100 Best Things to Do in Milwaukee with Kids (2025 Update)

Indoor Play & Cafés

(Image: Little Village Play Cafe)

Best for Little Kids

• Little Village Play Cafe – Play space and café for young kids.
• Bug & Goose Play Café – Cozy indoor play space with coffee.
• Central Library – Betty Brinn Children’s Room with a lighthouse and cozy reading spots.
• Kids Empire at BAYSHORE – Over 10,000 square feet of indoor play fun, perfect for active kids.
• Little Sprouts Play Cafe – A cozy play café ideal for playdates with a built-in coffee shop.
• The Play Retreat – A new, family-friendly indoor space in Milwaukee for creative play.
• Just 4 Fun Playland in Grafton – An expansive indoor playland designed with families in mind.

Great for Older Kids

• Cloud 9 Workshop – Eco-art projects for kids and adults.
• Adventure Rock – Indoor climbing walls for all ages.
• Trampoline & Adventure Parks – High-energy trampoline parks around Milwaukee.
• Springs Water Park – Family-friendly water park for year-round splashing fun.
• 1st and Bowl – Unique family venue offering bowling and fun activities for all ages.
• Best Milwaukee Arcades – Top arcade spots for games, prizes, and family entertainment.
• UWM Union Rec Center – A family-friendly hidden gem with recreational activities for all ages.
• Roller Skating & Skate Parks – Guide to roller rinks and skate parks around Milwaukee.
• Ultimate Ninjas in Oak Creek – New ninja-themed gym with obstacle courses for kids, opening in April.

Want more ideas? Check out 25 Best Milwaukee Indoor Playgrounds & Play Cafés, our comprehensive guide to play spaces and cafes in and around Milwaukee.

Animal Adventures

Milwaukee offers families plenty of ways to get up close with animals, from iconic zoos to interactive aquariums. Here are some must-visit spots for animal lovers:

• Milwaukee County Zoo – 2,000 animals across 200 acres, with a Family Farm & Safari Train.
• Reiman Aquarium at Discovery World – Dive into Wisconsin’s largest aquarium.
• Shalom Wildlife Zoo – “Wisconsin’s Wildest Zoo,” lets you roam 100+ acres.
• Bear Den Petting Zoo – Hold a baby kangaroo and meet other friendly animals.
• Petting Zoos Near Milwaukee – Get up close with friendly animals at local petting farms.
• 6 Splash-tastic Aquariums in Milwaukee – Explore the top aquariums Milwaukee has to offer.
• Concord General Store & Petting Zoo – A fun pit stop with a free petting zoo and local treats.
• Henry Vilas Zoo, Madison – A free zoo in Madison with a children’s zoo area and carousel.

Outdoor Play and Nature

(Image: Margie’s Garden)

• Lynden Sculpture Garden – Art sculptures across 40 acres of garden.
• Schlitz Audubon Nature Center – Observation tower, pond exploration, and easy hiking.
• Retzer Nature Center’s Discovery Trail – Discovery Trail with sensory play and STEM activities.
• Seven Bridges Trail in Grant Park – Scenic, magical trail through woods down to Lake Michigan.
• Mequon Nature Preserve – Year-round oasis with a natural playground and education center.
• Wehr Nature Center – Waterfall hike and natural playground.
• Lapham Peak – Hike this popular trail with tower views of Waukesha’s scenic landscapes.
• Havenwoods State Forest – A hidden gem with family-friendly hiking and exploration.
• Lynden Sculpture Garden – Art sculptures across 40 acres of garden.
• Urban Ecology Center at Riverside Park – Urban nature center with plenty of fun for kids.
• Alice’s Garden Urban Farm – Community garden that offers labyrinth walks and programming.
• Lakeshore State Park – Kid-friendly hike in downtown Milwaukee with lake views.
• Boerner Botanical Gardens Guide – A quick overview of the gardens, perfect for family visits.
• Margie’s Garden at Boerner Botanical Gardens – Enchanted Village and Flower Shop Playhouse.
• The Conservancy for Healing & Heritage – Peaceful trails with a stunning landscape in Franklin.
• Hawthorn Glen Nature Center – Family-friendly nature center with hiking trails.

Want more ideas?

• 15 Beautiful Wisconsin State Parks Near Milwaukee – Must-see state parks for family outings.
• Enchanting Labyrinths in Milwaukee – Three unique labyrinths perfect for a family day out.
• 10 Best Gardens & Flower Farms – Scenic gardens and flower farms ideal for family visits.
• 10 Inspiring Nature Centers Around Milwaukee – Top nature centers for family visits.
• Stroller-Friendly Hikes Around Milwaukee – Seven trails perfect for younger kids.
• 15 Easy Hikes for Kids Around Milwaukee – Trails that are manageable and fun for younger kids.

Milwaukee Sports

(Image: Milwaukee Bucks Game)

• Milwaukee Bucks Game at Fiserv Forum – High-energy entertainment from World Champions.
• Milwaukee Milkmen Game – Free parking and family-friendly promotions.
• Milwaukee Brewers Game – Player autographs, play areas, and kids run the bases.
• Milwaukee Wave Game – Pro soccer with fun for all ages.
• Milwaukee Admirals Game – Hockey with kids’ zones and post-game skating.
• Lakeshore Chinooks Game – Baseball games along Lake Michigan.
• Wisconsin Badger Game – Pre-game family festivities, what to wear, and more.
• Green Bay’s Titletown District – Lively football district with playgrounds and ice skating.
• March Madness with Your Kids – Family-friendly venues to catch the games with your kids.

Unique Experiences

(Image: Avalon Atmospheric Theatre)

• The Hop Streetcar – Hop on and off at 10 stops around downtown Milwaukee.
• Manfred Olson Planetarium – Interactive night sky shows for all ages.
• Avalon Atmospheric Theatre – Movie theater under a starry night sky.
• Pabst Mansion – Family tours with hidden details in historic rooms.
• Milwaukee Fire Museum – Vintage trucks and fire department memorabilia.
• National Bobblehead Hall of Fame & Museum – Scavenger hunts and souvenirs.
• Model Railroad Club of Milwaukee – Free entry to a historical model train exhibit.

Water Adventures

(Image: Springs Water Park)

• Springs Water Park – Raft slides, lazy river, and whirlpools.
• Public Beaches – Explore nine Lake Michigan beaches.
• Boat Tours – Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan skyline views.

Art, Culture, and Theater

(Image: Milwaukee Art Museum)

• Milwaukee Art Museum – Interactive art-making studio for kids.
• Oriental Theatre – Historic theater with unique architecture.
• Marcus Performing Arts Center – Kid-friendly productions year-round.
• Black Cat Alley – Outdoor alley filled with vibrant murals.
• Milwaukee Mural Tour – Explore murals across the city.
• Bradley Symphony Center – Free Saturday concerts for families.

Kid-Friendly Dining and Treats

(Image: Safe House)

Milwaukee is filled with family-friendly dining options that both kids and parents will love, from playful pizza spots to cozy coffee shops and everything in between. Whether you’re planning a family brunch or looking for restaurants with kid-friendly menus, our guides have you covered.

Browse the 25 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Milwaukee (2024) for the best family-friendly dining around the city, or check out the 25 Best Brunch Spots in Milwaukee (2024) for top weekend brunch spots,

• 3rd Street Market Hall – Food, games, and family fun in the heart of downtown Milwaukee.
• SafeHouse – Spy-themed dining experience with a unique Junior Spy program for kids.
• Afternoon Tea at The Pfister – A fancy, kid-friendly tea experience a historic hotel.
• Don’s Speakeasy – A hidden speakeasy experience with family-friendly vibes.
• Fitzy’s Ice Cream – A charming ice cream shop in Whitefish Bay.
• Art of Joy, Cedarburg – A welcoming place for joy, connection, and family-friendly fun.
• Kids Eat Free / Discounted – A directory of restaurants where kids eat free or at a discount.
• Organ Piper Pizza – A Milwaukee classic with pizza, live organ music, and a family-friendly vibe.
• Blum Coffee Garden – A cozy coffee spot with yard games and a playground.
• Peanut Butter & Jelly Deli – West Allis gem specializing in unique PB&J sandwiches.
• Bubble Tea Bar, Menomonee Falls – A new, family-friendly destination for refreshing bubble tea.
• Sprecher Outdoor Oasis – Great food and outdoor seating at this kid-friendly spot.
• Freese’s Candy Shoppe at Milwaukee Public Market – Milwaukee’s favorite candy store.
• Ben & Jerry’s in Historic Third Ward – A sweet addition to the Third Ward.
• Joy Ice Cream Social, Wauwatosa – A neighborhood favorite for ice cream in Tosa.
• Pizza Ranch & FunZone Arcade – New pizza spot with a fun arcade in Lisbon.

Need more ideas?

• 25 Best Brunch Spots in Milwaukee (2024) – Discover top brunch destinations around the city.
• Custard MKE – Discover daily flavors of classic Milwaukee-style custard.
• Local Donut Shops – Must-visit donut spots that kids (and adults) will love.
• Best Tacos in Milwaukee – Reader favorites for the best tacos around town.

Seasonal Fun

Summer

Let’s be honest, the summer months are the real reason we live here. There is nothing like the magic of summertime in Milwaukee when it comes alive June through August.

Here are our most popular summer recommendations:

• Outdoor Water Parks & Pools
• Strawberry Picking
• Best Splash Pads
• Kid Friendly Summer Festivals
• Beer Gardens (Yes, they’re Kid-Friendly)
• Outdoor Summer Concerts
• Sunflower Fields
• Swimming Ponds and Lakes
• Fourth of July in Milwaukee
• Exploring the Milwaukee Riverwalk
• Farmer’s Markets
• Mini-Golf

Fall

As summer fades away and the leaves start to change, it’s time to welcome the arrival of fall – a season filled with cozy sweaters, warm drinks, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Milwaukee Apple Orchards
• Milwaukee Harvest Festivals
• Doors Open Milwaukee
• Milwaukee Pumpkin Patches
• Milwaukee Corn Mazes
• Observation Towers
• Halloween Events
• Spooky Halloween Displays
• Day of the Dead Events

Holiday Cheer

The winter holidays are a magical time of year, especially when you’re a kid. From twinkling holiday lights to bright red Santa’s mailboxes and magical holiday events, Milwaukee has it all.

Here are out top recommendations:

• Holiday Fun Guide
• Milwaukee Holiday Lights
• Santa’s Mailboxes
• Milwaukee Christmas Parades
• Christmas Tree Farms
• Meet Santa
• Magical Holiday Experiences
• Sleigh Rides
• Winter Break Guide
• New Year’s Eve With Kids
• Volunteering With Kids

Winter

Winter in Milwaukee might be chilly, but that doesn’t mean you and your family have to stay cooped up indoors. Here are our top recommendations for Winter:

• 100 Winter Fun Ideas Around Milwaukee
• Ice Skating Rinks
• Sledding Hills
• Snow Tubing
• Skiing & Snowboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Ice Festivals
• Winter Festivals
• Candlelight Hikes
• Dog Sledding
• Best Hot Cocoa Spots
• Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Winter Day Trips
• Winter Date Nights
• Celebrate Black History Month
• Valentine’s Day Events
• 5 Wintry Things to do Without Snow

Spring

As we emerge from winter, spring celebrations are a welcome reprieve. From St. Patrick’s Day festivities to Easter egg hunts, 414 Day, and maple sugaring events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• Free Things to do in Spring
• Tulip Festivals – Stroll through vibrant tulip displays and enjoy the blooms of spring.
• Maple Sugaring Events – Learn the process of making maple syrup with hands-on activities.
• St. Patrick’s Day Events – Enjoy parades, music, and family-friendly festivities.
• Pi Day Activities – Math-inspired fun for kids, including crafts, pie-eating, and hands-on learning.
• March Madness With Kids – Family-friendly spots to watch the big games together.
• Spring Break Staycation Ideas – Local adventures and activities to make spring break memorable.
• Easter Egg Hunts – Fun-filled egg hunts around Milwaukee for kids of all ages
• 414 Day Events – Celebrate Milwaukee Day with free local events and activities on April 14th.
• Earth Day Events – Family activities focused on nature and conservation.
• Mother’s Day Events – Enjoy free events and special activities to celebrate moms in May.

Day Trips from Milwaukee

Ready for a family adventure? Here’s an epic list of day trips from Milwaukee, filled with fun, learning, and memorable experiences.

Chicago Highlights

• Color Factory Chicago – Interactive, vibrant world of color.
• Museum of Ice Cream – Sweet treats and photo ops galore!
• Sloomoo Institute – Get messy with Chicago’s slime museum.
• 100 Best Family Attractions in Chicago – Top sites for kids and families.
• 35 Best Things to Do in Chicago Suburbs – Great options outside the city.

Living History & Museums

• Old World Wisconsin – Step back in time with historic farmsteads and costumed interpreters.
• Wade House – Open-air museum on 240 acres with 19th-century history.
• Dinosaur Discovery Museum – Explore impressive dinosaur skeletons in Kenosha (Free!)
• East Troy Electric Railroad – Ride vintage railcars and explore the depot museum.
• Cedarburg Historic District – Stroll historic shops, museums, and Wisconsin’s last covered bridge.
• Holy Hill – Stunning views from the scenic church tower.

Gardens & Outdoor Spaces

• Bookworm Gardens – Children’s garden based on beloved stories in Sheboygan.
• Apostle Islands – Gorgeous lakeshore national park for coastal adventures.
• Wisconsin State Parks – Hiking, picnicking, and views at these nearby parks.

Family-Friendly Attractions

• EAA Aviation Museum – 200 historic airplanes and engaging kids’ exhibits in Oshkosh.
• Bay Beach Amusement Park – Classic rides, ferris wheel, and bumper cars in Green Bay.
• Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame – Home of the famous giant musky sculpture in Hayward.

Getaways & Water Parks

• Great Wolf Lodge – 80,000 sq. ft. of water fun near the Illinois border.
• Wisconsin Dells – Known as the Water Park Capital, with tons of family-friendly options.
• Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock – Indoor water park and mini-golf at Starved Rock State Park.

Unique Wisconsin Stops

• Musky Museum in Hayward – See the world’s largest musky sculpture.
• Camping – Family campgrounds with water parks for the perfect getaway.
• Aztalan State Park – Learn about an ancient village at this National Historic Landmark.

For a full list of the 100 Best Day Trips from Milwaukee, click here and start planning your next family outing!

Family Travel

Planning a family getaway? Whether you’re looking for Midwest road trips or international adventures, here are some top destinations and helpful travel guides:

Direct Flights from Milwaukee (MKE)

Traveling with kids can be challenging, but Milwaukee’s Mitchell Airport offers direct flights to popular family destinations, simplifying your journey. Fly non-stop from MKE to:

• Orlando – Theme parks, beaches, and year-round sun.
• Seattle – Explore the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and surrounding nature.
• Phoenix – Enjoy sunny weather, hiking, and family-friendly attractions.
• Washington D.C. – Take in the history with free museums, the National Zoo, and iconic monuments.

Midwest Travel

• St. Louis – Iconic Gateway Arch, free museums, and rich history make St. Louis a perfect road trip destination. Check out our list of 15 free family activities and more itinerary ideas.
• Chicago – Just a train or car ride away, Chicago offers family-friendly attractions like the Museum of Ice Cream, Navy Pier, and the Field Museum.

International Adventures

• Kauai – Discover the family-friendly side of this lush Hawaiian island, with tips on kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and cultural sites.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Explore the charm of medieval Germany in this storybook town, with family-friendly walking tours, museums, and enchanting festivals.

For a full list of family travel ideas, check out our Family Travel Guide and start planning your next unforgettable adventure!