MILWAUKEE— After a spectacular debut at Bradford Beach, Joy Engine’s ArtBlaze on the Beach moves to South Shore Beach (2900 S Shore Dr.) this Wednesday, July 31. This new annual series celebrating Milwaukee’s beaches and art scene features The Great Cosmopods, bonfires with smores, art activities, food trucks, and a big music stage facing Lake Michigan.

Free and open to the public, ArtBlaze begins with family-friendly activities at 3:30 p.m. and progresses into a glowing dance party as night rolls in.

View photos of the first ArtBlaze here.

After the next two Wednesdays at South Shore, ArtBlaze will return for its final beach party of the summer at Bradford Beach on August 21.   

At each ArtBlaze, a visit from three awe-inspiring Cosmopods (cosmopodicus magnus) is anticipated.

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT LINE-UP:

Wednesday, July 31st; 3:30-10 p.m. at South Shore Beach

●  Lil Rev, 3:30-5 p.m.

●  An open session with MKE Yoga Social, 4:45-5:45 p.m.

●  Tigera Band, 6:15-7:45 p.m. 

●  Karlies Kelly “How to Salsa,”  7:45-8:15 p.m.

●  De La Buena, 8:45-10 p.m.

Wednesday, August 7th; 3:30-10 p.m. at South Shore Beach

●  The Kid Boogie Down with DJ Lukewarm, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

●  Hale o Malo, 5-6 p.m.

●  Undercover Organism, 6:30-7:45 p.m.

●  Urban Empress, 8:15-9:45 p.m.

Wednesday, August 21st; 3:30-10 p.m. at Bradford Beach

For the ultimate sandcastle experience, visitors may join internationally acclaimed sand sculptor Ted Siebert in constructing a giant sea creature.

●  Girls Rock Showcase, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

●  An open session with MKE Yoga Social, 4:45-5:45 p.m.

●  DJ Kenny Perez, 6-6:30 p.m.

●  Gego y Nony, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

●  The Sparkle and Burn Fire Show, 7:45-8:15 p.m.

●  DJ Shawna 8:30-9:45 p.m.

For more info, please visit: joyengine.org

The post Art Blaze Coming to South Shore Beach The Next Two Wednesdays appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

From the Wisconsin State Fair to Bronzeville Week, there’s so much to do with kids in MKE this weekend! Here are our top picks:

1. Wisconsin State Fair

Wisconsin State Fair Park, 640 S. 84th St., West Allis, WI 53214
August 1-11, 2024
Admission: Adults $18; Seniors / Military / Veterans / Youth (Ages 6-11) $13; Children 5 & Under FREE

The Wisconsin State Fair is a celebration of agriculture and livestock, local delicacies, and fried food. Ride down the big yellow slide, visit the farm animals in the barns, tour the Wisconsin Products Pavilion , swing by the WE Energies Energy Park, and more.

Wisconsin State Fair >>

2. Sunday Family Fun Day

Northwestern Mutual Community Park, 639 E. Summerfest Place, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Sunday, August 4, 2024, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Admission: FREE

There’s another FREE Sunday Family Fun Day happening this weekend, and this time the theme is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics). Programming will be provided by organizations such as STEAM Milwaukee, Club SciKidz, Milwaukee Robotics Academy, Mad Science, UWM Manfred Olson Planetarium, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, and more.

Sunday Family Fun Day >>

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3. Birth Fest MKE

Mount Mary University Bergstrom Hall, 2927 N. 92nd St., Milwaukee, WI 53222
Saturday, August 3, 2024, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Admission: FREE

4. Root Beer Bash

The Yard at Bayshore, 5800 N. Bayshore Dr., Glendale, WI 53217
Saturday, August 3, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Admission: FREE

Welcome to Glendale, Sprecher Brewery, and Bayshore are happy to present the 7th Annual Root Beer Bash! This FREE, family-friendly event offers something for everyone, including free root beer floats (for every root beer float given away, Sprecher will donate one meal to Feeding America WI)!

There will also be live music and a kids dance party with DJ Kid Boogie Down!, face painting, henna, balloon twisters, yard games, bouncy house, petting zoo, T-shirt toss, giveaways and more!

Root Beer Bash >>

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5. Black Arts Fest MKE

Henry Maier Festival Park, 200 N. Harbor Dr., Milwaukee, WI 53202
Saturday, August 3, 2024, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Admission: General $20; Seniors $15; Youth $12; Military / Children 7 & Under FREE

This cultural festival celebrates and showcases African and African-American culture. Don’t miss the Family Village and children’s area, plus various genres of music, dance performances, and other activities focused around African heritage. A Market Square will feature wares and products aligned with the culture and produced by black-owned businesses.

Black Arts Fest MKE >>

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6. Milwaukee Day at East Troy Railroad Museum

East Troy Depot, 2002 Church Street, East Troy, WI 53120
Saturday, August 3, 2024, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Admission: Adults $16; Seniors / Military $13.50; Children (Ages 3-14) $10; Members / Children 2 & Under FREE

Celebrate Milwaukee’s electric railroading history with a chance to see and ride on an historic Milwaukee Streetcar or a newly-restored Chicago North Shore and Milwaukee Silverliner car. Work cars from The Milwaukee Electric Railway & Light Company (TMER&L) will be on display, too, along with historic tickets and timetables.

Enjoy free popcorn and balloon animals in the Depot, and sing along at The Plinkers Ukulele Group concert. You can also listen to Milwaukee Alderman Bob Bauman speak about the museum’s early years (he was a volunteer from 1978 to 1982), and the development of the Milwaukee’s newest streetcar – The Hop!

Milwaukee Day at East Troy Railroad Museum >>

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7. Other Events

Ozaukee County Fair
Firemen’s Park, W65N796 Washington Ave., Cedarburg, WI 53012
July 31-August 4, 2024
Admission: FREE
Since 1859, the Ozaukee County Fair has been offering residents and visitors great traditional fair entertainment such as live music, truck & tractor pulls, a full midway, fireworks, demolition derbies, horse shows, contests, 4-H and livestock exhibitions & judging, kids entertainment, and more!

Bronzeville Week
Bronzeville Cultural and Entertainment District
August 3-10, 2024
Admission: FREE
Bronzeville Week kicks off this Saturday, and it’s Milwaukee’s annual celebration of African-American culture, history, art, commerce, and entertainment! While we don’t have a full schedule of events, we know that in past years there has been a Cultural & Arts Festival on Sunday. It takes place on North Avenue between Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and 7th Street, and it features vendors, food, live music, and a kid’s zone.

100 Best Things To Do With Kids in Milwaukee

From fresh farmer’s markets and must-visit museums to professional sports games and cozy indoor play cafes, there are so many great things to do in MKE with your whole family.

Events Calendar

Dive into our Events Calendar for an exciting array of daily activities perfect for kids and families, all handily sorted by location.

Subscribe

It’s absolutely free to join our community. Get your personal Weekend Guide delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday. Plus, you’ll always be in the loop with the latest news and updates.

The post 7 Top Weekend Events For Kids (August 1-4, 2024) appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

The new Pizza Ranch & FunZone Arcade in Lisbon is set to open its doors on Monday, August 5. Located at the intersection of Townline Road and Main Street (Highway 74) in the Lisbon Business Park East, this family-friendly destination is a welcome addition to the community.

What to Expect

The Pizza Ranch will offer a buffet featuring a variety of pizzas, a salad bar, chicken, and desserts.

The FunZone Arcade promises an exciting array of interactive and nostalgic games, complete with a redemption area where kids can trade in their game tickets for prizes.

Additionally, the venue includes a party room that can host up to 60 people, making it ideal for birthday parties and group events.

Employment Opportunities

Pizza Ranch is currently hiring and holding open interviews from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily until Saturday, July 20. Interested individuals can also apply online at pizzaranch.com/careers, selecting the Lisbon location.

Stay Updated

For the latest news and updates on the Pizza Ranch & FunZone Arcade, follow their Facebook page at facebook.com/PizzaRanchLisbonWI or visit their website at PizzaRanch.com.

Related Posts:

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The post New Pizza Ranch & FunZone Arcade to Open in Lisbon on August 5 appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

Located at 203 N. Broadway in the Historic Third Ward, the shop opened its doors on Sunday, July 14, transforming the former home of Paintball Dave’s into an ice cream haven.

Operated by Tricia and Fred Rasmussen, the shop offers a mouthwatering daily selection of 34 flavors of ice cream, non-dairy ice cream, and sorbet.

Whether you’re a fan of classic scoops in a cup, housemade waffle cones, or sundae bowls, Ben & Jerry’s has something to satisfy every sweet tooth.

The menu also boasts a variety of indulgent sundaes, shakes, sorbet slushies, root beer floats, and even hot chocolate for those cooler evenings.

Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by an inviting blend of contemporary and rustic design featuring wooden paneling, white and lime green tiles, and uplifting Ben & Jerry’s messaging.

Don’t miss the locally themed mural down the hallway, bursting with colorful Ben & Jerry’s cows – a perfect backdrop for family photos!

Flavors to Savor

The scoop shop’s flavor lineup includes Ben & Jerry’s “Top 10 favorites” like Americone Dream, Cherry Garcia, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, and Half Baked. Newer offerings such as Mango, Impretzively Fudged, Marshmallow Sky, PB S’more, and an oat-based Strawberry Cheezecake ensure there’s always something new to try.

Treats for Furry Friends

Even your furry family members can join in on the fun with two Doggie Desserts: Pontch’s Mix, a frozen treat with peanut butter and pretzel swirls, and Rosie’s Batch, featuring pumpkin and mini cookies.

Relax and Enjoy

The scoop shop provides cozy seating inside for about a dozen customers, with additional patio seating for another dozen on their charming sidewalk patio.

It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy your treat while taking in the lively atmosphere of the Historic Third Ward.

For more updates and information, visit their website.

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10 Best Ice Cream Shops and Frozen Custard Stands

5 Hot Cocoa Stop Along the Hop Route

The post Sweet New Addition to the Historic Third Ward: Ben & Jerry’s Now Open! appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

The smell of corn on the cob (and manure!) is in the air, and so is a sense of pride for all things Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin State Fair is back this year, and it’s a celebration of agriculture, local delicacies, and yes, food-on-a-stick.

Check out their Daily Schedule for 2024!

Some things will be the same as ever, and other things will be different.

Read on to find out what you need to know this year, plus our suggestions for the best things to do – and eat – with kids.

1. KIDZ BOP

You’ll have a blast at the KIDZ BOP Live 2024 tour as this new show brings the best of the best to the State Fair Main Stage on Tuesday, August 6!

This ultimate pop concert will have kids and grown-ups alike dancing along to today’s biggest hits, sung by kids for kids, including current songs like “Anti-Hero,” “CUFF IT,” “As It Was,” and many more.  

2. MILWAUKEE BUCKS KID’S DAY

Tuesday, August 6th is Milwaukee Bucks Kid’s Day, and the Milwaukee Bucks are bringing the energy of Fiserv Forum to the State Fair with an exciting day of activities!

There’s something for every fan, regardless of age. Enjoy performances from the Bucks Entertainment Network, score a high-five from Bango and the Wisconsin Herd’s mascot Pointer, take home a souvenir craft on-a-stick, put your NBA 2K skills to the test, enjoy music played by the Bucks DJs, and purchase some new gear from the mobile Bucks Pro Shop, too from 10am-4pm.

Plus, in the month of July, young Bucks fans can receive a free State Fair youth admission ticket after signing up for Bango’s Kids Club, presented by BMO. It’s free to join!

3. COMPEER FINANCIAL DISCOVERY BARNYARD

A must stop for kids and families is the Compeer Financial Discovery Barnyard, located near Ag Village, where you’ll find hundreds of baby animals. Last year, 600 chicks and 21 piglets were born there. You’ll also find a cows and calves, ewes and lambs, dairy goat kids, and ducklings.

Nearby, you can take pony rides on Sue Wetley Court, or visit the “Neigh”borhood Corral, an in-depth exhibit focused entirely on horses, complete with grooming demos, educational displays, and more.

The Alpaca area is also located next door!

4. SAZ’S RACING PIGS

Saz’s Racing Pigs are a State Fair staple. Pick your favorite pig and cheer them on during races held throughout the day.

This year, you can cheer for Hank, Brooke, Maverick, and Harvey.

5. EAT!

From the iconic Cream Puff to Foods-On-A-Stick, no visit to Wisconsin State Fair is complete without ticking your taste buds with some delicacies.

Cream Puffs: For the true State Fair experience, you’ll want to cap off your visit with an Original Cream Puff. Approximately 400,000 are consumed every year. The decadent cream-filled pastries have been sold at the State Fair since 1924. You can get them in singles, three, or six packs.

Corn on the Cob: There’s simply nothing more satisfying than a juicy corn on the cob from the New Berlin Lion’s Club. You’ll find them right by the Giant Slide.

Foods On-a-Stick: Check out a complete directory of Foods On-a-Stick here.

Wisconsin Product Pavilion: The Wisconsin Products Pavilion offers higher-quality local faire like Door County cherry products and artisan jerky, as well as kid favorites like grilled cheese, pizza, and famous baked potatoes.

Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation Milk House: The Milk House is ready to bring you traditional and not-so-traditional flavors of cool, refreshing milk. Pick up a glass for only $1.

New This Year: Check out all of the new foods being offered in 2024 here.

Sporkies Finalists: The Sporkies and Drinkies have encouraged State Fair vendors to create next-level foods and drinks for Fairgoers of all ages. This year’s finalists include a Cool Ranch Doritos Pickle, Deep-Fried Lemonade Bites, and Hot Ham & Glazers. Look for the giant 13 ft. Golden Sporks and Drinkies Statues outside of each finalist and winner locations during your visit.

Crazy Grazin Day: Real foodies will go crazy for Crazy Grazin’ Day on Tuesday, August 6th, when you can get deals at over 30 stops throughout the State Fair.

Reader Recommended: We asked our Instagram community what their favorite thing to eat at the fair was, and these were their answers: Baked Potatoes & Island Noodles | Fried Veggies | Maple Syrup Cotton Candy | Hot Wisconsin Cheese | BBQ Pork Chop Sandwich | Pierogis | Corn in a Cup | Truffle Tots | Mexican Corn | Corn Dog | Dill Pickle Pizza | Deep-Fried Mac N Cheese | Deep-Fried PB & J | Chicken & Waffles

6. YOUTH EXHIBITS

Head over to the Youth Exhibits Building for some family fun at the State Fair! It’s the perfect spot for kids of all ages to relax and get ready for more fair adventures.

This year, enjoy walking the labyrinth, playing big games, drawing on the coloring walls, joining in the jump about, and admiring award-winning youth exhibits made by talented Wisconsin kids ages 8-19.

You can find the Youth Exhibits Building at the corner of Grandstand Avenue and Fifth Street.

7. K-9 SPORTS ARENA

Stop by the K-9 Sports Arena for shows and demonstrations like dog dock diving, frisbee, agility courses, Police K-9 units, and more.

8. THE GIANT SLIDE

It will be difficult to resist (and hard to miss!) the 200-foot Giant Slide, which has been around for over fifty years.

Hop onto a burlap sack and take a ride down the iconic slide for $4 each. It’s located on Second Street, just north of Central Mall.

9. WONDERFAIR WHEEL

Near the Giant Slide is North America’s largest traveling Ferris Wheel, the WonderFair Wheel, which stands 15 stories high and features 36 fully enclosed, brightly colored gondolas.

Each gondola has a capacity of six people, and one gondola offers accessible seating. The ride time from start to finish is approximately 10 minutes. You’ll get a breathtaking view of the city, with visibility of over 10 miles from the top of the wheel.

Rides on the WonderFair Wheel cost $7 per person. Save $1 when you buy online!

10. SPINCITY KIDS AREA

For amusement rides with lower minimum heights and exciting games of chance, head to the SpinCity Kids Area on west side of the Grand Walkway in SpinCity.

Sensory-Friendly SpinCity Morning: Fairgoers who have special sensory needs can play games and experience rides and attractions from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 5th.

Lights, sounds, and non-safety related announcements will be reduced. (Some operational noises will be noticeable during this time, and some attractions are not able to be fully silenced.)

11. CIRQUE AT THE FAIR

Cirque at the Fair is back this year! Find it just east of Entrance A on South Grandstand Ave.

Enjoy phenomenal performances including juggling and aerial dance. There are daily showtimes at 12:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m.

While you wait for the next show, head to the Family Variety Stage located nearby on South Grandstand Avenue. There will be jugglers, comics, and more.

12. VISIT THE ANIMALS

The Animal Buildings are open this year from 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Each year, the State Fair welcomes over 10,000 animals to Ag Village for competitions and exhibitions.

You’ll see cattle, horses, sheep, poultry, rabbits, goats, and swine, and more.

13. EXPLORATORY PARK

Pro Tip: When you need a calming break from the fun, your kids might also love Exploratory Park, where they can explore Paradise Pond, an oversized chess board, hopscotch, bag toss, quirky toad stools, a dragonfly bench, a sand box, and more.

SAVE ON ADMISSION

Here’s a summary of the special admission deals and activities at this year’s State Fair:

1. Piggly Wiggly $5 Day (Thursday, August 1): Fairgoers can enter the State Fair for just $5 by donating two cans of healthy fruits or vegetables or making a cash donation, benefiting the Hunger Task Force.
2. Celebrate Wisconsin Day (Friday, August 2): Travel Wisconsin offers a special deal where out-of-state visitors can purchase two adult admission tickets for only $18, and explore local travel opportunities at the Wisconsin Products Pavilion.
3. Veterans & Military Recognition Day (Sunday, August 4): Veterans and military personnel, along with up to three family members, receive free admission by presenting a military ID. Special activities, including a Veterans & Military Resources Expo, are planned at Central Park. Plus, the national Remembering Our Fallen Memorial is featured in the Exposition Center all 11 days of the State Fair.
4. Milwaukee Bucks Kid’s Day (Tuesday, August 6): Free State Fair admission for youth who sign up for Bango’s Kids Club, sponsored by BMO. The day features fun activities and showcases the spirit of the Milwaukee Bucks.
5. Meijer Day (Wednesday, August 7): A $5 discount on one adult admission ticket is available for purchases at Wisconsin Meijer stores from July 2-August 7. Activities for children and free giveaways will be available in Central Park.
6. Prairie Farms Dairy Day, Honoring Educators (Thursday, August 8): Free admission for educators presenting a school ID or badge. Educational and interactive displays, including Dairy Lane, highlight Prairie Farms’ contributions.

Each day offers unique themed activities and savings, providing an enriching and budget-friendly way to enjoy the State Fair.

WHAT TO KNOW FOR 2024

Dates: The Wisconsin State Fair will run August 1- 11th, 2024 at the Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis.

Hours: The State Fair will be Sunday – Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Thursday – Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to midnight. You can find Building Hours and SpinCity Ride & Game Area Hours here.

Admission: Kids 5 and under are free! At the gate, adult admission (12 and over) is $18. Seniors (60 & over), military/veterans with ID and youth (ages 6-11) admission is $13. Only credit cards are accepted at the gate. Save money by buying tickets online.

Parking: Over half of State Fair Park is dedicated to onsite parking for State Fair attendees. Parking services at State Fair Park are provided by Interstate Parking Company. All parking is first come, first served.

For everyone’s safety, local authorities only allow right hand turns into State Fair Park along all bordering streets (S. 84th Street, W. Greenfield Avenue, W. Kearney Street, S. 76th Street).

Cost: $15 per vehicle, $8 per motorcycle

General and motorcycle parking are available through the following vehicle gates:

• Gate 1 – located at W. Greenfield Avenue and S. 79th Street | Opens at 6am daily
• Gate 7 – located on Kearney Street (I-94 Frontage Road) between S. 84th & S. 76th Streets | Opens at 9am daily
• Gate 9 – located at W. Pierce Street and S. 76th Street | Opens at 9am daily

Carry-ins: No carry-in alcoholic beverages or weapons allowed. Unopened bottled water and food for infants or those with food allergies is permitted.

Parent Supervision/Youth Admission Policy: Fairgoers seventeen (17) years of age and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (age 21+) to enter Wisconsin State Fair Park beginning at 5pm each day of the State Fair. Each parent or guardian may only chaperone up to six (6) minors per day.

Family/Baby Care Centers: Families can visit one of four private, air-conditioned, comfortable areas designated as Family/Baby Care Centers in the following locations:

• Exposition Center on both floors
• Guest Services Pavilion
• North Grandstand Avenue & Fifth Street

Each location offers an area for nursing mothers as well as a diaper changing station. Diaper changing stations are also available in most restrooms throughout State Fair Park.

Restrooms: Nearly every permanent building at State Fair Park includes restrooms inside of it, excluding smaller exhibit halls and open-air livestock barns. Dedicated restroom structures and portable restrooms are also spread out through the State Fair Park.

Stroller & Wagon Rental: The State Fair is a big place and sometimes legs get tired. Vista Mobility provides onsite rentals for strollers, wagons, wheelchairs, and electric scooters. Rental fees are as follows: $15 per Single Stroller, $20 per Wagon, $25 per Wheelchair, $65 per Electric Scooter ($45 after 6 pm).

Locations include:

• Outside the UScellular Main Entrance
• West Entrance C
•  State Fair Main Stage Entrance G

Head to the Wisconsin State Fair website for even more information about this year’s State Fair.

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The post Wisconsin State Fair: Top 10 Things To Do With Kids (2024) appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

This is a fantastic opportunity for families to explore one of Milwaukee’s cultural gems without spending a dime.

Remember, kids 12 and under and Wisconsin K–12 teachers always enjoy free general admission, and Bank of America cardholders get free admission on the first full weekend of each month thanks to the Museums on Us® program.

Why the Milwaukee Art Museum is Perfect for Kids

The Milwaukee Art Museum is a fantastic place to visit with kids. Here’s why:

ArtPack Station

Located on the Entrance Level, the ArtPack Station offers free Family Guides and Museum Moments Cards to help families explore the art and architecture. You can borrow picture books, SketchPacks for drawing in the galleries, costumes, and ArtPacks designed to help kids engage with the textures, shapes, and colors in the exhibits.

Kohl’s Art Studio

Open every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Kohl’s Art Studio is a vibrant space where kids can participate in hands-on art projects and create their own masterpieces.

Special Kid-Friendly Events

Check out upcoming events like Storytime in the Gallery, specifically designed for children on the Museum’s website to plan a visit that will be both fun and educational.

Want more ideas? Here are the top 10 Things To Do With Kids at the Milwaukee Art Museum.

Dining at the Museum

Visitors can find a variety of food and beverages at the Museum Café, which offers coffee, tea, salads, snacks, and more. The café opens with the Museum and closes 30 minutes before the Museum closes, ensuring you have plenty of time to grab a bite.

Tips for Visiting with Kids

• Free Admission: Kids ages 12 and under always get in free.
• Changing Tables: Available in restrooms on the Café Level and in the East End.
• Strollers: Permitted in the galleries, but wagons must be stored in the coatroom on the Café Level.

Must-Do Activities with Kids at the Milwaukee Art Museum

1. Watch the Wings & Light Show: The wings of the iconic Quadracci Pavilion open and close daily and flap at noon. In the evenings, they light up, creating a stunning visual experience.
2. Stomp Around Windhover Hall: This grand, light-filled hall with its 90-foot high glass ceiling and white marble floors offers a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan and is open to the public for free during regular museum hours.
3. Visit the Kohl’s Art Generation Open Studio: Open on weekends, this studio allows kids to explore various art materials and techniques. Themes change monthly, so check the website for updates.
4. Check Out an ArtPack: These packs, available at the ArtPack Station, are filled with activities for all ages and attention spans, including sketch pads, picture books, custom puzzles, puppets, and more.
5. Kohl’s Art Generation Family Sundays: Enjoy hands-on art activities, interactive performances, family tours, and more, five times a year.
6. Play Date with Art: A monthly drop-in program for young children featuring Singing Time and stroller tours.
7. Story Time in the Galleries: Every Saturday at 10:30 a.m., hear a story related to a work of art in the galleries, and create your own story or drawing to take home.
8. Take an Art Class for Kids: The Museum offers Youth Studio Classes and Summer Art Camp classes for ages 6–15, with scholarships available.
9. Enjoy Lakeside at MAM: This free outdoor event series features art-making, lawn games, local musicians, classes, and more.
10. Read “A is for Art”: This book by Marjorie Nelson Moon features art for each letter of the alphabet housed in the Milwaukee Art Museum, making it easy to spot pieces when you visit.

The Milwaukee Art Museum offers a rich and engaging experience for families. From the interactive ArtPacks to the mesmerizing light show of the Quadracci Pavilion, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visit on the free admission days, and make the most of this cultural treasure with your kids!

For more family-friendly tips and updates, subscribe to MKE With Kids and receive our weekly email along with 100 FREE things to do with kids in Milwaukee.

The post Milwaukee Art Museum Offering Multiple Free Days This Week appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

This year’s event promises a plethora of activities for the whole family, with a special Kids Day happening on Saturday, July 13th.

Storm the Bastille 5K Run/Walk

The festivities kick off on July 11 with the Storm the Bastille 5K Run/Walk, Bastille Days’ biggest fundraiser.

Participants will race through Downtown Milwaukee and the Historic Third Ward, honoring the historic storming of the Bastille, the French prison that ignited the French Revolution.

DJ Shawna will be there to pump up the energy, thanks to the support from presenting sponsor Madison Medical and additional sponsors Gruber Law Offices and Saz’s Hospitality Group. Runners and walkers can also contribute to the restoration of the festival’s 42-foot Eiffel Tower replica.

Registration details are available here.

French Food, Music, and Performances

Bastille Days offers a feast for the senses with French food, music, and performances. Roaming street performers will entertain along the Madison Medical Bastille Days Marketplace.

Visitors can enjoy fortune tellers, henna artists, and even a French Bulldog Kissing Booth.

Festivalgoers can indulge in returning food favorites such as Beignets Français, Lake Park Bistro, Lagniappe Brasserie, Crème & Crepe Café, and New Orleans Cajun flavors from Crawdaddy’s on Greenfield.

Door Peninsula Winery will provide wine tastings throughout the event for the adults.

Highlight: Kids Day on July 13

Kids Day, sponsored by Educators Credit Union, is set for July 13 and is packed with activities to delight young attendees.

Start the day with a Beignet Breakfast, and then dive into arts and crafts at Kohl’s Art Studio.

The Milwaukee French Immersion School will offer French lessons, and there will be performances from the Milwaukee Ballet and other kid-focused entertainment.

Entertainment Galore

The festival features over 60 musical acts across multiple stages.

Highlights include the Extra Crispy Brass Band, Sneezy, Panadanza, Breaking Cadence, and Taylor & The Anti Heroes.

Enjoy French entertainment with Robin Pluer, Madame Gigi’s Outrageous French Can-Can Dancers, and new acts like Jerry Grillo French Cabaret, Ana Everling Trio, and French Folk with Daddy Squeeze & friends.

Attendees can also look forward to performances by Samba da Vida, Tamarind Tribal Belly Dancers, Professor Pinkerton’s Irreverent Orchestra, and more surprise acts.

For more information and to plan your visit, check out Bastille Days.

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The post Bastille Days Brings Back Popular ‘Kids Day’ This Weekend appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

Why not check out some of the beautiful waterfalls in the area!

Not only are they beautiful to behold, but they also offer a great opportunity for your kids to explore and learn about nature.

Milwaukee and its surrounding areas are home to a variety of waterfalls (and dams) that are perfect for families to visit.

In this post, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite waterfalls around Milwaukee that are sure to make for a memorable day out with your kids:

1. Wehr Nature Center / Whitnall Park

Nestled in beautiful Whitnall Park is Milwaukee County’s very own Wehr Nature Center. It’s the perfect destination for a family with young kids looking for easy hiking trails and accessible wildlife watching. 

Start at the Visitor Center and drop a donation into the box near the parking lot. 

Yu’ll see a Nature Play Space and Nature Center nearby overlooking Mallard Lake. 

For kid-friendly hikes, walk down the short hill from the Visitor Center. Turn left for the Lake Loop / Waterfall and turn right for Family Friendly Trail. Check out the Trail Map here.

Lake Loop / Waterfall

Follow the path along Mallard Lake and look for frogs and turtles in the clearings. It’s frog mating season right now so you’ll hear them croaking throughout the hike. Less than a half a mile into your walk, you’ll stumble upon the waterfall into the Root River. It’s a great place to stop for a snack.

If your kids are up for it, you can do the entire loop around the lake (1.5 miles), or just turn around and head back to the Visitor Center. We recommend carrying your non-walkers since the path is not stroller-friendly.

Family Friendly Trail

If you turn right on the path below the Visitor Center you’ll find a stroller-friendly boardwalk. It’s called Family-Friendly Trail and it’s only .5 miles long.

You’ll see beautiful birds and you may spot a wild turkey!

Wehr’s website says, “This trail showcases the diversity of Wehr’s natural communities in a family friendly distance. It begins at the Amphitheater and takes you by Mallard Lake, the Wetland, and the Woodland before returning you to the Visitor Center.  Benches and photo opportunities are frequent as you walk over level to moderately sloping terrain on paths of wood chips and boardwalk.”

Don’t forget

Use the bathroom before you leave the house! There are no restrooms.

Pack sunscreen, bug spray, water, and snacks. 

Check for ticks when you get home. 

2. Lake Park Waterfall

The lannon stone waterfall in Lake Park was restored in 2010 and has a vertical fall of more than 30 feet, the highest in Southeastern Wisconsin.

You can access the Lake Park Waterfall via a path that begins at an overlook just south of the Lake Park Pavilion parking lot. The wooded path leads down to Lincoln Memorial Drive.

Be sure to check out the historic North Point Lighthouse while you’re in the park!

Fun fact: Lake Park was designed in the early 1900s by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who was also the architect for Central Park in New York City and the U.S. Capitol grounds.

3. Kletzsch Park Dam

Kletzsch Park in Glendale is home to a beautiful waterfall (officially a dam) located on Milwaukee River Parkway and along the Oak Leaf Trail.

They recently built a picturesque fish passageway for migrating fish to more easily get around the dam.

It’s a great stop for a snack or rest, and there are a couple of playgrounds nearby. One is located in Kletzsch Park just north of the waterfall, and another is located at Parkway Elementary School south of the waterfall (not open to the public during school hours).

Maslowski Park and playground is also about a five minute drive away.

4. Boerner Botanical Garden

Boerner Botanical Gardens are home to formal gardens situated on Boerner Drive in Whitnall Park in the village of Hales Corners, about 15 minutes from Milwaukee.

Visitors can walk through the rose garden and peony garden, as well as variety of annuals and perennials. Plus, there’s a fragrant herb garden, a daylily path, and a serene rock garden with trickling streams and waterfalls (pictured above).

There’s also a brand new children’s garden called Margie’s Garden, which is included with admission.

5. Grant Park, Mill Pond Dam

The Mill Pond Spillway is located in Grant Park in South Milwaukee along the Oak Creek Parkway.

Built by John Fowle in the early 1840s, this dam helped operate both a gristmill and a sawmill. The millstones, thought to be the oldest man-made items in South Milwaukee survive on the site and can be seen lying on either side of the dam.  It is now owned by Milwaukee County and is part of the Oak Creek parkway.

6. Mill Pond Park & Plaza

Mill Pond Park & Plaza is a charming 2.5-acre downtown park nestled in Menomonee Falls. Known for the Lepper Dam spillway and its picturesque gazebo, this park offers a blend of brick plaza and lush green space, making it a popular spot for photography.

Visitors can enjoy the park’s various amenities, including a shelter with restrooms, benches, drinking fountains, and a small amphitheater. The park also features an asphalt trail and ample parking.

Located nearby is a beautiful playground at Village Park.

More Wisconsin Waterfalls:

North Country Trail

The North Country Scenic Trail and Lake Superior.

Up for a road trip? The North Country National Scenic Trail delivers some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the United States. It runs through 8 states from Vermont to North Dakota, including northern Wisconsin.

The Western Wisconsin segment runs from the Minnesota/Wisconsin State Line to Bayfield County A. This segment offers mostly flat trails and gentle slopes with some expansive vistas. You’ll see old growth groves of red and white pine trees and in the late summer the prairies are abundant with flowers. There are many streams along this segment and the eastern part of this segment runs along small, pristine lakes.

Along this segment you’ll find Pattison State Park, which features the tallest waterfalls in Wisconsin and fourth highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. Big Manitou Falls is 165 feet high (It’s Wisconsin’s largest waterfall) and the smaller falls called Twin Little Manitou Falls, is 31 feet high.

Pattison State Park along the North Country Trail

The oldest section of the Trail in Wisconsin is the Chequamegon National Forest, running from Bayfield County A to the Sandstone Ledges Spur Trail in Copper Falls State Park.

The trails pass through gentle terrain and two federally designated Wilderness Areas: Porcupine Lake Wilderness and Rainbow Lake Wilderness, both popular with visitors.

The Juniper Rock Overlook offers a showstopping view in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, located along the North Country Scenic Trail. It’s rated as moderate to difficult because it is rocky and steep at times. However the hike is only a half a mile, which means it will only take you about 20 minutes to complete. At the end of the hike, you’ll be rewarded panoramic vistas of the Marengo River Valley. If you continue on, you can hike over a bridge over the Marengo River Valley.

The Juniper Rock Overlook in the Chequamegon National Forest

In the Eastern part of the state, the Trail continues through the “land of waterfalls” and rocky outcrops of the ancient, worn down Penokee Mountain Range. This segment of the Trail is more wild and arguably more breathtaking, with expansive vistas. 

In this segment, the North Country Trail runs through Copper Falls State Park, a waterfall heaven. The doughboys Nature Trail is a 1.7-mile trail that that offers spectacular views of Copper Falls, Brownstone Falls and the Tyler Forks cascades. 

No fees are charged for hiking on the trail but fees may be required for parking, camping, or entrance at various sections along the trail.

You’ll find historic sites along the way with information about the landscape, Native Americans, national historic landmarks and important people. Visit the National Park Service website or the North Country Trail Association to plan your trip.

Marinette County, the “Waterfall Capital of Wisconsin”

Marinette County is the self-proclaimed Waterfall Capital of Wisconsin, for good reason. Their Waterfall Brochure and Self-Guided Waterfall Hikes will guide you through impressive waterfalls like Dave’s Falls, Veteran’s Falls, and more.

Related Posts:

10 Beautiful Waterfalls in Southern Wisconsin

4 Stunning National Parks in Wisconsin

15 Beautiful State Parks Near Milwaukee

The post 5 Beautiful Waterfalls in Milwaukee County (2024) appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

Joy Engine announced this week their new beach party series, ArtBlaze on the Beach, four free events featuring live entertainment and hands-on art activities at Bradford Beach and South Shore Beach.

Joy Engine, producer of larger-than-life public art experiences, invites you to “ArtBlaze on the Beach,” a series of free beach parties that kick off on Wednesday, July 10^th, to light up your summer nights.

On four Wednesdays in July and August, our city’s iconic lakefront will host live music and entertainment (full line-up below), food vendors, tie-dying by Spun.Out Dyes, hands-on art experiences with Arts@Large and Artists Working in Education, dance lessons, open yoga sessions, make-your-own s’mores stations, and tentacle viewing.

All of Milwaukee is invited; each ArtBlaze begins with family-friendly activities at 3:30 p.m. and progresses into a dance party as night rolls in.

Measuring over 30 feet, these handmade, fluorescent cephalopod tentacles are original works of art by FuzzPop Workshop, a Milwaukee-based multimedia production studio renowned for its Deep Lake Future attraction in Walker’s Point.

“In the city of festivals, our public beaches have been historically underutilized as a site for celebration,” said Steph Salvia, Joy Engine Executive Director, “Yet when searching for a site that naturally brings people from all walks of life, including residents of the deep lake, our public beaches seem like an obvious choice.”

Conveniently, Bradford Beach is an easy hop from the North Side, and South Shore Beach is similarly so for Southsiders. In 2020, Bradford Beach was named the most accessible beach in the country because it offers a 100-foot ramp that runs from street to beach and beach wheelchairs that are free to use. As far as Cosmopods are concerned, these beach locations have long served as the main sites where they rear their hatchlings. 

ArtBlaze continues the momentum of Joy Engine’s other immersive art experiences, including Under One Moon, Out of the Box, and Nitelight.

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT LINE-UP:

ArtBlaze begins each day with family-friendly activities at 3:30 p.m. and progresses into a dance party as night rolls in.

Wednesday, July 10th; 3:30-10 p.m. at Bradford Beach

• Trapper Schoepp, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
• Roxie Beane, 5-6:15 p.m.
• Hip-hop by Your Move MKE, 6:30-7 p.m.
• Wave Chapelle, 7:15-8 p.m.
• Live DJ sets by DJ D-On, DJ Shortstyle, and DJ E Rich with a complimentary “choose your DJ” silent disco for up to 200 people, 8-9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, July 31st; 3:30-10 p.m. at South Shore Beach

• Lil Rev, 3:30-5 p.m.
• An open session with MKE Yoga Social, 4:45-5:45 p.m.
• Tigera Band, 6:15-7:45 p.m. 
• Karlies Kelly “How to Salsa,”  7:45-8:15 p.m.
• De La Buena, 8:45-9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, August 7th; 3:30-10 p.m. at South Shore Beach

• The Kid Boogie Down with DJ Lukewarm, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
• Hale o Malo, 5-6 p.m.
• Undercover Organism, 6:30-7:45 p.m.
• Urban Empress, 8:15-9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, August 21st; 3:30-10 p.m. at Bradford Beach

For the ultimate sandcastle experience, visitors may join internationally acclaimed sand sculptor Ted Siebert in constructing a giant sea creature.

• Girls Rock Showcase, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
• An open session with MKE Yoga Social, 4:45-5:45 p.m.
• DJ Kenny Perez, 6-6:30 p.m.
• Gego y Nony, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
• The Sparkle and Burn Fire Show, 7:45-8:15 p.m.
• DJ Shawna 8:30-9:30 p.m.

ArtBlaze is supported by Milwaukee County Parks, Milwaukee County Parks Foundation, Visit Milwaukee, Molson Coors, Knight Barry Foundation, Gruber Law, Herb Kohl Philanthropies, Bader Philanthropies, TKWA, Robertson Ryan, Catalyst Construction, Astor Street Foundation, Berghammer Construction and the Fund for Lake Michigan.

For more info, please visit: joyengine.org

The post ‘Art Blaze on the Beach’ Opens This Week at Bradford Beach (Free!) appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

The new attraction will allow guests the opportunity to travel through the Wilderness Canyon located between the main resort and Glacier Canyon Lodge, and across a multimedia pathway inspired by the wonders of the Dells.

The project, which will be open to the public, is expected to be completed in fall 2024.  

Aquavia Lumina will be the 21st Lumina Enchanted Night Walk in the international series created by the Montreal-based multimedia entertainment studio. The immersive experience will transport visitors into another world with creative storytelling that accentuates the natural beauty tucked within the resort’s property.

It will feature mystical multimedia experiences and thousands of luminous lights and lasers that create a magical environment full of surprises.  

According to Joe Eck, chief operating officer for Wilderness Resorts and Waterparks, “We first met Moment Factory at an industry trade show and were curious about their awe-inspiring creations, so we went to Canada to visit three of them. Then we found out that they were going to present Astra Lumina Night Walk at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg by our sister property Wilderness at the Smokies.

We were so excited by how Anakeesta’s project turned out that we then commissioned Moment Factory to create Kaleiodoscope Kavern – the world’s first immersive lazy river for us at our Smokies property. We’re now so incredibly excited to be bringing Aquavia Lumina to the Dells so our resort can highlight the natural beauty of the Dells’ sandstone cliffs that made our region first become a tourist destination.”   

On the enchanted Aquavia Lumina Night Walk, visitors will enter a dreamlike world where nature is enhanced by lighting effects, video projections and original music.

They will follow a mystical deer through the Wilderness Canyon in search of ‘The Source’, a legendary spring said to transform nature with the magic of water.  

Aquavia Lumina will be a family-oriented nighttime experience for people of all ages to experience when they visit Wisconsin Dells.

The fun will begin at nautical dusk so when the waterparks close for the evening families can be immersed in this magical multimedia attraction.

Aquavia will be open at nightfall every month throughout the year. For more information on the project visit https://www.aquavialumina.com/

For more information on the resort or for reservations, visit https://www.wildernessresort.com/ or call 1.800.867.WILD (9453).   

Related Posts for Your Perfect Trip

Planning a trip to Wisconsin Dells or looking for more water park fun? Check out our related posts to make the most of your visit:

• 5 Best Indoor Amusement Parks in the Wisconsin Dells
• 5 Best Wisconsin Dells Hotels With Indoor Water Parks
• 10 Best Wisconsin Boat Tours & Scenic Cruises
• 5 Best Indoor Water Parks Near Milwaukee
• 20 Best Wisconsin Hotels With Indoor Water Parks
• 10 Best Campgrounds With Water Parks in Wisconsin
• America’s Tallest Water Slide Opens at Mt. Olympus

The post Wilderness Resort Brings Enchanted Night Walk To Dells This Fall appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.