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.

The event will feature a diverse lineup of activities honoring Black and LGBTQIA+ communities, all for free.

Event Highlights:

Art Making | 10 AM–6:30 PM
Unleash your creativity in two art-making zones. Create projects inspired by Sam Gilliam’s draped canvas in the studio or get inventive with guest facilitator A Peace of Abundance in the Milwaukee Room.

Community Engagement Fair | 10 AM–7 PM
Connect with art organizations from across Milwaukee dedicated to promoting freedom and supporting LGBTQIA+ and Black communities.

Sound Healing | 10 AM–3 PM
Experience a soothing, meditative journey with singing bowls led by Melissa Blue Muhammad in the Kohl’s Haitian Gallery.

Film Screening | 10:30 AM–4:30 PM
Watch the insightful PBS Wisconsin documentary “Wisconsin Pride.”

He Do Yoga: Freedom Break | NOON–1 PM
Join Lorenzo Edwards, founder of He Do Yoga, for a session celebrating the liberatory potential of movement and rest.

Live DJ | 1–6 PM
Dance to the beats of DJ Bizzon (1–3 PM) and DJ DRiPSweat (3–6 PM) in Windhover Hall.

Drop-In Tour | 3–4 PM
Explore artworks highlighting freedom, including pieces by LGBTQIA+ and Black artists. Tours depart from Windhover Hall.

Guest Gallery Talk | 5–6 PM
Join Milwaukee Artist of the Year (2022) Ck Ledesma for a discussion on the theme of freedom.

Lecture | 6:15–7:15 PM
Hear curator Valerie Cassel Oliver delve into Sam Gilliam’s visionary approach to art-making in Lubar Auditorium. (Includes ASL interpretation)

First-Time Visitors:

Here are a few guidelines to ensure a smooth visit:

• Stay an arm’s length away from the art.
• Finish food and drinks, including water, before entering the galleries.
• Store umbrellas, large bags, backpacks, and water bottles in a locker.
• Strollers are welcome in the galleries, but wagons must be stored in the coatroom.
• Take photos without flash, stabilizers, or tripods.

Come as you are to celebrate freedom, community, and creativity through a day full of engaging activities suitable for all ages at the Milwaukee Art Museum.

The post Free Day + Celebration: Freedom! at the Milwaukee Art Museum appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

Visiting the Model Railroad Club of Milwaukee is an experience that feels both like stepping back in time and discovering a secret world.

A Rich History

Founded in 1936, this club is a gathering of model train enthusiasts and a living piece of Milwaukee’s heritage.

It has operated out of the concrete building at 215 E. National Ave. since 1936, making it the oldest railroad club running out of a single location in the United States.

The club’s home, a former train station built in 1916 and known as Allis Station, is a testament to the city’s industrious past.

This historic venue, once bustling with commuters from the nearby Allis-Chalmers Corp., now serves as the backdrop to one of the most detailed and intricate model railroad layouts you can find.

The architecture of the old station adds to the club’s charm, with subway tiles, the original ticket counter, and remnants of the waiting room still visible.

While the stairs to the former platforms are now sealed, the station’s exterior and its utilitarian essence remain intact, offering a tangible connection to Milwaukee’s railroad history.

A Unique Hobby Space

The Model Railroad Club of Milwaukee stands out for its dedication to the O scale (1/48th size) model trains, a size that predates World War II and has become a rarity in the world of model railroading.

The club’s layout, dubbed the Milwaukee Union Terminal Railroad, is a meticulous recreation of the railroading era, complete with a model of the Milwaukee Road’s iconic Hiawatha trainset.

As Amtrak’s Hiawatha Service continues to rumble above, the club beneath keeps the legacy of railroading alive and well.

Visiting the Club

Visiting the club, especially during their last Sunday of the month meet-ups or Monday maintenance gatherings, offers a chance to meet a community that shares not only a passion for model trains but also stories, jokes, and the warmth of camaraderie (quite literally, as they gather around a pot stove in winter months).

While the club operates quietly under the radar, with no external signage to announce its presence, stepping inside is like discovering a secret world of miniature wonder.

If you’d like to meet the members or check out the track, the club opens to the public on the last Sunday of every month from 1 to 4 pm. It’s located under the train track at 215 E National Ave.

You can also try visiting during Historic Milwaukee’s annual Doors Open event.

Pro Tip: You’ll probably want to take your kids during warmer months, since there’s no heat in the club.

To plan a visit at another time, you can try reaching out to the club directly via email (3georgediane@gmail.com).

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The post Milwaukee’s Model Railroad Club: A Tiny Hidden Gem Under the Tracks appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

This living museum is the world’s only conoidal glass house, where it’s warm, sunny, and full of life all year round.

The Domes – each soaring 7 stories high – are uniquely shaped to catch the sun just right, making sure all the leafy friends and animals inside get the light and warmth they need.

Every plant is watered by hand daily and beneficial bugs helping keep things balanced.

From towering cacti in the Desert Dome to lush tropical vibes in the Tropical Dome, there’s a slice of nature’s magic waiting for you.

Let’s explore one dome at a time.

Desert Dome

First stop: Milwaukee’s Desert. The Desert Dome, that is, where you’ll get a glimpse into the planet’s driest spots in one giant greenhouse.

The temperature is kept at a cool 50 degrees to mimic a desert winter.

What To Discover

• World of Cacti: Marvel at over 2,000 species, from the towering Saguaro to the spiky Golden Barrel. Each cactus tells a story of resilience and adaptation.
• Meet Steve the Bearded Dragon: Don’t miss the opportunity to meet Steve, the friendly resident who embodies the spirit of desert fauna.
• Madagascar Collection: A botanical rarity, this collection showcases the unique flora of Madagascar, offering a glimpse into an ecosystem like no other.
• Canary Islands Collection: Wander through a mini “island” of diverse plants from the Canary Islands, including the legendary dragon blood tree.
• Desert Blooms: Be amazed by the unexpected color and aroma during spring and summer, showcasing the desert’s vibrant side.

Fun Facts

• The Dragon Blood Tree in the Canary Island Collection can grow to an immense size and live for over a thousand years. It was named because its red sap was once marketed as “dragon’s blood” during medieval times. 
• Look for Date Palms, Prickly Pear, and the Argan Tree, which produces edible nuts and an oil used for cooking and beauty products.
• Can you find the Elephant’s Food plant? Its leaves are used as a medicine for treating exhaustion and dehydration.
• In the deep pond shaded by date palms, you will find aquatic papyrus plants, used by ancient Egyptians to make paper.

Pro Tips

• Capture Moments: The dome’s majestic cacti and unique residents like Steve provide perfect photo ops.
• Dress Accordingly: With cooler temperatures maintained during the colder months, a light jacket or sweatshirt will keep you comfortable.

Tropical Dome

Welcome to a slice of the tropics right here in frigid Milwaukee. Our Tropical Dome is like stepping into another world—a steamy, vibrant rainforest packed with 1,200 species of plants and a whole ecosystem of animals.

What To Discover:

• A World of Plants: From banana trees to towering palms reaching for the glass ceiling, to the vivid blooms of the bird of paradise, this jungle is a feast for the eyes.
• Koi Pond & Waterfall: Don’t miss the peaceful Koi Pond and tricking waterfall. Your kids will love stomping over the footbridge.
• Exotic House Plants: You’ll recognize many favorites like Philodendrons and Orchids.
• Animal Residents: Look up to spot the bright Orange Bishop’s Weaver or gaze into the pond to see graceful Koi fish swimming.
• Edible Delights: Look for tropical fruit trees including star fruit and guava. Discover the source of chocolate and cocoa as well as flavorings such as vanilla from the vining vanilla orchid. You will also find spices such as cardamom, turmeric, and black pepper.

Fun Facts

• The tallest tree in the Tropical Dome is the Canary Island Date Palm and is one of the original plantings in that Dome dating back to 1966.
• The Tropical Dome is home to over 1,200 species of tropical plants and birds in less than 15,000 square feet.

Pro Tips for Visitors

• Dress Light: It’s always warm and humid inside, so lightweight clothing will make you more comfortable.

Show Dome

The Show Domes (AKA The Floral Dome) is year-round floral celebration that transforms with the seasons.

The permanent collection around the outer edge includes a Jaboticaba tree, geraniums, grape vines, fig trees, olive trees and a pomegranate tree.

Seasonal Shows

• Train Show (Jan-Mar): Chug along through a miniature landscape, where trains wind past vibrant displays of spring blossoms.
• Spring Show (April-May): Dive into spring with an explosion of color and fragrance, featuring a diverse array of blooming flowers.
• Summer Show (June-Sept): Experience the lushness of summer with bright floral arrangements and lush greenery.
• Fall Show (Sept-Nov): Revel in the warm hues of autumn with a show that captures the essence of the season.
• Holiday Show (Nov-Jan): Get into the festive spirit with a dazzling display that brings holiday cheer and winter wonder.

Highlights & Fun Facts

• Historical Gates: Admire the original gates of the Conservatory, a nod to Milwaukee’s rich history and the timeless elegance of the Floral Dome.
• LED Light Shows: Keep an eye out for the occasional LED light show events that illuminate the dome, creating a magical atmosphere that complements the floral displays.

Pro Tips for Visitors

• Visit Often: With the dome transforming every few months, each visit offers a new experience. Don’t miss the transitions between shows!
• Plan Around Show Transitions: Note that the dome closes for about two weeks between shows for setup. Check the schedule to plan your visit accordingly.

The Floral Dome at The Domes is a celebration of nature’s diversity, creativity, and the changing seasons. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, tranquility, or simply a beautiful day out, the Floral Dome awaits with open gates and a kaleidoscope of floral wonders.

Planning Your Visit

• Hours & Admission: Check the Domes Website for the latest information.
• Strollers: Welcome, but be mindful of narrow pathways.
• Snacks: Bring some, as options on-site are limited. There are tables in the atrium to enjoy your food.
• Education Center: Don’t miss the Education Center on weekends for interactive fun! The Education Center offers engaging activities for kids, from climbing in a treehouse to discovering plants.
• Sensory Bags: Sensory bags are available for those needing them, ensuring all visitors have a pleasant experience.

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The post Visiting The Domes With Kids: Fun Facts & Pro Tips appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

The museum opened its doors in 2019 after local collectors Phil Sklar and Brad Novak realized they had amassed more than 3,000 bobbleheads.

Today, this museum stands out not only for its vast collection (the world’s largest!) but also for the engaging activities it offers for all ages.

Here’s a bullet-point guide to help you decide if a visit to this bobblehead paradise is the right adventure for your family:

Why Visit the Bobblehead Museum

• A Vast Collection: With over 10,000 bobbleheads, some dating back to the 1800s, the museum boasts the world’s largest collection, covering sports, pop culture, and beyond. From local hero Giannis Antetokounmpo to old-school Home Alone characters, and even literary characters like Laura Ingall’s Wilder, you’ll find a Bobblehead that makes you smile.
• Fun-Filled Scavenger Hunts: There are regularly updated scavenger hunts for all ages that encourage exploration and engagement, ensuring that visitors of all ages can enjoy the fun of discovering hidden gems among the thousands of bobbleheads. Ask the front desk for one. The best part? Everyone gets a prize!
• Extras: Be sure to watch the short film they provide and peek at the timeline of Bobblehead History. You can also add an idea to their Suggestion Wall for what Bobblehead they should make next!
• Easy on the Wallet: At $5/person, admission is reasonable, making it a cost-effective option for family entertainment in Milwaukee.
• Penny Press Machine: Don’t miss the penny press machine where you can turn your pennies into one of three unique souvenir pennies. More affordable fun for kids!

Fun Fact: The museum uses a high-quality air filtration system to limit the dust, but their staff also spotted cleans the bobbleheads regularly.

Tips for Visiting

• Location: Located in the Third Ward on the second floor above a burger and cozy Colectivo cafe, it’s perfectly situated for a full morning or afternoon out with the kids.
• Parking: Free parking is available in the parking lot next to the entrance which is at the northeast corner of the building. Visitors can park in the angled parking spots which are reserved for visitors of 170 S. 1st St. There is also an abundance of non-metered street parking surrounding the building. There are also several paid parking garages in the Historic Third Ward which is a block north.
• Time to Spend: Visitors often plan for a short visit and end up staying for hours, so allocate at least 1-2 hours for your visit to fully enjoy the museum.
• Visit Planning: Considering the space can get crowded, especially with group visits, planning your visit during off-peak hours can provide a more relaxed experience.
• Shop and Souvenirs: Don’t miss the gift shop for unique bobblehead souvenirs, whether you’re adding to your collection or looking for a special gift.
• No Touching: Before you head out, talk to your kids about not touching the Bobbleheads so that everyone can enjoy them for years to come.

What Sets It Apart

• Diverse Exhibits: Beyond sports, you’ll find bobbleheads of famous personalities, fictional characters, and even unique pieces that might surprise you.
• Interactive and Fun: The museum’s approach to making learning fun through scavenger hunts and interactive displays is perfect for families looking to enjoy a day out with an educational twist.
• A Piece of Pop Culture: This museum offers a fascinating insight into the quirky side of American culture and history through the lens of bobbleheads, making it a memorable visit for you and your kids.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a Milwaukee local or just passing through, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum is a fun, educational, and downright interesting place that offers a break from the usual.

Whether you’re looking to fill a free afternoon or find a new spot to explore with the kids, it’s definitely worth a visit. So next time you’re brainstorming family outings, throw this one into the mix!

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The post Bobblehead Museum: A Must-See Milwaukee Gem for Kids appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

It offers an engaging peek into maritime history, complete with fascinating artifacts (pre-GPS navigation tools? Check.), tales of eccentric lighthouse keepers, and a chance to climb to the top for panoramic views of Lake Park, Lake Michigan, and downtown Milwaukee.

Overview

Nestled between two ravines in the scenic Lake Park and overlooking the vast Lake Michigan, the North Point Lighthouse stands as one of the oldest structures in Milwaukee’s now-urban landscape.

This charming, renovated museum and its 74-foot tall tower offer a unique opportunity for families to explore Milwaukee’s rich maritime past and present.

Climb The Tower

For the adventurous kids (and adults) in your family, the lighthouse tower awaits.

Climbers must be at least 5 years old and 38 inches tall to take on the 84-step challenge, ending with a ladder that leads to the lantern room at the top.

The reward? A spectacular 360° view that makes the climb worth every step.

Dive into the Deep

Inside the museum, visitors can journey through Milwaukee’s famous lighthouse history, meet the eclectic keepers through the years on the Keeper’s Wall, and uncover stories of shipwrecks in Lake Michigan.

It’s a treasure trove of stories and artifacts that bring to life the heritage, culture, and significant role Milwaukee has played in the Great Lakes’ regional maritime activities.

You’ll find a pictorial timeline of the lighthouse history, a brass fog bell that was used in 1892, a traveling library from 1893 with original books, and more.

Planning Your Visit

Parking is simple, with available spaces on Wahl Avenue and surrounding streets.

While the museum itself is handicap accessible, it’s important to note the tower’s climb might not be suitable for everyone due to its physical demands.

The museum and its engaging exhibits are open on Saturdays and Sundays in the afternoons, making it a perfect weekend outing.

Pro Tips

Capture the moment: Before or after your climb, make sure to stop by the fun reflecting mirror in front of the lighthouse. It’s the perfect spot for a unique family selfie that captures the beauty of the lighthouse and the joy of your adventure.

Certificate: After conquering the tower climb, don’t forget to ask about receiving a certificate for your kids. It’s a special memento that celebrates their achievement and bravery.

Reviews

Recent reviews from TripAdvisor highlight the lighthouse as a “lovely” and “great stop” that’s “loaded with history.” Visitors praise the knowledgeable staff, often volunteers, who bring the history of the Great Lakes to life.

The view from the top comes highly recommended, making the climb a memorable part of the experience.

Whether you’re exploring the museum’s exhibits, climbing the tower for those unique lake views, or simply enjoying a hike in Lake Park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in and around the North Point Lighthouse.

It’s a reminder of Milwaukee’s past, beautifully preserved for future generations to explore and cherish.

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The post North Point Lighthouse: A Tower Climb to Remember appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

Let’s dive into what you’ll find here!

Walk the Campus

I recommend heading there on a sunny day so you and your kids can stomp around the 20-acre park-like campus along the river. Water surrounds it on three sides, and there’s a beautiful Riverwalk to enjoy on a nice day.

Don’t miss the Hill Climber Statue, a 16-foot-tall (and 5,000 pound) bronze statue honoring motorcycle competition by sculptor Jeff Decker.

You can also walk to The Shed, a replica of the historic shed where the company began in 1903, and the Rivet Walls, a monument with funny and poignant motorcycle messages engraved in solid stainless steel.

The Motorcycle Galleries: A Journey Through Time

As you step into the museum, your child’s eyes will widen at the sight of rows upon rows of gleaming motorcycles in the Motorcycle Galleries on the 1st and 2nd floors.

Like a time machine through the world of motorcycles, you’ll hop from one era to the next, seeing how the classic bikes from the late 1940’s have transformed into today’s sleek, modern machines.

The heart of the museum is “Serial Number One,” the oldest known Harley-Davidson motorcycle, marking the beginning of The Harley-Davidson Journey exhibit.

From the revolutionary Sportster model to the pivotal buyback from AMF, this exhibit brings to life the spirit and challenges that have defined Harley-Davidson.

Imagination Station: Kids’ Corner

Designed with the youngest visitors in mind, the Imagination Station on the 1st floor is a kid-centric zone where little ones can don Harley gear, rev up a Knucklehead motorcycle, and enjoy books, puzzles, and games.

It’s a perfect spot for families to engage with the Harley-Davidson experience on a level that’s fun and accessible for children.

Build a Bike: Unleash Your Creativity

The Build-a-Bike interactive exhibit offers a hands-on experience for visitors to customize their own Harley-Davidson motorcycles using parts from historic models.

This engaging activity not only sparks creativity but also adds a personal touch to the museum visit, as completed bikes are given a unique number and featured in the Virtual Road animation.

Tsunami Motorcycle Display: A Memorial

Among the museum’s many fascinating exhibits, the Tsunami Motorcycle Display stands as a poignant reminder of the 2011 tsunami in Japan.

A Harley-Davidson Night Train motorcycle, swept away and carried over 4,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean, is displayed as a memorial to the tragedy and its victims.

Experience Gallery

The journey through the museum culminates in the newly updated Experience Gallery, a space that brings the Harley-Davidson story to life in an even more immersive way.

Here, kids can hop on a brand-new Harley-Davidson, grip, the handlebars, and imagine themselves riding on the open road.

Why Visit?

The Harley-Davidson Museum is a celebration of innovation, history, and community. Whether you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, a history buff, or looking for a family-friendly adventure, the museum offers a rich, immersive experience that connects deeply to Milwaukee’s roots.

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The post Harley-Davidson Museum: A Family-Friendly Adventure Through Motorcycle History appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

It’s perfect for kids aged 3-12, and this handy guide will help you navigate the museum and plan your day.

Getting There: The Start of Your Adventure

Arrival Tips: To beat the crowds and make the most of your visit, aim to arrive right when Discovery World opens. It’s now open seven days a week!

Parking: Parking is a breeze with the structure conveniently located underneath the building.

Time: With so much to explore, plan to spend around 3-4 hours immersing yourself and your little ones in this vibrant educational wonderland.

Discoveries Await: The Two Sides of Fun

Discovery World uniquely divides its wonders into two main areas: the Techno Side and the Aqua Side, each offering its own set of captivating attractions.

The Techno Side: Where Innovation Takes Flight

When you first enter Discovery World, you’re on the Techno Side. Enter through the gift shop and start exploring! Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:

• Flight Simulator: This attraction invites your child to soar through the skies as a pilot using a real flight simulator and a virtual piloting session.
• Bernoulli Table: Dive into the principles that keep heavy machines airborne, and witness firsthand how objects can float as if weightless.
• Innovation Station: Lay on a Bed of Nails, explore the annals of innovation, and interact with exhibits that span the gamut from biomimicry to batteries.
• Virtual Explorer: Put on a VR headset and travel the globe with their virtual reality experience.
• Kohl’s Design It! Lab: Open on weekends, this space allows families to engage in hands-on projects, from upcycling to building, igniting the spark of creativity in everyone.

The Aqua Side: A Dive into Nature’s Wonders

When you’re done exploring the Techno Side, head down the stunning promenade into the Aqua Side. You’ll first see Great Lakes Future. If you look up, you’ll see the bottom of The Challenge, a replica of a 19th Century Great Lake schooner. If you head downstairs, you’ll find the Reiman Aquarium.

Here’s what you’ll want to explore on the Aqua side:

• Great Lakes Future: Home to a massive interactive Great Lakes model, this exhibit lets you control the weather. Watch it rain and fog over the lakes and learn about the creatures that dwell within them.
• The Challenge: Board a replica of a 19th-century Great Lakes schooner and experience life as it was on the open waters, complete with deck-walking and bell-ringing.
• Simple Machine Shipyard: Get hands-on with the fundamentals of physics as you lift, pull, and push using the six classic simple machines.
• Aquarium Experiences: Walk through a glass tunnel beneath the waves, explore a submarine, touch stingrays in the Touch Tank, and marvel at the diversity of life in the Reiman Aquarium.

Tips for a Successful Visit

1. Start Early: Arriving at opening time ensures a smoother, less crowded experience.
2. Plan Your Path: Decide in advance which side you want to explore first based on your children’s interests.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothes: There’s a lot of walking and interactive exhibits, so dress for adventure.
4. Pack Snacks and Water: Keep everyone hydrated and energized, though there is also a small snack bar with snacks, hot food and beverage options.
5. Capture the Moments: Don’t forget your camera to capture the smiles and surprises along the way.

Discovery World is a gateway to understanding the world through hands-on learning and fun.

From the mysteries of the deep blue to the marvels of modern technology, there’s something here to ignite the spark of curiosity in children and adults alike.

More Milwaukee Museums:

Milwaukee Public Museum: Must-See Exhibits & Pro Tips

10 Best Things To Do at the Milwaukee Art Museum

Betty Brinn Children’s Museum: A Family’s Guide To Visiting

100 Best Things To Do With Kids in Milwaukee

The post Discovery World in Milwaukee: Must-See Attractions and Pro Tips appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

Located on Layton Avenue, close to Mitchell International Airport, is an airplane observation area that’s perfect for a chill evening out with your family.

This gem is hidden in plain sight, and offers a front-row seat to the magic of aviation.

Watch the Planes Land & Take Off

Tucked away and easily accessible off of the busy Layton Avenue (just east of Logan Avenue and west of 794), the observation area is a perfect vantage point for watching aircrafts as they gracefully ascend into the sky or make their thrilling descent onto the runway.

You can make the experience more immersive by tuning into the AM radio station indicated on the signs on the parking lot. The station broadcasts live air traffic correspondence.

It’s like having a backstage pass to the orchestration of flights – a real treat for aviation buffs and curious minds alike.

We’ve even heard that you can wave to your loved ones as the depart Milwaukee, and they’ll see you from the airplane!

Make It Sweet

Now, what could make this experience even better? Ice cream, of course!

Just a short drive from the observation area, you’ll find Culver’s on Layton Avenue.

Known for their creamy custard and a delightful array of flavors, it’s the perfect stop to pick up a sweet treat before heading to watch the planes.

An Evening Under the Stars

Why not make an evening of it? Pack a cozy blanket, some comfortable chairs, and perhaps a few snacks (ice cream aside).

Whether you’re with family, friends, or taking a moment for yourself, it’s a great way to unwind and marvel at the wonders of aviation.

The observation area provides a peaceful setting as the day turns to dusk, and the aircraft lights twinkle against the twilight sky.

A Few Tips Before You Go

• Use the bathroom before you go. There are no restroom facilities.
• Check the weather: Ensure it’s a clear day for the best visibility and experience.
• Radio: Don’t forget to tune into the air traffic station.
• Timing: Late afternoon or early evening offers a beautiful backdrop with sunset hues.
• Respect the area: Keep it clean and be considerate of others enjoying the space.
• Reader Tip: If you go during the Oshkosh Air Show, you will see very interesting aircrafts!

Final Thoughts

In a world that’s always rushing by, taking a moment to watch the airplanes is a reminder of the incredible feats of engineering and human achievement.

It’s an experience that combines learning, relaxation, and a touch of magic under the vast Milwaukee sky.

And with a bit of ice cream to sweeten the deal, it’s an outing that’s sure to delight everyone.

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But if you have kids who are wild about fire trucks, then you won’t want to miss the Milwaukee Fire Museum, a real hidden gem.

Located in an old fire station on W. Oklahoma Avenue, the Milwaukee Fire Department (MFD) Museum and Historical Society holds an Open House from 12 – 3 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month (April – December).

Group Tours can be scheduled year round by calling 414-286-5272.

The museum, which opened in 1995, is home to the first MFD ambulance (a 1947 Cadillac), and two trucks built in the MFD shop during the 1920s and 30s. All displays are located on the first floor and accessible.

It’s located at 1615 W. Oklahoma Ave. in Milwaukee.

The 94-year-old building features a dormitory-style bunkroom, a vintage kitchen, a locker room, a hose tower, an alarm area, a vintage fire officer’s office, and a collection of memorabilia.

Other cool things to look for: different construction styles and materials, including terrazzo floors and push-bottom light switches.

The best part?

It’s one of 15 free Milwaukee museums you can visit with your kids.

You can take a guided tour, or explore at your own pace using the museum guide sheet. Admission and street parking are free, but donations are always graciously accepted.

For more info head to their Website or Facebook Page.

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