92 Free Summer Adventures in Milwaukee’s North Shore
Summer lasts exactly 92 days.
You have from Saturday, June 21, 2025 to Monday, September 22, 2025.
Don’t waste a single day with this ultimate guide to adventures in the North Shore communities. Oh, and did we mention these activities are all FREE?
Here's a comprehensive list of 92 free things to do this summer, organized by category.
Outdoor Concerts and Music Festivals
Shorewood Summer Sounds
Summer Sounds returns for 2025 with a lineup of live music amid the beautiful surroundings of Hubbard Park on Wednesday evenings. Bring a picnic or purchase food and beverages from Hubbard Park Lodge. The park is accessible from the Oak Leaf Trail or 3565 N. Morris Blvd.
Whitefish Bay Sounds of Summer
The annual Silver Spring Drive street festival brings together live music with a mix of rock, funk, hip hop, and dance. This year will take place on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
Live at the Oasis
After 30+ years, Glendale renamed Music in the Glen to Live at the Oasis. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, family and friends to Richard E. Maslowski Community Park amphitheater.
Cedarburg Summer Sounds
Everyone is invited on Friday nights to Cedarburg's beautiful Cedar Creek Park for outstanding music, food and fun. Enjoy the live concerts from 6:30-10 pm at the park.
Mequon-Thiensville Family Fun Before the 4th
Mequon-Theinsville’s Independence Day party takes place early, with a June 28th parade to Thiensville Village Park for musical entertainment, Little League games, two water ski shows, family entertainment, a main stage band, and fabulous fireworks show.
Fox Point Rock the Fox Concerts
Free outdoor concerts at Longacre Pavilion in Fox Point all summer! Enjoy live music on June 18 with Mixtape (’80s/’90s hits), The Spiders from Milwaukee (covering David Bowie & more) on July 16, and AM-FM (rock history) on August 13.
Mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to rev your engines at the first annual myWheels by myBlue Car Show on Aug. 2nd. See you there! 🏁
Community Libraries
Local libraries hosts various free events and programs for children and adults throughout the summer, including storytimes, craft sessions, reading programs and educational workshops.
Frank L. Weyenberg Library
The Frank L. Weyenberg Library in Mequon offers a variety of activities for kids and families, including hands-on creativity with Little Artists and Little Scientists, interactive fun with Parachute Play and Tiny Dancers, and friendly competition at Family BINGO Night and Chess Club. Kids can build and play at LEGO Club and Nintendo Switch Day, while families can enjoy classic films at Throwback Family Movie Matinees.
Shorewood Public Library
Whitefish Bay Public Library
North Shore Library – Glendale (serving Glendale, Fox Point, Bayside, and River Hills)
Brown Deer Public Library
Festivals and Events
The Tour of America’s Dairyland takes place June 19-29 this year
Experience the thrill of competitive cycling at the Tour of America’s Dairyland (ToAD), a free summer spectacle that combines athleticism with community festivity. This event takes place from June 19-29 this year, and transforms Wisconsin towns into vibrant hubs of speed and strategy, with high-octane racing on a 1-mile circuit flanked by cheering crowds, live music and family-friendly activities. The popular Shorewood Tour of America’s Dairyland leg features races for all ages. With no admission fee, spectators can revel in the adrenaline of the Dairyland Mile running race or cheer as elite athletes battle for victory.
Whitefish Bay Art Fest takes place July 12-13, 2025, from 10 AM to 5 PM on East Silver Spring Drive. Enjoy free entry, free parking, live music, and over 100 original artists showcasing their work. Families can explore the Kids Art Zone with activities like spin art, sand sculptures, and interactive demos.
Grafton Holidaze: A summer celebration with fireworks and family activities.
Brown Deer Community Vibes: Monthly gatherings with food trucks and entertainment.
Mequon-Thiensville Riverwalk: Explore local vendors and artisans along the Milwaukee River
Bayside National Night Out: Community event promoting safety with activities and demonstrations.
Celebrate all things Strawberry June 28 - June 29 at the iconic Cedarburg festival! You can also walk along the picturesque main street and uncover hidden gems at Art on the Avenue, showcasing talented artists from Wisconsin and beyond. Free entertainment includes children's activities, captivating demonstrations, exciting contests, vibrant live music, and more.
The Cedarburg Strawberry fest takes place June 28 - June 29
Farmers Markets
Along with the many diverse vendors, farmers markets in the North Shore also feature free music and live entertainment. You can catch farmers markets in the following towns and villages:
Fox Point Farmers Market
Dates: June 14 – October 11, 2025
Time: Saturdays | 8 AM – Noon
Where: North Shore Congregational Church Parking Lot, 7330 N Santa Monica Blvd, Fox Point, WI
Whitefish Bay Farmers Market
Dates: Saturdays, June 14 – October 25, 2025. Bonus: Dads get FREE hot dogs for Dogs with Dads at the opening market on June 14!
Hours: 9 AM – 1 PM
Location: 325 E. Silver Spring Drive, Whitefish Bay
Shorewood Farmers Market
Dates: Sundays, June 15 – October 26, 2025
Hours: 9:30 AM – 1 PM
Location: Estabrook Park, 4100 Estabrook Parkway, Shorewood, WI
Brown Deer Farmers Market
Dates: June 25 and ends on October 15
Hours: Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the month of October, the market closes at 2 p.m.
Location: The Market is located at Village Park and Pond (4920 W Green Brook Dr.) near Village Hall.
Outdoor Recreation and Nature Activities
Lake Michigan shoreline at Schlitz Audubon Center
Hiking at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center: Explore trails and observe local wildlife.
Biking the Oak Leaf Trail: A scenic trail that winds through multiple North Shore communities.
Kayaking on the Milwaukee River
Bird Watching at Mequon Nature Preserve: A haven for bird enthusiasts.
Fishing at Brown Deer Park Pond: A serene spot for catch-and-release fishing.
Picnicking at Doctors Park in Fox Point: Enjoy lake views and open green spaces.
Beach Day at Atwater Park in Shorewood: Relax on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan.
Disc Golf at Estabrook Park: Challenge friends to a game in this scenic park in Glendale
Tennis enthusiasts can serve and volley on the public courts scattered throughout North Shore parks. These courts are maintained regularly and open daily from sunrise to sunset – just bring your racquet and a few tennis balls for hours of entertainment.
Baseball players (or those looking to improve their game) can take advantage of the public baseball fields. Whether you're practicing your swing, fielding grounders, or organizing a casual pickup game, these diamonds are perfect for honing your skills.
Basketball courts in the North Shore parks offer a great spot for shooting hoops or joining a pickup game. The courts feature sturdy backboards and clearly marked lines, making them ideal for everything from casual play to more competitive matches.
Pickleball – the fastest-growing sport in America – has a home here too. The dedicated pickleball courts provide the perfect venue for this popular paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
For runners and walkers, the track at Klode Park and various school facilities present excellent options for logging your miles. These tracks offer a cushioned running surface and measured distances, making it easy to track your progress.
These venues are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, so consider visiting during off-peak hours for the best chance at securing your spot.
Go to the Beach!
Atwater Park Beach in Shorewood
The scenic 5-acre park offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. The park is home to the annual Memorial Day celebration, a summer Shorewood Concert Band series, the July 4th fireworks and the annual Shorewood Men's Club Chicken BBQ, which officially kicks off Atwater Beach season each June, when it opens daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Doctors Park Beach – Fox Point
Klode Park Beach – Whitefish Bay
Big Bay Park Beach – Whitefish Bay
Gaze at the Full Moon
In the summer of 2025, the full moons will occur June 11 (Strawberry Moon ), July 10 (Buck Moon at 4:37 p.m. and August 9 (Sturgeon Moon). For optimal viewing of these full moons in Milwaukee's North Shore area, consider the following locations:
North Point Lighthouse: Situated in Lake Park, this historic lighthouse provides a unique vantage point over Lake Michigan. While specific full moon tours were offered in the past, it's advisable to check their current schedule for any upcoming events.
Atwater Park: Located in Shorewood, this park features a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, providing a serene setting for moon viewing.
Silver Spring Park
The nearly hidden overlook at the bend of Silver Spring and Lake Drive has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the Whitefish Bay Garden Club. Once overrun by weeds, it has now been beautifully restored with native plants. It’s an attractive and peaceful hidden gem with beautiful views overlooking Lake Michigan.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Jonathan Clark House Museum in Mequon has hands-on activities
Visit the Jonathan Clark House Museum in Mequon
The Jonathan Clark House Museum in Mequon is a restored 1848 Greek Revival home offering insights into mid-19th-century settler life. Open for tours by appointment, the museum features period furnishings and hosts educational events that gives a peek inside early Mequon settler life.
Oak Leaf Trail Ghost Train
Choo choo! With flashing lights and authentic sounds, the Ghost Train is a sensory art installation located at the Oak Leaf Trail Bridge and Capitol Drive in Shorewood, that allows visitors to envision the journey of a train that that ran on what is now the Oak Leaf Trail. See the seasonal Ghost Train “arrival and departure” times.
Tour the Cedarburg Cultural Center: Experience art exhibits and historical displays.
Explore the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts in Cedarburg: Discover textile arts and heritage.
Walk through the Historic Third Ward in Milwaukee: Adjacent to the North Shore, this district offers a rich architectural history.
Visit the Benjamin Church House in Estabrook Park: A restored Greek Revival home from the 1840s.
Explore Lime Kiln Park in Grafton: Home to historic lime kilns and walking trails.
Visit the Port Washington Light Station Museum: A restored 1860 lighthouse offering tours.
Attend cultural events at the Jewish Community Center in Whitefish Bay: Various free events open to the public.
Celebrate Independence
The Fox Point 4th of July celebrations include a bike parade
Fox Point
Celebrate the Fox Point July 4th Parade on Friday, July 4, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Longacre Pavilion. Enjoy a Bike Parade, Main Parade, and Ice Cream Social. Festivities begin with bike decorating at 8:30 AM, followed by the parade at 9 AM, and an ice cream social at 9:45 AM.
Shorewood
The Independence Day Parade in Shorewood begins at 3 pm. Following the parade, live music will commence at 7 pm at Atwater Park, culminating in a fireworks display at 9:00 PM at the same location.
Glendale
Glendale's festivities kick off with a Children's Parade at 10:00 AM, followed by the main parade at 10:30 AM along Milwaukee River Parkway. From 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM, Kletzsch Park will host a Food Truck Festival, live music, and family activities, including bouncy houses, a dunk tank, face painting, henna tattoos, and the "summer soak." The day concludes with a fireworks display at 9:15 PM at Kletzsch Park.
Bayside
The annual 4th of July Parade will start at 9 am at Village Hall, where participants will then walk east on Ellsworth Lane, south on Rexleigh Drive, north on King Road, and end at Ellsworth Park. Please begin gathering at Village Hall at 8:45am.
River Hills
River Hills holds a neighborhood parade on the morning of July 4th, with specific start times varying annually. Post-parade, the community organizes various family-friendly activities, and fireworks light up the sky in the evening, usually commencing at dusk.
Mequon
Mequon celebrates with a lively parade on the morning of July 4th; specific start times may vary annually. The city offers various festivities throughout the day, including family-friendly activities and live entertainment, concluding with a fireworks display at dusk.
Thiensville
Thiensville's parade is a highlight of the day's festivities, usually starting in the morning; specific start times may vary annually. The village hosts various activities, including live music, food vendors, and family-friendly games, capped off by a fireworks display at dusk.
Grafton
Grafton hosts a community parade during the day on July 4th; specific start times may vary annually. The town offers a range of activities, including live entertainment, food stalls, and family-friendly events, with the night ending with a fireworks spectacle at dusk.
Cedarburg
Cedarburg's parade is a local tradition, typically beginning at 10:00 AM on July 4th. Following the parade, an all-day picnic takes place in Cedar Creek Park, featuring live music and various family-friendly activities. Fireworks illuminate the night sky at dusk, set from Adlai Horn Park.
Whitefish Bay
The Fourth of July parade in Whitefish Bay kicks off at 11:30 AM at the corner of Silver Spring Drive and Kent Avenue, heading east on Silver Spring Drive, and continuing north on Lake Drive to Klode Park. From 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Klode Park, attendees can enjoy food and beverages, kids' games from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and live music. The day concludes with a fireworks finale at 9:30 PM at Klode Park.
Sweet treats
Whitefish Bay Ice Cream Socials
The first Whitefish Bay ice cream social of the summer is Wednesday, June 18
It’s a tradition to celebrate with the Whitefish Bay Civic Foundation’s Ice Cream Social, and this year they take place on Wednesday, June 18 and Wednesday, August 6 at Old School House Park (5240 N. Marlborough). Enjoy a sweet treat and music by the Village Band of Whitefish Bay. The music and first treat are complimentary, so we encourage you to come, enjoy and spend time with neighbors and friends, old and new.
Sprecher Root Beer Bash
Discover The North Shore and Sprecher team up for their annual Sprecher Root Beer Bash! This year it takes place on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at BAYSHORE from 11am-3pm. Experience “The World’s Largest Root Beer Float Festival” with a free root beer float.
Family and Children's Activities
Come to the Village Hall for a fun-filled evening during myBlue Night Out where you will have the opportunity to visit with your myBlue officer, tour the Police Department and Communications Center, enjoy activities and prizes for children, play game, enjoy great food, and sit in a police car and learn about equipment.
Storytime at the Shorewood Public Library: Weekly sessions for young children.
Family Movie Nights at Glendale's Richard E. Maslowski Park: Outdoor screenings suitable for all ages.
Visit the Brown Deer Children's Park: A playground designed for imaginative play.
Attend the Thiensville Village Market: Family-friendly environment with vendors and live music.
Participate in the Mequon Nature Preserve's Family Fun Days: Educational activities and nature exploration.
