Lannon Quarry Park

Lannon Quarry Park offers a truly unique outdoor experience where kids can swim in crystal-clear quarry waters, explore fascinating rock formations, and learn about geology in a hands-on setting. This former limestone quarry has been transformed into an educational adventure park that combines water fun, hiking trails, and natural wonder, making it unlike any typical park visit in the Milwaukee area.

• ✓Swimming in the pristine quarry waters with stunning rock wall backdrop
• ✓Hiking trails with dramatic views of the 40-foot deep quarry
• ✓Educational geology features and interpretive signage about Wisconsin's limestone history
• ✓Unique photo opportunities among impressive rock formations
• ✓Sandy beach area for younger swimmers and sandcastle building

1. 1.Bring water shoes as the quarry bottom and surrounding areas feature rocky surfaces that can be rough on bare feet
2. 2.Arrive early on summer weekends as the swimming area has capacity limits and parking fills quickly
3. 3.Pack a picnic lunch and plan to make a half-day of it,there are shaded areas near the quarry for breaks between swimming sessions
4. 4.Don't miss the interpretive signs throughout the park that teach kids about the area's geological history and quarrying operations
5. 5.The trails around the quarry rim offer spectacular views and photo opportunities, perfect for older kids who enjoy hiking

Visit on weekday mornings during summer (late June through August) when the swimming beach is open and crowds are lighter. Early morning also offers the best lighting for viewing the quarry's stunning blue-green waters and impressive limestone walls.

The park requires a daily or seasonal park sticker for entry. Swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty during designated summer hours, so check the schedule before planning a water-focused visit.

The swimming beach operates during summer months only (typically late June through mid-August) with lifeguard supervision. The park and trails remain open year-round for hiking, and fall offers beautiful foliage views. Winter visits provide a stark, beautiful landscape but dress warmly and use caution on icy trails.

Check out Noodles & Company or Culver's on Appleton Avenue, both about 5 minutes away and offering quick, kid-friendly meals perfect after a day of quarry exploration.