33 Family-Friendly Things to Do This Spring Break in Milwaukee

Spring break is upon us. But don’t panic! We’ve rounded up over 30 ideas for family-friendly fun. Whether you’re looking to spend a whole day with the kids or just an hour here or there, Milwaukee and its ’burbs have something for the active, artsy, imaginative, outdoorsy and everyone in between.  

Milwaukee Landmarks

Be a tourist in your own backyard. Milwaukee museums and landmarks are a great place to start your spring break staycation.

Betty Brinn Children’s Museum

929 E. WISCONSIN AVE.

Betty Brinn’s interactive exhibits are designed to inspire imagination, play, and hands-on learning. Kids can make-believe in the Home Town community, get moving to dodge “hot” lava, or play alongside fellow littles (ages 4 and under) in the sensory-rich Pocket Park. 

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Discovery World

500 N. HARBOR DR.

Let the wonders of science and exploration ignite your child’s curiosity at Discovery World. From underwater worlds to model railroads to “automation everywhere,” there’s something for everyone to marvel at here. 

Milwaukee Art Museum

700 N. ART MUSEUM DR.

Did you know museum admission is always free for kids 12 and under? Did you also know there’s always something for kids to do at the museum? ArtPacks, SketchPacks, costumes, special guides and more help families engage with the galleries. Visiting on a weekend? Stop by the Kohl’s Art Studio for hands-on creativity. 

Milwaukee Public Museum

800 W. WELLS ST.

In case you haven’t heard, the Milwaukee Public Museum is moving to a new home in 2027. So take your kids to the Streets of Old Milwaukee while you still can! Then wander to the Butterfly Wing, go back 65 million years to see the world’s largest-known dinosaur skull, and catch a Planetarium program (free with admission).

Milwaukee County Zoo

10001 W. BLUEMOUND RD. 

Lions, tigers and bears – oh my! The Milwaukee County Zoo needs little introduction, but there are a few nifty new animals to visit. There’s a new giant Pacific octopus named Flurry at the Aquatic & Reptile Center. And be sure to say hello to the zoo’s new 9 month-old caribou, Maeve. 

Mitchell Park Domes

524 S. LAYTON BLVD.

Milwaukee’s “living landmark,” The Domes are a great escape. Visit a tropical rainforest (seriously hot and humid), a desert oasis and a seasonal floral garden. Through April 6, the floral dome celebrates the Golden Age of Steam, complete with model trains and miniature vignettes.

Arts & Literature

Whether your kids are artsy-crafty, have a flair for the dramatic, or just love curling up with a good book, these spots promise to spark creativity. 

Glaze

149 GREEN BAY RD., THIENSVILLE

Just walk in and create! Glaze is a walk-in studio offering paint-your-own pottery, glass fusion and raw clay sculpture. Leave your completed project with the pros at Glaze, and they will fire your creations in one of their eight kilns, to be picked up about one week later. (P.S. Scoops of Purple Frog ice cream are served in the front room.)

Wonderland Bookshop

4001 N. DOWNER AVE., SHOREWOOD

Family-owned and full of magic, Wonderland Bookshop in Shorewood is hard at work growing a vibrant community of readers, storytellers, and dreamers. Browse books, toys and gifts to inspire the little bookworm in your life. Pro tip: Pop in for one of their weekly Story Times. 

First Stage

TODD WEHR THEATER, MARCUS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 121 E. STATE ST.

Just keep swimming! The First Stage production of Disney & Pixar’s Finding Nemo is on stage through April 6. This “theater for young audiences” version is a musical adventure from the award-winning songwriting team behind Frozen. The show clocks in at 75 minutes (including intermission) and is recommended for kids ages 5–12. 

Milwaukee Public Library

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Go back to basics and visit your local library. Not only are there events to entertain youngsters, but you can check out free passes for all of the aforementioned Milwaukee Landmarks.

Sports & Adventure

While there’s always bowling and (eventually) Brewers baseball, here are some alternatives for all those sports-loving, high-energy kids. 

Adventure Rock

LOCATIONS IN BROOKFIELD, MILWAUKEE AND WALKER’S POINT

Adventure Rock is the place to go to climb. With three locations around Milwaukee and no experience necessary, indoor rock-climbing is an exhilarating adventure for families with active kids of all ages. Friendly, knowledgeable staff and state-of-the-art equipment means safety and comfort are always a priority. 

Urban Air Adventure Park

2440 E. MORELAND BLVD., WAUKESHA

This adventure park has it all: bumper cars, go-karts, indoor ziplining, a tubes playground, climbing walls, trampolines, a slam dunk zone and much more. Urban Air prides itself on being a safe space for the whole family to jump, soar, race and climb – rain or shine.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

LOCATIONS IN WAUKESHA, GREENFIELD AND BROWN DEER

All the adventure of a trampoline park – freestyle jumping, jousting, dodgeball, foam jumps, slides and more – plus a toddler zone. With a dedicated area for younger children, you can count on a safe and fun time for kids of all ages.

Play Cafes

A play cafe is where you go to feel like a grown-up while your littles do their thing. Pro tip: look into reservations and bring socks. Best for ages 6 and under.

Bug and Goose

LOCATIONS IN ELM GROVE AND DELAFIELD

With two locations, Bug and Goose’s inviting play spaces are designed for children ages 6 months to 6 years. The café allows adults to simultaneously socialize and supervise over Colectivo coffees, espressos, teas, and bakery treats.

Kidcadia

6544 S. LOVERS LANE RD., FRANKLIN

Fueling a child’s imagination while providing a peaceful retreat for adults – that’s the delightful mission of Kidcadia. They offer play zones, spaces for coloring and lite brite, multi-level climbing gyms, a toddler area, and of course a coffee and snack bar. But what really sets Kidcadia apart? The whimsical, totally enchanting vibe. 

Little Sprouts Play Cafe

4606 N. WILSON DR., SHOREWOOD

Custom play zones, thoughtful toys and a space designed to make kids and their caregivers feel right at home. Ideal for kids 6 and under, Little Sprouts encourages imagination-inspired play, while complimentary Stone Creek Coffee encourages grown-ups to relax and enjoy. Tickets are also available for special sensory events.

Little Village Play Cafe

6505 W. NORTH AVE., WAUWATOSA

There’s so much to love at Little Village. Come for the play space that’s safe, clean and fun—stay for the warm, inclusive environment and robust menu. Little Village not only has a full fancy coffee and drink list, they also serve breakfast sammys, Belgian waffles, melty paninis, baked goodies, and cheese and charcuterie boards. Oh, and kids snack plates, smoothies and drinks. Special events offered, too. 

Indoor Play Gyms

There’s nothing like an indoor playground to get kids moving – and to get caregivers one step closer to a two-hour nap (fingers crossed!).

We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym

LOCATIONS IN OAK CREEK, PEWAUKEE AND MOUNT PLEASANT

At We Rock the Spectrum (WRTS), there’s not only tunnels, trampolines and climbing, there’s also sensory-based toys, fine motor play, and arts and crafts. Notably, the gym’s owner is a licensed pediatric physical therapist whose mission is to help kids develop their play skills and sensory regulation in a safe and nurturing environment.

Nugget Nation

12501 W. BLUEMOUND RD., BROOKFIELD

Geared toward kids 9 and younger, Nugget Nation is a fun, imaginative spot to exercise, play and explore in a safe, purposeful way. From the Nugget Playground (kids 9 and younger) to Nuggie Town (kids 7 and younger) to Tiny Nugget Terrace (semi-private for 23 months and younger), there’s lots to entertain every age and stage.

Kids in Motion

14135 W. GREENFIELD AVE., NEW BERLIN

Get the wiggles out and grow through play at Kids in Motion. With nearly 15,000 square feet of play rooms, their hope is to encourage imagination, social interaction and energetic play. Their open play space offers lots of room to move, while imaginative vignettes range from a diner to a grocery store, center stage to a construction zone.

Outdoor & Nature Play

Spring in Wisconsin is unpredictable – but families can always count on these outdoor destinations for a great time. 

Malone Park

16400 W. AL STIGLER PKWY, NEW BERLIN

A favorite for families in New Berlin, the playground at Malone Park is inclusive and accessible for a broad range of ages and abilities. The playground is divided into two sections, one for older and the other for younger kids. The play equipment is fresh and impressive, and the fact that there are zero wood chips for toddlers to fixate on is yet another point in its favor.

Northwestern Mutual Community Park

E. CHICAGO ST. AND N. HARBOR DR.

The playground and park at the Summerfest grounds offers inclusive play for children ages 2-12. Situated on a soft surface, you’ll find musical play pieces, a toddler-only area, wheelchair-accessible ramps and shaded seating. Family restrooms, nursing mothers stations and sensory rooms take this park to the next level of awesome. Bonus: Bring a gently-used book for the book donation box.

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center

1111 E. BROWN DEER RD., BAYSIDE

Take a nature walk on the Schlitz Audubon’s six miles of trails, winding through forests, prairies, wetlands and along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Pack your binoculars for some excellent birdwatching or rent a Nature Pack complete with scavenger hunt, magnifying glass and more goodies for little explorers.

Seven Bridges

S. LAKE DR. AND PARK AVE., SOUTH MILWAUKEE

It’s little wonder this trail in Grant Park is so beloved. With its unpaved and lannon stone paths winding through the ravine – beneath a canopy of trees, over charming footbridges – Seven Bridges is a magical spot for a nature walk along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Eats & Drinks

Kid-friendly spots to eat, drink and indulge in a sweet treat – here are a few favorites for all you foodie fams. 

3rd Street Market Hall

275 W. WISCONSIN AVE. SUITE 100

3rd Street Market Hall has become a Milwaukee go-to for foodie families. There are so many tasty options, from healthy eats to special treats, and the space is buzzing and busy in a way that lets kids be kids. There’s also giant Jenga, bags, and other yard and board games to entertain.

Better Together Cafe

1301 N. CHICAGO AVE., SOUTH MILWAUKEE

Founded on the idea that some things are better together (like coffee and ice cream), Better Together Cafe is an inviting destination for an extra-special treat. Milkshakes flavors like Unicorn, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Fruity Pebbles and S’mores boast big-time wow-factor. Parents leave impressed, and kids? Beyond delighted.

Sprecher Brewing

701 W. GLENDALE AVE., GLENDALE

All-ages tours and unlimited soda samples – what more could you (or your soda-crazy kid) ask for? Just some of the soda flavors: cream, orange dream, grape, honeycrisp apple and black cherry. Tours and tasting experiences are available at Sprecher Brewery from Wednesday through Sunday. 

Outside the Box

Now for something completely different, from virtual reality to an indoor lazy river to an excessive amount of bobbleheads. 

RSVR

2210 S. KINNICKINNIC AVE.

Anyone for virtual reality? RSVR, Milwaukee’s virtual reality paradise, has over 80 games and experience to pick from. Kids 17 and under require a minimum of one responsible adult per station. If you share your child’s love of gaming, this one’s a no-brainer. 

Springs Indoor Water Park

2810 GOLF RD., PEWAUKEE

Escape to an aquatic oasis at The Ingleside Hotel’s indoor water park. Race down exhilarating slides, relax in the Barrel Roll River, or play in the activity pool. Older kids can kick back in the hot tub, while littles can splash in zero-depth waters. When it’s time to dry off, hit the arcade and snack bar.

National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum

170 S. FIRST ST. SECOND FLOOR

Opened in 2019, The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum is home to over 6,500 unique bobbleheads, a storefront, and more. Open seven days a week, you’re invited to “bobble in today!” Find detailed visitor information here. 

Day Trips

Get out of town and fill a whole day with fun! Depending on where you call home, these might be a day trip or a pop-in – either way, these destinations are worth going the extra mile.

Children’s Play Gallery

126 E. WISCONSIN AVE., OCONOMOWOC

This indoor play space located on Fowler Lake upholds that “play is the true work of the child.” Inside you’ll find a multi-level ship complete with pirate props, an art center and storytime, a play stage and costumes, and more. Note that the Play Gallery closes midday for sanitizing, so plan accordingly – perhaps lunch on Main Street?

Art of Joy

W63N664 WASHINGTON AVE., CEDARBURG

A self-proclaimed “social house,” Art of Joy is a cocktail bar and mercantile with an aesthetic and menu that really set them apart. The decor is cheerful, the drinks are delicious, and they have a special “Kids Drinks” section of the menu. The kids’ drinks are always crazy-cute. Upstairs, there’s a loungey vibe for relaxing, complete with kids toys and movies. Located in the heart of Cedarburg with all its charm, why not make a quaint little day of it?

Madison Children’s Museum

100 N. HAMILTON ST., MADISON

At Madison Children’s Museum, kids lead and grown-ups are happy to follow. The museum centers on creative play within custom contraptions, green environments, rainbows of color and fantastic sounds. The vibe will have you wondering – is it a play space or an art installation? Whatever time you have left, spend it enjoying Madison: walk around the capitol, visit the Union Terrace, or simply stop at Bradbury’s for coffee and a crepe (located right by the museum). 

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Want more great Milwaukee events? Check out our calendar!