Northwestern Mutual Community Park Now Open at Summerfest

It’s the day so many Milwaukee families have been waiting for.

The beloved Northwestern Mutual Community Park is now open for the 2024 season. The Park will be open to the public daily from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. in April & May.

Dates are subject to change. Check the Public Play Calendar for the most updated information.

This massive, accessible playground is one of our 25 must-visit playgrounds around Milwaukee.

It’s Wisconsin’s premiere accessible playground, located at Henry Maier Festival Park in downtown Milwaukee, WI. 

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your family outings this year.

Key Details for Your Visit

• Opening Date: The park opens for the 2024 season on Friday, March 8.
• Access Points: Enter through the Mid Gate of Henry Maier Festival Park (East Chicago Street &, N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee) or via the North or South Lakewalk path entrance.
• Parking: Free parking is available near the Mid Gate. Just follow the signs!
• Facilities: Initially, restrooms and drinking fountains will not be available. Port-a-lets will be provided for convenience. Families are encouraged to bring bottled water to stay hydrated.
• Pet Policy: Remember, no pets are allowed.
• Weather Conditions: The park will be open when temperatures are above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it will close if conditions become snowy, wet, icy, slippery, or slick.

Park Amenities for Everyone

Northwestern Mutual Community Park is renowned for its inclusive and accessible features, making it a haven for children of all abilities, ages 2 to 12 years. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Enhanced Play Equipment: Discover age-appropriate playground equipment on a soft surface, including interactive musical play pieces and ramps for wheelchair access.
• Toddler Play Area: “Giggle Grounds” offers a shaded, covered play area for toddlers, with age-appropriate activities.
• Flexible Stage: Enjoy performances on a permanent stage with accessible seating and viewing for over 500 guests.
• Family Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are equipped with changing tables for all needs.
• Nursing Mothers Stations: Dedicated quiet spaces for nursing mothers.
• Sensory Rooms: Air-conditioned, quiet rooms are available for children who may become overstimulated.

Don’t Forget the Books!

The park continues its tradition of supporting literacy with a book donation box. Visitors are encouraged to bring a new or gently used children’s book to donate to the Next Door Foundation Books For Kids program.

Northwestern Mutual Sunday Family Fun Days

Four FREE Family Fun Days have been announce for 2024.

These events offer a full day of family-friendly programming with performances from Milwaukee’s vibrant arts and community groups, including the Milwaukee Ballet, Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, and many more.

Interactive activities, roaming performers, and a variety of food and beverage options from local vendors will ensure a memorable day out for everyone.

For the most up-to-date information on park openings, events, and amenities, be sure to visit Milwaukee World Festival.

Here’s to a season filled with joy, play, and community at one of Wisconsin’s premier accessible urban parks!

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