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
Downtown Ice CAPE-ade
Red Arrow Park
Feb. 7 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Soaring back to "Slice of Ice" at Red Arrow Park for the fourth year, this family-friendly event offers an epic way to zap the winter blues with free ice skating alongside some of your favorite supers and Milwaukee's mightiest heroes. Participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite hero, whether they’re from the comic books or your local firehouse! A limited number of capes will be given away, plus free ice-skate rentals will also be available on a first-come, first-served basis courtesy of WaterStone Bank.
All the animals
Family Free Day at the Zoo
Milwaukee County Zoo
Feb. 7 | 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Winter doesn’t have to feel so long when you spend a February day at the Zoo. All guests will receive free admission, although parking and regular attraction fees still apply. Bundle up and spend time with the animals active in cooler temps, like the snow leopards, caribou, Bactrian camels, Japanese macaques and harbor seals. Then warm up in the Aquatic & Reptile Center, Giraffe Barn, Elephant Care Center and other indoor animal buildings.
Pet Expo MKE
Wisconsin State Fair Park
Feb. 7 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Wisconsin’s furriest residents will strut their stuff and show off their talent at the Alliance of Wisconsin Animal Rehoming Effort’s 20th Pet Expo MKE. Experience the state’s best pet-related shopping in one place, on one day — whether you’re looking for a puppy, kitten, bunny, bird or reptile. You’ll be able to interact with hundreds of species and maybe find your new best friend.
Fun, naturally
Urban Ecology Center Winterfest
Washington Park Branch
Feb. 7 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Celebrate the reopening of the Washington Park branch, which provides even more space for everyone to connect with each other and nature. This Saturday’s event will include sledding, carriage rides, winter hikes and a campfire, along with a chance to explore the branch’s remodeled home.
Exploring the Winter Shoreline
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center | Bayside
Feb. 7 | 10-11:30 a.m.
In winter, the beach transforms into an otherworldly landscape. Join associate director of education AJ Grill in searching the shoreline for various ice formations, including ice canoes! Even if it’s a little warmer, the group will still explore the beach and discover the wintery treasures along Lake Michigan.
Winter Adventure & Exploration Day
Riveredge Nature Center | Saukville
Feb. 7 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Awaken your curiosity, engage your body and explore the beautifully restored Riveredge landscape through self-guided and educator-led activities that highlight winter activities. Expect options like boot hockey, broom ball, geocaching, shelter building and snowshoeing (if conditions allow). Pre-register for this free event by Feb. 6. If there are still spots available, you can register day-of at the program.
Science and skates
Women & Girls in Science
King Community Center
Feb. 7 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
While females are the focus, both girls and boys are welcome to catch the “science bug” at this free, open-house-style event. Everyone will get the opportunity to learn about female STEAM pioneers and their important contributions to our world. Plus, local women leaders from various STEAM backgrounds will present hands-on activities so young women can connect with a potential mentor and everyone can see that anyone can be a scientist!
MKE REC’s Family Skate Night
Bay View High School
Feb. 7 | 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Lace up your skates and grab your friends and family for a fun-filled evening on the rink. Milwaukee Recreation’s free Family Skate Nights are open to ages 10-14 (ages under 10 must be accompanied by an adult), and participants are welcome to bring their own skates. Milwaukee Recreation also has skate rentals available for free.