Spring activities in Milwaukee

While MKE will forever and always be a summer town, there’s still plenty to do in and around the city year-round. There are quite a few spring activities in Milwaukee to choose between: a mash up of both indoor and outdoor options following the winter season.

In the springtime, Milwaukee starts to come alive with the buzz of warmth and the promise of blue sky days ahead. Speaking from experience, March through May is a special time of appreciating every moment of fresh air.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings, cultural experiences, or a scenic escape, here’s your guide to the best spring activities in Milwaukee.

Mitchell Park Domes

Springtime in Milwaukee can be unpredictable, but the Mitchell Park Domes offers guaranteed fun, perfect for rainy or chilly days. It’s family friendly, fun, and affordable.

These iconic glass structures are home to three distinct climates:

• The Floral Show Dome features stunning seasonal displays
• The Tropical Dome is a lush escape with exotic plants and waterfalls
• The Desert Dome takes a peek into arid landscapes and succulents

A visit here is the perfect way to soak up spring blooms.

Beer gardens

Spring marks the return of Milwaukee’s iconic and beloved beer gardens! Grab a stein and enjoy the fresh air at outdoor spots like:

• Estabrook Beer Garden
• Southshore Terrace Beer Garden
• Whitnall Park Beer Garden

Brewers game

Nothing says spring in Milwaukee quite like the return of Brewers baseball!

Head to an early season Brewers game at American Family Field—it’s tradition to grab a shuttle from a Milwaukee-area bar, eat cheese curds and hot dogs, cheer on the sausage race, and admire Bernie sliding down his chalet slide.

Bonus: when it’s cold out, the Brewers close the stadium roof! You can check the roof status by calling their “roof hotline” at (414) 902-4636.

Milwaukee Public Market & The Historic Third Ward

The Historic Third Ward is one of the most walkable and charming neighborhoods in Milwaukee, recognizable by its signature turquoise signs and lampposts.

While you’re there, get a taste of MKE and stop by the Milwaukee Public Market to browse fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and delicious local bites. This is such a fun way to get a feel for what the city has to offer.

Afterward, take a scenic stroll along the city’s Riverwalk, or explore the Third Ward’s mix of shops, fitness studios, coffee shops, art galleries, or restaurants.

Take a tour

Milwaukee is home to several popular tours, including:

• Lakefront Brewery Tour – regarded one of the best brewery tours in the city, this 90-minute activity takes a peek into the brewing process and history. Learn more here.
• Fun Beer Tours MKE – learn Milwaukee beer history first-hand while enjoying delicious, locally brewed beer
• City tours – local company City Tours MKE offers history, food, and brewery tours. Learn more here.
• Pabst tours – there are tours available to learn more about the iconic Pabst brewing history! Check out the Pabst Mansion and the Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery.

Museums

Spring is an ideal time to check out Milwaukee’s world-class museums before the summer crowds arrive. Top picks include:

• Milwaukee Art Museum – home to striking architecture and an impressive collection of art spanning centuries and mediums
• Harley Davidson Museum – did you know Harley Davidson was born in Milwaukee?
• Milwaukee Public Museum – travel back in time with natural history exhibits
• Discovery World – a hands-on science and technology museum perfect for families
• Betty Brinn Children’s Museum – interactive fun designed for young explorers (it’s pretty fun for adults, too!)

Take a barre class

For anyone who wants to be out and about and active, I highly recommend taking a Barre3 class! This fitness studio is located in the Historic Third Ward and has a mix of strength, signature, and cardio classes that emphasize mindfulness in movement.

Learn more about Barre3 Milwaukee classes here!

Milwaukee County Zoo

Spring is one of the best times to visit the Milwaukee County Zoo—animals are active, the weather is comfortable, and the crowds are lighter than in summer.

Be sure to check out the seasonal baby animals, which often make their debut in the spring months.

Take a lakefront walk

Lake Michigan’s shoreline is beautiful year-round, but it truly shines in the spring. Some of the best places for a scenic walk include:

• Lakeshore State Park – an open nature space with stunning city, water, and meadow views
• Bradford Beach and McKinley Marina – enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan
• Veterans Park – A great spot for flying kites, picnicking, or following the lakeside path

3rd Street Market Hall

I always recommend 3rd Street Market Hall as a year-round Milwaukee activity: the bustling food hall is home to a diverse group of restaurants, bars, and activities.

Stop by the beer hall, watch a game on the big TV, enjoy tacos or smoothie bowls or sushi or hot dogs (and much, much more), try the Top Golf simulator, play shuffleboard, or just enjoy the good vibes and fun atmosphere right downtown.

Boerner Botanical Garden

Located just outside Milwaukee, Boerner Botanical Gardens bursts into bloom each spring with tulips, daffodils, cherry blossoms, and more. Walking through the gardens is a serene and refreshing way to embrace the season.

Day trip to a tulip farm

Just a short drive from Milwaukee, Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove, Illinois, hosts a breathtaking tulip festival each spring. With thousands of tulips blooming, visitors can stroll through colorful fields, take stunning photos, and even pick their own flowers to bring home.

Farmers markets

Milwaukee’s outdoor farmers markets start opening in the spring, offering a chance to shop fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods.

Some options to seek out:

• West Allis Farmers Market – One of the oldest and largest in the area.
• Tosa Farmers Market – A charming community market in Wauwatosa.
• South Shore Farmers Market – Overlooking Lake Michigan, with beautiful views and great local vendors.

Embrace spring in Milwaukee

As the city shakes off winter and welcomes warmer weather, there’s no shortage of ways to get outside, explore, and celebrate spring in Milwaukee.

What are your favorite spring activities in Milwaukee?

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