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The Milwaukee Admirals deliver fast-paced hockey, big energy, and plenty of kid-friendly fun — all inside the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena. Whether your family is new to hockey or you’re longtime fans, here’s an easy, practical guide to what game day looks like with kids.
Want even more sports fun for the whole family? See our full roundup of Milwaukee’s minor league and local pro teams »
Quick Answers For Parents
- Games last about 2.5 hours including intermissions.
- There’s a Kids’ Zone with sign-making, gear dress-up, puck-shooting, and air/bubble hockey.
- Roscoe the mascot, t-shirt cannons, and a flying coupon blimp keep kids entertained.
- Concessions are more affordable than many major sporting venues.
- Kids under 2 get in free.
- A clear bag policy is in place (details below).
- Theme nights happen throughout the season — check the Admirals’ calendar for current options.
- Great for kids of all ages, even those new to hockey.
What To Know Before You Go (Timing, Bags, Parking & More)
How Long Is a Milwaukee Admirals Game?
Plan for around 2.5 hours total.
Here’s the basic breakdown:
- Three 20-minute periods of play
- Two 18-minute intermissions
- Overtime or a shootout may add a few extra minutes
The game itself feels quick, but the full experience is closer to a full evening (or afternoon) outing.
Admirals Bag Policy (Quick Snapshot)
The arena follows a clear bag policy. Guests may bring:
- A clear bag up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- A small clutch (around 4.5″ x 6.5″)
- Diaper bags, which may be searched
Policies change occasionally, so it’s smart to check the Admirals’ website before heading out.
Arrival & Parking Tips
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early to navigate parking and security without stress.
- You’ll find a mix of nearby garages and metered street parking.
- Families often prefer the main entrance for smoother stroller access.
Are Admirals Games Good for Kids?
Definitely. Even if little ones can’t follow every play, the arena atmosphere is high-energy, friendly, and full of extras designed to keep kids entertained between periods.
Admirals games are a blast for families, but navigating the busy arena with little ones can be tricky. Check out our Crowd Safety Tips for Kids & Families for expert advice on keeping your kids safe in crowded spaces.
The Family Experience Inside the Arena
Kids’ Zone Activities
The Admirals do a great job keeping kids engaged. In the Kids’ Zone, families will often find:
- Sign-making stations
- Dress-up hockey gear for fun photos
- Puck-shooting games
- Air hockey and bubble hockey tables
It’s a great space for kids who need a break from sitting or want hands-on fun.
Intermission Entertainment
Intermissions are packed with family-friendly activities. Kids love:
- Human hockey puck bowling
- On-ice contests and giveaways
- Surprise crowd games
- Visits from Roscoe, who’s always up for high-fives
Throughout the night, keep an eye out for:
- A pirate-themed t-shirt ship cruising the ice
- A blimp overhead dropping surprise coupons
Both are huge kid favorites.
Food & Concessions
Concessions tend to be more reasonably priced than many major sporting events — a nice perk when you’re feeding a whole family.
Tickets & Family Perks
- Kids under two get in free (on a lap).
- The Roscoe’s Crew Kids Club offers perks like ticket vouchers, merch, and member-only events with Roscoe and the players.
Theme Nights & Special Events
Throughout the season, the Admirals host a variety of themed games — many of them great for families. While the lineup changes yearly, common favorites include:
- Mascot celebrations
- STEM or education-themed nights
- Daytime school games
- Dog-friendly games
- Holiday or seasonal themes
Theme nights are updated regularly on the Admirals’ website, so families can pick the one that matches their kids’ interests.
Fun Extras to Explore Before Game Day
If you’ve got a young hockey fan or a curious kid at home, these are great pre-game reads:
- Fun Facts About Hockey for Kids
- Crowd Safety Tips for Kids & Families
They boost confidence (and cut down on nerves in big arenas).
More Milwaukee Sports Fun for Families
If your family loves local sports outings, you may also enjoy:
- American Family Field: 10 Tips For Visiting With Kids
- Green Bay’s Titletown District: 10 Must-Do Activities
- Lakeshore Chinooks Game: 10 Things Your Kids Will Love
- 5 Tips For Your Next Bucks Game With Kids
- Goal! Here’s What To Expect at a Milwaukee Wave Game
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
