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.
Fall fun
Before we get into the weekend picks, let’s give a nod to the fact that we’re now officially in the autumn portion of the calendar. So, if you’re looking to make the most of the season, check out Milwaukee With Kids’ Family Fall Fun Guide. It’s a resource you can use over and over again to find great activities like:
Those are just a few of the many things you’ll find in the full guide, which is available all fall long right here.
Top pick
Harvest Fair
Wisconsin State Fair Park
Sept. 26-28
Celebrate all the fun of autumn at Wisconsin State Fair Park! New this year are seasonal Cream Puff flavors (Pumpkin Spice and Apple Crisp), free samples at Culver’s Curdtoberfest, kid-friendly activities, and live entertainment in a Bavarian-inspired Root Beer Garden. Plus, don’t miss Harvest Fair favorites like lumberjack shows, pumpkin bowling, and the make-your-own scarecrow area.
Free fun
Doors Open
Various locations
Sept. 27-28
An annual celebration of Milwaukee’s architecture, history and neighborhoods, Doors Open Milwaukee opens 150+ locations throughout the metro area to tour for free. We made a list of the Top 10 Family-Friendly Tours.
Sturgeon Fest & Harbor Fest
UWM School of Freshwater Sciences
Sept. 28 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Hand-release a baby sturgeon into its native home in Lake Michigan at this eco-celebration with Riveredge Nature Center! Educational activities, animal encounters, and games can be found at Sturgeon Fest, as well as Mermaid Echo, food trucks, music, vendors, and hands-on STEM presentations at the adjacent Harbor Fest.
Garden Closing Day
Villa Terrace
Sept. 28 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Walk the gardens and relax by the koi fish pond while enjoying bites from Paul’s Smokehouse & BBQ, LLC, Vocado MKE, Pete’s Pops, and Blondies and Brunettes! There will be a face painter, plant vendor, and a children’s activity! Event is FREE to attend and open to all ages.
Foxtoberfest
Foxtown Station
Sept. 27 | 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Get ready to raise your steins for a full day of Foxtown-style fun! Celebrate the season with Foxtown Brewing’s freshest craft beers, mouthwatering BBQ from Foxtown Heritage Meats, family-friendly games and unique local vendors. You’ll also find live music from The Bierman Band, Listening Party and Prime Country MKE. Bring your crew, wear your best lederhosen, and enjoy a day packed with food, fun, music and community spirit.