MILWAUKEE – Ah, Paris ... the Eiffel Tower, high fashion, historic streets, and, oh, the food. But wait, it’s not within driving distance, is it?

It can be if travelers take in the French sights and sounds Milwaukee has to offer.

A good place to start a French adventure is during Bastille Days, July 12 to 15. This is a large, outdoor celebration of the French way of life. It’s free and can be found along the streets of Cathedral Square Park. Imagine chef demonstrations, live music, wine tastings, French and Cajun food, an international market and even a 43-foot-tall Eiffel Tower with hourly light shows.