25 Best Indoor Playgrounds & Play Cafés Around Milwaukee (2024)

In Milwaukee, you just never know what the weather will do. But don’t sweat it, because we’ve got you covered with the best indoor playgrounds around Milwaukee.

We’ve spent years visiting these places and collecting feedback from you, our readers, to ensure you get the most comprehensive guide for your next indoor family adventure.

So, let’s get started!

Play Cafes

Little Sprouts Play Café

Shorewood

Looking for a fun, creative play spot for your kids in Milwaukee? Little Sprouts Play Cafe in Shorewood is your go-to! With imaginative play zones, Stone Creek Coffee, and tasty snacks like avocado toast, this is one of our favorite play date spots in the North Shore.

Bug & Goose Play Café

Elm Grove & Delafield

Bug & Goose Play Café is a cozy indoor play space in Elm Grove and Delafield for kids 6 months to 6 years. With a large climbing structure, play boulangerie, and enclosed area for the tiniest tots, this suburban hot spot is one of our top recommendations.

The Little Village Play Cafe

6505 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213

The Little Village Play Café is a vibrant mash-up of a coffee shop, children’s play space, and a gift store, and it gets consistently rave reviews from visitors. Whether it’s for socializing, playing, or just taking a break, this café is Wauwatosa’s favorite play date space.

Heart Cafe

14640 W Capitol Dr Brookfield, WI 53005

Creative Heart Play Café offers an inspiring blend of fun and relaxation, serving as a community hub for families in southeastern Wisconsin. With sensory rooms and digital projection games, and a cozy cafe area, this place has it all!

Trampoline & Adventure Parks

Sky Zone Greenfield

4940 S. 76th St., Greenfield, WI 53220
W229 N1420 Westwood Dr., Waukesha, WI 53186
skyzone.com

Sky Zone is a place where kids and adults alike can jump, play, and challenge themselves in a variety of exciting attractions. Here’s what you’ll find:

• Soft Play Area: Perfect for the littlest jumpers to play safely.
• Air Court: Experience high-flying fun on the Air Court!
• Freestyle Jump: Show off your best jumps and flips! 🤸‍♂️
• SkySlam: Combine basketball and bouncing for an epic dunking experience. 🏀
• Ultimate Dodgeball: Dodge, dip, and dive in a thrilling game of aerial dodgeball.
• SkyHoops: Challenge your friends to a game of basketball with a bouncy twist.
• SkyJoust: Test your balance and strength in an exciting jousting match.
• SkyLadder: A tricky balancing challenge that’s harder than it looks!
• Drop Zone: Leap into a pool of foam for a soft and safe landing. 🛬
• Warped Wall: Can you conquer the towering, curved wall?
• FreeClimb: Climb without harnesses for a thrilling experience. 🧗‍♂️
• Ninja Warrior Course: Navigate through a challenging obstacle course like a true ninja warrior.

They also provide birthday parties and group events – give them a call to book.

Rockin Jump

9009 N. Deerbrook Trail, Brown Deer, WI 53223
browndeer.rockinjump.com

Rockin’ Jump offers a dynamic and fun-filled experience for all ages:

• Jump Arena: A vibrant main zone for jumping and acrobatics.
• Dodgeball Arena: Combines dodgeball thrills with trampoline fun.
• Slam Dunk Zone: Feel like an NBA star with trampoline-assisted slam dunks.
• X-Beam: Engage in balance battles with padded lances.
• Junior Jump Zone: A dedicated area for kids 6 and under, including a foam pit and mini trampolines.
• Ninja Warped Wall: Test your skills on an inflatable warped wall with varying heights.
• Parkour Blox: Hone your parkour abilities on inflatable vault blocks.
• Free Climb Rock Wall: Challenge yourself with harness-free climbing over a foam pit.
• Zip-Line: Experience the thrill of soaring over a foam pit on a zip line.

Urban Air Adventure Park

2440 E. Moreland Blvd., Waukesha, WI 53186
urbanair.com

Urban Air Adventure Park is a dynamic indoor playground with excitement and adventure for all ages. Here are some of their attractions:

• Leap of Faith: A heart-pumping jump from a high platform.
• Mini-Golf: Channel your inner golf pro with putt-putt challenges.
• Trapeze: Soar high and experience the thrill of a flying trapeze.
• Spin Zone Bumper Cars: Bump and spin for endless fun.
• Virtual Reality: Dive into new adventures in a virtual world.
• Wipeout: Engage in a last-person-standing competition.
• Indoor Go-Karts: Test your racing skills on exciting tracks.
• Bowling: Roll into fun with friends and family.
• DropZone: Perfect your acrobatics with a safe landing on an inflatable airbag.
• Sky Rider: Fly high on an exhilarating zip line.
• Ropes Course: Navigate gravity-defying challenges.
• Climbing Walls: Scale new heights and boost your confidence.
• Battle Beam: Test your balance in friendly competitions.
• Warrior Course: Challenge yourself on an intense obstacle course.
• The APEX Trampolines: Wall-to-wall trampolines for ultimate jumping fun.
• Kids Area 7 & Under: A special zone for younger guests with age-appropriate fun.
• Dodgeball: A trampoline-enhanced version of the classic game.
• Slam Dunk Zone: Experience high-flying basketball dunks.

Ultimate Ninja

400 Bell Ct #350, Oak Creek, WI 53154

Ultimate Ninjas, a national franchise known for its obstacle course racing facilities opened its ninth location in Oak Creek. The space offers an authentic ninja warrior experience for children as young as three, adults, and everyone in between.

Indoor Play

Betty Brinn Children’s Museum

929 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

This interactive children’s museum is the perfect solution for parents seeking a fun and educational experience for their young kids. 

Explore their permanent Home Town exhibit, a miniaturized version of a city, climb the treehouse in “Pocket Park”, and don’t forget to stop by the Be-A-Maker Space for creative tinkering activities.

Plus, there’s a coffee shop inside! 

Kids Empire

5794 N Bayshore Dr, Glendale, WI 53217

Families in Milwaukee now have a fantastic new indoor playground to explore! Kids Empire at BAYSHORE in Glendale is a massive 11,125-square-foot space filled with towering climbing structures, ball pits, slides, and a dedicated toddler zone.

There’s even a dance room and building games for endless fun. Another location has recently opened in Brookfield. For more details, including birthday party packages and hours, read more here.

Nugget Nation MKE

12501 W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield, WI 53005
Website

Nugget Nation MKE, located in Brookfield, Wisconsin, is a premier children’s indoor activity center that offers a variety of engaging and safe play spaces for children up to 9 years old.

• Indoor Play Areas: Includes a 650-square-foot Nugget Playground, Nuggie Town village play space, Tiny Nugget Terrace, and Nugget Square fine motor play area.
• Geared for Younger Children: Specifically designed for kids 9 years old or younger, with dedicated areas for different age groups.
• Open Play Sessions: Available for children from crawlers to 9 years old, with session prices and free entry for non-crawlers.
• Safety Measures: A legal guardian must sign a waiver for each child before entry.

For more information, including event details, open play session booking, and updates, visit Nugget Nation MKE’s website.

Taxi & Tide

4016 S Packard Ave, St Francis, WI 53235

Taxi & Tide offers a unique and relaxing environment where parents can unwind while their children engage in imaginative and creative play.

• Dual Play Areas: Features two play areas with high-quality toys, encouraging open-ended play for children up to age 10.
• Themed Spaces: Designed with an East Coast (New York’s “Taxi”) and West Coast (California’s “Tide”) vibe.
• Event Space: Available for birthday parties, toddler workshops, art classes, and more.
• Parking and Accessibility: On-site parking available with wheelchair access on request.

For more information, including details on events and play area features, visit Taxi & Tide’s website.

The Big Backyard

2857 S. 160th St., New Berlin, WI 53151

🛝 The Big Backyard provides a safe, fun, and engaging environment where kids can play and parents can relax, knowing everything is designed for safety and enjoyment.

• Open Play All Day: Drop by anytime, perfect for kids aged 0-8 (older kids welcome too).
• Expansive Play Space: Over 10,000 sq ft of converted warehouse with multiple play areas.
• Diverse Play Equipment: Includes a large wooden play set, toddler area, playhouses, riding toys, bouncy house, and balls of all sizes. 🏀
• BYO Snacks: Feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks.
• Backyard Bistro: Offers a variety of affordable snacks and meals, plus coffee and tea for adults. ☕
• Safety and Cleanliness: Top priority with age-appropriate equipment and daily cleaning.

Visit the Big Backyard website for more information.

We Rock the Spectrum

140 E. Rawson Ave., Suite #314, Oak Creek, WI 53154
werockthespectrummilwaukee.com

We Rock the Spectrum provides a safe, nurturing environment where all children can play, learn, and grow, underpinned by expert knowledge and a commitment to inclusion.

• Founded by Linda: A dedicated pediatric physical therapist with a passion for inclusive play.
• Sensory-Regulation Focus: Ideal for kids with developmental disorders and neurodiversity.
• Variety of Equipment: Suspended swings, crash mats, tunnels, zip line, and trampolines.
• Indoor Play Structure: Great for climbing and developing playground skills.
• Sensory and Fine Motor Toys: Encourages development in a fun, engaging way.
• Creative Arts Area: Fosters artistic expression with an arts and crafts area.

Find out more information on the WRTS website. For a comprehensive guide to more special needs resources and inclusive activities around Milwaukee, be sure to check out our article on Special Needs Resources for Families in Milwaukee.

The Spot Family Play Studio

1752 Wisconsin Avenue, Grafton, WI 53024
thespotgrafton.com

🤗 The Spot offers a welcoming and engaging environment for children of all ages to play, learn, and celebrate, ensuring fun for the entire family.

• Open for Fun: Join in for Open Play Tuesday through Saturday, $15/child (under 1 free).
• No Adult Charge: Children under 13 must have an adult with them.
• Diverse Play Areas: Soft space for infants, dramatic play, reading nook, play structure, art space, and magnet & chalkboard walls.
• Free Coffee for Adults: Enjoy a big cup while the kids play.
• The Hangout for Older Kids: Equipped with foosball, air hockey, TV, game system, and more.
• Sunday Fundays: Celebrate with party slots available on Sundays.

Find out more >>

A Kid at Heart Playland

W188N10707 Maple Rd, Germantown, WI 53022
akidatheartplayland.com

A Kid at Heart Playland in Germantown, WI, offers a range of activities including slot car racing, a play cafe, and a climbing gym, catering to both children and adults.

• Diverse Activities: Slot car racing, indoor climbing gym, and STEM-focused toys for all ages.
• Play Cafe: Ideal for toddlers and kids up to 8, offering creative and physical play opportunities.
• For Older Kids & Adults: Master racing skills on the exciting slot car tracks.
• Snack Bar Available: Grab snacks and drinks to recharge during your visit.
• Socks-Only Policy: Ensures a clean and safe environment in the play cafe.
• Adult Supervision Required: An adult must accompany children at all times.
• Signed Waiver Needed: For safety and compliance before playtime.
• Refreshments for Parents: Enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks while kids explore and play.

For more information and to experience the blend of fun and creativity, visit the A Kid at Heart Playland website.

WhirlyBall

185 S Moorland Rd, Brookfield, WI 53005
Website

WhirlyBall combines a variety of fun activities under one roof, ensuring an entertaining experience for all ages:

• WhirlyBall Games: Play timed matches of WhirlyBall, aiming the wiffle ball at a raised target, with no need for speed or agility.
• LaserTag: Ramp up the action in a multi-level LaserTag arena suitable for groups large and small.
• Bowling: Enjoy bowling with the convenience of food and drink service right at your lane.
• Pop-Up Games: Continue the fun with Ping Pong, Giant Jenga, Cornhole, and other games.

WhirlyBall offers an exhilarating mix of activities that cater to different interests. Check the Whirlyball website for more information about hours and ticket prices.

The Children’s Play Gallery

126 E. Wisconsin Ave., Oconomowoc, WI 53066
thechildrensplaygallery.com​

The Children’s Play Gallery in Oconomowoc, WI, is a vibrant space dedicated to imaginative and educational play, offering a variety of interactive areas for children.

• Art Room: A creative space filled with materials for young artists to explore their talents.
• Children’s Meadow: A gated play area designed for infants and toddlers, enhancing motor skills and group interaction.
• Marketplace & Kitchen: Teaches important life skills through play shopping and cooking activities.
• Nature’s Nook: A quiet area for reading, storytelling, and imaginative play.
• Pirate Ship: Encourages imaginative play with props and costumes, featuring two levels and a hidden area.
• Construction Zone: Where children can engage in building activities, enhancing problem-solving and motor skills.
• Sunshine Stage: A platform for performances and dress-up, fostering imagination and creativity.

For more details on exhibits and activities, visit The Children’s Play Gallery website.

Just 4 Fun Playland

890 Badger Circle, Grafton, WI 53024
just4funplayland.com

Just 4 Fun Playland offers an indoor alternative for playful adventures, ideal for families seeking safe and fun activities regardless of the weather.

• Large Indoor Space: 6,000 sq ft area designed like an outdoor park, complete with fluffy clouds and faux-yard.
• Play Structures: Features a large Rainbow Play-system Superstructure and custom “Soft-play” area.
• Snack Bar: The “Picnic Blanket” snack bar is available to satisfy hunger during playtime.
• Accompanied Visits: Children need to be with a responsible adult, and socks are mandatory for all.

For more information and to download the required play waiver, visit the Just 4 Fun Playland website.

Kids in Motion

14135 W. Greenfield Ave., New Berlin, WI 53151
kidsinmotionwi.com

Kids in Motion, a dynamic play center, offers a variety of themed play areas designed to inspire creativity and learning in a fun environment.

• Train Room: A dedicated space for toy train enthusiasts.
• Arts & Crafts: Encourages artistic expression and creativity.
• Diner Play Area: A pretend diner setting for role-playing and teaching about manners and cooperation.
• Grocery Store Play Area: Mimics a real-life shopping experience, great for imaginative play.
• Center Stage: A theater-themed area for performance and drama.
• Construction Zone: A space for budding builders and engineers.
• Science & Conservation Room: Encourages exploration and learning about science and the environment.
• Cafeteria: Provides a space for snacks and relaxation during playtime.

For more information on the play areas and activities, visit the Kids in Motion website.

Tosa Block Party

10600 W. Bluemound Rd., Wauwatosa, WI 53226
tosablockparty.com

Tosa Block Party, located in Wauwatosa, offers a Lego play space where creativity and construction come together for children.

• Lego Play Area: A dedicated space for children to build and explore with Legos.
• Encourages Creativity: Ideal for stimulating imagination and fine motor skills.
• Community Space: Aims to be a gathering place for families and Lego enthusiasts.

For the most current information, updates, and details about Tosa Block Party, we recommended check their website and Facebook page, as these platforms are commonly used for sharing news and events.

New Berlin Activity and Recreation Center

15321 W National Ave
Website

The New Berlin Activity and Recreation Center features a newly opened indoor playground that caters to a wide range of ages, from toddlers to early teens.

• Indoor Playground: Opened in June 2022, offering a safe and engaging play area.
• Age Range: Suitable for toddlers up to 12 or 13 years old.
• Play Equipment: Includes diverse play options like a traverse wall for climbing.
• Accessibility: Available for use with a small drop-in fee.

For more information on the playground and other facilities, visit the New Berlin Activity and Recreation Center’s website.

Arcades

Looking for a fun outing the whole family can enjoy? Check out these top arcade spots in and around Milwaukee, where kids and parents alike can bond over games, prizes, and a bit of friendly competition:

• Dave & Buster’s (Wauwatosa): A huge selection of video games, virtual reality experiences, and interactive sports challenges.
• Garcade (Menomonee Falls): A retro arcade with over 175 classic games from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s.
• Family Days at Up-Down MKE (Downtown Milwaukee): Enjoy vintage arcade games and pinball machines in a family-friendly setting on select Sundays.
• Kit’s Arcade (Mequon): A mix of the latest video games and all-time classics in a pay-to-play setup.
• Vintage Vault (Mukwonago): Unlimited play for a flat fee with a fantastic selection of retro arcade cabinets and pinball machines.

Discover more about these top arcade destinations around Milwaukee.

Gymnastics and Tumbling Centers

Find an open gym at one of these locations:

Flips4All Gymnastics

8643 N Port Washington Rd, Fox Point, WI 53217

Flips 4 All in Milwaukee emphasizes the importance of play and creativity in gymnastics, offering a variety of activities including open gym sessions.

For more information on open gym times and other programs, visit Flips 4 All’s website or contact them directly.

Infinite Gymnastics

8989 N. 55th St. Brown Deer, WI 53223
infinitegymnastics.com

Infinite Gymnastics offers exciting open gym sessions where kids can explore the world of gymnastics in a fun and dynamic environment.

• Variety of Gymnastics Equipment: Kids have access to trampolines, foam pits, and various gymnastic apparatuses, offering a wide range of fun activities.
• Supervised Play: Sessions are supervised for safety, allowing kids to safely explore and learn new gymnastic skills.
• Creative and Active Fun: Open gym provides an opportunity for kids to be active, creative, and socialize with peers in an energetic setting.

These sessions are perfect for kids who love to tumble, jump, and have a great time in a gymnastics setting. For the latest information on open gym times and other offerings, visit the Infinite Gymnastics website.

LaFleur’s Gymnastic Academy

W189 N10991 Kleinmann Dr. Germantown, WI 53022
lafleursgym.com

LaFleur’s Gymnastics provides an open gym with various activities aimed at encouraging physical play and learning in a structured environment.

• Trampoline Fun: Solo bouncing adventures on trampolines, perfect for practicing those flips and jumps.
• Swinging High: Feel the rush with a swing on the big trapeze and find your rhythm on the regular trapeze.
• Foam Pit Jumps: Leap into the foam pits, making every landing soft and every jump fearless.

For specific details on participation, it’s best to visit LaFleur’s Gymnastics’ website or contact them directly.

Swiss Turners

2214 S. 116th St., West Allis, WI 53227
swissturnersgymnastics.com

Swiss Turners offers a variety of open gym sessions in a supervised environment, perfect for kids who want to practice gymnastics or just have some fun exploring the sport.

• Preschool Open Gyms: Tailored for children 6 or younger, with accompanying adults, featuring trampolines, foam pits, and gymnastic equipment.
• General Open Gym: Open to children up to 13 years old, offering additional practice or a fun-filled gymnastics experience.
• Homeschool Open Gym: A special session for homeschoolers to enjoy gymnastic activities during the daytime.

Swiss Turners focuses on safety and enjoyment in gymnastics, inviting children and their families to experience the sport in a friendly and engaging setting. For waivers and detailed information on open gym schedules and guidelines, check out Swiss Turners’ website.

Wildcard Gymnastics

13040 W. Lisbon Rd., Suite 300, Brookfield, WI 53005
wildcard-gymnastics.com

Wildcard Gymnastics provides a range of open gym sessions for different age groups, allowing for skill work, trampoline jumps, and general safe play in a matted gym environment.

• Pre-School Play: Available for children 5 and under, requiring parental accompaniment, with sessions on Mondays and Fridays.
• All Ages: Open gym for all ages on Saturdays, with additional sessions beginning in the afternoon on Fridays starting June 16.
• Safety Measures: Parental supervision for young children, mandatory sign-in and waivers, and attentive safety practices throughout the gym.

For the latest information on open gym times and to pre-register, visit Wildcard Gymnastics’ website or contact them directly.

Free Indoor Play Ideas

• Barnes & Noble Play Areas:
  • Train tables and reading spots for kids.
  • Locations in Glendale, Wauwatosa, and Brookfield.
  • More information available at barnesandnoble.com.
• Southridge Mall Kids’ Play Area:
  • A safe and enjoyable play space for children.
  • Ride a choo-choo train around the mall for an extra fee!
  • Located at 5300 S. 76th St., Greendale, WI 53129.
• Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club:
  • Intricate model train setups to admire.
  • Interactive stations for kids to learn about trains.
  • Situated at 2721 South Calhoun Road, New Berlin, in the rear of Parkland Plaza.