Guide to Parks in Milwaukee's North Shore
Klode Park in Whitefish Bay
Milwaukee's north shore communities are home to several parks that offer a variety of family-friendly activities. Here’s a look at some of the top parks.
Klode Park - Whitefish Bay
Located in Whitefish Bay, Klode Park is an excellent spot for families. It features:
Playground: A well-maintained playground with equipment suitable for various ages.
Picnic Areas: Several picnic tables and shelters, perfect for family gatherings and snacks.
Beach Access: The park offers access to Lake Michigan, where families can enjoy beach activities during warmer months.
Walking Trails: Scenic paths for walking, jogging, or biking, ideal for family strolls.
Events: Throughout the summer, Klode Park hosts community events, including concerts and outdoor movies.
Cahill Park - Whitefish Bay
Cahill Park, located in Mequon, is another family-friendly destination featuring:
Playground: A large playground that encourages active play.
Sports Facilities: Fields for soccer and other sports, equipped for family games and practices.
Nature Trails: Beautiful trails for walks, which are great for teaching kids about nature and wildlife.
Open Green Space: Ample space for running, playing frisbee, or flying kites.
Estabrook Park
Estabrook Park is one of the most scenic parks in the area, situated along the Milwaukee River bordering Shorewood, Glendale and Whtefish Bay. It offers a diverse range of activities, most notably the Estabrook Beer Garden. The park features hiking and biking trails, a large dog park, disc golf, and the well-loved Estabrook Beer Garden. Families can enjoy the playground, open fields, and scenic river views while exploring this historic park.
Playground: A fun and safe area for children to play.
Picnic Areas: Sheltered spots with tables for family picnics.
Hiking Trails: Extensive trails for walking and biking, with plenty of opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Fishing: Accessible sections of the river where kids can fish or just enjoy watching the water.
Atwater Park - Shorewood
Located in Shorewood, Atwater Park features a quaint beach area along with a lookout point offering stunning views of Lake Michigan. The park includes a playground, open green space, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families to explore and play. In the summer, visitors can enjoy the beach, while the scenic bluff provides a perfect spot for watching the sunrise over the lake.
Doctors Park - Fox Point
Situated in Fox Point, Doctors Park offers access to a beautiful beach, hiking trails, and picnic areas. The quiet setting is perfect for a relaxed family day out. The park’s wooded trails lead down to the shoreline, offering a peaceful nature escape. The open fields and playground also make it a great place for kids to run and play.
Indian Creek Park - Fox Point
A hidden gem in Fox Point, Indian Creek Park provides a serene natural setting with walking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is ideal for those looking for a quiet retreat in nature, away from the more heavily visited parks in the area.
Milwaukee’s north shore parks provide a great opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors, learn about nature, and participate in recreational activities. With amenities to appeal to all ages, these parks make for ideal destinations for memorable family adventures.
Shorewood Nature Preserve
For families interested in nature exploration, the Shorewood Nature Preserve offers eight acres of woodland along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Accessible via a steep path, visitors can experience native flora and fauna. The preserve is also a notable bird-watching spot, with over 200 species observed.Â
Hubbard Park
Nestled along the Milwaukee River, Hubbard Park provides a serene environment with picnic areas and walking paths. An excellent location for families seeking a peaceful outing amidst nature.
Havenwoods State Forest
Located within Milwaukee, Havenwoods State Forest encompasses 237 acres of grasslands, woods, and wetlands. The forest features trails suitable for hiking and biking, as well as an Environmental Awareness Center offering educational programs. An ideal destination for families looking to engage with nature and learn about the local ecosystem.
Lynden Sculpture Garden
Combining art and nature, the Lynden Sculpture Garden in Milwaukee offers 40 acres of parkland dotted with over 50 monumental sculptures. Families can enjoy the expansive lawns, woodlands, and a pond while appreciating the outdoor art installations. The garden provides a unique cultural experience in a natural setting.
