25 Best Things to Do with Kids in Milwaukee

Spanning nearly 200 wooded acres, the Milwaukee County Zoo is home to over 2,000 mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, and reptiles in specialized habitats. With educational wildlife shows, interactive experiences, and attractions for all ages, it remains one of the most beloved family destinations in Wisconsin.

10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226

Perched on the shores of Lake Michigan, Discovery World combines a science museum with an aquarium featuring over 150 hands-on exhibits. Kids can explore robotics, engineering, and marine life while learning about Great Lakes conservation and innovation through interactive experiences.

500 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Milwaukee's only museum designed specifically for young children, Betty Brinn inspires wonder through hands-on exhibits and imaginative play experiences. With educational programs, workshops, and interactive learning environments, it helps children develop fundamental skills in a fun, engaging setting.

929 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

A beloved institution featuring the dramatic T-Rex encounter, the immersive Streets of Old Milwaukee, an indoor butterfly vivarium, and world-class planetarium. With dinosaur exhibits, cultural displays from 33 European cultures, and hands-on discovery areas, it offers endless exploration for curious families.

800 W Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53233

The iconic Quadracci Pavilion with its moveable Burke Brise Soleil wings is a Milwaukee landmark. Thanks to a generous endowment, kids 12 and under always receive free admission. Family-focused programs include Kohl's Family Sundays, Play Date with Art, and Story Time in the Galleries.

700 N Art Museum Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Milwaukee's premier science and technology center combines hands-on exhibits with Great Lakes aquarium experiences. Kids can touch stingrays, explore innovation labs, and learn about Lake Michigan ecology through immersive, interactive displays spanning multiple floors.

500 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Located in Museum Center Park on the second level of the Miller Pavilion, Betty Brinn is dedicated to early childhood development through play. The exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and build foundational skills in a safe, imaginative environment.

929 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

One of the nation's largest natural history museums, featuring life-sized dinosaur replicas, the beloved Streets of Old Milwaukee, and a state-of-the-art planetarium. Walk through recreated European villages, explore ancient cultures, and stand beneath towering T-Rex bones.

800 W Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53233

Beyond its stunning architecture, the Milwaukee Art Museum offers exceptional family programming. Monthly Play Date with Art sessions, weekly Story Time in the Galleries, and semi-annual Kohl's Family Sundays provide creative experiences for children of all ages.

700 N Art Museum Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Nearly 200 wooded acres of animal habitats, educational shows, and family attractions. From the popular giraffe feeding experience to the Safari Train and carousel, there's something to delight every age. The zoo playground features separate areas for different age groups.

10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226

Named one of Travel Channel's top 11 city beaches, Bradford Beach underwent major improvements making it one of the most accessible beaches in America. Soft sand perfect for building, 35 sand volleyball courts, tiki huts for shade, and cabana rentals create a full beach experience.

2400 N Lincoln Memorial Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53211

Margie's Garden is a whimsical 3-acre children's garden within Boerner Botanical Gardens. Kids can explore an enchanted floral village with a playhouse, fiddlehead path, twig hut, mushroom-chair rings, sound garden, bug sculptures, and hidden cardinal quest.

9400 Boerner Dr, Hales Corners, WI 53130

Wisconsin's only urban state park offers 22 acres of restored prairies, a 1.7-mile waterfront trail, and some of the best Lake Michigan and skyline views in the city. The paved, stroller-friendly paths connect to the Hank Aaron and Oak Leaf trails for extended adventures.

500 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202

One of Wisconsin's most accessible playgrounds, this 54,000-square-foot community park features inclusive play equipment for children ages 2-12. The Giggle Grounds toddler area, sensory rooms, nursing stations, and wheelchair-accessible ramps ensure every child can play.

200 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Bounce, flip, and play at Sky Zone's indoor trampoline parks featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, SkySlam basketball, and Ultimate Dodgeball. The Little Leapers program (Saturdays 9-10am) provides a dedicated time for ages 7 and under.

W229N1420 Westwood Dr, Waukesha, WI 53186

Milwaukee's premier family entertainment destination features 35 top-quality bowling lanes, an arcade packed with modern and classic video games, and HyperBowling (high-tech interactive bowling). Great for family outings, birthday parties, and rainy day adventures.

3049 S 92nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53227

Home to Olympic-level ice facilities, the Pettit Center offers year-round public skating on international-size rinks and a 400-meter speed skating oval. Skate where Olympic athletes train in this world-class facility that welcomes families of all skill levels.

500 S 84th St, Milwaukee, WI 53214

A 45,000-square-foot entertainment center combining WhirlyBall (bumper cars meets lacrosse), laser tag, bowling, and pop-up games like ping pong and Giant Jenga. The multi-level laser tag arena and multiple event spaces make it perfect for groups.

3419 N 124th St, Brookfield, WI 53005

An action-packed indoor adventure park featuring ninja courses, laser tag, mini bowling, a multi-level playground, arcade games, and a cafe. With activities spanning all energy levels and ages, it's perfect for burning off steam on rainy days.

3015 S 163rd St, New Berlin, WI 53151

From November 19 through January 1, downtown Milwaukee sparkles with over 500,000 brilliant lights, dazzling decorations, glittering chandeliers, and larger-than-life ornaments. Free shows, Santa photo opportunities, and festive displays create holiday magic for families.

Downtown Milwaukee (Cathedral Square to Pere Marquette Park)

On June 20, 2026, Children's Fest offers free admission from noon to 3pm at the world's largest music festival. Splash pads, playgrounds, and special kids' activities create a family-friendly experience at the legendary lakefront festival grounds.

200 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202

The zoo transforms for special seasonal events including winter wonderland experiences and holiday celebrations. Reduced crowds and unique seasonal programming make winter visits magical for families seeking something different.

10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Brewers' home stadium or catch a family-friendly baseball game. Tours include the dugout, luxury suites, press box, and Bob Uecker's broadcast booth. The retractable roof means games happen rain or shine.

1 Brewers Way, Milwaukee, WI 53214

What are the best free things to do with kids in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee offers many free family activities including the Milwaukee Art Museum (free for kids 12 and under), Lakeshore State Park trails, Bradford Beach, Northwestern Mutual Community Park playground, and free zoo days at Milwaukee County Zoo (January 3, February 7, March 7, October 3, November 7, December 5). The Holiday Lights Festival downtown is also free from November through January.

What are the best rainy day activities for kids in Milwaukee?

For rainy days, head to Discovery World for hands-on science and aquarium exhibits, Betty Brinn Children's Museum for younger kids, Milwaukee Public Museum for dinosaurs and history, or indoor play centers like Sky Zone, JB's on 41, and Air City 360. The Pettit National Ice Center offers year-round ice skating regardless of weather.

What are the best activities for toddlers in Milwaukee?

Betty Brinn Children's Museum is specifically designed for ages 0-10. The Northwestern Mutual Community Park has Giggle Grounds for ages 6 months-2 years. The Milwaukee County Zoo playground has a dedicated section for ages 2-5. Margie's Garden at Boerner Botanical Gardens offers whimsical outdoor exploration perfect for toddlers.

When is the best time to visit Milwaukee with kids?

Summer (June-August) offers beaches, outdoor festivals, and extended zoo hours. However, Milwaukee's indoor attractions make it great year-round. Spring and fall have smaller crowds at major attractions. Winter brings the Holiday Lights Festival, free zoo days, and cozy museum visits.

What are the must-see Milwaukee attractions for first-time family visitors?

First-time visitors should prioritize Milwaukee County Zoo, Discovery World, the Milwaukee Art Museum (iconic architecture, free for kids), and Bradford Beach in summer. For a unique Milwaukee experience, catch a Brewers game at American Family Field or take a stadium tour. The Milwaukee Public Museum's dinosaurs and Streets of Old Milwaukee are also must-sees.