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
Xtreme Raptor Day
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
Nov. 8 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Meet the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center’s resident raptors up close — including owls, hawks, falcons and eagles — to learn about each species’ lifestyle habits and habitats. Stations across the grounds will provide interactive and educational experiences about conservation, how to nurture and support birds around your own home, and enjoy bird-themed crafts and activities. Plus, you can sign up to have your picture taken with your favorite raptor!
More in the outdoors
Turkey Trails 5K & 10K
Veterans Park
Nov. 9 | 9-11 a.m.
This Thanksgiving-themed run at Veterans Park includes great swag, chip-timing with live results and awards, free photos and delicious treats waiting at the finish line. There’s even a fun, untimed kids’ dash for ages 10 and under, and every little runner gets a specially crafted medal.
Visitor Center Open House
Riveredge Nature Center
Nov. 8 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Come explore the newly renovated Visitor Center, now featuring ADA-compliant restrooms, an accessible entrance, refreshed community spaces and exciting new classes. After your tour, enjoy complimentary access to the center’s beautiful trails — no trail fee required! Donations are greatly appreciated at this free-to-attend event. Pre-registration is not required but highly recommended.
Indoor diversions
Maker Faire Milwaukee
Discovery World
Nov. 8-9 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Calling all engineers to artists to scientists to crafters: Come to Discovery World this weekend for a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and love sharing what they can do. This is an opportunity for creative “makers” to show off their hobbies, experiments and projects. Think of it like the Greatest Show & Tel) on Earth — a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness.
Wizard of Oz in Concert
Bradley Symphony Center
Nov. 7-9
Click your ruby slippers together and come home to the Bradley Symphony Center to experience the fantastical story of Dorothy and her unlikely friends as they journey together to the Emerald City. Get swept away by timeless melodies like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “The Merry Old Land of Oz” as the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra performs Herbert Stothart’s breathtaking score live along with the classic 1939 film.
For the littles
Mother & Son Superhero Night
Hamilton High School Community Center
Nov. 8 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Milwaukee Recreation hosts this annual event that brings out the world’s most courageous heroes for an evening of games, training activities, arts and crafts, and snacks. Brave and bold guests aged 1-8 (and their moms) are invited to come dressed as their favorite hero and put their powers to the test by racing through Gotham City’s obstacle course, building their own secret headquarters, smash like the Hulk and more!
For the bigs
Family Day
Up-Down Milwaukee
Nov. 9 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
It’s time for family-friendly fun at Up-Down! On the first Sunday of the month, they open their doors to guests under 21 and give families a place to hang out for the afternoon. There will be pizza by the slice, soda and other kid-friendly drinks, and a full bar for the grown-up players. Games are 25 cents (or one token) per play, and it’s free to get in and open to all ages, but minors MUST be accompanied by someone who is 21 or older.
Glow Skate
Eble Park Ice Arena
Nov. 7 | 6:30-8 p.m.
Bring your friends, family and teammates to ice skate under Eble Park Ice Arena’s vibrant, colorful new lights, accompanied by your favorite tunes. It’s open to all ages and skating abilities, and admission is just $12 (includes skate rental while supplies last). Tickets must be purchased online prior to attending.