As a child growing up in Milwaukee in the 1970s, I never truly appreciated what the city had to offer.
I was happy just to play in my backyard sprinkler and never venture beyond our yard.
My parents knew the city held numerous treasures, however, and took me on many trips to the zoo (when the mighty gorilla Samson was still alive) and to Milwaukee Brewers games at the old County Stadium, among other venues.
It wasn’t until I was an adult and had moved away that I realized the wealth of family entertainment in the city. Here’s just a glimpse of my two favorite Milwaukee trips:
Milwaukee County Zoo. This zoo, tops in the nation in my book, was founded in 1882 and now houses about 2,500 animals, including exotics and endangered. (We especially love the bat house!).
The monkeys are a particularly large draw, as is the family farm, perfect for all those city kids to see what milking a cow is really like. Shows, events, attractions and more round out an all-day or all-weekend excursion. For more information, see www.milwaukeezoo.org.
Betty Brinn Children’s Museum. Interactive exhibits are the big draw here, from a working store and post office and dress-up theater to a vast play area for the younger set.
Most areas stay the same, but the museum does feature rotating special exhibits as well.
There’s lots to do and see for all ages; plan on spending a full day, but don’t forget to pack the snacks! For an added bonus, check out the great view of the downtown lakefront! For more information see
www.bbcmkids.org
Sharon Verbeten is a freelance writer from De Pere.
More in Milwaukee
If you’re planning a trip to southeast Wisconsin, don’t ignore the greater Milwaukee area. There are plenty of must-sees just outside the city limits as well. Need more ideas for your family? Visit www.visitmilwaukee.org.