Baird Center

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Baird Building in Milwaukee?

The Baird Building in Milwaukee, now known as the Baird Center, is the city’s premier convention and event venue. Located in downtown Milwaukee, the Baird Center hosts a diverse array of events, including conventions, trade shows, expos, concerts, and community gatherings. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to accommodate both large-scale and intimate events, making it a central hub for business, entertainment, and cultural activities in the region. With modern amenities, flexible event spaces, and a prime location near hotels, restaurants, and attractions, the Baird Center is an essential part of Milwaukee’s vibrant downtown scene, drawing visitors from across Wisconsin and beyond.

What is the capacity at the Baird Center in Milwaukee?

The Baird Center in Milwaukee has a flexible capacity, designed to accommodate a wide range of events. After its recent expansion, the venue now boasts over 1.3 million square feet of total space, including more than 300,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space. The Grand Ballroom can host up to 4,000 guests for banquets, while the entire center can accommodate up to 15,000 attendees for major conventions and expos. Multiple meeting rooms and breakout spaces allow for smaller gatherings, ensuring the Baird Center can easily adapt to events of any size, from large conventions to corporate meetings and social celebrations.

Where do you park at Baird Center, Milwaukee?

Parking at the Baird Center in Milwaukee is convenient and accessible for visitors. The venue is directly connected to the Wisconsin Center District parking structure, located at 500 W. Wells Street. This parking garage offers ample spaces for event attendees and is just steps away from the main entrance. Additional public parking options are available nearby, including surface lots and street parking within walking distance of the center. For added convenience, the Baird Center is easily accessible via public transportation, and ride-share drop-off zones are available at designated entrances. Be sure to check event-specific parking information, as rates and availability may vary.

What was the Baird Center called before?

Before becoming the Baird Center, the venue was known as the Wisconsin Center. The name change occurred in 2023 following a naming rights agreement with Baird, a prominent Milwaukee-based financial services firm. Prior to being called the Wisconsin Center, the facility was originally opened as the Midwest Express Center in 1998. The rebranding to the Baird Center reflects both the center’s commitment to growth and its partnership with an influential local company. Despite the new name, the venue continues to serve as Milwaukee’s largest and most versatile convention and event space, retaining its legacy as a central gathering place for the city.

Is the Baird Center the same as the Wisconsin Center?

Yes, the Baird Center is the same facility previously known as the Wisconsin Center. The venue underwent a name change in 2023 following a sponsorship agreement with Baird, but its location, purpose, and facilities remain unchanged. The transition to the Baird Center name coincided with a significant expansion and modernization of the venue, further enhancing its reputation as Milwaukee’s leading convention and event space. Visitors familiar with the Wisconsin Center will find the same accessible downtown location and versatile amenities, now branded as the Baird Center, continuing its tradition of hosting major events, conferences, concerts, and exhibitions in Milwaukee.