MKE is alive with family fun! Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone. Here are our top picks for this weekend:
1. Ice Castles in Lake Geneva
Opening Jan. 22, 2022
Admission: $16-$27
The ever-popular Ice Castles are back in Lake Geneva! Opening this Saturday, Jan. 22, this special installment can be found in five cities across the U.S., and Lake Geneva is the closest location to Milwaukee. Explore ice caverns and archways, race down ice slides, squeeze though ice passageways, and even book a private alcove for a VIP experience. The castles are built using hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists. They include LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, fountains and more. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, Jan. 19, at noon, and they often sell out fast, so be sure to plan ahead! Get more info >>
2. The Watsons Go To Birmingham – 1963 (First Stage)
Jan. 21 – Feb. 13, 2022
Admission: $21 and up
First Stage returns to live performances with a heartwarming production of The Watsons Go To Birmingham – 1963 at the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater. Based on the award-winning book by Christopher Paul Curtis and adapted by Cheryl L. West, with original music by Paris Ray Dozier and directed by Brandite Reed and Jeff Frank, this journey into the deep South in 1963 reminds us of the importance of family, love and laughter to get through challenging times. Buy tickets >>
3. North Point Lighthouse
Saturdays and Sundays, 1-4 p.m.
Admission: $8 Adults; $5 Adults 65+, Children & Students (with ID); FREE Children under 4, active and former military
After being closed for repairs for 15 weeks, the North Point Lighthouse has finally reopened, and it’s looking better than ever! Inside, new drywall and maple hardwood floors gleam; outside, new light bars illuminate the lighthouse’s exterior during evening hours. They plan to change the colors of the lights periodically in honor of disease-awareness campaigns, changing seasons, holidays, and even for Packer games!
Visit on Saturdays and Sundays (1-4 p.m.) to discover how the lighthouse served the Great Lakes maritime industry. See artifacts and exhibits about the ships that sailed Lake Michigan, and learn about the keepers who maintained the lighthouse. Climb the 74-foot tall tower for a spectacular 360° view of Lake Park, Lake Michigan and downtown Milwaukee. Masks are required inside the museum. Learn more >>
4. All Aboard! (Discovery World)
Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
Admission: Included with admission to Discovery World
Experience the wonders of the rails when you explore All Aboard, Discovery World’s new model railroading exhibit! Your little train enthusiast will be in awe of the miniature worlds in the model railroad on display. The dynamic landscape is a replica of mid-20th century Milwaukee. See if you can spot local icons like the Pabst Brewery, Usinger’s Factory, and much more. Explore the science behind trains, and learn how trains and railways have been a “model” of innovation for hundreds of years, leading to advances in industry, agriculture, and transportation. More info >>
5. Milwaukee Museum Days
Jan. 20-30, 2022
Admission: Varies by location
Nourish your mind and soul by visiting Milwaukee’s amazing cultural institutions during Museum Days, Jan. 20-30. Many of the city’s most fantastic museums will be offering free or discounted admission, and there are some special events scheduled as well. It’s a great opportunity to explore a museum you haven’t been to yet! Some of our favorites: Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Jewish Museum Milwaukee, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee County Historical Society, Discovery World, Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, Pabst Mansion, Wisconsin Black Historical Society & Museum, National Bobblehead Hall of Fame & Museum and more! Get the details >>
6. Frozen Day (BelAir Cantina Ice Bar)
Sunday, Jan. 22, 2022, Noon-8 p.m.
Admission: FREE (food and drinks available for purchase)
Parents, sidle up to the coolest bar around – the BelAir Cantina Ice Bar in Market Square at The Corners of Brookfield. The bar will open for the second year in a row this Thursday, Jan. 20, but there’s something for everyone in the family on Frozen Day (Saturday, Jan. 22)! Your kids will love watching Frozen on the big screen while sipping hot cocoa (spiked versions available for the adults). Food offerings include tomato soup and churros. Also at the 19-foot-long ice bar: specialty cocktails, cozy seating near heaters, custom ice installations and photo ops. Learn more >>
There’s so much more happening this weekend! Check out our Events Calendar >>
