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If you’re craving an easy getaway that feels a world away from Milwaukee, spend a day in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. This historic small town is just 22 miles north of the city and filled with family-friendly shops, scenic walks, seasonal festivals, and the kind of old-fashioned charm that makes a simple outing feel special.
Below, you’ll find the top things to do with kids in Cedarburg, a look at the town’s beloved festivals, and a family-friendly itinerary to help you plan your visit.
💡If you’re exploring new places around the area, our guide to 100 Best Day Trips From Milwaukee for Families highlights even more easy, family-friendly outings.
Top Things To Do in Cedarburg with Kids
Cedar Creek Settlement
Start your adventure at Cedar Creek Settlement, a restored 1864 woolen mill filled with shops, treats, and local artisans. Kids love exploring the nooks and crannies of this historic building, and grown-ups appreciate the small businesses, tasting rooms, and relaxed atmosphere.
Explore Washington Avenue
Stroll down the historic main street lined with boutiques, candy stores, toy shops, cafés, and family-friendly restaurants. It’s one of those walkable small-town streets where everyone finds something they enjoy.
Cedar Creek Park (Playground + River Views)
This peaceful riverside park is an easy walk from downtown and includes a playground, green space, and pretty places to sit along the water. It’s a great way for kids to burn off energy between shops.
Covered Bridge Park
Just a short drive away sits Wisconsin’s last standing covered bridge, a perfect backdrop for photos and a simple, memorable stop for families. Kids love walking through the wooden structure and exploring the surrounding trails.
Rivoli Theatre
This historic single-screen theater shows mostly family-friendly, second-run movies at affordable prices. It’s quaint, cozy, and a fun way to wind down after a day of exploring.
Cedarburg Events This Weekend
Cedarburg hosts festivals, concerts, pop-ups, and seasonal events all year long. If you’re planning to visit soon, check what’s happening before you go:
👉 Browse the MKE With Kids Events Calendar for family-friendly events happening in Cedarburg and throughout SE Wisconsin.
For town-specific happenings, you can also check the Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce.
Cedarburg’s Beloved Annual Festivals
Cedarburg is known for its vibrant festivals that draw families from all over southeastern Wisconsin. If you time your visit right, you might catch:
Strawberry Festival (June)
One of Cedarburg’s biggest weekends, complete with food vendors, kids’ activities, live music, and artisan booths. Families love the shortcake and the berry-themed treats.
Wine & Harvest Festival (September)
A favorite fall tradition with seasonal foods, grape-stomping, hayrides, pumpkin activities, and a festive downtown atmosphere.
A Cedarburg Christmas (Nov–Dec)
The whole town transforms for the holiday season with Santa’s Workshop, light displays, themed shop windows, live music, Santa visits, and carriage rides. It’s incredibly charming and very kid-friendly.
Oktoberfest (Fall)
A lively celebration with dancing, music, German food, and kid-friendly activities.
If you’re planning around one of these weekends, be sure to arrive early—parking and crowds pick up quickly.
A Simple, Family-Friendly Cedarburg Itinerary
Looking for an easy way to structure your day? Here’s a flow that works well for families:
Morning: Cedar Creek Settlement
Wander the shops, enjoy a bakery treat or coffee, and explore the historic mill floors and original beams. It’s a fun, low-key way to start the day.
Midday: Washington Avenue + Cedar Creek Park
Walk the main drag, grab lunch, browse boutiques, and let the kids unwind at Cedar Creek Park along the river.
Optional Stop: Covered Bridge Park
Take a short drive to Wisconsin’s last covered bridge for photos and a quick stretch.
Afternoon: Festivals or Rivoli Theatre
If it’s a festival weekend, that may be your main activity. Otherwise, catch a cozy movie at the Rivoli Theatre before heading home.
Overnight Option: Local Bed & Breakfasts
If you’d like to make it a weekend, Cedarburg’s inns are warm and family-friendly:
- Washington House Inn (historic elegance)
- Stagecoach Inn (cozy and character-filled)
Nearby Day Trip Ideas
If you’re exploring the area or want to pair Cedarburg with another stop, these make great additions:
- Holy Hill
- Shalom Wildlife Zoo
- Lapham Peak
- West Bend
- East Troy Electric Railroad
- 100 Best Day Trips From Milwaukee For Families
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.
