When your kids start rolling their eyes about some of the things you used to do together as a family, it might be time to switch things up a bit.
Here are some fun ideas for things to do with tweens and teens around Milwaukee.
What would you add? Email hello@mkewithkids.com with your ideas.
1. Game Show Battle!
Looking for a unique and exciting experience to enjoy with your tween or older teen? Head over to the Game Show Battle Room in Brookfield or Game Show MKE where you can dive into the action of a live game show!
Perfect for families with tweens, this interactive venue lets you compete in classic game show-style challenges with a fun and energetic atmosphere. Think “Family Feud” meets “Minute to Win It,” with plenty of laughs and friendly competition along the way.
Your group will be guided through several games by a lively host, making sure everyone is involved and having a blast. This is reader recommended!
2. Billiards
Recently, one of our readers asked a great question: “Where can my child play billiards in Milwaukee?”
We decided to throw it out to our Instagram community, and the overwhelming response was Romine’s High Pockets in Greenfield.
Known as Milwaukee’s premier pool and billiards destination since 1991, this beloved local spot has a lot to offer, especially for families looking for fun.
3. UWM Union Rec Center
If you’re looking for a fun and affordable outing for the whole family, the UWM Union Rec Center is worth checking out.
Located on the lower level of the UWM Student Union, this recently renovated space offers a variety of activities that both kids and adults can enjoy.
With bowling, billiards, table tennis, and an Esports arena, your teens and tweens may have just found their favorite spot to hang out.
4. Candlelight Concert
Have you heard of these mysterious candlelight concerts around town? They’re happening in over 100 cities around the world, including Milwaukee.
The candlelight concerts feature pop music from artists like Taylor Swift and Adele played by talented string instrument performers, and they take place in a stunning setting at The Abbey at St. James 1868, Milwaukee’s oldest stone church.
Even more impressive, the atmosphere is illuminated by thousands of candles.
Key details for planning your visit include:
- Venue: The Abbey at St. James 1868, a historic site on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Duration: Each concert lasts 60 minutes, with doors opening 45 minutes before the start. Late entry is not permitted.
- Age Requirement: Attendees must be 8 years or older. Those under 16 should come with an adult.
- Accessibility: The venue is ADA compliant, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
- Seating: Assigned on a first-come, first-served basis within each zone.
- Refreshments: While food isn’t served, a selection of wine, beer, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages is available for purchase.
5. Mini Golf
The Milwaukee area boasts a number of great miniature golfing spots that are perfect for families.
The whole family can play, and clever obstacles and water hazards offer a challenge for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time putter, these courses offer a fun and challenging experience that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Many of these miniature golf courses in the Milwaukee area also have driving ranges, making them the perfect place for you and your budding golfer to work on your swings.
Check out our full list of mini golf courses around Milwaukee.
6. Cosmic Bowling
Bowling offers the perfect blend of family fun and competition. Leave the screens behind and immerse yourselves in a dynamic atmosphere where everyone can enjoy an engaging experience together.
Many bowling alleys also have arcade areas and snack bars.
Alpine Bowling in Muskego and other local bowling alleys offer Cosmic Bowling, complete with laser lights, disco lights, black lights, haze machines, and loud music.
Plus, Kids Bowl Free offers two free games of bowling for kids – every single day of the summer!
Here are 5 bowling alleys where kids bowl free all summer long.
7. Rock Climbing
Experience a thrilling adventure with tweens and teens at an indoor rock climbing facility like Adventure Rock, with locations in Milwaukee and Brookfield.
From conquering heights to fostering teamwork, it’s an engaging and enjoyable experience that will leave lasting memories.
There are walls for climbers of all experience levels, and at Adventure Rock there’s even a free climb area.
8. Whirlyball
WhirlyBall combines lacrosse, hockey, basketball, and bumper cars in a game of skill coupled with a touch of chance.
In this team sport, you’ll break into teams and face off on the WhirlyBall court. Use a bumper car and scoop to get the wiffle ball and shoot it into the goal. Whether you come up with a game plan or wing it, you’re sure to walk away exhilarated.
Games are timed and you’ll have a referee to tally score as you go.
There’s a location in Brookfield that is convenient to the Milwaukee area.
9. Go Karting
Go Karting is a great way to make teens and tweens feel as independent as they are.
Place like Accelerate Indoor Speedway & Events gives you access to Formula 1-inspired go-karts and an exhilarating racing experience. There’s also a Virtual Reality Arena and Axe Throwing (must be 13 or older).
10. Trampoline Parks
Trampoline Parks like Urban Air and Rockin’ Jump are still popular with tweens and teens, especially during special events like Glow Nights.
Here’s a list of Indoor Playgrounds around Milwaukee.
11. Roller Skating
Is there any other tween experience more quintessential than roller skating in glow lights with today’s hits blaring from the speakers?
Check out area Skateland locations in Ozaukee, Waukesha, and Butler.
12. Laser Tag
Laser tag offers an immersive and interactive gaming experience that combines physical activity, strategy, and friendly competition. It allows tweens to step into an exciting world where they can unleash their energy and engage in thrilling battles with their friends.
Laser tag also appeals to tweens’ sense of adventure and imagination. The darkened arenas, glowing lights, and futuristic themes create an atmosphere of excitement and make-believe. It’s a chance for tweens to channel their inner heroes and strategize their way to victory.
The Milwaukee area is home to several laser tag arenas including Laser Tag Pro.
13. Arcades
From classic arcade cabinets to cutting-edge virtual reality experiences, teens and tweens can immerse themselves in a world of excitement and endless possibilities.
Plus, arcades provide a social hub where tweens can meet up with friends, form new connections, and engage in friendly competition. The multiplayer nature of many arcade games encourages collaboration and creates opportunities for tweens to bond over shared experiences.
Check out these 5 must-visit Arcades around Milwaukee.
14. Skateboard Parks
Skateboard parks offer a sense of freedom and autonomy to teens and tweens.
They can express their personal style, creativity, and individuality through skateboarding tricks, maneuvers, and their choice of equipment.
Skateboarding allows them to carve their own path, pushing their boundaries and exploring their capabilities.
Check out Four Seasons Skatepark, Estabrook Skate Park, and Tosa Skatepark!
15. Cheer on Milwaukee Sports
Is your team a fan of Milwaukee sports?
Take them to cheer on our World Champion Milwaukee Bucks, or opt for a Milwaukee Admirals or Milwaukee Brewers game.
If you head north for a Packer game, be sure to check out the best things to do in the Titletown District.
16. 1st & Bowl
If your tweens and teens are up for some friendly competition, head to 1st and Bowl in Wauwatosa.
This unique entertainment venue offers football bowling—a fun combination of football and bowling—along with pickleball, indoor gold, wiffle ball, cornhole, nerf wars, and more. It’s a great spot for an active outing that’s a little out of the ordinary.
17. Paint Your Own Pottery
If your teens are ready for a creative outlet that feels fresh and fun, why not take them to a paint-your-own pottery studio? Milwaukee has a range of studios that cater to all ages, allowing teens to express their artistic side and create a unique keepsake. Some studios, like Vibez Creative Art Studio, even host Teen Nights where teens can relax, socialize, and enjoy an evening dedicated just to them.
For more options, check out our article on Pottery and Art Studios in Milwaukee to find a studio that fits your teen’s style. Many of these studios offer special events, themed nights, and workshops perfect for creative teens looking to try something new.
17. Explore Tabletop Gaming at Old Guard Games
3132 N. Downer Ave., Milwaukee
If your tween or teen loves tabletop games, trading card games, or RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons, Old Guard Games is a must-visit.
This beautifully designed game store offers:
- Plenty of play space for tabletop war games, card games, and role-playing sessions.
- A dedicated streaming room and lockers for miniatures.
- A welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
- A huge inventory of games, cards, miniatures, and painting supplies.
With weekly events and a vibrant community, Old Guard Games is a fun spot for tweens, teens, and gaming enthusiasts alike.
What other events and activities around Milwaukee are perfect for teens tweens? Email us at hello@mkewithkids.com.
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
