Summer may be winding down, but there’s still plenty of family fun to be had before school starts again! Make the most of these final fifty (or so) summer days by exploring some of Milwaukee’s favorite family-friendly spots.
Check out our list of the must-visit family-friendly attractions in Milwaukee that will keep the little ones busy before they head back to school.
For the Curious Kids
Summer is a wonderful time for fun and relaxation, but it’s also essential to keep those young minds sharp. Milwaukee offers a variety of interactive and engaging museums perfect for young explorers.
Discovery World
Designed to spark “aha” moments, Discovery World is a science and technology museum that encourages kids to explore their scientific curiosities. The museum offers hands-on technology exhibits, an aquarium full of aquatic life and even a pneumatic dinosaur!
Urban Ecology Center
Whether it’s participating in an adventure program, attending a sustainability workshop or testing your climbing skills on the rock wall in Riverside Park, the Urban Ecology Center offers three locations with engaging programs that teach children about the environment and sustainability.
Old World Wisconsin
Travel back in time and experience a taste of the 19th century at Old World Wisconsin. This immersive history museum features authentically restored homes, stores and workshops for your little explorers. Kids can enjoy hands-on activities such as riding a high-wheel tricycle, washing clothes on a washboard and so much more.
For the Sporty Kids
If your kids are full of energy and love to stay active, Milwaukee has plenty of exciting options to keep them moving. From parks to sports complexes, there’s something for every young athlete to enjoy.
Pettit National Ice Center
Beat the heat at the Pettit National Ice Center. Whether your kids are seasoned skating pros or just starting out, they will love gliding around this Olympic-sized rink. The Pettit offers public skating year-round on select Saturdays from 3:15 p.m. – 5:15 p.m., as well as skating lessons and hockey programs.
Milwaukee Milkmen
Take them out to the ballgame and cheer on the Milwaukee Milkmen. Enjoy a delicious meal, support the local team, and meet fan-favorite mascot Bo Vine for a perfect summer evening at Franklin Field!
David F. Schulz Family Water Park
Zoom down winding waterslides, float along the Lazy River, or make a splash in the diving well at David F. Schulz Family Waterpark. With daily open swim sessions and private rental options, it’s a great place for your kids to let off some steam while staying cool.
For the Creators
Maybe your kids are brimming with imagination and love to create. Milwaukee has many attractions that serve as fantastic outlets for those young minds bursting with artistic inspiration.
Milwaukee Art Museum
The iconic Milwaukee Art Museum, with 32 galleries spanning over 40,000 pieces of art, engages visitors of all ages with interactive fun. ArtPacks help kids engage with the textures, shapes and colors in the galleries, and SketchPacks provide supplies for creative sketching.
First Stage
Aspiring actors and actresses can experience their first taste of fame at First Stage. The Theater Academy teaches not only basic acting skills but also self-esteem, collaboration and creative thinking. For those less inclined to perform, First Stage offers a variety of shows tailored for family audiences to enjoy.
Betty Brinn Children’s Museum
Imagination has no limit at the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum. Kids can live out their dream professions from train conductor to grocery store clerk and explore the Be a Maker space to create their own crafty projects as they wander through the immersive exhibits housed throughout the children’s museum.
How About a Sweet Treat?
After all this activity, your kids will surely be up for a classic summertime treat. Luckily, Milwaukee is home to an array of local spots that will satisfy those cravings.
Experience Milwaukee’s specialty at Kopp’s Frozen Custard. After all, Milwaukee is the Frozen Custard Capital of the World! If you’re in the mood for something fruity and fun, Pete’s Pops offers over 70 unique popsicle flavors on a rotating basis. And, of course, you can’t go wrong with Purple Door Ice Cream’s wide array of flavors, ranging from classics like chocolate and vanilla to unique flavors you can’t find anywhere else.
And we’re just starting to scratch the surface of all the family fun to be had in Milwaukee. Explore more and plan a day in Milwaukee that’s perfect for you and your crew! Your adventure starts on our family-friendly page.
Well, what are you waiting for? Grab the sunscreen, gather the kids and get out there to discover the amazing family attractions Milwaukee has to offer before summer slips away!
