It’s easy to get bogged down with the winter blues, and we’ve all heard the phrase, “There’s nothing to do in Wisconsin when it’s cold.” But there’s more than bars and bowling to keep you occupied this winter – even with temps below freezing, there are plenty of ways to embrace the cold in Milwaukee.
Get rid your cabin fever with some of our top picks that’ll get you outside this month (and beyond)!
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
Kozy Community Walks
KOSCIUSZKO COMMUNITY CENTER, 2201 S 7TH STREET #205, MILWAUKEE | TUESDAY, JAN 13, FEB 10, MAR 10 12-1:30 P.M., SATURDAY, JAN 24, FEB 28, MAR 28 10-11:30 A.M.
MilWALKee Walks is partnering with the Kosciuszko Community Center in the Lincoln Village to host a community walking series. This is a free event and open to anyone who wants to connect with other community members. Plus, MilWALKee Walks is an organization under the Wisconsin Bike Fed that strives to create safer streets, so if you want to chat about what makes streets safe or unsafe, this is a great format to do so in.
Glow Tubing at Crystal Ridge
7011 S BALLPARK DRIVE, FRANKLIN | SATURDAY NIGHTS IN JAN. 9:15-11:00 P.M.
Take snow tubing up a notch by enjoying the hill under the night sky with glow lights. While Crystal Ridge (formerly The Rock Snowpark) does tubing every day during ski season, glow tubing is available every Saturday night in January. Purchase tickets online for $39 (adults and kids) or at the window for $50.
Schlitz Audubon After Dark: Cozy By The Fire
SCHLITZ AUDUBON NATURE CENTER, 1111 E BROWN DEER ROAD, BAYSIDE | THURSDAY, JAN. 15 6:30 P.M.-9:00 P.M.
Twinkling stars, a crackling fire, and hot cocoa? It’s what winter dreams are made of! Bring your earmuffs and gloves as this event includes real stargazing with a real telescope. Then, warm up inside with a spiked cocoa or signature cocktails (mocktails will also be available). And while you’re warming up, there’ll be crafts, games, and a book swap. Tickets are available for anyone 21+. Members: $25 | Non-members: $30.
Brews and Shoes
WEHR NATURE CENTER, 9701 W COLLEGE AVENUE, FRANKLIN | FRIDAY, JAN. 23 5:30-7:30 P.M.
The brews? Sponsored by the Beer Barons of Milwaukee. The shoes? Bring your own or rent a pair for $5. Then, take a guided walk with a fire to cozy up to after the hike. A winter walk will still take place without snow, so dress appropriately. Beer samplings will include non-alcoholic options as well. This snowshoe hike is designed for adults, but teens are welcome too! Tickets are $13 for Milwaukee-county residents, $10 for Wehr Members and $15 for all others.
Winter Tree I.D.
HAVENWOODS STATE FOREST, 6141 N HOPKINS STREET, MILWAUKEE | SATURDAY, JAN 24 1-2:30 P.M.
Treewatching with DNR (Department of Natural Resources) Urban Forester Dan Buckler means that rain or shine, you’ll have a good time. Whether you’re a pro at identifying trees or not, Dan will walk you through a guided nature walk at Havenwoods State Forest Park. And without leaves, identifying trees becomes a much more challenging feat. Dress warm, spend the afternoon in nature, and learn a thing or two! This event is free to the public.
Urban Ecology Center’s Take It Outside Days! Snowshoes
URBAN ECOLOGY CENTER MENOMONEE VALLEY, 3700 W PIERCE STREET, MILWAUKEE | SATURDAY, JAN. 24 10 A.M.-2 P.M.
Snowshoeing: the epitome of winter activities. Ever wanted to try your hand (or foot) at it? You’re in luck. The Urban Ecology’s Take it Outside Days is built around trying something new with no stakes. And the best part? This event is free – stop anytime between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for a guided, introductory snowshoeing extravaganza.
