January in Milwaukee is a magical time. With the holidays behind us and a new year to look forward to, there’s no shortage of fun activities to enjoy. Whether you love the great outdoors, cozy indoor events, or exploring the city’s cultural scene, Milwaukee has something for everyone. Here are some top picks for January 2025:
1. Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum
The Milwaukee Art Museum is a perfect indoor retreat during the colder months. In January 2025, the museum will feature a special exhibition: Winter Series: Meadow. Enjoy a warm beverage at the museum’s café and take in the stunning lakefront views.
2. Check Out the Domes
The Mitchell Park Domes will host a train show in the Show Dome, where you can enjoy great train displays throughout the dome. It’s a great way to escape the chill and experience the beauty of nature indoors.
3. Go Ice Skating at Red Arrow Park
Bundle up and head downtown to the Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park. Rent some skates or bring your own and glide across the rink under twinkling lights. Afterwards, warm up with hot cocoa from the warming house.
4. Explore the Milwaukee Public Market
Located in the Historic Third Ward, the Milwaukee Public Market is a foodie’s paradise. Sample fresh oysters, grab a warm bowl of soup, or treat yourself to a sweet dessert. January is also a quieter time to shop for unique, locally-made products.
5. Cool Kite Festival: Veterans Park
Start the new year with kite-flying fun at this free festival along Milwaukee’s lakefront. Watch expert kite flyers, enjoy ice sculpting demonstrations, and warm up with free coffee and hot chocolate. Bring your own kite or buy one on-site!
6. Winter Recreation at Lapham Peak
There are 17 miles of cross-country ski trails at Lapham Peak (including 2.5 miles of lighted trails for night skiing). Lapham Peak also has snow-making equipment, which makes it possible to improve the quality of the snow base and extend the season for skiers. Hikers, pets and snowshoers must stay off of the ski trails when they are snow-covered.
7. Catch a Milwaukee Bucks Game
Cheer on the Milwaukee Bucks at the Fiserv Forum as they take on top NBA teams this January. Enjoy the electric atmosphere and try some local eats at the arena’s many food vendors.
8. Jurassic Quest: Wisconsin Statefair Park Exposition Center
Jurassic Quest’s skyscraping dinosaurs bring supersized family fun – only here can you get up close to life-size, realistic animatronic dinos and ancient ocean dwellers!
9. Waukesha Janboree
Events will take place throughout the city of Waukesha. We have many family, children (both young and teen), and adult events.
10. Relax with a Brewery Tour
Milwaukee’s brewing history is legendary, and January is a great time to explore it. Take a brewery tour at Miller Brewing Company, Sprecher, or one of the city’s many craft breweries. Some tours even include cozy taproom tastings.
11. Take a Polar Plunge
For the adventurous (or just plain brave), the Polar Plunge at Bradford Beach is a thrilling way to start the new year. Proceeds from this chilly dip often support local charities—so you’ll be doing good while having fun.
12. Explore the Harley-Davidson Museum
Dive into Milwaukee’s rich history of motorcycles at the Harley-Davidson Museum. With interactive exhibits and fascinating displays, it’s an experience you won’t forget. January is an ideal time to visit as crowds tend to be smaller.
13. Warm Up at a Coffee Shop Crawl
January is prime time for coffee lovers. Create your own coffee shop crawl and visit Milwaukee’s best spots like Colectivo, Anodyne, and Stone Creek. Sip on creative seasonal drinks and enjoy the cozy atmospheres.
14. Attend a Concert or Show
The Pabst Theater, Riverside Theater, and Turner Hall Ballroom have exciting lineups for January 2025. Whether you’re into live music, comedy, or theater performances, there’s something to enjoy.
15. Enjoy a Staycation at a Historic Hotel
Why not treat yourself to a winter staycation? Book a room at The Pfister Hotel or The Iron Horse Hotel for a luxurious escape. Enjoy spa treatments, fine dining, and stunning views of the Milwaukee skyline.
Wrap Up
From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, January in Milwaukee offers endless opportunities to make the most of winter. Bundle up, grab your calendar, and start planning your month of fun in the city!
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