Located at 3700 W. Juneau Ave., this 4.8-acre space, once a mere parking lot, has been transformed into a vibrant community hub by the Harley-Davidson Foundation.

Davidson Park, designed by the acclaimed Heatherwick Studios of London and local firm HGA, offers a fresh oasis in the heart of the city.

Its thoughtful design includes everything from playgrounds and performance spaces to a beer garden and contemplative areas, making it a perfect destination for families.

Central to the park is The Hub, a multi-purpose amphitheater surrounded by natural settings, ideal for concerts and gatherings.

It’s built with sustainability in mind, featuring bioswales and permeable pavements to manage stormwater, making it one of the first SITES-certified green projects in Wisconsin.

For families, the Legends Play Area is a highlight. Tailored for children ages 1-12, it boasts natural play structures like log climbers, hillside slides, a climbing wall, balancing playscapes, and more.

The park also includes serene spots like the Potawatomi Serenity Garden, designed in collaboration with the local Potawatomi community, featuring a central stone surrounded by medicinal plants significant in Native American culture.

You’ll enjoy free public wi-fi and public porta-potties on the east side of the park on the South Lawn.

With its combination of green spaces and community-oriented design, Davidson Park joins our list of must-visit playgrounds in Milwaukee.

The post NEW! Davidson Park Now Open on Milwaukee’s Near West Side appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

The schedule and theme for each event in the series is as follows:

• June 9 – Summerfest 
• July 7 – Family Health and Wellness
• August 4 – STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
• September 22 – Performing Arts

The FREE Sunday Family Fun Days will take place from 10:00 a.m.– 3:00 p.m. at the Northwestern Mutual Community Park, located inside Henry Maier Festival Park.  The events offer attendees access to family-friendly programming, food & drink options, and interactive activities.

“We have been thrilled with the community’s response to Sunday Family Fun Days, which offer FREE enhanced activities at the Northwestern Mutual Community Park,” said Sarah Pancheri, President and CEO, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. “Our hope is that families from across our community enjoy the local arts and entertainment available through these special events.”

“We are proud to offer an accessible and inclusive playground at the Northwestern Mutual Community Park,” says Steve Radke, president, Northwestern Mutual Foundation.

“Our partnership with Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. and its Sunday Family Fun Days furthers our commitment to our hometown of Milwaukee, which serves as a cultural destination for thousands of families and visitors each year.”  

FREE Sunday Family Fun Days feature programming on the Northwestern Mutual Community Park Stage, along with performances and activities offered by many community organizations like:

• Wisconsin Conservatory of Music
• Milwaukee Repertory Theater
• Milwaukee Ballet
• hi, Tech
• Boys & Girls Clubs
• Face Painting
• Roaming Performers including balloon artists, jugglers, stilt walkers, and others

Food and beverage options will be available from a wide variety of vendors during each Sunday Family Fun Day – Bobalou Stuffed Gourmet Pretzels, Fazio’s Popcorn Wagon, Little Sweetie’s Treat Wagon, Pete Pops, Sil’s Mini Donuts, and Streetza Pizza.

For further information and the lineup for each Sunday Family Fun Day visit  MilwaukeeWorldFestival.com.

Free parking is available in Lot G, located south of the Henry Maier Festival Park Mid-Gate, as well as designated bike parking. No pets are allowed.

The Northwestern Mutual Community Park is open on non-event days to the public from 10:00 a.m. – dusk, offering inclusive and accessible play for children of all abilities. The Park is also open to attendees of special events throughout the festival season including Summerfest, ethnic and cultural festivals, and more.  

Days and times of operation are subject to the event calendar and weather – please visit  MilwaukeeWorldFestival.com to view the current schedule. 

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The post Four FREE Sunday Family Fun Days for 2024 at Northwestern Mutual Community Park appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

The play area looks like a fortress or a secret kingdom for kids, and it’s set in Cushing Memorial Park on the banks of the picturesque Bark River.

It’s the perfect spot for a sunny afternoon out with the family!

So, grab your sun hats and picnic blankets and let’s dive in:

Why Fort Cushing is Awesome:

• Enclosed Play Fort: Think castles, but with all the fun stuff – swings, slides, sandboxes, and even a tire hammock. Your kids can be kings and queens of their own little world!
• On The River: Set right by the calming Bark River, surrounded by lush trees. Visitors recommend bringing water shoes so your kids can wade in the typically peaceful and calm river. Obviously, use your discretion!
• Picnic Perfect: There are spots to spread out your blanket and feast or just watch the clouds roll by.
• Fish & Splash: Got little anglers or water babies? The fishing and wading spots are a hit.
• Restrooms: Clean and close, because we all know that’s a game-changer.

History Meets Playtime:

• Memorial Riverwalk: The park is the last stop on the Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Riverwalk, which winds along the Bark River for 3/4 of a mile between St. John’s Pond and Cushing Memorial Park. Along the way are nine separate war memorial sites, a bridge, the entry plaza, two ecological information areas, and a Peace Garden.
• Accessibility: The park also connects to the Lake Country Recreational Trail and the new Cushing Road bike path leading to Lapham Park.

Let’s Talk Details:

• Dog-Friendly: Yep, your fur babies can join in the fun too. Paws and all.
• Safety First: The playground’s built solid – no wobbly bits, just sturdy fun.
• Keep It Clean: With picnic areas and bins everywhere, it’s easy to tidy up after your day out.

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Located at Petzke Park, at the intersection of 31st Street and 14th Avenue in Kenosha, Dream Playground is not just any playground—it’s Kenosha’s first fully accessible playground, designed to bring children of all abilities together in one amazing space.

Spanning an impressive 15,000 square feet, Dream Playground was brought to life in 2015 thanks to the dedication and hard work of over 3,000 volunteers.

This labor of love has since become a cherished destination for families, offering a safe and engaging environment where children can explore and adults can relax, knowing the space is secure and well-equipped.

Overview

Dream Playground features two main areas tailored to different age groups.

The Tot Lot is perfect for the little ones under 5, providing a safe space to crawl, toddle, and have fun, while the area for older kids offers more challenging and thrilling play options.

The ground is covered with a smooth, rubber surface that ensures safe navigation, and a well-planned ramp system allows everyone to access all the fun features of the playground.

The best part? The entire area is encircled by engraved pickets and has only one entrance, making it easier for parents to keep an eye on their little adventurers.

Highlights

• Liberty Swing: A therapeutic, key-activated wheelchair swing that offers fun for kids with mobility challenges.
• High-back and Round Swings: Catering to different needs and ensuring everyone has a chance to soar high.
• Wheelchair Accessible Merry-Go-Round, Monkey Bars, and Climbing Walls: Ensuring every child can enjoy the thrill of movement and challenge.
• Non-Electrostatic Slides: Available in various heights and configurations to suit all users.
• Musical Instruments and Art: The playground also features whimsical musical instruments and beautiful mosaic artwork that engage the senses.
• Educational Features: With Braille and sign language displays, the playground not only entertains but also educates.
• Replicas of Local Icons: Children can enjoy fun replicas of Kenosha’s landmarks, including lighthouses, a ship, a streetcar, and an AMC Rambler car, adding a touch of local culture and history to their play.

Dream Playground is a community treasure that exemplifies the spirit of inclusion and creativity.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to give their children a memorable, joyful experience.

To learn more about the park and plan your visit, check out the City of Kenosha website.

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The post Dream Playground: A Kenosha Treasure Your Kids Will Love appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

It’s Milwaukee’s first waterfront public park in the Harbor District, a refreshing oasis that opened its proverbial doors in July 2019.

This plaza is a comprehensive recreational space designed with both fun and functionality in mind, catering to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone in between.

What You’ll Find

Play Structure: The standout feature for the little ones is undoubtedly the giant orange play tower.

Designed to mimic the shipping containers that are a staple of ports worldwide, it’s both an imaginative play space and a subtle nod to Milwaukee’s maritime heritage. It invites children to climb, explore, and view the world from a different perspective.

Water Wonders: The water play area and water feature are the heartbeats of Harbor View Plaza during the warmer months.

It’s a zone where kids can learn about water flow, engage in sensory play, and simply cool off under the sun. This element of the plaza taps into the natural curiosity children have about water.

Kayak/Canoe Launch: For the adventurers and nature lovers, the canoe/kayak launch and dock is a gateway to Milwaukee’s vibrant waterways.

It’s remarkable in that it offers the only public access for canoes and kayaks south of the Milwaukee River in the city’s inner harbor. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or trying it out for the first time, this facility makes the exploration of Milwaukee’s waters accessible to all.

Amenities: You’ll find bike lock stations and a bottle fill station. There are no restrooms, so prepare for that!

Tips for Your Visit

• Pack suits and extra clothes: The big slide and water feature are must-dos. Consider packing swimsuits and extra clothes if you’re visiting during the summer.
• Komatsu Equipment: Take a moment to appreciate the giant Komatsu construction equipment displayed nearby. It’s an interesting glimpse into the industrial side of the Harbor District.
• Have Lunch at Allie Boys Bagelry: If you work up an appetite, this local eatery is just a three minute drive from Harbor View Plaza, and your taste buds will thank you.

Harbor View Plaza represents the first step in a grand plan to transform the Harbor District. Envisioned as the beginning of a continuous network of Riverwalks and waterfront parks, the plaza sets the bar for what’s to come.

This special waterfront plaza is a symbol of Milwaukee’s commitment to its maritime treasures, and offers a unique blend of recreation, education, and relaxation.

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The post Harbor View Plaza: A Waterfront Playground in Milwaukee appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

At the core of this neighborhood is Milwaukee Recreation’s Enderis Playfield, a 10-acre green space offering fun for the whole neighborhood and beyond.

Crafted in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration, this 10-acre playfield is a recreational space and historical landmark that echoes generations past and present.

With its playground, inviting wading pool, and sports facilities including volleyball courts, a softball diamond, a running track, and soccer-friendly green spaces, Enderis Park caters to everyone.

One of the park’s unique attractions is a vast, colorful map of the United States painted on the ground—a fun, educational tool that invites children to explore the country without leaving Milwaukee. It’s a canvas for imagination where kids can embark on cross-country adventures and learn about different states in an interactive, playful way.

Its most captivating features is the “Magic Grove,” a striking steel sculpture by Nancy Metz White.

Introduced in 2004, this art piece features three whimsically colored trees that not only provide shade but also symbolize the creativity and unity of the community.

So iconic is this sculpture that it has become the emblem of both the neighborhood and park, embodying the magic and beauty of Enderis Park.

Enderis Park also hosts a free summer concert series and a farmers market, making it a year-round destination for fun, food, and music.

Whether you’re drawn by the “Magic Grove,” the vibrant playground, or the sense of community, Enderis Park welcomes you to discover its charms.

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The post Exploring Enderis Playfield: A Sprawling Playfield, Summer Concerts, and More appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

Located in the heart of Roosevelt Park in Oconomowoc, Imagination Station is Waukesha County’s first fully inclusive playground, designed to welcome children of all abilities.

All Aboard for Fun!

Imagination Station goes beyond the typical slide-and-swing setup. This playground is a vibrant, welcoming space where every child, regardless of ability, can dive into play without barriers.

Here’s a peek at what makes it so special:

• ADA Accessible: Every corner of Imagination Station is accessible, ensuring kids and caregivers with mobility challenges can navigate and enjoy the space freely.
• One Entrance/Exit: With one main entrance and exit, parents can relax a little knowing their little adventurers have a secure place to play.
• Rubberized Surfacing: Gone are the days of scraped knees from rough falls. This soft, cushiony surface is kind to little tumbles.
• Therapeutic Swings & Swinging Deck: These swings provide sensory benefits, making them perfect for kids seeking a gentle, therapeutic play experience.
• Multi-Sensory Activity Structures: From tactile panels to visual stimuli, these structures cater to children who thrive on engaging multiple senses at once.
• Musical and Educational Components: Who says playtime can’t be learning time? Education features help foster creativity, coordination, and even a bit of music education.
• Eco-Friendly Design: With recycled plastic composite ramping and other eco-conscious materials, the playground is as good for the planet as it is for play.
• Convenient Amenities: The park is right next to the Lake Country Trail. With plenty of parking, bike racks, picnic tables, and family-accessible restrooms, planning a full day out is easy.
• Decorative Touches: Even the benches and trash cans add to the whimsical, inviting atmosphere with their decorative designs.
• Skate Park: For the older kids or the young at heart, the nearby skate park offers a thrilling escape with ramps and rails designed to challenge and entertain.
• Splash Pad Coming Soon: We hear that a new splash pad is in store for Summer 2024!

A Word to the Wise

While the park offers myriad attractions, a few tips can help ensure your visit is as enjoyable as possible:

• Seek Shade: The park’s lack of shade is something to consider, especially on hot days. Bringing hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water can help beat the heat.
• Bathroom Access: Given the occasional issue with locked bathrooms, a pre-visit bathroom stop might be a good strategy for now.

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The post Imagination Station: Waukesha County’s Inclusive Playground Gem appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

At the heart of the park is a standout feature that draws families from all around: a natural playground designed to reconnect kids with the great outdoors.

With two giant slides, each 33 feet long, built right into a hillside—this playground offers a thrilling ride and a creative blend of fun and nature.

A Closer Look at the Natural Playground

Inspired by the concept of combating “nature deficit disorder,” as discussed in Richard Louv’s Last Child in the Woods, this playground is more than just swings and slides.

It’s an interactive space where children can engage with natural elements and let their imaginations run wild.

From climbing boulders and nets to exploring sand play areas with a twist, this park offers an array of activities designed to stimulate physical activity and environmental appreciation.

The playground, conveniently located near picnic areas and restrooms, is a seamless mix of creative play zones set against a backdrop of native plants and trees. It features:

• Giant Embankment Slides: The dual slides are the stars of the show, providing a fast and fun descent that’s sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
• Climbing Adventures: A large climbing boulder and net offer little climbers the chance to test their skills and bravery.
• Sandbox and Water Play: Unlike typical sandboxes, the spiral-designed sand play area encourages imaginative play, doubling as a balance beam for adventurous spirits. A water play zone adds to the fun, allowing kids to splash and explore.
• Nature Exploration: The butterfly and rain gardens invite young explorers to discover the local fauna, from butterflies to frogs, enhancing the educational experience.

With safety in mind, all play areas are equipped with rubber nuggets for soft landings, ensuring year-round enjoyment.

Why Visit Fox River Park?

Beyond the playground, Fox River Park boasts miles of paved trails perfect for family hikes, bike rides, or rollerblading adventures. Each season brings its unique beauty, from spring wildflowers and summer’s lush canopy to the vibrant hues of fall and winter’s snowy wonderland.

This local treasure is sure to become a family favorite for its unique blend of play, learning, and natural beauty.

To make a day of it, head to Paradise Springs for a one mile hike along an abandoned springhouse. It’s located in Eagle, about 20 minutes away from Fox River Park.

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The post Fox River Park: A Natural Playground Hidden in Waukesha appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

The beloved Northwestern Mutual Community Park is now open for the 2024 season. The Park will be open to the public daily from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. in April & May.

Dates are subject to change. Check the Public Play Calendar for the most updated information.

This massive, accessible playground is one of our 25 must-visit playgrounds around Milwaukee.

It’s Wisconsin’s premiere accessible playground, located at Henry Maier Festival Park in downtown Milwaukee, WI. 

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your family outings this year.

Key Details for Your Visit

• Opening Date: The park opens for the 2024 season on Friday, March 8.
• Access Points: Enter through the Mid Gate of Henry Maier Festival Park (East Chicago Street &, N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee) or via the North or South Lakewalk path entrance.
• Parking: Free parking is available near the Mid Gate. Just follow the signs!
• Facilities: Initially, restrooms and drinking fountains will not be available. Port-a-lets will be provided for convenience. Families are encouraged to bring bottled water to stay hydrated.
• Pet Policy: Remember, no pets are allowed.
• Weather Conditions: The park will be open when temperatures are above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it will close if conditions become snowy, wet, icy, slippery, or slick.

Park Amenities for Everyone

Northwestern Mutual Community Park is renowned for its inclusive and accessible features, making it a haven for children of all abilities, ages 2 to 12 years. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Enhanced Play Equipment: Discover age-appropriate playground equipment on a soft surface, including interactive musical play pieces and ramps for wheelchair access.
• Toddler Play Area: “Giggle Grounds” offers a shaded, covered play area for toddlers, with age-appropriate activities.
• Flexible Stage: Enjoy performances on a permanent stage with accessible seating and viewing for over 500 guests.
• Family Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are equipped with changing tables for all needs.
• Nursing Mothers Stations: Dedicated quiet spaces for nursing mothers.
• Sensory Rooms: Air-conditioned, quiet rooms are available for children who may become overstimulated.

Don’t Forget the Books!

The park continues its tradition of supporting literacy with a book donation box. Visitors are encouraged to bring a new or gently used children’s book to donate to the Next Door Foundation Books For Kids program.

Northwestern Mutual Sunday Family Fun Days

Four FREE Family Fun Days have been announce for 2024.

These events offer a full day of family-friendly programming with performances from Milwaukee’s vibrant arts and community groups, including the Milwaukee Ballet, Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, and many more.

Interactive activities, roaming performers, and a variety of food and beverage options from local vendors will ensure a memorable day out for everyone.

For the most up-to-date information on park openings, events, and amenities, be sure to visit Milwaukee World Festival.

Here’s to a season filled with joy, play, and community at one of Wisconsin’s premier accessible urban parks!

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The post Northwestern Mutual Community Park Now Open at Summerfest appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

The 12,000+ square foot Village Park play area and splash pad were made possible through a fundraising campaign led by the Optimist Club of Menomonee Falls which started in 2021.

The park has been redeveloped as a community destination for events and family fun. You’ll find a multi-leave playground and play hill, a wheelchair-friendly merry-go-round, sensory stations, and more.

Street parking is plentiful and you can park in the Village Park parking lot.

Fiddleheads Coffee is located across the street for an after-play snack and pick-me-up.

A first phase of improvements at Village Park added an amphitheater, multi-purpose plaza, and great lawn in 2020.

The second phase of improvements at Village Park (constructed in 2022) included the accessible play area and splash pad, tennis and pickleball courts, a picnic shelter, a paved trail loop, and a new parking area.

In 2023, Village Park hosted dozens of community events including the Falls Sunset Concert Series, Menomonee Falls Farmers Market, Lavender Festival, Falls Family Movie Nights, National Night Out, Downtown Beer Garden, Falls Kids Festival, and more.

To date, the Club’s Discover Village Park Campaign has raised over $1.1 million in contributions to the project from local businesses, families, and community organizations.

Leading contributors to the fundraising campaign include Milwaukee Tool ($200,000), Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin ($150,000), and Kohl’s ($100,000).

These generous donations are recognized with naming rights signage on the performance stage, play area, and splash pad.

Major gifts were also made on behalf of the Optimist Club of Menomonee Falls, Greater Menomonee Falls Foundation, and dozens of Falls families, businesses, and non-profit partners. Plaques and signs throughout Village Park recognize all donations exceeding $1,000.

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