
Bookworm Gardens, a whimsical botanic garden inspired entirely by children’s literature, offers a one-of-a-kind day trip for families. Located just off the highway in Sheboygan, it’s well worth the 50-minute drive from Milwaukee.
I’ve visited Bookworm Gardens many times with my kids over the years, and every visit feels just as magical as the first. From the moment we step into this enchanting space, it’s clear that it’s thoughtfully designed to captivate children and adults alike.
It’s one of our favorite picks from our guide to the Best Milwaukee Day Trips.
What to Expect
Walking in from the free parking lot, your adventure begins at the Magic School Bus picnic area. My kids love climbing aboard the colorful school bus with wings, pretending to drive and opening and closing the door over and over again.
As you step through the main entrance, you’ll be struck by the beauty and meticulous upkeep of the gardens. Each themed area is dedicated to a beloved children’s book, featuring vibrant sculptures, cozy spots to read, and interactive elements for hands-on fun.
Highlights Include:
- Hansel and Gretel Learning Cottage: A welcoming hub with rocking chairs, a charming gift shop, and restrooms.
- A Friend to All Amphitheater: A space for kids to dance and play.
- Dinosaur Garden: Perfect for young paleontologists to dig for fossils.
- Pioneer Village: Inspired by Little House in the Big Woods, kids can step into a log cabin with pioneer-era toys and tools.
- Charlotte’s Web Barn: A delightful nod to E.B. White’s classic tale.
- Magic Tree House: An impressive structure with stunning views of the gardens.
Other enchanting spots include the Japanese Tea House, a fairy house-building station, Goldilocks’ chairs with life-sized bears, and even a treehouse inspired by Winnie the Pooh.
One of our family’s favorite areas is the Peter Rabbit-themed space, where my kids love to explore and pretend. The attention to detail here, like in every part of the gardens, always amazes me.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the koi pond and walking bridge toward the back of the gardens. My kids could spend ages watching the colorful fish darting around.
Plan Your Visit
Bookworm Gardens is open seasonally from May 1 to October 31. Advance tickets are recommended, as popular dates and events can sell out.
Admission Details:
- General Admission: $12 per person
- Children Under 2: Free
- Bookworm Gardens Members: Free entry based on membership level
- Special Events: Pricing varies; keep an eye on our Milwaukee Events Calendar.
Accessibility:
The majority of the gardens are wheelchair and stroller-friendly, with paths made of rubberized mulch or gravel. A wheelchair is available onsite on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Picnic & Amenities:
- Bring your own snacks and enjoy the picnic tables near the Magic School Bus area. Note that this is a “carry in, carry out” facility, so plan to take your trash with you.
- Fill your reusable water bottles at the onsite fountain and bottle filler.
Why Families Love It
Bookworm Gardens is beautiful space where stories truly come to life for kids. The thoughtful design and interactive features make it a place my family has loved returning to time and time again.
Location:
1415 Campus Drive, Sheboygan, WI 53081
Contact Info:
📞 920-287-7895
📧 info@bookwormgardens.org
🌐 Visit the Bookworm Gardens Website
Discover more stunning outdoor adventures! Explore Milwaukee’s favorite children’s garden, Margie’s Garden, the enchanting Boerner Botanical Gardens, and find the best flower farms and gardens around Milwaukee.
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.