Every week, Milwaukee With Kids answers a simple question for families across the area: What are we going to do this weekend? From indoor activities to outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered. For the full weekend list, make sure to visit the Milwaukee With Kids website.
Top pick
Family Free Day at the Zoo
Milwaukee County Zoo | 10001 W. Bluemound Rd. | Milwaukee
Saturday, Feb. 1 | 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Admission: FREE (Parking and regular attraction fees still apply)
Winter can be one of the best seasons to visit the zoo, and admission is free for everyone this Saturday during Family Free Day. Visit the red pandas, Dash and Dr. Erin, in their outdoor habitat. They’re skilled climbers and can often be spotted high up on their habitat platforms. You might also find them sleeping, with their fluffy tails wrapped around and serving as a blanket during the coldest temps.
Free events
Grand Reopening of Washington Park UEC
Urban Ecology Center | 1859 N. 40th St. | Milwaukee
Saturday, Feb. 1 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Celebrate the Grand Reopening of the Urban Ecology Center’s Washington Park Branch and enjoy Winterfest Community Celebration activities like winter hikes, sledding, carriage rides, a cozy campfire, and more!
Lake Geneva Winterfest
Riviera Plaza & Flat Iron Park | 201 Wrigley Dr. | Lake Geneva
Jan. 29–Feb. 2
Watch 15 teams compete in America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational. Celebrate with bonfires, live entertainment, and special activities during this 30th anniversary event.
MKE With Kids Camp Fair
University School of Milwaukee | 2100 W Fairy Chasm Rd.| River Hills
Sunday, Feb. 2 | 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Sponsored by USM Summer Camps and held in the school’s gymnasium (enter through Upper School Door 35), this is your one-stop destination to explore summer camp options, programs and activities. This free, family-friendly event is designed to help you find the perfect fit for your child’s interests, whether they love outdoor adventures, creative arts or sports. BONUS: Pre-register to receive a raffle ticket to win one week of camp FREE!
For little kids
All Scale Train Show at the Domes
Mitchell Park Domes | 524 S. Layton Blvd. | Milwaukee
Feb. 1-2, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (last admission at 3 p.m.)
Admission: Adults $9; Seniors $9; Military / Adults with Disabilities / Juniors (3-12) / Students $6; Members / Children 2 & Under FREE
From the tiniest Z-scale toy trains to the largest garden-scale rolling stock, the All-Scale Train Show will transport visitors to a model railway paradise. This event is offered in conjunction with the annual train show that takes place in the Show Dome. The weekend of the All-Scale Train Show will include train exhibitors throughout both the lobby and Greenhouse #7.
For older kids and teens
Emily Song and the Queen of the Night
Todd Wehr Theater at the Marcus Performing Arts Center | 929 N. Water St. | Milwaukee
Jan. 31-Feb. 16
Admission: $22-$40
Emily Song had always known she was meant to sing. However, her father banned music from their lives for as long as she can remember. That doesn’t stop Emily from secretly taking singing lessons online or joining the school glee club. On her 12th birthday, Emily’s powers manifest, and she discovers she's a music magea sorcerer who can cast magical spells through music. When the Queen of the Night kidnaps her father and best friend, Emily must figure out how to harness her newly discovered talent to save her loved ones and New York City from total destruction.
