23 Awesome Things To Do in Wisconsin with Kids
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Feeling cooped up and looking for some awesome things to do with your kids in Wisconsin? Whether your family loves the great outdoors, historical sites, sports, or interactive learning experiences, we’ve found the best adventures in the state to create lasting memories.
Each activity is designed to be both fun and educational, providing experiences that will broaden horizons and deepen family bonds. But, most importantly, they’re fun!
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These statewide adventures are in no particular order to reflect a ranking of any kind. Here’s our list of 23 AWESOME things to do in Wisconsin with kids:
- Children’s Museum of Eau Claire
- Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison
- Discovery World Science and Technology Museum in Milwaukee
- Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay
- Cave of the Mounds in Blue Mounds
- Milwaukee County Zoo
- Art Garage in Green Bay
- International Crane Foundation in Baraboo
- Milwaukee Public Museum
- Noah’s Ark Water Park in Wisconsin Dells
- Urban Ecology Center in Milwaukee
- Lambeau Field Packers Family Night
- Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride at Palmquist Farm
- Northwoods Wildlife Center in Minocqua
- High Cliff State Park
- Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in Milwaukee
- Wisconsin Veterans Museum
- Blue Mound State Park
- Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc
- Wisconsin Dells
- Racine Zoo
- Milwaukee Children’s Choir
- Wisconsin’s Public Libraries
1: Explore the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire
The Children’s Museum of Eau Claire (126 N Barstow St, Eau Claire, WI 54703) is a fantastic space where kids can learn through play. The interactive exhibits stimulate curiosity and encourage kids to explore the world around them. From the ‘Bitty City’ designed to teach social skills to the ‘Water Works’ exhibit that introduces the principles of fluid dynamics, there’s an educational adventure around every corner.
2: Visit the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison
The Henry Vilas Zoo (702 S Randall Ave, Madison, WI 53715) is a treat for animal lovers of all ages. The zoo features an array of exotic animals from around the world, including polar bears, lions, and giraffes. With free admission, the zoo is committed to providing access to nature and wildlife education for everyone.
3: Learn at the Discovery World Science and Technology Museum in Milwaukee
Discovery World (500 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202) is a treasure trove of interactive science and technology exhibits. Children can learn about the Great Lakes ecosystem, experience the principles of physics in action, or explore the intricacies of human anatomy. The museum’s Reiman Aquarium is also a huge hit with kids, where they can touch stingrays and view colorful sea creatures.
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4: Have Fun at the Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay
Bay Beach Amusement Park (1313 Bay Beach Rd, Green Bay, WI 54302) is a nostalgic treat with its vintage rides and old-school charm. Whether it’s riding the Zippin Pippin roller coaster, enjoying the view from the Ferris wheel, or playing in the park’s expansive green spaces, there’s something for everyone. It’s a fun-filled outing that’s easy on the wallet.
5: Marvel at the Cave of the Mounds in Blue Mounds
The Cave of the Mounds (2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517), a National Natural Landmark, is a subterranean wonderland of beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Kids will be awestruck as they journey through the cave’s illuminated paths, learning about geology and the fascinating formations created over thousands of years.
6: Visit the Milwaukee County Zoo
Spanning over 200 acres, the Milwaukee County Zoo (10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226) is home to over 2,000 animals. Families can see everything from African elephants to Arctic polar bears, ride the Safari Train, and interact with farm animals at the Family Farm. The zoo’s commitment to animal conservation makes it a fun and educational outing.
7: Unleash Creativity at the Art Garage in Green Bay
At the Art Garage (1400 Cedar St, Green Bay, WI 54302), children can discover their artistic talents through a variety of workshops and classes. From painting and drawing to sculpture and crafts, the Art Garage nurtures creativity and expression. The monthly ‘Family Fun Day’ offers a range of art projects suitable for all ages.
8: Experience the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo
Home to all 15 species of cranes in the world, the International Crane Foundation (E11376 Shady Lane Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913) offers a unique opportunity to learn about these majestic birds and the efforts to preserve them. Kids can take part in interactive displays, watch cranes in their naturalistic habitats, and learn about the importance of biodiversity.
9: Wander through the Milwaukee Public Museum
The Milwaukee Public Museum (800 W Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53233) provides an immersive learning experience with its lifelike dioramas and interactive exhibits. Families can walk through a recreation of old Milwaukee, stand beneath a life-sized T-Rex, or explore the butterfly garden. The planetarium offers spectacular celestial shows that will captivate children and adults alike.
10: Spend a Day at Noah’s Ark Water Park in Wisconsin Dells
Noah’s Ark Water Park (1410 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965), the largest water park in America, guarantees a day full of splashy fun. With numerous water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and a 4-D Dive-In Theater, there are activities to suit every age and thrill level. The park is also committed to safety, ensuring a fun and secure environment for families.
11: Discover Nature at the Urban Ecology Center in Milwaukee
The Urban Ecology Center (1859 N 40th St, Milwaukee, WI 53208) provides families with the opportunity to connect with nature right in the city. There are three locations in the city to pick from. With its trails, gardens, and playground, children can explore the outdoors, learn about ecosystems, and engage in hands-on environmental education. It’s a green oasis in the urban landscape.
12: Visit Lambeau Field for a Packers Family Night
Packers Family Night at Lambeau Field (1265 Lombardi Ave, Green Bay, WI 54304) is a wonderful introduction to football for young fans. The evening features a practice game, fireworks, and activities for kids. Even if you’re not football enthusiasts, the energy and community spirit make it a memorable experience.
13: Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride at Palmquist Farm
In Palmquist Farm in Brantwood, families can enjoy a relaxing horse-drawn sleigh ride through the scenic countryside. They’ve been around since 1949! It’s a delightful way to take in the rural beauty of Wisconsin and create a new tradition. Plus, kids will love the opportunity to meet the friendly horses!
14: Explore the Northwoods Wildlife Center in Minocqua
At the Northwoods Wildlife Center (8683 S Blumenstein Rd, Minocqua, WI 54548), families can learn about Wisconsin’s native wildlife, from owls and eagles to turtles and otters. The center rehabilitates injured animals, and their guided tours offer a closer look at these creatures while learning about the importance of wildlife conservation.
15: Enjoy the Outdoors at High Cliff State Park
High Cliff State Park (N7630 State Park Rd, Sherwood, WI 54169) offers families a chance to enjoy Wisconsin’s natural beauty. Whether it’s hiking along the scenic trails, swimming in Lake Winnebago, or exploring the park’s unique geological features, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep the whole family entertained.
16: Visit the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in Milwaukee
At the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum (929 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202), kids can learn through hands-on play. The museum features interactive exhibits that encourage kids to explore the world around them, from a pretend city where they can learn about different professions to a ‘Tot Spot’ designed for toddlers.
17: Learn History at the Wisconsin Veterans Museum
The Wisconsin Veterans Museum (30 W Mifflin St, Madison, WI 53703) offers families a meaningful way to learn about the state’s military history. Through personal stories and artifacts, the museum highlights the experiences of Wisconsin’s military men and women from the Civil War to the present.
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18: Enjoy Outdoor Activities at the Blue Mound State Park
Blue Mound State Park (4350 Mounds Park Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517) is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities. You can go hiking, biking, camping, or swimming in the park’s pool. In winter, the park offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The park’s observation towers also provide panoramic views of the surrounding area.
19: Explore the Wisconsin Maritime Museum
At the Wisconsin Maritime Museum (75 Maritime Dr, Manitowoc, WI 54220), families can learn about the state’s rich maritime history. The museum features interactive exhibits, a children’s waterway room, and the chance to tour the USS Cobia, a World War II submarine.
20: Family Fun at Wisconsin Dells
Often touted as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” Wisconsin Dells is a family favorite and a must-visit for those seeking thrills and spills. This lively city offers an array of water-based attractions, including Noah’s Ark, the largest water park in America, and Kalahari, an African-themed indoor waterpark resort. Apart from its famous waterparks, the Dells also provides fun outdoor activities like zip-lining, golf, and scenic boat tours. From water slides to wave pools and everything in between, Wisconsin Dells is an unmatched destination for family-oriented fun in Wisconsin.
21: Enjoy a Day at the Racine Zoo
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Racine Zoo (2131 N Main St, Racine, WI 53402) offers a wonderful day out for the whole family. The zoo is home to over 100 species of animals and offers various interactive experiences, including giraffe encounters and camel rides.
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22: Visit the Milwaukee Children’s Choir
If your family enjoys music, a visit to a Milwaukee Children’s Choir (427 E Stewart St #100, Milwaukee, WI 53207) performance is a must. These young singers will impress you with their talent and dedication, and the experience might even inspire your kids to get involved in music themselves.
23: Embrace the Joy of Reading at Wisconsin’s Public Libraries
In Wisconsin, summer isn’t just about outdoor exploration; it’s also about nurturing young minds with the gift of reading. Wisconsin’s public libraries offer captivating summer reading programs aimed at encouraging kids to delve into the world of books, fostering a lifelong love for reading.
Which of these adventures sound the most fun to you?
There are SO many fun things to do with kids in Wisconsin. To be honest, it was difficult to narrow it down to just 23!
Have you done any of these activities with your family? If so, we’d love to hear from you and welcome any additional suggestions! Just email us to let us know and don’t forget to share your adventures in our Midwest Travel Facebook Group!
This blog article was inspired by our best-selling Midwest travel guidebook, “Wisconsin’s Best: 365 Unique Adventures”. Discover Wisconsin like never before with the definitive travel guide for anyone wishing to explore the heart of the Midwest. Click here to grab a copy.
