Skip to main content
Sign In
Waukesha Civic Theatre performing arts theater in Waukesha, WI
Photo: Waukesha Civic Theatre
View of Waukesha Civic Theatre in Waukesha, WI
Photo: Fuzzy Red Camera - Randall T
View of Waukesha Civic Theatre in Waukesha, WI
Photo: Waukesha Civic Theatre

Waukesha Civic Theatre

4.7(298 reviews)$Theater
🕑 2-2.5 hours including intermission for most shows👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Younger elementary-aged children will be captivated by the colorful productions and shorter youth shows, while tweens and teens can dive into the theater's youth programs and workshops. Preschoolers may enjoy select family shows but check run times and themes first.

About

Waukesha Civic Theatre brings the magic of live theater to families with a wonderful lineup of kid-friendly productions throughout the year. Beyond attending shows, children can participate in youth theater programs that nurture creativity and confidence, making this a destination for both entertainment and enrichment in the heart of downtown Waukesha.

Highlights

  • High-quality community theater productions with family-friendly classics and musicals
  • Youth theater programs and workshops that let kids learn acting, singing, and stagecraft
  • Intimate theater setting where even young children can see and hear clearly
  • Affordable ticket prices compared to larger professional venues
  • Charming historic theater experience in downtown Waukesha

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Call ahead or check their website for the current season's show schedule,family-friendly productions are seasonal, so plan your visit around their lineup
  2. 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to find parking on Main Street and let kids use the restroom before the show starts
  3. 3.Book youth theater program spots early as they fill up quickly, especially during summer sessions
  4. 4.Office hours are limited (weekday afternoons only), so purchase tickets online in advance rather than relying on walk-up sales
  5. 5.Sit toward the middle of the theater for the best sightlines,the intimate venue means there really aren't bad seats

Best Time to Visit

Attend weekend matinee performances when available, as these are specifically timed for families with younger children. Weekday afternoon office hours (12-5 PM Wednesday-Friday) are best for inquiring about youth programs or picking up tickets in person without crowds.

What to Know

Ticket prices are very reasonable for community theater (typically $15-25), making it an affordable family outing. Street parking is available downtown, and the historic theater is located in a walkable area with shops and restaurants nearby.

Seasonal Notes

The theater operates on a seasonal schedule with productions running fall through spring, and special youth programming during summer months. Holiday shows in November and December are particularly popular with families, so book early. The box office is closed weekends and Mondays.

Follow Waukesha Civic Theatre

Nearby Eats

Walk to Main Street Bistro just down the block for casual family dining, or grab pizza at Albanese's Roadhouse (short drive) where kids eat free on certain nights.

More Activities Near Waukesha

Park

Minooka Park

4.7Free

Minooka Park is a sprawling county park that truly delivers year-round family fun in Waukesha. With a sandy beach for summer swimming, thrilling sledding hills for winter adventures, a playground, disc golf course, and miles of trails for hiking and biking, this park offers something exciting for every season and every member of the family.

Library

Waukesha Public Library

4.7Free

The Waukesha Public Library is a modern, family-friendly hub that goes far beyond books. With dedicated maker spaces, engaging story times, hands-on interactive learning resources, and award-winning summer reading programs, this library keeps kids entertained while sparking their curiosity and creativity. The extensive children's programming means there's always something new to explore, making it a go-to destination for local families year-round.

Park

Frame Park Formal Gardens

4.6Free

Frame Park Formal Gardens offers something for every family member along the scenic Fox River in Waukesha. With playgrounds for active kids, peaceful lagoon views, paddleboat rentals for mini adventures, and well-maintained walking paths perfect for strollers, this beloved park combines natural beauty with plenty of hands-on fun that keeps children engaged for hours.

Ice Cream

Kelley Country Creamery

4.6$

Kelley Country Creamery is a beloved local ice cream destination that's perfect for treating the family after a day of adventures or as a destination in itself. Kids will love choosing from homemade frozen treats, sundaes, and thick shakes while enjoying the charming country setting with outdoor seating where they can run around a bit between licks.