Why Winter's Better In Waukesha: Beat The Blues With These Local Picks

Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in Waukesha. From family outings to seasonal events and easy day trips, there’s plenty around town to keep your calendar full. Just remember to double-check hours, weather updates and ticket details before heading out. And if you want even more local winter ideas, keep scrolling — you’ll find a way to get personalized suggestions based on what you love to do.

Eble Park Ice Arena

Address: 19400 W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield, WI 53045
Phone: (262) 784-7512
Details: Eble Park Ice Arena offers year-round public skating sessions for all ages and skill levels, making it a go-to spot for family outings, group get-togethers or staying active during the winter months. Rental skates are available, and sessions are designed to be welcoming for beginners and experienced skaters alike. View the public skate schedule on the county’s website or purchase tickets through the online ticket portal.

Retzer Nature Center

Address: S14 W28167 Madison St, Waukesha, WI 53188
Phone: (262) 896-8007
Details: This 483-acre nature preserve offers prairies, woodlands, wetlands and miles of trails for hiking and wildlife viewing year-round. Retzer also features an Environmental Learning Center and planetarium with educational programs for all ages. Trails are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and entry and parking are free. Dogs are not permitted, except for leashed service animals. Learn more on the website.

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park Milwaukee West

Address: 2440 E Moreland Blvd, Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (414) 216-9485
Details: This high-energy indoor adventure park features wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, obstacle courses and more. Urban Air is ideal for kids, teens and active adults looking to burn off energy indoors. The park is open daily, with hours varying by day. Tickets and pricing details are available through Urban Air’s online ticketing page.

A Stroke of Genius Paint, Canvas & Wine Studio

Address: 250 W Broadway, Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (262) 893-4186
Details: Located in historic downtown Waukesha, this welcoming art studio hosts guided paint-and-sip classes where guests can enjoy wine or other beverages while creating their own artwork. No experience is required, and all supplies are provided. Browse upcoming public classes and events on the studio’s online calendar.

Waukesha Civic Theatre

Address: 264 W Main St, Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (262) 547-0708 (Box Office)
Details: A cornerstone of the local arts scene since 1957, Waukesha Civic Theatre presents a full slate of live performances and educational programming each year. Winter productions include “The Producers,” Disney’s “Winnie the Pooh KIDS” and “Sense and Sensibility.” Performance schedules and tickets are available on the theatre’s website.

Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum

Address: 101 W Main St, Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (262) 521-2859
Details: Explore Waukesha County’s rich past through rotating exhibits and an extensive permanent collection, including a popular display honoring legendary musician Les Paul. The museum’s archives include thousands of artifacts, photographs and documents that tell the story of the region from early settlement through modern times. Learn more about current exhibits and hours on the museum’s collections page.

K1 Speed Milwaukee

Address: W 229 N 1400 Westwood Dr, Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (262) 232-6700
Details: K1 Speed offers fast-paced indoor racing on professionally designed tracks using high-performance electric go-karts. Suitable for first-time drivers and experienced racers, the facility also features real-time lap timing, leagues and on-site food options. Guests can check in ahead of time using K1 Speed’s online registration system.

Kids Empire Brookfield

Address: 16095 W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield, WI 53005
Phone: (414) 363-7923
Details: Designed for children up to age 12, Kids Empire features colorful slides, climbing structures and a dedicated toddler area in a fully indoor setting. It’s a reliable option for younger kids on cold or snowy days. Waivers are required, and tickets can be purchased in advance through the Kids Empire booking site.

Want ideas that fit your family and your budget? Enter your ZIP code and preferences — kid-friendly, outdoor, educational and more — for winter getaway recommendations made for you.

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