Family-Friendly Restaurants
20 kid-friendly restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops rated and reviewed by families.
⭐ ActivityApples of Eden is a charming local chocolate shop in Greendale Village where families can watch artisan chocolates being handmade, sample unique confections, and enjoy homemade ice cream. The welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for a sweet treat stop after exploring the village, and kids love seeing the colorful candy displays and choosing their own special treats to take home.
Leon's Frozen Custard has been a Milwaukee-area institution since 1942, serving up rich, creamy frozen custard that keeps families coming back generation after generation. This classic walk-up stand offers a quintessential summer experience where kids can enjoy authentic Wisconsin frozen custard in a nostalgic setting that parents and grandparents remember from their own childhoods.
🎳 BowlingCountry Lanes Bowling Alley is a family-friendly entertainment destination that goes beyond traditional bowling with bumper lanes for little ones, exciting cosmic bowling nights with lights and music, and an arcade to keep kids entertained between frames. With on-site food service and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a one-stop spot where the whole family can play, eat, and make memories together.
3rd Street Market Hall is Milwaukee's ultimate family-friendly food destination where picky eaters never have to compromise. This vibrant food court features diverse vendors serving everything from tacos to pizza to ramen, while kids stay entertained with TopGolf Swing Suites, arcade games, and shuffleboard,making it the perfect spot for families who want great food and entertainment under one roof.
Kopp's Frozen Custard is a Milwaukee-area institution that's been delighting families for generations with its rich, creamy frozen custard made fresh daily. Kids will be mesmerized watching the custard-making process through the windows, and parents will appreciate the quality burgers and reasonable prices that make this a complete meal destination, not just a dessert stop.
Purple Door Ice Cream is a Wauwatosa favorite where families can indulge in creative, handcrafted artisan ice cream flavors that go way beyond vanilla and chocolate. The friendly staff welcomes kids with patience and generous samples, making it a perfect treat destination after school, sports games, or weekend adventures. With locally-made ingredients and a cozy atmosphere, it's become a beloved tradition for Milwaukee-area families.
🎳 BowlingClassic Lanes in Oak Creek is a welcoming neighborhood bowling alley that's perfect for family outings, offering bumper bowling for little ones, arcade games to keep kids entertained between frames, and a full bar and grill for hungry bowlers. With party packages available and a solid 4.2-star rating from over 800 families, this spot makes it easy to enjoy a classic American pastime without the stress of kids struggling with gutter balls.
Since 1991, Georgie Porgie's has been delighting Milwaukee families with its whimsical treefort-themed dining room that makes every meal feel like an adventure. Kids are captivated by the playful atmosphere complete with treehouse decor while parents appreciate the reasonably-priced menu featuring juicy burgers, sandwiches, and creamy frozen custard that's become a local legend.
South Shore Terrace offers the perfect combination of lakefront dining and play space for families looking to enjoy Milwaukee's beautiful waterfront. This relaxed beer garden serves up Wisconsin comfort classics with a dedicated kids' menu, while little ones can burn off energy in the outdoor play area. Parents can unwind with local brews and lake views while keeping an eye on the kids.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Mequon is a family-friendly pit stop that combines quick casual meals with the sweet treats kids crave. This convenient location offers both lunch and dinner options,from burgers and chicken strips to the famous Blizzards and soft-serve cones,making it perfect for a post-soccer game celebration or a spontaneous ice cream run with the kids.
AJ Bombers brings the fun to family dining with its lively downtown Milwaukee atmosphere and seriously delicious burgers that both kids and parents will love. Known for its playful vibe and extensive burger menu, this casual spot makes dining out with children easy and enjoyable, with a kid-friendly menu that goes beyond typical chicken fingers.
Organ Piper Music Palace is a unique Milwaukee institution that combines dinner and a show in the most delightful way. While you enjoy pizza and classic American fare, a talented organist performs on a mighty Wurlitzer theater organ, playing everything from Disney tunes to classic rock, complete with sound effects that will have kids giggling. Between songs, little ones can ride the charming vintage merry-go-round or burn off energy in the arcade.