Macarthur Square

I realize it’s odd to review a parking structure but MacArthur Square is everything a parking structure shouldn’t be.
1. The spots are incredibly small. I drive a small car and I have a hard time finding a spot I feel I can safely get in/​out of. What kills me is that this structure was built in the days of «boat sized» cars. I can’t fathom how those ever got in here.
2. You may never, ever find your car again unless you write down where you parked it and what exact elevator or stairwell you used. Leaving a trail of breadcrumbs is not a bad idea, because the layout is so bad.
3. Getting out is awful — there are only a couple of exits and they are always backed up. Despite the signs that tell people they need to use a pay kiosk before they exit, you always get stuck behind a person who just can’t figure it out.
4. Parking structures are inherently creepy but MacArthur Square takes it to a whole new level. I don’t know if it’s the signs telling you not to leave stuff in your car, the stench of pee (or worse!) everywhere, the shady characters hanging around or what, but the place feels like a set for a horror movie. You would think, being attached to the police building and courthouse that there would be… I don’t know… some SECURITY here, but no.
Despite being one of the shittiest parking structures in the city, MacArthur charges a premium to park here. Do yourself a favor and park at one if the many other spots within a block or so. You’ll be less likely to be mugged or have your car dented and it probably won’t smell like turds.

I guess it is about time I write a review about MacArthur Square since I have been parking here for 15 years and just claimed my Duchess this morning.
My review is for the parking structure only!
Since parking in MacArthur Square I have purchased 2 brand new cars. There is absolutely no way to park here without getting scratches and dents in your car on a regular basis. Both of my brand new cars had scratches on Day one! The spots are barely big enough to get a regular sized vehicle into them comfortably. Your best bet is to snag a diagonal spot, since they seem to have a bit more room. And, grab a spot next to a pole for a little more clearance on at least one side.
A walk through any of the stairwells will quickly remind you that you are in downtown Milwaukee, and most likely are walking through the apartment of the local homeless. The stench is usually overwhelming.
They have recently gotten automated gates at the exits! Fortunately for me I get monthly parking (for $ 110 a month), because those machines must be impossible to use. I am frequently stuck behind a line of people who have no clue how to insert their ticket and pay to get out. They are still paying people to stand next to the machines to help people get out of the structure. For my $ 110 a month, the least you could do is give me my own exit lane!
The only positive things is that with my monthly pass I have a spot to park for Roller Derby at the US Cellular Arena, and anything else down town in walking distance.
Unfortunately, I have at least 9 years left of parking at this awful parking structure!