When people think of Milwaukee, Wisconsin the first thing that usually comes to mind is a field full of cows and a man with a big foam wedge of cheese on his head. But to think so stereotypically would be a mistake. In fact, many Americans are finding out every year what a surprisingly sublime getaway the city known for its dairy products really can be.

With the influx of German-American immigrants into the city during its establishment, Milwaukee has inherited much of this European culture, namely in its beer production. Aptly nicknamed The Brew City by the city's inhabitants and recently proclaimed the beer capital of the world, Milwaukee is among the best places in the U.S. to grab a cold one. Miller Park and Pabst Theater pay constant homage to the city's massive market control while the breweries of Miller, Pabst, Blatz, and Schlitz stand scattered throughout the city. If your interests in these frothy libations extend past simply tasting them be sure to check out the Museum of Beer and Brewing where you can peruse displays and exhibits of the history of beer from around the world.

And if you'd like a little something to soak up all that beer you'll be chugging, you absolutely must indulge in one of the city's oldest traditions, the Friday Fish Fry. Historically, Milwaukee was comprised of mostly Catholic immigrants who believed that eating red meat on Fridays was unacceptable, thus the Friday Fish Fry was born. Nearly every restaurant in the city offers some kind of fish specialties in honor of the start of the weekend, but some of the local favorites include Armeli's Restaurant and Pizzeria where you can try their cod or perch, baked or fried, with fries, coleslaw and Italian bread. Or, for a South of the Border twist, check out Café el Sol where you can taste their fried cod dipped in Puerto Rican Batter and served with salad, beans and rice.

If you're feeling a little stuffed after all that great food, walk some of it off at the Jelly Belly Center where they offer free walking tours through their giant warehouse of sweet, colorful treats. Or relax on an Edelweiss cruise boat as it sails along the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan shore. If you're feeling really lucky, stop by the Potawatomi Bingo Casino to try your hand at a game of blackjack, poker, roulette or craps.

And everyone knows nothing goes better with beer in the Brew City than a good game. For your fix check out the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota Brewers (MLB), Minnesota Bucks (NBA) or the Minnesota Mustangs (AFL). This city's beloved teams circulate their seasons year long so there's always a good game to watch.

No matter how you choose to experience the city my guess is you'll never want to leave.