8 free spring activities to do in Milwaukee
Summer is right around the corner and school will be out before too long. Let this spring motivate you and your family to explore any of the many free events around Milwaukee. Get on out and experience jazz in the park, explore a Victorian farmstead, or go on an invigorating nature hike. These are just a few of the things you can enjoy for free this spring in Milwaukee. Here are some ideas to explore:
Joan of Arc Chapel
Who knew that you could visit a 15th-century French Chapel on a university campus in Milwaukee? The Joan of Arc Chapel, bequeathed to Marquette University in 1964, was relocated to America in 1927 from the Rhone River Valley near Lyon, France. Visitors can take a free 30-minute tour, and mass is celebrated on weekdays when school is in session.
Jazz in the Park
Every Thursday from June 2 through September 1, visitors can enjoy the Cathedral Square Park’s outdoor summer concert series. The musical lineup includes jazz, reggae, blues, and big band performances. Shows start at 6 p.m., or get there early for the 5 o’clock happy hour.
Milwaukee Art Museum
The Milwaukee Art Museum began as an art gallery back in 1888 and now encompasses over 20,000 works of art in more than 40 galleries overlooking the Milwaukee lakefront.
Milwaukee RiverWalk
Milwaukee’s RiverWalk District extends for two miles and features public art and relaxation areas. Music lovers can enjoy River Rhythms, a free series of summer concerts on Wednesday nights from June through August, located in Pere Marquette Park.
Trimborn Farm
Trimborn Farm is a historic landmark with nine original buildings dating from the late 1840s to 1858. Families can learn what life was like on a Victorian-era farm. Visitors can explore the grounds for free or take a 90-minute guided tour for $5 (children under 6 are free).
Wehr Nature Center
The Wehr Nature Center covers 220 acres in southwest Milwaukee County. Explore more than five miles of walking trails or learn about the local natural environment in the visitor center. Kids will enjoy the sandbox and log cabin playhouse at the early childhood play space. Open daily.
Spring on Brady Art Walk
Check out more than 30 participating Brady Street merchants at the 5th annual Spring on Brady Art Walk. The festival includes children’s events and live artist demonstrations covering a variety of topics. If you can’t make it on June 4, the Brady Street Business District hosts Sunday Fundays on the second Sunday of each month during the summer months.
Traveling Beer Garden
Relax in the park with a beer in your hand when you check out the traveling beer garden 2016 tour. Free beer and root beer is available on opening day at each location, while it lasts. Enjoy live music on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 5-8 p.m. Check out the traveling schedule for venues and dates.
The warm months are finally here! They don’t last long in Wisconsin, so let’s get out and enjoy!
*Updated May 2020. Originally posted in April 2016.
