Family Staycation Ideas Around Milwaukee

Molly Weber said:  This quaint tea room offers traditional English afternoon tea options. You can choose to purchase their 3 tier variety tray which includes finger sandwiches, tea scones, and bite size desserts, or you can purchase any of their lighter lunch options including soup, sandwiches, and quiche. You also have a large variety of their fine teas to choose from that can be purchased by the cup or pot (2 cup to 6 cup sizes available). Reservations are recommended and can be made by phone.

Lisa R said:  Rides and attractions including a 1950s era wooden roller coaster and a two-mile train ride through natural Wisconsin countryside hark back to the good old days. Most of the rides, such as the little-dipper roller coaster and fire truck rescue merry-go-round, are suitable for young children. Older kids will enjoy the go-karts and larger roller coasters.

Memorial Day-October

Erynn said:  Introduce the entire family to the wonders of Wisconsin cheese making! Staff will guide you through its processes, while you look on from the observation room. Learn about the history of cheese making and sample local cheeses on a 30-minute tour.

Be sure to make a reservation in advance and parking is street-only, so arrive early to find a space.

Cost: Over 12 years old ($3); Under 12 ($2)

Tim Ponisciak said:  Check out the behind the scenes tour of Milwaukee's major league ballpark! See the dugout, visiting team club house, suite space, broadcast booth and press box. Two tours are available, the Classic and the MVP Tours are seasonal (March - September) & last about one hour.

Tours will not take place when there is an afternoon home game or when a special event is taking place in the Stadium.

Shila said:  Visit over 2,000 mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles in specialized habitats spanning 200 wooded acres. Explore educational wildlife shows and fun attractions such as: Feed a Giraffe Experience, Seal & Sea Lion Show, Safari Train, Playground, Carousel & more! Swing by the Family Farm area of the Milwaukee County Zoo for an up close and interactive experience with native Wisconsin wildlife and farm animals.

Lisa R said:  There is so much to love about the Betty Brinn Children's Museum as a go-to place for family fun. In addition to numerous learning and play spaces, the museum offers a fully outfitted "Maker Space" workshop with a wide array of classes and events. Traveling exhibits mean there is always something new to see.

Free Admission: Children younger than 1 year; Free Third Thursday of the month, 5PM - 8PM

Shila said:  An interactive river cruise that is enjoyable for kids & adults! Dress up like a pirate & join the crew in defending the Edelweiss from attacking pirates with water balloons & water squirters. This unique & entertaining cruise (1.5 hr) is sure to create lasting memories. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets must be purchased for all passengers 3 years & older. Price includes a lunch buffet of hot dogs, build your own tacos, potato chips, & juice.

Check out descriptions & schedules of additional cruises by Milwaukee Cruise Line. There are many cruises leaving the dock daily.

Erynn said:  Ever wondered how recyclable items are processed and reused? Take an eco-conscious tour of KGMB's facility, and learn about recycling, natural resources, and renewable energy! Suitable for kids over age 10 and their grownups! Book online and get ready to learn!

Cost: $3 per participant & select tours throughout the month are free

Lisa R said:  Where else can you see dinosaurs, visit turn of the century Milwaukee, and walk through a rain forest all in the same place? Little ones will love learning about the night sky with the Sesame Street themed IMAX. Expertly designed exhibits & programs offer plenty of interactive sights and sounds and special surprises at every eye level.

Free Admission: Kids 4 and under; Every First Thursday of the Month, 9AM - 8PM

If you're looking for a very traditional Victorian High tea experience, Schuster Mansion is the place! Beautiful china, doilies, and up to 7 different tea types await you at the tea buffet offered here. High Tea includes a self-guided tour of the first floor of the mansion, and is recommended for kids 8 and older. The mansion even offers a gluten-free option for a slight upcharge. Pay special attention to various themes throughout the year, to add fun and a splash of history to this awesome tea experience.

Tim Ponisciak said:  The Wave play in the Major Arena Soccer League. The Wave offer discounts on group tickets, can host your birthday party, and also have camps available.

Check the Wave's site for an updated schedule and to purchase tickets.

Shila said:  Popular for beer, craft sodas & root beer, this guided tour of the brewery takes your family throughout the brewhouse & the aging cellar, to the bottling line & warehouse. The tour ends in an indoor beer tent where samples are served. All adults over 21 get samples of beer & a beer tasting glass to take home. Anyone, including your youngest, get to sample many available sodas. Advance reservations required.

Cost: adults 21+: $8 & kids under 21: $5

This beautiful park holds many treasures for experienced campers. The hiking trails, lakes for boating and fishing, trails for snowmobiling, and horse back riding make this place a true Wisconsin treasure! Camping gets busy in the Summer, so book as far in advance as possible. Don't miss the bubbling springs in various lakes- they're ice cold but delightful!

Vanessa M. said:  Enjoy an elegant Sunday brunch in the historic dining room of the Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee. The extensive buffet includes your favorite breakfast items, carving stations, made-to-order omelet and pasta stations, and a lavish dessert display. Their signature mimosas and bloody marys are also included.

Reservations: Yes

Sunday Brunch 10AM-2PM

Shila said:  For outdoor sports enthusiasts, you can rent a paddle boat, a solo kayak, a double kayak or a traditional canoe & explore the city rivers (Milwaukee River, with easy access to the Menomonee River heading west and the KK River going south). Dock and grab lunch!

Tandem kayaks work well for parents with children under 12.

Cost: $35-$65 for up to 4 hours.