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Looking for something fun, creative, and a little bit magical to do with the kids? Glow-in-the-dark activities are perfect for a special night out, a birthday surprise, or just a memorable way to shake up your usual routine. Milwaukee has a growing number of UV-lit, neon-paint, blacklight, and glow experiences that kids absolutely love.
Here are the best glow-in-the-dark activities for families around Milwaukee — starting with a standout favorite.
1. Neon Brush Kids: Paint-in-the-Dark Workshop for Families
Hosted by Fever (Affiliate Partner)
If your kids love art projects, this paint-in-the-dark workshop is such a fun pick. Neon Brush Kids lets families step into a bright, glowing art studio filled with UV lights and fluorescent paint. With the help of a professional artist, kids (ages 4+) and adults create their own neon masterpieces using brushes, stencils, and plenty of imagination.
Everything glows, the atmosphere feels playful, and you’ll leave with a colorful keepsake that your kids will proudly hang at home.
What to Expect:
- Hands-on painting in a UV-lit studio
- Glow paints in every color
- A relaxed environment with music and plenty of creative freedom
- Guidance from an art instructor
- Your own neon artwork to take home
Good to Know:
- Open to kids ages 4 and up (kids must attend with an adult)
- Wear something you don’t mind getting a little bit of paint on
- Sessions run throughout the year at various times
- The venue is fully ADA accessible
👉 Find upcoming dates and get tickets here: Neon Brush Kids (affiliate link)
2. Field Workshop: Glow-in-the-Dark Splatter Room
5686 Broad St, Greendale, WI 53129
Milwaukee’s only glow-in-the-dark splatter room lets kids (and adults) splatter neon paint on a canvas, a hat, the walls — or each other. They provide the gear, the paint, and the tools, and you handle the fun. The full experience lasts about 45–60 minutes, and calling ahead on weekends is recommended.
3. Blacklight Bowling
Classic family fun gets an upgrade with blacklight bowling nights. Neon shoes, glowing lanes, and upbeat music make this a fun pick for older kids and teens. Some centers offer weekend cosmic bowling, themed nights, or early-evening sessions that work well for families.
Check out Cosmic Bowling options at JB’s on 41, Landmark Lanes, and Whirly Ball.
4. Glow Skates at Local Ice Arenas
Eble Park Ice Arena and Wilson Ice Arena both host Glow Skate events throughout the year, offering a fun twist on public skating with music and blacklights. It’s an easy, family-friendly outing for kids of all ages.
5. Glow Events at Local Trampoline or Activity Parks
Some Milwaukee-area trampoline parks and indoor play centers host occasional glow nights with UV lighting, neon bracelets, and music. These tend to be high-energy and are perfect for kids who want to bounce, jump, and run.
Why Kids Love Glow & Blacklight Play
Glow-in-the-dark experiences feel special — they add just enough novelty to spark creativity, curiosity, and lots of giggles. The lights are low, the colors shine, and kids get to see their artwork or surroundings in a totally new way. It’s a fun sensory shift without being overwhelming.
Tips for Glow-in-the-Dark Activities With Kids
- Wear clothes that can handle a little mess, especially for painting sessions.
- Arrive a few minutes early so kids can adjust to the dimmer lighting.
- Bring a sweater — glow/UV studios can run cool.
- Check age recommendations (some glow events are better for older kids).
- Expect excitement — glow activities tend to bring out big energy and big smiles.
More Creative Fun in Milwaukee
If you’re looking for even more hands-on activities, you might like:
Both guides are filled with ideas for kid-friendly creativity all year long.
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.
