17 Wisconsin Day Trips for Families: Nature, Beaches, Waterparks & Museums

If you’re looking for fun ways to spend a day with your kids in Wisconsin, you’re in luck! From hands-on children’s museums to beaches, waterparks, and nature trails, there’s no shortage of places that keep kids entertained and curious.

These Wisconsin family day trip itineraries are geared toward kids ages 2–10, with options that fit a variety of interests. Some are very affordable, while others are worth a little splurge. I’ve included tips on the best times to go, what to pack, and even a few links for essentials like road trip bags, sunscreen, swimwear, and handy snack containers to make your day easier!

Whether you’re exploring a museum in the morning and hitting the beach in the afternoon, or checking out a new trail, these ideas will help you plan a day full of fun, learning, and family memories!

Planning Tips

• Hours and Admission: Always check opening hours in advance. Many children’s museums and pools offer discounts or free days. Some waterparks may require advance reservations.

• What to Pack: 

  • A lightweight backpack for sunscreen, kids' binoculars for nature walks, and a change of clothes for just in case!

  • Reusable water bottles are a must to stay hydrated.

  • Also, a compact cooler for drinks and snacks in compartment containers, are essentials.

  • Optional: a mesh beach tote with swimwear, sand toys, and towels.

• Best Times to Go: Mornings are ideal for museums and beaches; afternoons for swimming or shaded playgrounds.

• Ages: These itineraries are best for kids ages 2–10 but offer flexible stops for a variety of interests.

Very Affordable $

1. Milwaukee Adventure: Museum, Beach & Splash

• Morning: Betty Brinn Children’s Museum

  • Start your day at this interactive museum filled with imaginative exhibits, STEM zones, and hands-on activities for toddlers through early grade schoolers. Great for 2–8 year olds.

• Lunch: Picnic at Veterans Park or a casual cafe near the lakefront

• Afternoon: Atwater Beach and Playground in Shorewood

  • This charming Lake Michigan beach has a sandy shoreline and a hilltop playground overlooking the water. It’s a relaxing spot with space to run, dig, and explore!

• Late Afternoon: Sheridan Park Pool in Cudahy

  • Cool off with water features, zero-depth entry, and splash-friendly zones perfect for young swimmers. Lifeguards on duty and family-friendly facilities.

2. Madison & Stoughton: Explore, Play, and Beach Day

• Morning: Madison Children’s Museum

  • This multi-level museum blends indoor learning with outdoor adventure. Kids can meet rooftop chickens, climb whimsical structures, and try interactive exhibits tailored for various age groups.

• Lunch: Dine at Ian’s Pizza or grab lunch from the food carts near the Capitol Square

  • There are lots of other options, but we usually get cheap pizza and hot dogs from the Costco nearby in Sun Prairie!

• Afternoon: Troll Beach in Stoughton

  • This man made beach features inflatables, a shallow swimming area, lifeguards, and grassy areas for lounging. It’s a summer gem just 30 minutes from Madison.

• Optional Stop: Vilas Park Playground or Henry Vilas Zoo on the way back

3. Wisconsin Dells: Waterpark & Downtown Fun

• Morning: Noah’s Ark Waterpark or Mount Olympus Waterpark

  • Spend the morning at America’s largest outdoor waterpark, offering splash pads, lazy rivers, and thrill slides. There are safe zones for toddlers and plenty of shade for breaks. Noah's Ark and Mount Olympus are the most popular waterparks in the Dells, but there are lots of other options too.

• Lunch: Eat on-site or stop at a local favorite like Moosejaw Pizza

• Afternoon: Pirate’s Cove Mini Golf or Wisconsin Deer Park

  • Enjoy a round of mini golf or visit a walk-through zoo where kids can feed and pet deer. Both are short drives from the waterpark and offer relaxing, dry-land fun.

• Optional Stop: Bowman Park Playground or a scenic stop along the Wisconsin River

4. Green Bay Nature & Discovery Day

• Morning: Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Explore this free urban wildlife refuge with over 700 acres of woods, animal exhibits, and easy nature trails. There’s a waterfall, rescued animals, and a Nature Center with hands-on learning stations.

• Lunch: Picnic on-site or stop by The Creamery Downtown for a family-friendly menu

• Afternoon: Bay Beach Amusement Park

  • Rides are just 25¢–50¢ each. It’s charming, affordable, and ideal for kids under 10. Bring cash for tickets and enjoy everything from a Ferris wheel to kiddie coasters.

• Optional Stop: Joannes Aquatic Center

  • Cool off with a large pool, slides, and splash features if time allows!

5. Eau Claire River Adventure

• Morning: Children’s Museum of Eau Claire

  • Start indoors with an interactive, playful space focused on early learning. Water tables, imaginative role play, and sensory exhibits keep kids engaged.

• Lunch: Acoustic Café or The Informalist for casual, kid-friendly meals

• Afternoon: Big Falls County Park

  • Head just outside of town to this local treasure with short wooded hikes, a sandy beach area, and small waterfalls. Kids can wade and climb while adults relax on the rocks.

• Optional Hike: Putnam Park Trail System

  • Great for a shaded, stroller-friendly walk if you want to stay closer to the city.

6. La Crosse Bluffs & Riverfront Day

• Morning: Riverside Park & Playground

  • Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Mississippi River with gardens, sculptures, and a large play area. Ride the La Crosse Queen paddleboat if you’re feeling adventurous!

• Lunch: Buzzard Billy’s or The Crow (both casual and family-friendly)

• Afternoon: Grandad Bluff Park & Scenic Overlook

  • Drive to the bluff and explore short trails with sweeping views. The overlook is stroller-accessible, and the area has space for a picnic or quick hike.

• Optional Stop: Myrick Park EcoPark

  • Turtles, frogs, and kid-safe trails near the marsh offer a fun nature-based wind-down.

7. Stevens Point Nature & History Loop

• Morning: Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum

  • Interactive play for younger kids includes a water station, dress-up area, and mini climbing zones. Great way to begin the day with indoor fun.

• Lunch: Wooden Chair Café or Arbuckle’s Eatery

• Afternoon: Schmeeckle Reserve

  • Walk stroller-friendly trails, see the small waterfall, climb the observation tower, or look for wildlife. The Visitor Center is kid-friendly with hands-on displays and restrooms.

• Optional: Mead Park Playground

  • Wrap up your day at one of the best playgrounds in town, with shaded seating and river views!

8. Appleton Discovery & Nature Day

• Morning: Building for Kids Children's Museum

  • Located in downtown Appleton, this award-winning museum offers imaginative play, science exhibits, and a giant treehouse climb. Especially great for ages 2–10.

• Lunch: Head to Apollon or pull together a picnic for later

• Afternoon: Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve

  • Explore stroller-friendly hiking trails, a natural play area, and the Nature Center. There's often programming for kids and families, including scavenger hunts and nature crafts.

• Optional: Pierce Park Splash Pad or Playground

  • Finish with a relaxing play session at this shaded, central park with a large splash pad in summer.

9. Wausau Waterfalls & Wildlife

• Morning: Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum

  • While not specifically for children, this museum is surprisingly kid-friendly with sculpture gardens and rotating exhibits. The outdoor sculpture walk is perfect for little explorers.

• Lunch: Red Eye Brewing Co. or grab a casual lunch downtown

• Afternoon: Rib Mountain State Park

  • A short drive away, hike the short Quarry Trail or climb the observation tower for panoramic views. There are picnic tables and shaded trails for breaks.

• Optional: Dells of the Eau Claire County Park

  • About 30 minutes east, this hidden gem features a river gorge with cascading falls, short trails, and shallow areas for splashing on warm days.

10. Sheboygan Lakeside Play Day

• Morning: Above & Beyond Children’s Museum

  • Play-based learning, sensory walls, and creative exhibits keep kids engaged. Great for young children and right in downtown Sheboygan.

• Lunch: Picnic at Deland Park or dine at Weather Center Café

• Afternoon: North Beach and Harbor Centre Playground

  • Enjoy Sheboygan’s sandy shoreline and stop at the whimsical wooden playground shaped like a ship right on the lakefront.

• Optional Stop: Bookworm Gardens

  • This literary-themed botanical garden is magical for kids. Paths wind through interactive book-based displays, and admission is free!

11. Baraboo Adventure & Circus Fun

• Morning: Circus World Museum

  • Explore colorful exhibits, live shows (in summer), and interactive circus-themed displays. Great for both learning and play.

• Lunch: Log Cabin Family Restaurant or pack a lunch

• Afternoon: Devil’s Lake State Park (South Shore Area)

  • Stick to the paved Tumbled Rocks Trail or the beach for a low-key visit with kids. There’s a sandy swimming area, kayak rentals, and picnic spots.

• Optional: Man Mound National Historic Landmark

  • A quick, quirky stop to see the only known man-shaped effigy mound in North America.

12. Door County Nature & Ice Cream Trail

• Morning: Cave Point County Park

  • Kids can explore wave-carved caves and easy walking paths along the limestone cliffs. It's beautiful, exciting, and a little splashy.

• Lunch: Wild Tomato Pizza or bring sandwiches for a beach picnic

• Afternoon: Whitefish Dunes State Park

  • Hike easy trails through the dunes, visit the nature center, or spend time on the sandy beach. Shallow areas are great for wading.

• Bonus Stop: Not Licked Yet Frozen Custard in Fish Creek

  • A playground, stream, and frozen treats make it a favorite for families.

“Worth the Splurge” $$

13. Cave of the Mounds & Blue Mounds Exploration

• Morning: Cave of the Mounds

  • Take a guided cave tour to explore crystal formations and underground beauty. Educational and awe-inspiring for all ages.

  • Admission: ~$22 adults, ~$13 kids (ages 4–12)

  • Tip: Bring a light jacket—it’s always 50°F inside.

• Lunch: Grumpy Troll Brew Pub in Mount Horeb or picnic in Blue Mounds State Park

• Afternoon: Blue Mounds State Park

  • Hike short trails with bluff views, visit the nature center, or let the kids play near the picnic shelters. Vehicle admission required (~$8 per day).

14. Milwaukee Zoo + Domes Combo

• Morning: Milwaukee County Zoo

  • One of the top zoos in the Midwest with over 2,000 animals, a train ride, and a large playground area. Admission: ~$14–$18 per person; parking ~$15 Plan for 2–4 hours minimum.

• Lunch: Eat at the zoo or pack your own for a picnic

• Afternoon: Mitchell Park Domes

  • Explore three climate-controlled domes—Tropical, Desert, and Floral Show. Admission: ~$9 adults, ~$7 kids

• Optional: Swing by Purple Door Ice Cream or Kopps Frozen Custard for a treat before heading home

15. Oshkosh Aviation & Water Fun

• Morning: EAA Aviation Museum

  • Explore interactive flight simulators, vintage aircraft, and kid-focused exhibits. Admission: ~$12 adults, ~$10 youth, under 5 free Optional: Add a flight simulator ride for a little extra fun.

• Lunch: Ardy & Ed’s Drive-In for retro vibes and root beer floats

• Afternoon: Pollock Community Water Park

  • Huge slides, lazy river, and zero-depth entry pool. Admission: ~$5–$10 per person

16. Green Bay Packers + Children’s Museum

• Morning: Lambeau Field Stadium Tour

  • Take a kid-friendly behind-the-scenes look at the stadium, including the players' tunnel and field access. Tour: ~$20 adults, ~$12 kids

• Lunch: Tundra Tailgate Zone or Kroll’s West

• Afternoon: Children’s Museum of Green Bay

  • Hands-on fun with creative exhibits including construction zones, pretend play, and science corners. Admission: ~$9–$10 per person

17. Wisconsin Dells “Mini Park Day”

• Morning: Take a half-day pass at Mt. Olympus Outdoor Waterpark

  • Ideal if you don’t want to commit to an overnight but still want waterslides, wave pools, and kiddie splash zones. Admission: ~$20–$30 with advance online booking or local hotel promo deals

• Lunch: Pizza Pub or takeout for a picnic

• Afternoon: Bigfoot Zipline Jr. Course or Timbavati Wildlife Park

  • Choose from animal encounters or a mini adventure park for active fun. Admission: ~$15–$25 per activity depending on your choice

Wisconsin is full of family-friendly day trips that mix fun, learning, and adventure. From interactive museums and waterparks to beaches and scenic trails, there’s a little something for every family.

Keep this guide handy for planning your next outing, pack your essentials like road trip bags, sunscreen, and snacks, and get ready for a day of laughter, exploration, and memories your kids won’t forget!

Jess