avenue building (formerly the Grand Avenue Mall), the market hall has been a catalyst for revitalizing the west side of downtown. Within three years, we’ve attracted major corporations to our building and the surrounding area. Companies like the American Heart Association and others have moved their headquarters here because of the vibrant atmosphere we’ve helped create.”
The food hall’s diversity is another point of pride: guests can choose from Latin, Asian, and classic American fare—something to please everyone in the group. “Even guests with dietary restrictions like gluten-free or vegan diets will find great options here,” said Allie.
Unforgettable Events (And a Little Vegas Flair)
Allie’s favorite events to plan? Full hall buyouts. “We do about five to seven of them a year, and they’re my absolute favorite,” she said. These large-scale events include every food vendor and bar, all fully activated for one seamless, high-energy experience.
One recent example was a buyout with Northwestern Mutual, complete with custom vendor menus, multiple bar stations, and interactive entertainment like darts, Topgolf, and—yes—Vegas on Wheels casino games. “We’ve even done silent discos, karaoke rooms, and other themed zones across the venue. There’s just so much space and flexibility—it’s hard for anyone to be bored.”
Ready to Plan?
Whether you’re dreaming of a casino night with Vegas on Wheels or planning a multi-room party with diverse food, drink, and entertainment, 3rd Street Market Hall has the space, staff, and spirit to bring your event to life.
Visit their website to learn more or book your event.
To book an event or inquire about availability, reach out to Allie directly at allie@3rdstmarkethall.com