Summer has finally arrived here in Milwaukee. The school year is coming to a close and we are heading into a 90 degree weekend.
After a long year filled with isolation indoors, many people are itching to get out and about now that mandates are lifting, and the majority are vaccinated.
Although COVID still exists, it is crucial to find a new normal for our community, and that starts with finding activities that are safe, but sociable and fun for our kids and families.
Here is a list of the best Milwaukee County summer activities, both outdoors and indoors, including any standing COVID regulations and further descriptions of how they are operating this summer.
Outdoor Activities
Cool Waters at Greenfield Park
General admission for this extensive waterpark is only $5 per person for your 2 ½ hour time slot. The waterpark is currently only open on the weekends, but starting June 14, Monday-Friday time slots open up between 10:00 am-7:30 pm. Slots are going fast, so be sure to secure yours at the website: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Parks/Explore/Water-Parks--Pools/Water-Parks/Cool-Waters-Aquatic-Park
Boerner Botanical Gardens
This wheelchair accessible garden located in Hales Corners includes self or guided tours through a plethora of flowers, trees, herbs, and even rocks! At this time, the website says masks are still required to enter the visitor center that is located indoors, but they claim to follow the CDC guidelines so check in at https://boernerbotanicalgardens.org prior to your visit to get the most up-to-date information.
Wil-O-Way Grant and will-O-Way Underwood Parks
Wil-O-Way Grand located in South Milwaukee, and Wil-O-Way Underwood in Wauwatosa are known for their accessibility to children of all needs. Both playgrounds offer 4 adaptive swings and a “roll-in” sandbox for individuals in wheelchairs. They also provide accessible pathways through the grounds, and Wil-O-Way Underwood additionally offers accessible disc golf.
Hoyt Park and Pool
This park and pool located in Wauwatosa opened on May 29, 2021 for the summer season. The park includes open space for picnics or playing ball. A membership for the pool is encouraged due to limited time slots for the public to open swim. In addition, it is asked of those who want to attend make a reservation to limit the amount of people swimming in the pool at a time. For further information on pool hours, follow this link to their website: https://friendsofhoytpark.org/tosa-pool/
Atwater Beach and Playground
Although this 5 acre park along Lake Michigan is down a bluff, the city of Shorewood ensured it was ADA accessible for all to enjoy. The playground rests near the shores of the Great Lake, and a large beach area is available for taking a swim or just playing in the sand for some sensory engagement.
Carver Park
This one is dedicated to all of the little climbers out there. For the best reference of this play net structure, check out https://www.playlsi.com/en/commercial-playground-equipment/playgrounds/carver-park/. Although the splash pad is currently listed as closed, the playground itself is enough to draw people in. Recommended for kiddos 5-12 years old, this play structure is made up of extensive nets and climbing systems to surely let out some energy. For the toddlers, there is a separate play space so the little’s can enjoy while their older siblings take on this climbing challenge.
Milwaukee Zoo
The Milwaukee Zoo is open with new hours for the summer months from 9:30am-4:00pm. Their website, http://www.milwaukeezoo.org, states that the outdoor exhibits are open for your family’s viewing pleasure, and most of the indoor animal buildings can be accessed, although there is a limited capacity to maintain socially distanced in an effort to continue keeping their patons safe.
Indoor Activities
Discovery World
One thing Milwaukee is most known for is it’s beloved Discovery World. This large, interactive museum has something for all ages and is once again open to the public Wednesday-Sunday from 9:00am-12:00pm and 1:00pm-4:00pm. Although walk-ins are welcome, the museum is recommending making a reservation for a time slot due to limited capacity allowed in the museum at this time. For further information on COVID measures or general information, visit https://www.discoveryworld.org/join/ticketsandnewpolicies/.
River Falls Family Fun Center
This activity center, located in Greenfield, focuses on families and provides miniature golf, batting cages, and an arcade for everyone to enjoy. They are currently open 7 days a week, 10:00am-9:00pm on weekdays, and 10:00am-10:00pm on weekends. For more information, visit their website at https://www.riverfallsfamilyfuncenter.com.
We Rock the Spectrum
This indoor sensory and play gym was made to meet the needs of all children. They offer an extensive collection of therapeutic equipment, including a calming room. For those who aren’t as excited about physical play, they also provide an arts and crafts area. Open play is available Monday-Sunday, but hours may vary. The website, https://www.werockthespectrummilwaukee.com/open-play/, suggests keeping up-to-date on their Facebook page for the most accurate information.
Little Sprouts Play Cafe
Offering two locations, Shorewood and Mequon, this indoor play space is part of a cafe for those parents who need a little bit of caffeine to get through their day. Suited best for kids up to the age of 6-years-old, this play cafe is focused on the imagination and socialization of our young ones. Open play is offered for several hours throughout the week where walk-ins will be welcome on a first come, first serve basis, so reservations are highly recommended. Private play times are also offered, where you can schedule a time with friends and reserve a spot just for you. Visit the website for the hours of both locations at https://www.littlesproutsplaycafe.com.
The Big Backyard
New Berlin offers this extensive outdoor play adventure, only inside. The facility offers play structures, riding toys, playhouses, and even toys for infants. The ideal age group for this play space is 0-8, although their website says they welcome anyone who comes with their family. In addition to open play in the large space, The Big Backyard is well-known for their offered classes throughout the summer where kids can socialize, experiment, and complete projects. Some of the classes offered include an art class, summertime playground, slime-making, and rocket scientists! To learn more, visit http://thebigbackyardwi.com.
Rockin’ Jump
This trampoline park now offers a new location right here in Brown Deer. The options for having a blast are truly endless here. The website lists there many attractions, including the Jump Arena, Slam Dunk Zone, Ninja Warped Wall, Free Climb Rock Wall, and Junior Jump Arena. A waiver must be filled out prior to entry, and reservations are required at this time. So, check the weather and plan accordingly to check out this ultimate trampoline park for those rainy days when your kids will be bouncing off the walls! For reservations, visit https://rockinjump.com/browndeer/.
Summer 2020 was not a fun one for any of us. Hopefully this list can help anyone stuck in a fun rut experience an exciting Summer 2021!