Fall Festivities, Can’t-Miss Milwaukee Things to Do This Season

As the leaves begin to turn orange and gold, Milwaukee transforms into an autumn wonderland. The crisp air invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the seasonal charm through a variety of activities that celebrate the best of fall. 

As KJ from Brew City Dads says, “The Milwaukee area comes alive in fall, with seasonal activities perfect for all ages. The city hosts a variety of autumn festivals and harvest markets offering delicious food and fun entertainment. Families can explore nearby pumpkin patches, enjoy apple picking, or take in the beautiful fall colors at one of several nearby parks or state forests.” 

No matter if you’re a local looking for new experiences or a new resident ready to explore the city in the fall, this Redfin article will guide you to enjoying all the fall things to do in Milwaukee, WI.

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Courtesy of Forest Exploration Center

Milwaukee in autumn, explore Milwaukee’s scenic outdoors

Milwaukee’s outdoor spaces come alive in the fall, offering stunning backdrops for activities. With parks like Lakeshore State Park and the Milwaukee County Zoo’s expansive grounds, the city provides ample opportunities to soak in the autumn scenery. 

Local photographer Michael of Mb Squared Photography shares, “For all you nature lovers out there, be sure to add Seven Bridges Nature Trail at Grant Park, in South Milwaukee, to your fall adventures list. This isn’t a huge trail, though just the right size for an afternoon with the entire family. Fall is by far my favorite time of the year to wander its trails. From the parking lot(s) down through the woods, wander the seven bridges, to the edge of Lake Michigan. It’s so secluded you’ll almost forget you’re ten minutes from the city. It’s certainly one of my favorite Milwaukee sights.”

One of the most heartwarming sights during this season is the increase of dog walkers enjoying the parks. As the cooler temperatures set in, the joy of seeing pets running through piles of leaves is a reminder of the simple pleasures of fall. 

As Off Leash MKE shares, “Fall is an ideal time to explore and hike Milwaukee’s dog-friendly parks and trails. A must-do activity for new residents with dogs is visiting local gems like the Menomonee River Parkway, Grant Park’s Seven Bridges, and the Forest Exploration Center. These spots offer a stunning mix of fall colors, scenic beauty, and plenty of space for your dog to explore and sniff. We recommend using a long line, giving your dog the freedom to safely enjoy the natural surroundings.” For those looking to socialize their dogs or enjoy a guided adventure, Off Leash MKE offers group dog hikes that provide even more opportunities to explore these fantastic trails while your dog gets exercise and makes new friends.

Additionally, Tails N’ Trails also invites you to consider them, sharing,  “Tails N’ Trails Pets stands out in the pet service industry by offering your pets more personalized care. We strive to build a relationship with your pet, which helps us build a foundation of trust to pave the way for obedience, leash etiquette, recall practice, and proper socializing.”

For those looking to immerse themselves in Milwaukee’s natural beauty this fall, the Forest Exploration Center in Wauwatosa is a must-visit destination. As Emily Glaser from Forest Exploration Center highlights, “The Forest Exploration Center in Wauwatosa is a 67-acre mature hardwood forest that features a one-mile self-guided nature trail. This accessible trail loop for hiking and nature observation offers visitors of all abilities the opportunity to be immersed in the forest ecosystem. Explore forest ecology and climate-adaptive research happening in this unique urban woodland through birdwatching, wildlife monitoring, and season-driven guided experiences.”  

For a unique way to soak in the beauty of fall, consider exploring the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail. Mike Schroeder from Milwaukee Riverkeeper, suggests, “As the fall season unfolds, we highly recommend a paddle on the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail, where you can enjoy the fall colors from a unique perspective! Taking a hike around the Milwaukee River Greenway also lets you experience the natural beauty surrounding us – even in the heart of the city! Milwaukee’s ‘emerald necklace’ stretches for six miles of the Milwaukee River, with over 28 miles of hiking, biking, and water trails, linking 12 public parks.”

Jessica Del Toro from Friends of Wehr recommends, “Visit Wehr Nature Center located within Whitnall Park 9701 W. College Ave, Franklin, WI. Visit 220 acres of nature preserve with 5 miles of trails and explore the accessible park features, including a 1-mile All Abilities loop trail with a hard surface boardwalk, an accessible pier overlooking Mallard Lake, and an observation blind. The Friends of Wehr, the nonprofit partner of the Wehr Nature Center, supports Wehr’s mission of inspiring current and future generations to explore and value the natural world. Our commitment is to create a welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or background. A place for all seasons, a place for everyone.” 

Another standout destination for fall fun is Thompson Farm in nearby Bristol, WI. As Halie Hart from the farm shares, “Step into a world of fun and excitement at Thompson Farm, where families can embark on a day filled with unforgettable experiences and interactive activities in the heart of nature.” With a sprawling 4-acre adventure farm featuring over 10 attractions — from a giant playground and bounce pillows to a corn maze and trike track—there’s something for everyone. 

Plus, you can pick raspberries and pumpkins to take home! On weekends, the Fall Festival adds even more excitement with live music, tasty food from a taco truck, face painting, and a beer garden. It’s the perfect spot to celebrate autumn with family and friends!

Spooktacular fun: Halloween and fall activities in Milwaukee

As the leaves fall, the city transforms into a hub of Halloween excitement and overflows with fall things to do in Milwaukee. Whether you’re looking to get your adrenaline pumping with ghostly adventures or simply want to soak in the seasonal charm, Milwaukee offers a variety of activities that celebrate the magic of fall. 

Kim Frankenhoff from Out & About Wisconsin, a site that helps you find what is going on in Milwaukee shares multiple suggestions. “What better place for a ‘not so scary’ Halloween than at the Milwaukee County Zoo, where Boo at the Zoo encourages everyone – no matter what age – to get into costume on Oct. 17-20. Visitors can enjoy everything from live pumpkin-carving exhibitions and light shows to animal talks, a trick-or-treat trail, and stilt walkers.” 

Additionally, “Dia De Los Muertos, translated as the “Day of the Dead,” celebrates life and the return of spirits to the living world at Milwaukee’s Mitchell Park Domes on Oct. 25. The entire Desert Dome is decorated, as dancers, local food and art vendors, and craft-making opportunities abound.” 

Another fun event is made just for vintage car lovers. “At its new location, Milwaukee’s Gateway Classic Cars is holding its Caffeine & Chrome: Trunk or Treat event on Oct. 26. Enjoy classic cars, caffeine, and pastries, along with the opportunity to dress up in your spookiest attire!” 

A thrilling Halloween experience awaits at Cedarburg Haunt! This spooky attraction promises chills and thrills as you explore. They state, “We are open for our 17th year of scaring you silly! The ticket price is $20 for The Haunt. New this year is our escape room for an extra $5 admission fee. Hours of operation: 6:00-10:00 pm Fridays and Saturdays October 11-26.” With a reputation for being one of the scariest spots in the area, it’s perfect for those looking to embrace the Halloween spirit. 

A great addition to your spooky experience comes from Aaron of Trove Arts, who shares his excitement about the event, “Immerse yourself in INTO THE SHADOWS, an evening of captivating tales and art history from the dark and macabre in a secret and mysterious Art Parlour! A truly original recipe for spooky fall fun! 

INTO THE SHADOWS is an intimate, immersive adventure blending art history with a splash of historical fiction, a few ounces of decadent-themed N.A. elixirs, a dash of a fun art lesson, a pinch of mystical magic, and one eye of newt!”

Courtesy of Pine Hill Orchard

Seasonal delights: Milwaukee’s farms and farmers markets

Fall is here, and that means it’s time to enjoy the fun and flavor of local farms and apple orchards! Just outside Milwaukee, you can pick your own apples, explore pumpkin patches, and taste fresh, delicious produce. Perfect for families and friends, these farms offer hayrides, corn mazes, and festive events that celebrate the season. 

Matthew Lesch from Pine Hill Orchard says, “Pine Hill Orchard is a 3rd generation family business that started in 1978.   We feature 48 different apple varieties, award-winning apple cider, caramel apples, our delicious Pine Hill Crunch apple pie, raw local honey, and Wisconsin maple syrup.  Our retail stand is located in the Kettle Moraine just northwest of Milwaukee.  The Ice Age trail is close by and offers miles of beautiful scenic trails that show off the Wisconsin foliage in the fall.  We have picnic tables for your enjoyment and use from August to November.  Our “bag your own” part of the stand is a local favorite, choose your apples and fill your bag. 

Additionally, Genevieve Weston of Westons’ Antique Apple Orchard shares, “Westons ‘ Antique Apple Orchard offers up to 50 apple varieties in their Orchard Store which is open Saturdays 2 to 5 and Sundays 12 to 4 through October.  Guests can walk through the orchard as well as buy cider, apple cider donuts, and more.” 

Milwaukee’s farmers markets offer a fantastic opportunity to discover fresh, locally-grown produce, homemade treats, and unique artisan goods. Strolling through you’ll find everything from crisp apples and pumpkins to homemade items, all while supporting local farmers and artisans. Wedding & lifestyle photographer Janelle Adamson states, “Don’t miss out on the South Shore farmers market, farmer’s market, where you can pick up fresh produce and autumn-themed treats! It’s a perfect way to soak in the season and get a feel for the local community.” The market is a beloved local destination that showcases the best of Milwaukee’s fresh produce and artisanal goods. Located in South Shore Park, this market offers a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can find a variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and handmade products from local vendors. With live music and community events often featured, it’s not just a place to shop; it’s a gathering spot for families and friends to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. 

Farmer’s markets are all over, luckily Jack Hamrick from Foraged shares, “Foraged is the only online resource that has compiled information on every farmer’s market in the USA. A great activity for anyone in Milwaukee is visiting a farmers market! Here’s our collection page on farmer’s markets in Milwaukee.” 

Ryan Laessig, creator of Milwaukee Makers Market invites you to stop by to visit and support the maker community. The market is a celebration of creativity and community. It’s not just an artisan fair; it’s a chance to showcase the amazing work of local creators. Curated by Ryan Laessig, each market offers a warm atmosphere where small business owners can share their products and connect with fans and fellow makers.

A wonderful addition to your fresh produce and product adventures is stopping by 414loral, a charming flower shop to buy fresh flowers. Jenna Resendiz shares, “414loral is more than just a flower shop in the heart of Bronzeville. They use mindful and sustainable practices to make sure their community and planet thrive with a mission to foster collaboration, flower fun, and give back to their neighborhood. You can visit their cozy brick-and-mortar on North M.L.K. Drive every Saturday, 10 am to 3 pm, for a build-your-own-bouquet experience with a flower bar lush with locally grown seasonal blooms in a music-filled shop with warm scents and even warmer staff.”

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