100 Best Day Trips From Milwaukee for Families (2025)

Cedarburg Historic District

This charming escape is close to Milwaukee but feels like a world away. Just a 22-mile drive from the hustle and bustle of the city, this historic small town is bursting with charm, fun activities, and unique attractions that are perfect for visitors of all ages.  From Cedar Creek Settlement to the Rivoli Theatre, here is a full Cedarburg day trip itinerary.

Bay Beach Amusement Park

📍1313 Bay Beach Rd., Green Bay, WI 54302

Bay Beach Amusement Park is a municipal amusement park in Green Bay, featuring a ferris wheel overlooking Lake Michigan, bumper cars and boats, a giant slide, concessions, a roller coaster and more. But the thing we might love most about Bay Beach is its affordability. There is no admission charge or parking fee, and ride tickets cost only 25 cents each (rides range from 1 to 4 tickets per rider).

Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center

📍7001 Gass Lake Rd, Manitowoc, WI 54220

If you’ve ever driven by Manitowoc, you may have noticed a giant, modern-looking red barn located just off the highway. It’s actually not a farm – it’s the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center, a hands-on, agricultural museum for kids. Just an hour north of Milwaukee, it’s a vibrant, interactive experience that brings the farm to life for visitors of all ages with engaging exhibits that are both educational and downright fun. You might even see a calf being born in the Birthing Barn!

Sheboygan: Wisconsin’s Malibu

Just an hour north of Milwaukee, Sheboygan is a family-friendly destination with hands-on museums, stellar playgrounds, beautiful beaches and even a historic shipwreck. Here are some top stops for your day trip:

• Above & Beyond Children’s Museum – Kids can climb through the sky crawl, make impressions on a giant pin screen, and explore a 1900s schoolhouse. Don’t miss the new Octopus Playground.
• John Michael Kohler Arts Center – A free art museum with interactive kid-friendly exhibits, an outdoor garden, and even creatively designed restrooms that are worth a stop!
• Shaw Family Playground – This sprawling, colorful, fully ADA-accessible playground is a fantastic place to let the kids run, climb, and play.
• Kohler-Andrae State Park – One of the last remaining nature preserves on Lake Michigan, featuring scenic dune trails, a beach, and stroller-friendly nature paths.
• Harrington Beach State Park – A stunning lakeside park with hiking trails, a dog-friendly beach, and an observatory perfect for stargazing.
• Lottie Cooper Shipwreck – Explore the remains of a 19th-century schooner on display at Deland Park—an exciting slice of maritime history.
• Kohler Design Center – If you have time, check out this impressive three-story showcase of Kohler’s innovative designs, featuring a product gallery and museum.
• Take a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride at Wade House Historic Site – Ride through the historic grounds and explore the blacksmith shop, carriage museum, and 19th-century stagecoach inn.
• Bookworm Gardens – Be sure to visit Bookworm Gardens while you’re here — it’s one of our favorite spots and featured separately in this guide.

Where to Eat

• Old World Creamery – It doesn’t get much more Wisconsin than this! This fourth-generation family-owned creamery sells fresh butter, cheese, and cheese spreads—perfect for a quick snack or a take-home treat.
• Whispering Orchards & Café – A charming family-operated apple orchard and café serving homemade apple cider. Kids will love the free petting zoo with goats, sheep, and giant rabbits, while peacocks and cats roam the grounds. In the fall, hay bale tunnels add to the fun. Located just north of Sheboygan.

The Grove at Village Park

📍W244 N6260 Weaver Drive, Susssex, WI 53089

The Grove at Village Park features an impressive inclusive playground with two ziplines, a shaded pavilion and multi-sport courts. Our readers also rave about the splash pad that’s open in the summer!

West Bend

Amid the rolling hills of the Kettle Moraine, West Bend, Wisconsin, offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From the impressive Museum of Wisconsin Art, to a brand new Riverwalk and walkable downtown area with specialty boutiques and a gourmet popcorn shop, this West Bend Day Trip itinerary offers a fun day out for families.

Elkhart Lake: A Charming Lakeside Escape

📍 Elkhart Lake, WI | elkhartlake.com

Just over an hour north of Milwaukee, Elkhart Lake is a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear blue-green waters, sandy beaches, and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the lake or an active getaway, this charming town has something for everyone.

Things to Do in Elkhart Lake

• Swim, boat, or paddle on the pristine waters of Elkhart Lake. Just stop by the Osthoff resort rental area and get on the water.
• Relax at Fireman’s Park Beach, a beautiful sandy beach with plenty of space for families to unwind, cookout, swim, and play.
• Explore the Ice Age Trail in nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest, perfect for hiking, biking, and soaking in nature.
• Step back in time at the Wade House Historic Site, a 240-acre open-air museum operated by the Wisconsin Historical Society, featuring historic buildings and a working blacksmith shop.
• Stroll through town and browse boutique shops, local restaurants, and charming cafés.
• Treat yourself at Gessert’s Ice Cream & Confectionery, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor serving classic sundaes, malts, and hand-dipped cones in a nostalgic setting.

Fond du Lac: A Fun-Filled Family Day Trip from Milwaukee

Just over an hour north of Milwaukee, Fond du Lac is a great destination for active families looking for adventure, outdoor fun, and delicious treats. Here’s what to do when you visit:

• Fondy Sports Park & Aqua Park – Get your adrenaline fix with go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, batting cages, and more at Fondy Sports Park. Then, cool off at Fondy Aqua Park, where you’ll find a sandy beach, water slides, zip lines, a floating obstacle course, and water equipment rentals.
• Lakeside Park – This massive 400-acre park on Lake Winnebago has everything: a walk-up lighthouse, splash pad, petting zoo, kayak rentals, a nostalgic train ride, and even an antique carousel. In winter, the park lights up with thousands of holiday displays.
• Kelley Country Creamery – Dubbed the “best ice cream in the middle of nowhere,” this family-owned creamery serves up homemade ice cream in a peaceful countryside setting. It’s the perfect sweet ending to your Fond du Lac adventure! If you time it right, you can also walk through their sunflower maze.

London Dairy Alpaca Farm

📍 6827 State Hwy 147, Two Rivers, WI 54241

The fully operational London Dairy Alpaca Farm offers a behind-the-scenes grand tour where visitors can interact with, feed, and take selfies with these adorable creatures. You’ll also learn about their fiber, how it’s sorted, and the fascinating history of this family-owned farm. Tours are by appointment only and last about an hour, so be sure to book in advance!

Pro Tip: After your alpaca adventure, stop by Washington House Museum, home to the first-ever ice cream sundae (legend has it that it was invented here in 1881!). Enjoy a classic scoop in a charming 1890s-style ice cream parlor before heading home.

Green Bay

Just under two hours from Milwaukee, Green Bay is a fantastic destination packed with outdoor adventures, hands-on museums, and plenty of family-friendly fun. You can easily spend a full day at any one of these attractions or make a weekend of it!

Top Family-Friendly Attractions

• Green Bay Botanical Garden – 47 acres of beautiful gardens, including a magical children’s garden with a slide tower, koi pond, and hobbit house-themed restrooms. The new Carol & Bruce Bell Children’s Garden expansion is packed with nature-based play areas, treehouses, and a splash pad.
• Bay Beach Amusement Park – One of the best budget-friendly attractions in Wisconsin! Ride classic amusement park rides (many costing just 25 to 50 cents), enjoy a picnic by the bay, and take in the old-school charm of this beloved park. It’s seasonal, so check ahead for operating dates!
• Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary – A 700-acre urban refuge featuring live animal exhibits, hiking trails, and one of the state’s largest wildlife rehabilitation programs. It’s free to visit and perfect for nature lovers!
• Lambeau Field – Whether it’s football season or not, Packers fans will love touring Lambeau Field, walking through the player’s tunnel, and visiting the Packers Hall of Fame.
• National Railroad Museum – Home to historic trains and exhibits, plus a vintage diesel locomotive ride that takes you around the museum grounds. Look out for special events like the Polar Express and Pumpkin Train rides!

Maritime Museum

📍 75 Maritime Dr., Manitowoc, WI 54220 | wisconsinmaritime.org

The Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc is a must-visit for families who love history, hands-on learning, and life on the water. With engaging exhibits, interactive play spaces, and an opportunity to spend the night on a real World War II submarine, this museum offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Must-See Exhibits & Experiences

• Children’s Waterways Room – Let kids launch boats and navigate Wisconsin’s maritime landscape through hands-on water play.
• Aquatic Invasive Species Lab – Become a fisheries biologist by solving clues about the invasive species threatening the Great Lakes.
• Little Lakefarers Room – A tactile, play-based space designed for the museum’s youngest visitors to explore the world of maritime history.
• USS Cobia – A WWII Submarine Experience – Step aboard the best-preserved WWII submarine in the country for a guided tour or, for the ultimate adventure, book an overnight stay in the Sub BnB.

📍2002 Church St., East Troy, WI 53120​​

Step back in time for a day, when trains chugged through picturesque landscapes, and the simple joy of a train’s whistle filled the air. At the East Troy Railroad, this nostalgic experience is brought to life, captivating young and old alike. From the moment you board the historic train, you’ll embark on an old-fashioned journey that will transport you to a bygone era – and to Elegant Farmer, where you can enjoy ice cream and peruse gourmet products.

💡 Bonus Stop: After your scenic train ride, head over to Green Meadows Farm for an interactive, hands-on farm experience!

• Pet, feed, and hold baby chicks, bunnies, and goats.
• Milk a cow for a true farm experience!
• Visit the kitten barn for cuddles with soft, playful kittens.
• Enjoy pony rides, wagon rides, and hayrides around the farm.
• Play on the fire truck, wooden wagons, and John Deere tractor slide.

Paradise Springs Nature Area

📍W374 S8640, County Rd N, Eagle, WI 53119

Tucked away in the heart of Eagle, WI, you might miss Paradise Springs as you zoom by it on the adjacent highway. But if you know where to look, an abandoned treasure lies waiting to be discovered by families looking for an easy and enchanting outdoor adventure. Once a summer resort for Milwaukee’s elite, the abandoned area boasts remnants of a bygone era, including a horse track, stone springhouse, and a shuffleboard court. 

Fox River Park

📍W264 S4500 River Rd., Waukesha, WI 53189

At the heart of the 257-acre Fox River Park in Waukesha is a standout feature that draws families from all around: a natural playground designed to reconnect kids with the great outdoors. With two giant slides, each 33 feet long built right into a hillside, climbing boulders, and a butterfly garden—this playground offers a thrilling ride and a creative blend of fun and nature.

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Delafield

At this Delafield destination, there’s plenty of wildlife to see, and lots of kid-friendly hiking options. One of the highlights of Lapham Peak is the 45-foot observation tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. An annual park sticker is required.

After your hike, stop by The Smiley Barn Toy & Candy Store to get some ice cream, old-fashioned candy, and play in the game rooms and play areas.

Discovery Trail at Retzer Nature Center

📍S14 W28167 Madison St, Waukesha, WI 53188

Even for the littlest feet, Retzer Nature Center is filled with majestic pines, picnic tables, and stroller-friendly paved paths. The newly renovated Discovery Trail includes a variety of “Exploration Stations” for outdoor education, sensory-based play experiences, and STEM activities for families and school groups. 

Old World Wisconsin

📍W372 S9727 Wisconsin 67, Eagle, WI 53119

For your next adventure with the family, why not do a little time travel? The Milwaukee area is home to several living history museums, and Old World Wisconsin is the crown jewel of them. Families can unplug and experience early immigrant history in an immersive, hands-on way. Visitors can experience firsthand the daily life of Wisconsin’s earliest settlers. It includes 60 restores historic structures on over 600 acres of picturesque landscapes.

Imagination Station

📍700 S. Main St, Oconomowoc, WI 53066

Imagination Station is a huge, universally accessible playground in Oconomowoc. It is located in Roosevelt Park and features rubberized surfacing, therapeutic swings, multi-sensory activity structures, musical components, one entrance and exit for added safety, and more!

Bear Den Zoo & Petting Farm

📍6831 Big Bend Rd., Waterford, WI 53185

This family-owned Bear Den Zoo houses traditional farm animals like baby chicks, goats, and cows. They are also home to more exotic animals like lemurs, kangaroos, and llamas. Kids can pet and interact with almost all of the animals. See all 6 of our favorite Zoos & Petting Zoos Around Milwaukee.

Jefferson County: History & a Classic Drive-In Experience

For a unique day trip just an hour from Milwaukee, combine history and nostalgia with a visit to Aztalan State Park followed by a movie at the Highway 18 Outdoor Theater.

Aztalan State Park is just one of several state parks within one hour of Milwaukee, and you’ll find the remnants of an ancient Native American village that thrived between A.D. 1000 and 1300. Walk past reconstructed stockades and flat-topped mounds while learning about the fascinating Mississippian culture that once called this area home.

After your history adventure, take a step back into the 1950s with a double-feature at this seasonal drive-in theater. Featuring a massive 90-ft. screen, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a family-friendly film from the comfort of your car. You can grab some popcorn and snacks from the concession stand before the show starts at dusk.

Steffen Orchards: A Hidden Gem for Cherry & Blueberry Picking

📍 N633 McIntyre Rd. Fort Atkinson, WI 53538

Steffen Orchards is Southeast Wisconsin’s only cherry orchard, offering a unique pick-your-own experience each summer. With three lush orchards and 4,000 cherry bushes, it’s the perfect place to gather fresh, juicy fruit straight from the source. Plus, they provide a mechanical pitter to make cherry prep even easier!

🍒 Pick Your Own: Cherries & blueberries (seasonal)
🍯 Extras: Local honey & freshly baked goods (with free samples!)
📅 Seasonal Availability: Opens when the fruit is ripe & closes when it’s gone—follow their Facebook page for updates.

Madison Area

Downtown Madison

Wisconsin’s capital city is packed with history, culture, and kid-friendly adventures. Whether you’re exploring hands-on museums, visiting a free zoo, or strolling through the famous Dane County Farmer’s Market, downtown Madison is a perfect family day trip.

Top Things to Do With Kids in Downtown Madison

• Wisconsin State Capitol – Take a free tour of this stunning historic building, complete with a museum and sixth-floor observation deck (open in summer) for incredible city views.
• Madison Children’s Museum – Three floors of interactive fun for kids ages 0-12, including the Wildernest for little ones, an art studio, and a rooftop garden with incredible views of the Capitol Square.
• Dane County Farmer’s Market – A must-visit Saturday tradition, this massive outdoor market wraps around the State Capitol and features fresh produce, baked goods (don’t miss the cheesy bread!), flowers, and more from local vendors.
• Henry Vilas Zoo – A free zoo featuring lions, chimpanzees, red pandas, and more! Stroll the 28-acre zoo and enjoy up-close animal encounters without any admission fees.
• Olbrich Botanical Gardens – Explore 16 acres of gorgeous outdoor gardens and the tropical Bolz Conservatory, a glass pyramid filled with waterfalls, blooming orchids, and free-flying birds. It’s a peaceful, nature-filled escape just minutes from downtown.

Epic Campus in Verona

📍1979 Milky Way, Verona, WI 53593

It’s not your average office park—Epic Systems’ campus outside Madison is filled with storybook buildings, themed hallways, and whimsical art. Families can take a self-guided outdoor walk around the grounds (weekends only), perfect for imaginative kids and photo ops. Don’t miss the castle, treehouse, or Harry Potter-inspired buildings.

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Cave of the Mounds National Natural Landmark

📍 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517

Cave of the Mounds is the premier cave in the upper Midwest and the jewel box of America’s major show caves. Guided tours of this geologic wonder follow paved, lighted walkways departing regularly every day of the year. Tours pass a stunning array of colorful crystal formations on paved lighted walkways.

Visitors also enjoy the gemstone mine, fossil dig, butterfly gardens, rock/gift shops, hiking/biking trails, snack bar and picnic area.

House on the Rock

📍 5754 Wisconsin 23, Spring Green, WI 53588

Marvel at the House On the Rock, an engineering and artistic masterpiece, and check out the eclectic, exotic and whimsical collections and displays. On your self-guided tour you will explore The Infinity Room, extending an unsupported length of 218 feet and soaring 156 above the valley floor, The World’s Largest Carousel featuring 269 handcrafted animals, 20,000 lights and 182 chandeliers, an enormous sea creature longer than the Statue of Liberty is tall, and a Japanese Garden including 14 foot quadruple waterfalls cascading into a garden pond.

Mt. Horeb Troll Stroll

📍Mount Horeb, WI

Known as the Troll Capital of the World®, Mount Horeb invites families on a self-guided “Troll Stroll” through its charming downtown. Kids will love spotting dozens of whimsical troll sculptures hidden along sidewalks and storefronts. The route is easy to walk (or bike), and there are plenty of spots to stop for ice cream, chocolate, or a casual lunch. It’s a fun, low-key adventure with just the right amount of quirk for a memorable family outing.

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Devil’s Lake State Park

📍S5975 Park Rd., Baraboo, WI 53913

Devil’s Lake is one of Wisconsin’s most iconic state parks—and a favorite for families looking to spend a day outdoors. Nestled in the Driftless Area just 45 minutes from Madison, it features towering quartzite bluffs, two sandy beaches, and a spring-fed lake perfect for swimming, paddling, or just relaxing by the water.

There are easy, kid-friendly trails as well as more challenging hikes with rewarding views. The popular Tumbled Rocks Trail is flat and stroller-friendly, while the Balanced Rock and East Bluff trails offer adventure for older kids.

🧺 Pro tip: Bring a picnic and make a day of it—there are plenty of scenic spots to stop and eat.
🌿 Don’t miss: Parfrey’s Glen, a nearby natural gorge with mossy rock walls and shallow stream crossings.

3 Scenic Waterfalls Near Madison

Looking to pair your day trip with a short hike and a beautiful view? These kid-friendly waterfalls are all within an hour of Madison and make for a fun and peaceful nature break.

🌿 Parfrey’s Glen – Just east of Devil’s Lake State Park, this mossy gorge features shallow stream crossings and a small, magical waterfall at the end of a short trail.
🌿 Stephens Falls – Tucked inside Governor Dodge State Park, this serene spot is accessible via a quick, easy walk and features an observation deck for a great view.
🌿 Pewit’s Nest – Located near Baraboo, this hidden gem offers a quiet hike through a sandstone gorge carved by Skillet Creek, ending at a small waterfall.

Get all the details in our post about the best Waterfalls in Southern Wisconsin.

Little Amerricka Amusement Park

📍700 E Main St., Marshall, WI 53559

Step back in time at this charming, retro-style amusement park just 30 minutes from Madison. Little Amerricka features 26 vintage rides and attractions, including a 1950s wooden roller coaster, The Meteor. Kids can ride the mini train, enjoy classic kiddie rides, and even hop aboard a working steam engine. It’s a manageable size for younger kids and a low-key, nostalgic alternative to larger parks.

🛤 Don’t miss: The train ride through the countryside and restored rides from historic amusement parks.

Governor Dodge State Park

📍4175 WI-23, Dodgeville, WI 53533

This expansive 5,000-acre state park in the scenic Driftless Region is perfect for families who love the outdoors. There are two lakes for swimming and paddling, scenic hiking trails for all ages (including one to a real waterfall), plus picnic areas, campgrounds, and wildlife spotting.

🥾 Family-friendly tip: The Stephens’ Falls trail is a short, kid-friendly hike with a big payoff.

Doby Stables

📍4228 WI-23 Trunk, Dodgeville, WI 53533

Located right by Governor Dodge, Doby Stables offers guided horseback trail rides through scenic ranch land and into the park itself. Choose between a 45-minute ranch ride or a 1-hour park ride. Kids as young as 6 can ride (double up with an adult if needed), and they’ll love the chance to connect with the horses.

🐴 Good to know: Advance reservations are required, and children riding double with an adult are half-price.

Wisconsin Dells

Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” Wisconsin Dells is much more than slides and wave pools.

Outdoor & Unique Attractions

• Dr. Evermore’s Sculpture Park – Home to the Forevertron, the world’s largest scrap metal sculpture, this artistic wonderland is a must-see.
• Witches Gulch – A mystical, narrow canyon only accessible by boat tour, featuring stunning rock formations.
• Wisconsin Deer Park – Wander through this 40-acre animal park and get up close with white-tailed deer, elk, bison, and more!

Water & Adventure Fun

• Noah’s Ark Waterpark – The largest waterpark in Wisconsin, featuring wave pools, thrilling slides, and lazy rivers for all ages.

Entertainment & Interactive Experiences

• Rick Wilcox Magic Theater – A live magic and comedy show that changes every year, keeping visitors mesmerized.
• Tommy Bartlett Exploratory – A hands-on science and technology museum, featuring an authentic Russian Space Station module and dozens of interactive exhibits.

Circus World

📍550 Water St., Baraboo, WI 53913

Located in Baraboo, about two hours from Milwaukee, Circus World is a fun and nostalgic day trip for families. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the museum comes alive with daily shows featuring aerialists, trapeze artists, clowns, animal acts, and even a motorcycle tightrope rider. Many of the performances are interactive, with opportunities for kids to volunteer on stage.

Admission includes all shows and access to several historic buildings filled with circus memorabilia. Extras like carousel rides, pony rides, and airbrush tattoos are available for an additional fee. There’s also a playground and picnic area if you want to bring your own lunch.

🎪 Pro tip: Circus World is part of the Wisconsin Historical Society, so admission is free with a membership.

South of Milwaukee

Dinosaur Discovery Museum

📍 5608 10th Ave., Kenosha, WI 53140 | Admission: FREE (Suggested donation: $3/person), WI 53140

The Dinosaur Discovery Museum in Kenosha is the only museum in the world focused exclusively on the evolutionary link between meat-eating dinosaurs and modern birds. The main gallery features full-size dinosaur skeletons, cast from real fossil bones, making it a must-visit for dino lovers of all ages.

Must-Do Experiences for Kids

• Dinosaur Dig – Head downstairs for a hands-on fossil dig and fun dinosaur crafts.
• Laboratory Peek – Watch real paleontologists at work in the on-site research lab.

💡 Pro Tip: Admission is free! Plan a full-day trip from Milwaukee and explore more fun in Kenosha.

Other Things to Do in Kenosha

• America’s Action Territory – Go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, laser tag, and an arcade packed with family fun
• Kenosha Public Museum – Check out mammoth fossils, Native American artifacts, and a hands-on Field Station for kids.
• Kenosha Dream Playground – A 15,000-square-foot, fully accessible playground designed for kids of all abilities to explore and play together.
• Snack Break at Mars Cheese Castle: Sample a variety of cheeses, bakery treats, and sausages, or grab a bite in the on-site restaurant. 

Racine Zoo

📍 2131 N Main St, Racine, WI 53402 | racinezoo.org

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, the Racine Zoo offers an easy, family-friendly walk with up-close views of over 300 animals from around the world. Home to 75 different species, including endangered wildlife, it’s a perfect way to introduce kids to the wonders of nature while enjoying the fresh lake breeze.

💡 Pro Tip: After visiting the zoo, make it a full day in Racine with these nearby attractions:

• North Beach – Just minutes away, this 50-acre sandy oasis features 2,500 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline, an ADA-accessible Kid’s Cove Playground, and plenty of space to relax and play.
• Wind Point Lighthouse – Climb the 108-foot tower of this historic 1880 lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Open for scheduled tours, it’s one of the tallest and oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes!

Apple Holler

📍5006 S. Sylvania Ave., Sturtevant, WI 53177

At appleholler.com, you can pick your own memories all year long! They have apples, of course, but they also grow peaches and pears. Families will love the Kids Korral Play Area, which includes a cool cow maze, a music garden, a corn maze, an Amish-built train and a Rainbow play structure. 

Stop at the Golden Goat Bridge to visit with farm animals, and learn about bees at the Bee Observation Exhibit and Tree Life Cycle Exhibit. There’s also a brand-new biergarten, and the Applewood Grill serves up BBQ pulled pork, hamburgers, brats and more!

Richard Bong State Recreation Area

📍26313 Burlington Rd., Kansasville, WI 53139

This easy-to-reach natural area offers a quiet escape into nature with plenty for kids to explore. Start at the Molinaro Visitor Center, where you’ll find live animals, hands-on exhibits, and a solarium with butterflies and play areas. Then head outside to walk the stroller-friendly nature trail, which winds through prairie and grasslands with a boardwalk overlooking Wolf Lake.

Fun fact: The land was once planned as a jet fighter base, but the project was abandoned just days before construction. Locals stepped in to preserve the area — and now it’s one of southeastern Wisconsin’s best spots for nature-based family fun.

Central Wisconsin

EAA Aviation Museum

📍 3000 Poberezny Rd. Oshkosh, WI 54902

The EAA Aviation Museum in Oshkosh is a world-class destination for aviation lovers of all ages. There’s even a special exhibit designed just for younger visitors. The KidVenture Gallery features:

• Raptor Gallery – Climb into a half-scale F-22 Raptor cockpit and explore 16 interactive exhibits showcasing the world’s most advanced airplane.
• Tower of Flight – Enjoy incredible views of Pioneer Airport, the EAA Aviation Center, and the AirVenture grounds from this scenic observation deck, complete with interactive exhibits about air traffic control.

Other Must-See Exhibits

• SpaceShipOne – Discover the groundbreaking mission that made private space travel possible, with a full-size replica of SpaceShipOne.
• Eagle Hangar – A massive tribute to World War II, featuring historic aircraft and artifacts that honor those who served.
• Pioneer Airport – Step back into the golden age of aviation at this recreated early air travel airport.
• Wright Flyer Exhibit – A tribute to the Wright Brothers, featuring a meticulously crafted replica of the aircraft that changed history.

Union Star Cheese Factory

📍 7742 County Rd II, Fremont, WI 54940 | unionstarcheese.com

Just 30 minutes west of Appleton and Oshkosh, Union Star Cheese Factory has been perfecting the art of cheesemaking for over a century—longer than football has been played in Green Bay!

🧀 Factory Tours & Tasting

• Visit during tour times to witness the cheesemaking process in action.
• Learn how squeaky cheese curds, sharp cheddar, and unique flavor blends are crafted by skilled cheesemakers.
• Sample fresh Wisconsin cheese straight from the source.

Menominee Park & Zoo

📍 520 Pratt Trail, Oshkosh, WI 54901

Admission is free at Menominee Park Zoo, located near Lake Winnebago in Oshkosh. The Zoo is approximately eight acres and carries 30-50 animals during the season.

There are four permanent exhibits (wolf, elk, otter, and eagle), but the majority of the zoo animals are leased, allowing a different variety each year. They plan to add more permanent exhibits for native species as they grow.

LaClare Creamery

📍W2994 County Road HH, Malone, WI 53049

The La Clare Family Creamery is a working goat creamery near Lake Winnebago offers a peek into the cheesemaking process and the chance to visit real goats in the viewing barn. Stop by the farmstead store and café for fresh cheeses, ice cream, and family-friendly bites. Check their website for seasonal events and goat cuddles!

Illinois

Gurnee & Northern Illinois

Six Flags Great America

📍1 Great America Pkwy., Gurnee, IL 60031

Six Flags is one of the largest amusement parks in the Midwest with 100+ rides and attractions. The newly themed DC Universe area adds immersive comic-book fun. Upgrade with a Thrill Seeker Pass to access Hurricane Harbor, the adjacent water park.

Gurnee Mills

📍6170 W Grand Ave, Gurnee, IL 60031

Gurnee Mills is Illinois’ largest indoor shopping, dining, and entertainment destination—great for a rainy day or quick stop after the theme park.

Lambs Farm

📍14245 W Rockland Rd, Libertyville, IL 60048

Feed and meet over 300 animals at Lambs Farm, ride the miniature train, play mini-golf, and enjoy an old-fashioned carousel. The Discovery Center lets kids learn about small mammals, reptiles, and exotic birds. A feel-good stop with plenty of hands-on animal time.

Chicago Area

Downtown Chicago is about 90 minutes from Milwaukee (traffic permitting) and offers a wide range of family attractions. You can tackle one spot in a day—or turn it into a weekend adventure.

Museum of Ice Cream

📍435 N Michigan Ave Suite G, Chicago, IL 60611

Nestled just off Michigan Avenue in the heart of downtown Chicago, the Museum of Ice Cream is an experience that transforms the concept of a museum into an immersive, ice-cream-themed wonderland. Think Willy Wonka meets Instagram paradise, where every corner unveils a new vibrant, fantasy-filled world dedicated to the sweet delight of ice cream. 

Sloomoo Institute

📍820 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60610

If you’re on the hunt for an experience that’s both unique and kid-approved, look no further than the Sloomoo Institute in Chicago. Just a 90-minute drive from Milwaukee (traffic permitting), this slime-filled wonderland offers a tactile extravaganza unlike any other. Your kids can explore giant slime vats, get slime dumped on them, and make their own custom slime.

Legoland Discovery Center

📍Streets of Woodfield, 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173

Visit LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago at Streets of Woodfield, Schaumburg, featuring a Master Model Builder, a 4D cinema experiences, the Technicycle Ride and plenty of places to build amazing LEGO creations.