There are countless outdoor activities in Downtown Milwaukee. Read about a few of the most famous below, then plan your next outing!
Kayak the Milwaukee River
If you’re seeking unique outdoor activities in Milwaukee, kayaking along the river offers a distinctive experience. Venturing onto the river in a kayak ranks among Wisconsin’s finest outdoor activities and provides an escape from the crowds.
Kayaking on the Milwaukee River offers an entirely fresh perspective of the city. While you can still observe the bustling crowds on the land, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the tranquility of the water. It’s an almost surreal experience to be a part of the city while simultaneously feeling removed from its chaos.
Rental facilities can be found along the riverbank, offering options for canoes and paddleboards. If you’re with kids, tandem kayaks are available, making this an excellent choice for a family outing in Milwaukee.
Don’t miss out on the fun right under your nose at Cathedral Square Park!
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Eat Outside
During the summer, one of the most delightful activities in Milwaukee is basking in the sunshine while savoring a meal on a picturesque restaurant patio. The city offers many fantastic outdoor dining choices for you to explore.
Watch for the telltale flame symbol displayed outside restaurants in the winter months. This emblem signifies that these establishments have outdoor dining patios equipped with fire pits, heaters, or other amenities to keep you comfortably warm while enjoying your meal. Outdoor dining is trendy. If you have a specific restaurant in mind, make a reservation to avoid disappointment.
Read about Milwaukee’s Top 5 Restaurants and the Top 5 Vegan Restaurants in Milwaukee!
Milwaukee by the Shores of Lake Michigan
In a state renowned for its picturesque lakes, the grandeur of Lake Michigan undoubtedly stands as one of Wisconsin’s finest aquatic gems. If you happen to find yourself in Milwaukee, consider yourself fortunate, for this city is nestled right on the shores of this mighty lake. And what better way to acquaint yourself with this natural wonder than by venturing onto its waters?
Along the lakeside, various watercraft options await, including Retro Boats, Donut Boats, and Classic Cruisers that you and your family can use to explore the lake’s beauty. If you’re 34 or older, all that’s required is a valid driver’s license to take the helm. Those under 34 must complete an online safety exam, and Boat MKE is an excellent starting point for those interested in this adventure.
The views from the middle of the lake are breathtaking, offering a completely fresh perspective on the city. Undoubtedly, this experience ranks among the top outdoor activities in Milwaukee.
Discover other fun things to do in Milwaukee!
Embark on a Hike at the Scuppernong Trail System
If you’re an enthusiast of stimulating physical activity, you’re in for a treat, as one of the most outstanding outdoor pursuits near Milwaukee perfectly fits the bill. The magnificent Scuppernong Trail System is a mere 35 miles southwest of Milwaukee, boasting some of Wisconsin’s finest hiking trails. This is high praise in a state brimming with remarkable hiking routes.
Nestled within the Southern Kettle Moraine State Forest, close to the tranquil village of Eagle, the Scuppernong Trail System offers an array of superb hiking trails in Southern Wisconsin. Notably, a portion of the famed Ice Age Trail is seamlessly integrated into this exceptional trail network, and there are numerous other pathways to explore.
Conveniently, the trails are color-coded, catering to various skill levels. There’s a trail suited for everyone with options like the Red, Orange, Green, and Observation Loops. These trails typically range from 2.5 to 5 miles long, so it’s time to lace up your hiking boots!
But that’s not all; this region is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. The Southern Kettle Moraine is home to some of Wisconsin’s finest mountain biking trails. It features two central trail systems, John Muir and Emma Carlin, connected by several smaller paths that offer multiple routes for bikers to customize their experience according to their skill level.
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Celebrate Halloween with Boo at the Zoo
Halloween in Wisconsin adds an extra layer of excitement for the entire family. During this time of year, the city goes all out, offering many spooky outdoor activities. One of the most enjoyable outdoor activities in Milwaukee during October is the annual Boo at the Zoo event.
This spooktacular event occurs at the Milwaukee Zoo and is a fantastic experience for the entire family. If you have little ones, this is an absolute must-attend event, as they will surely be delighted! Boo at the Zoo runs throughout the Halloween season and offers a wide array of captivating activities.
Guests can hop aboard the North Shore Bank Safari Train, which transforms into a Halloween-themed ride at night, navigate a haystack maze, and partake in trick-or-treating. However, the true highlight not to be missed is the stunning light display that illuminates every corner of the Zoo, adding a magical touch to the festivities.
Explore the Mitchell Park Domes
Situated in Mitchell Park, the Mitchell Park Domes serve as an enchanting conservatory, among the city’s most beloved attractions. Locally known as “The Domes,” these structures are a lush haven for diverse plants from around the globe.
Comprising three colossal domes, each simulating a distinct climate, visitors can journey through the Desert, Tropical, and Floral Show Domes. The Desert Dome boasts an impressive flora from Africa, Madagascar, South America, and North America. Notably, this dome is also the residence of Steve, a friendly bearded dragon.
Stepping into the Tropical Dome transports you to a tropical rainforest climate, where you can marvel at an astounding 1,200 species of exotic plants typically found in the world’s lush jungles. The Floral Show Dome is a delightful space showcasing unique, themed floral displays. Keep an eye on the Mitchell Park Domes website for their event calendar, as they host ever-changing exhibitions five times a year.
The domes come alive in the evening with a fantastic light display, offering a magical and captivating experience for all who visit.
For more outdoor/indoor activities, read about Milwaukee’s Top 5 Museums!
Enjoy the Wisconsin State Fair
The splendid Wisconsin State Fair is one of Milwaukee’s most exhilarating outdoor events. This eagerly anticipated annual gathering takes place at the Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis, a charming suburb of Milwaukee. If you are in the area in August, don’t miss this premier summer event.
With a history dating back to 1851, the fair found its permanent home in 1892, where it has been a beloved tradition ever since. Spanning an impressive eleven days, the fair offers many attractions that would take more than a day to explore fully.
While the fair’s primary focus lies in agricultural exhibits, it offers diverse experiences. From thrilling rides and captivating attractions to over 30 free stages hosting a wide range of entertainment, including music, comedy, and interactive educational shows for families, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Even if you’re not in town during August, the fairgrounds remain open year-round, hosting a series of engaging expeditions for visitors to savor.
Experience Ice Skating at Red Arrow Park
When it comes to delightful activities for kids in Milwaukee, few can rival the sheer enjoyment of ice skating at Red Arrow Park. Milwaukee, a year-round destination, boasts a community well-prepared for the cold (and it can get quite chilly!), ensuring many exciting winter activities, with ice skating ranking high among them.
Nestled in the heart of downtown, Red Arrow Park provides a venue for enjoyable outdoor pursuits throughout the year. If you’re fortunate enough to visit during the winter, ice skating is one of the finest outdoor family activities Milwaukee offers.
Worry not about equipment, as ice skates, skater aides, and ice sleds are readily available for rent. Simply dive in and relish one of Wisconsin’s most enjoyable winter activities.
Check out Milwaukee’s Top 5 Parks!
Discover More Outdoor Activities in Downtown Milwaukee
Check out our blog to discover more outdoor activities in our Downtown Milwaukee neighborhood!
