Best Milwaukee Family Fun Runs in 2025
Run the Bay in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin.
The North Shore Milwaukee region offers a variety of family-friendly fun runs that cater to all ages and fitness levels. Participating in these events is a wonderful way to promote health, enjoy the outdoors, and spend quality time with loved ones. Here are some upcoming runs to consider.
Run the Bay
When: Saturday, May 3, 2025
Where: Klode Park in Whitefish Bay
Sign up
This community-oriented event offers something for everyone. Participants can choose between a competitive 5K run, a casual family walk, or kids' races. The 5K starts at 8:30 AM, followed by a 3/4 mile run for ages 7-12 at 9:30 AM, and a 100-meter dash for kids 6 and under at 9:45 AM. Registration fees are $35 through April 6, increasing to $45. Kids' races are $12. Proceeds support the Whitefish Bay Public Education Foundation, benefiting local schools, teachers, and students.
Flower Power Run/Walk 5K
When: May 17, 2025
Where: Lisbon Community Park
Sign up
Peace, love and just a little friendly competition. The new Flower Power 5K is a “far-out, family-friendly event all about celebrating the season with good vibes, a groovy run or walk” along the tree-lined and paved Bugline Trail, and a flower-powered finish at Lisbon Community Park. Get in the fun and dress up in themes: Hustlin’ Hippies – The speediest squad of 4 or more runners will take home a massive 4-foot trophy, and the team rocking the most far-out, flower-powered outfits will also snag a 4-foot trophy (because looking this groovy is a true achievement!) What’s Included in the Race, Dude? A free packet of flower seeds and a finisher “woodle” from Ridgeway Woodworks—totally groovy and one-of-a-kind!
Freedom PT 5K Run/1 Mile Walk
When: Saturday, June 7, 2025
Where: Freedom Physical Therapy Services – Fox Point (6908 N. Santa Monica Blvd)
Sign up
This community-oriented event lets you choose between a 5K run or a 1-mile walk, both starting at 8:30 AM. T-shirts will be available at the race day registration table; however, registering before May 15, 2025, is the best way to ensure you get one. On-site registration will also be offered. Please plan to park in the Fox Point Shops parking lots (no street parking). Sponsored by Freedom PT, proceeds from the event support the Fox Point Foundation, helping enhance community programs and services.
Last year, the Freedom PT 5K Run/1 Mile Walk raised more than $2,500 for the Fox Point Foundation.
Healthy Kids Running Series
When: Dates for the 2025 series are to be announced
Where: Maple Dale Elementary School, 8377 N Port Washington Rd, Milwaukee
Sign up https://runsignup.com/Race/WI/Milwaukee/HKRSNorthShoreWI
This five-week running program is designed for children from Pre-K through 8th grade, offering age-appropriate races such as 50 & 75-yard dashes, 1/4 mile, 1/2 mile, and 1-mile runs. Participants earn points each week and receive a medal at the end of the series. It's an excellent opportunity for kids to develop an active lifestyle in a supportive environment.
Milwaukee Mother's Day Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K
When: Sunday, May 11, 2025
Where: Urban Park, 1070 E Michigan St, Milwaukee
Sign up: https://runsignup.com/Race/WI/Milwaukee/MilwuakeeMothersDay5k10k
Celebrate Mother's Day with a run along Milwaukee's scenic lakefront. The event offers a half marathon starting at 7:30 AM, a 10K and 5K at 8:00 AM, and a Kids Dash for children 8 and under at 7:45 AM. Registration fees vary by race and increase closer to the event date. All finishers receive a rose, and participants can enjoy treats like mimosas (for those 21 and over) and cake pops at the finish line.
Flannel 5K/10K
When: Saturday, February 15, 2025
Where: Location to be announced
Sign up: Registration details forthcoming
Embrace the winter season by participating in the Flannel 5K/10K. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite flannel attire, adding a cozy and fun element to the race. Details about the family-friendly aspects are limited, but such events often foster a welcoming atmosphere for runners of all ages.
Shake Your Shamrocks
When: Saturday, March 15, 2025
Where: Location to be announced
Sign up: Registration details forthcoming
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with the Shake Your Shamrocks run. Participants are often encouraged to wear green or festive costumes, making it an enjoyable event for families looking to get active together. Specific details for the 2025 event are yet to be released.
Oak Leaf Trail Exploration
When: Anytime
Where: Milwaukee County, WI
Sign up: No registration required
For families interested in a more flexible and self-paced activity, the Oak Leaf Trail offers over 135 miles of multi-use paths encircling Milwaukee County. The trail connects major parks and provides scenic views, making it ideal for a family run or walk at your convenience.
Please note that event details are subject to change. It's advisable to check the official event websites or contact organizers directly for the most current information.
