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
Boo at the Zoo
Milwaukee County Zoo
Oct. 17-19, 24-26
It’s Halloween time at the zoo! Boo at the Zoo now features TWO weekends of not-so-scary, family-friendly activities like the Trick-or-Treat Trail, live pumpkin-carving demonstrations, dazzling light shows and, of course, animals! All ghosts and goblins (and their parents) are encouraged to come in costume. Boo at the Zoo pre-purchased tickets are required for this event and are now on sale.
More tricks and treats
Halloween Haunts
Wehr Nature Center
Oct. 16-18
For three enchanting nights, the forest comes alive with whimsical woodland creatures, including a cackling witch, a talking owl and even rapping bugs. More than 300 glowing jack-o-lanterns light the woodland trails for this event designed especially for children ages 4-10 so you can celebrate Halloween without the scares. Guests are guided through the Enchanted Forest by costumed characters like owls, frogs and skunks. Strollers are not permitted. Babies in carriers/backpacks enter free.
Species Spooktacular
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
Oct. 19 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Come in costume for this self-guided tour about some of nature’s spooky and misunderstood animals. The center’s staff will bust myths about them and share their true ecological importance. Meet live animal ambassadors in our Great Hall, including snakes, tarantulas, turtles and raptors. Hike the trails to visit the pavilion, tower and maple grove, where you can play games and make crafts. Every kid who visits every station will receive a sweet treat!
Trick-Or-Treat
The Corners of Brookfield
Oct. 18 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Pick out a costume and start at Market Square to pick up your trick-or-treat map and enjoy live music from Kid Boogie Down. Then collect candy from retailers and restaurants, get your face painted and check out the spooky pop-up activities, including a meet-and-greet with Ariel and Ursula!
Kohl’s Art Generation Family Sundays: Día de los Muertos
Milwaukee Art Museum
Oct. 19 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Gather together with family and friends to celebrate the beauty and tradition of Day of the Dead. Explore the meaning behind symbols of the holiday through hands-on art activities and add the name of a loved one who has passed to the community ofrenda. Meet guest artists and learn how their heritage influences their work, enjoy performances and take a tour. For more family-friendly Day of the Dead events, check out the list here.
Get into nature
Autumn Celebration
Urban Ecology Center at Washington Park
Oct. 18 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Get ready for a great time celebrating autumn at Washington Park! Enjoy nature walks, biking trails, canoeing on the lagoon, games, crafts and delicious treats at Washington Park.
Tree Climbing Festival
Riveredge Nature Center
Oct. 18 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Encounter the giants of the forest and explore trees from a new perspective as you climb into the canopy under the guidance of trained facilitators. Ascend to the top, swing from a branch, or try a “bat hang.” Registration includes 20 minutes of climb time, a scavenger hunt along the trails, a naturalist-led hands-on nature investigation and access to picnic areas (please pack a lunch and be mindful of single use plastic waste).