Winter Break Fun for Families on Milwaukee’s North Shore
When winter rolls around on the North Shore of Milwaukee, the season doesn’t mean slowing down — it means getting creative! From snowy outdoor adventures to indoor play and culture, there’s something for every family to enjoy during winter break. Here’s your guide to making the most of the chilly season:
Classic Cold-Weather Favorites:
- Sledding & Snow Play: The North Shore’s parks come alive with sledding hills when snow blankets the ground. Locals love Mount Bayside in Ellsworth Park, or Lake Bluff’s Ice ring in Shorewood, for a classic sledding afternoon that won’t cost a thing, just bring sleds and hot cocoa!
- Trails & Winter Nature : Bundle up and hit the trails! Schlitz Audubon Nature Center offers miles of wooded paths perfect for snowshoeing or a peaceful winter walk. The center’s lantern-lit winter hikes and bonfire evenings are magical family traditions when scheduled
- Take in the Scenery : Even a simple walk at Klode Park with views of Lake Michigan can be refreshing (and great for snowy photos)
- Ice Skating: Bundle up and find a local outdoor rink or a frozen pond — it’s a great way for kids and adults to get moving and enjoy winter together. Locals often set up pop-up rinks on neighborhood parks when temperatures allow.
Indoor Play & Active Fun:
- Kids Empire Bayshore – A local favorite indoor playground where kids can climb, slide, and explore while parents relax.
- Shopping at Bayshore – Grab the family and check out all the delicious restaurants, like Mallards, and pop into some stores for great world class shopping.
- Hawaii Fluid Art – Make a masterpiece, make your own stunning pieces and custom artistic creations that make for unforgettable artwork you can create!
- Vibez Creative Art Space – Take a painting class and create your own work of art .Vibez is the perfect place for friends and families to make memories, whether it’s a paint-and-sip night, a kids’ art workshop, or a guided holiday craft session
- Bricks & Mini Figs North Shore – Check out the perfect place for lego lovers! Build your own minifigs, find new and used lego sets to take home and build!
- The Argo – It is more than just a live music venue, check their lineup for movie nights for the whole family.
Winter on the North Shore is full of opportunities for adventure, connection, and family fun! All you need is a little creativity and cozy gear! Whether you’re racing down snowy hills or discovering something new indoors, winter break is a great time to make family memories that last long after the snow melts.