Ultimate Guide to Father’s Day Fun in Milwaukee’s North Shore

Father’s Day in Milwaukee’s North Shore is the perfect time for families to make memories. From outdoor adventures to delicious brunch spots and unique gift shops, communities like Shorewood, Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, Glendale, Mequon, Cedarburg and beyond offer something special for dads and kids of all ages. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable Father’s Day filled with activities for all ages, great places to celebrate, and a local gift guide so you can treat Dad to something he’ll love. Let’s dive in!

Activities for All Ages

Outdoor Adventures in Parks & Nature

Take advantage of the North Shore’s beautiful parks and trails to get the whole family outside. Whether your kids are toddlers in strollers or adventurous teens, there’s an outing for everyone:

Hike the Nature Trails: Visit Schlitz Audubon Nature Center in Bayside, which features 185 acres of woodlands, wetlands, prairies and Lake Michigan shoreline. A short hike leads to a 60-foot observation tower that rewards climbers with sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding landscape – an exciting climb for kids and a gorgeous photo op for Dad. Trails are well-marked (even stroller-friendly in parts) and you might spot birds, turtles, or even a raptor exhibit with live hawks and owls for an educational twist.

Explore Local Parks: Pack a picnic and head to Kletzsch Park in Glendale. Nestled along the Milwaukee River, this 140-acre park has something for all ages. Little ones will enjoy the playground (“Tot Lot”) and open space to run, while older kids and dads can check out the sand volleyball courts, soccer fields, softball diamonds, or even an archery range and 9-hole disc golf course on site. Don’t miss the park’s landmark dam on the river, often described as a gentle waterfall – a scenic spot easily accessible via the Oak Leaf Trail. (Fun fact: improvements are underway to add an overlook, making it easier for strollers and wheelchairs to enjoy the falls.)

Beachfront Fun: For a lakeside adventure, visit Atwater Park in Shorewood or Klode Park in Whitefish Bay. These parks sit atop bluffs on Lake Michigan with paths down to the beach. Kids can build sandcastles or fly kites on the shore while Dad takes in the lake views. Doctors Park in Fox Point is another family favorite – a wooded trail leads to a quiet beach cove where you can skip stones on the lake and enjoy nature’s tranquility. It’s an easy hike for young kids and a peaceful retreat for Father’s Day.

Biking the Trails: If your family enjoys biking, you’re in luck – the North Shore boasts excellent bike trails. The Oak Leaf Trail, a 125-mile multi-use trail system around Milwaukee County, winds through shoreline communities and connects many parks (including Kletzsch Park and Milwaukee River Parkway). It’s paved and ideal for family bike rides or even rollerblading with older kids. For a longer ride, try the Ozaukee Interurban Trail, a paved 30-mile route flanking the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan through the northern suburbs. This flat trail runs from Mequon up through charming towns like Thiensville, Cedarburg, and Grafton, so you can plan a bike excursion and take rest stops in these communities. Even a shorter 5- or 10-mile segment is doable with kids. Pro tip: Bike to Cedarburg and reward the crew with ice cream in Cedarburg’s historic downtown before the return trip!

Nature Centers & Gardens: For a quieter pace, visit the Lynden Sculpture Garden in River Hills. This 40-acre art park blends nature and art with dozens of monumental sculptures scattered across lawns, woods and ponds. Kids can roam the open spaces while parents appreciate the art. On Father’s Day, Lynden has been known to host special family activities – for example, they once offered a “Tai Chi for Daddy and Me” class where fathers and kids (9 and up) learned Tai Chi basics together in the garden. Keep an eye on their event calendar; even if no formal event is scheduled this year, a simple stroll among the sculptures (perhaps with a stop for a picnic) makes for a relaxing family outing.

Unique Father’s Day Events

Make the day extra memorable by participating in a special Father’s Day event or experience around Milwaukee:

Ballpark Day of Faith: If Dad is a baseball fan, consider joining the 15th Annual Ballpark Day of Faith on Father’s Day (Sunday, June 15, 2025) at American Family Field. This unique tradition combines faith, family, and baseball. The day starts with an outdoor Mass and tailgate party in the parking lot – friends and families gather around the grill for brats and fellowship before the game. Then you’ll head into the stadium to watch the Milwaukee Brewers take on the St. Louis Cardinals. It’s a fun, all-ages atmosphere (kids will love the excitement of a Brewers game, and grandparents enjoy the uplifting message). Tickets can be purchased in advance for a package that includes the Mass, tailgate (food usually included), and game admission. Spending Father’s Day cheering on the Brewers as a family – with a side of faith and tailgating – is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Take Dad Out to the Ballgame: In addition to the Brewers, the North Shore has its own hometown baseball team – the Lakeshore Chinooks in Mequon. This collegiate summer league team plays at Kapco Park, and the games are very family-friendly (think minor-league vibe with goofy mascots and kid contests). Check if they have a home game on Father’s Day weekend; often there are special promotions. In past seasons, teams have done Father’s Day giveaways like BBQ mitts or hosted “play catch on the field” for dads and kids after the game. Even if the Chinooks are on the road that day, catching a game during Father’s Day week is a great gift for a baseball-loving dad – tickets are affordable and kids can get right up close to the action.

Community Festivals & Attractions: Father’s Day weekend in Milwaukee sometimes coincides with local festivals. For instance, Polish Fest or the Lakefront Festival of Arts have occurred on that weekend in years past, and while those are downtown, they make a fun outing if Dad enjoys cultural festivals or art. In the North Shore area, keep an eye on local community calendars. While big summer festivals (like Whitefish Bay’s Fourth of July or Cedarburg’s Strawberry Festival) happen later in June or July, some towns host early summer concerts or farmers’ markets that weekend. For example, Cedarburg often has a Saturday morning market – strolling a farmers’ market together can be a relaxing pre-Father’s Day activity (let the kids pick out Dad’s favorite baked treat or a jar of local jam as a mini-gift). And if Dad is an animal lover, don’t forget Milwaukee County Zoo offers free admission for all fathers on Father’s Day – a short drive from the North Shore and a big hit with younger kids who will love showing Dad the zoo’s new exhibits (just arrive early for parking).

Places to Celebrate: Dining & Experiences

After working up an appetite from your adventures, it’s time to treat Dad to a great meal or toast. The North Shore area boasts a mix of casual family eateries, cozy brunch spots, and brewpubs/beer gardens that are perfect for Father’s Day gatherings. Here are some top picks for where to eat, drink, and relax with the family:

Families gather at Glendale’s Richard E. Maslowski Park, home to the Sprecher “Beer Garden” Oasis and a huge playground – an ideal spot for casual Father’s Day fun.

Family-Friendly Brunch & Lunch Spots

Hubbard Park Lodge (Shorewood): Kick off Father’s Day with a hearty brunch. Hubbard Park Lodge hosts a Lumberjack Brunch Buffet every Sunday in its rustic lodge by the Milwaukee River, and Father’s Day is no exception. In fact, they offer a special Father’s Day brunch with reservations recommended. The setting is charming – a historic log cabin-style lodge tucked in the woods – and the food is all-you-can-eat. Think thick pancakes, maple syrup, eggs, bacon, carved ham, and even an omelette station. (They’ve been known to serve family-style platters of pancakes, bacon, hash browns and more in past brunches) There’s something for everyone, and kids under a certain age get a discount (previous Father’s Day pricing was around $11.95 for ages 2–12. After brunch, you can take a short stroll along the river or through Hubbard Park’s trails to walk off the meal. It’s a relaxed environment where a little noise from kids won’t bother anyone – perfect for families.

Brunch Cafe & Bakeries: For a lighter breakfast or brunch, the North Shore has lovely cafes. City Market in Shorewood (a cafe/bakery hybrid) has long been a favorite for coffee and pastries, and while the original Shorewood location is being reimagined, you’ll find similar vibes at places like Fiddleheads Coffee (locations in Mequon and Cedarburg) or Colectivo Coffee (with a patio in Mequon). These spots offer casual brunch items – from quiche and muffins to breakfast sandwiches – in a kid-friendly atmosphere. Grab a table outside if the weather is nice. Many cafes also have a kids’ menu or at least child-approved bakery items. One idea: pick up bagels or bakery and have a morning picnic at Klode Park’s lake bluff to watch the sunrise with Dad – low-key and memorable.

Classic Diners & Delis: Is Dad a fan of classic comfort food? Treat him to a famous butter burger at Solly’s Grille in Glendale. This unassuming diner has been flipping burgers since 1936 and is “famous for (and rightly so) the butter burger – a fried patty globbed with a generous pat of butter”. It’s messy, delicious, and iconic Milwaukee. Kids will love the malts and shakes, and you’ll love seeing Dad indulge in this guilty pleasure. (Solly’s also does a solid breakfast if you go early – their banana pancakes and omelettes have a great reputation.) Alternatively, Benji’s Deli in Shorewood is a great lunchtime pick. It’s an old-school Jewish deli where you can get matzo ball soup, towering sandwiches, and all-day breakfast. There’s something fun for everyone – toddlers might just nibble a bagel, while teens can tackle a huge Reuben. It’s casual, quick, and can accommodate groups.

Breweries, Beer Gardens & Afternoon Hangouts

The Bavarian Bierhaus (Glendale): For a festive Father’s Day meal, you can’t beat the Bavarian Bierhaus – a German-style beer hall and brewery that’s “the Milwaukee area’s most authentic bierhall” with seating for 400, plus a 4,000-guest outdoor beer garden/festival groundt. On a normal day, the Bierhaus is already family-friendly (think long communal tables, Oompah music on weekends, and a menu with everything from giant pretzels and schnitzel to burgers and kids’ grilled cheese). But on Father’s Day, they turn it up a notch with special events. June 15, 2025 – Father’s Day Pig Roast in the Park is on the calendar. The Bierhaus will be roasting a whole pig outdoors, serving up plates of pulled pork, sides, and of course their house-brewed beers. Each dad gets a gift of free beer – in fact, at the pig roast every father will receive a free liter of beer (Porter or Pilsner), provided they bring along a child as proof of fatherhood. It’s a fun tongue-in-cheek promo that guarantees Dad will have a cold one in hand. The atmosphere is like a mini-Oktoberfest: live music might be playing, and kids can romp around the open park area (there are often games like bags/cornhole or even a playground on-site during festivals). With great food, beer, and merriment, the Bierhaus will make Father’s Day feel like a party. (Tip: The pig roast is usually an all-day affair, so you could stop by in the afternoon for lunch or later for dinner – they serve from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. that day.) Prost to Dad!

Beer Gardens & Parks: Milwaukee’s beer garden culture is perfect for families, and the North Shore has a couple of gems. Estabrook Beer Garden, just south of Whitefish Bay, is an outdoor riverside beer garden where Dad can enjoy a stein of German beer and a brat while the kids sip root beer and play in the grass. It’s first-come, first-served picnic tables under the trees, with a playground nearby and even space to bring your own yard games. Another option is Hubbard Park Beer Garden (next to Hubbard Park Lodge in Shorewood) – after that brunch buffet, you might return later in the day for a laid-back drink by the river. Hubbard Park’s beer garden is smaller but very relaxed, and you can watch kayakers and ducks float by. If you prefer a craft brewery taproom, check out Foxtown Brewing in Mequon. They have a beautiful facility (a restored historic brewery building) and offer tours. Many families bring kids – Foxtown’s restaurant serves pizza and pretzels that go over well with young ones, and Dad can sample a beer flight brewed on-site.

Coffee & Ice Cream Treats: Maybe Dad’s more of a coffee lover – treat him to an afternoon pick-me-up at a local coffee roaster. Stone Creek Coffee, which has a location at Glendale’s Bayshore, put out a special roast called “Dad Jokes” coffee blend (yes, with a punny name). It promises to put “a ‘papa’ flavor in your mug,” according to Stone Creek. Grab a bag of those beans to-go as a gift, and enjoy a cup together at the café. Dessert is a must on Father’s Day as well. For a true Milwaukee tradition, swing by Kopp’s Frozen Custard (Glendale) in the evening. Kopp’s is famous for its rotating Flavor of the Day, and on Father’s Day they always feature “Nuts for Daddy” – a special custard flavor loaded with beer nuts, caramel, and chocolate swirls. (They often pair it with another dad-centric flavor like “Pretzels & Beer” custard too.) Get a couple of jumbo scoops for Dad and the kids – nothing says “I love you, Dad” like sharing custard cones on a summer evening. And if the kids are bouncing off the sugar afterward, let them run around at the adjacent playground in Richard E. Maslowski Park in Glendale. This park, right next to Kopp’s and the Bayshore area, has the Sprecher Brewing Outdoor Oasis – a beer garden stand selling craft beer and Sprecher’s famous root beer – plus a giant inclusive playground and an amphitheater. It’s an ideal spot to wind down: Dad can relax with a root beer (or an adult brew) while watching the kids play, ending Father’s Day on a sweet note.

Upscale Dinner (for the Evening)

If your crew still has energy and appetite by dinner – or if you plan to celebrate with a nice dinner on the eve of Father’s Day – there are some upscale yet welcoming restaurants in the North Shore area:

Mr. B’s – A Bartolotta Steakhouse (Mequon): For dads who appreciate a fine steak, Mr. B’s in Mequon offers top-tier steaks and a classy atmosphere. While it’s a white-tablecloth experience, they do welcome families (you might see kids in polo shirts enjoying buttered noodles while parents savor filet mignon). It could be a good choice if you have older kids or teens who can appreciate a “fancy” night out. Make a reservation and let them know it’s a Father’s Day celebration – the staff will make it special.

The Pasta Tree (Mequon Public Market): Inside the Mequon Public Market, you’ll find a collection of artisan food stalls. One hidden gem is The Pasta Tree’s outpost, offering fresh Italian dishes in a more casual setting. It’s a way to give Dad a gourmet meal (handmade pasta, rich sauces, perhaps a glass of wine from the market’s bar) while still accommodating picky younger eaters (who can opt for pizza from another stall or gourmet grilled cheese, for example). The food hall setting means everyone can choose what they want – a stress-free dinner solution for families.

(Of course, by this point in the day, Dad might just vote for leftovers on the couch – and that’s okay too! Father’s Day is all about what he enjoys, even if that means a quiet evening.)

Local Gift Guide: North Shore Gifts for Every Dad

Finding the right Father’s Day gift is easy when you shop local. The Milwaukee North Shore and neighboring towns have fantastic merchants and boutiques offering everything from budget-friendly tokens to luxury splurges. Whether Dad is into sports, tech, food, or fashion, you can discover something special nearby. Here’s a local gift guide to inspire you:

Outdoor & Sporting Gear: If Dad loves the great outdoors, head to Yellow Wood in Whitefish Bay. This is Milwaukee’s only locally-owned outdoor gear boutique, known for its expertly curated selection of the latest outdoor apparel and equipment. You can find high-quality camping gear, Yeti coolers, hiking boots, and clothing from top brands – perfect if your Father’s Day plans include a camping trip or hike. The staff is knowledgeable and can help kids pick out a cool gadget for Dad (maybe a new multitool or an insulated travel mug) even if you’re on a budget. Another idea: stop by the new L.L.Bean store at Bayshore (Glendale) for a more classic selection of outdoorsy gifts – a flannel shirt, a fishing hat, or a pair of hiking socks make practical yet thoughtful presents. And for the golf-loving dad, consider a gift card to Brown Deer Golf Course (just west of Glendale) or a new set of golf balls from the pro shop; Brown Deer Park has been home to PGA tournaments, so it’s a bit of local golf history that Dad can experience firsthand.

Local Boutiques & Unique Finds: Sometimes the best gifts are found in small local shops. Winkie’s Hallmark & Gifts in Whitefish Bay is a beloved third-generation, family-owned store. It’s a one-stop shop for cards, funny trinkets, and North Shore memorabilia. Have the kids pick out a quirky coffee mug (“World’s Best Dad” of course) or a frame for that family photo you took at the park. They also carry puzzles, books, and nostalgic candy – you might assemble a little “Dad’s relaxation kit” with his favorite candy and a new novel.

Boswell Book Company on Downer Avenue (just south of Shorewood) is an independent bookstore that always curates a special Father’s Day display. Bring the kids to Boswell to choose a book that reminds them of Dad – it’s a sweet way to involve them in the gifting process (and you can grab a Father’s Day card there too). If Dad has a sweet tooth or appreciates local food, consider putting together a basket of Milwaukee treats: maybe artisan beef jerky from Glenn’s Market at the Mequon Public Market, a bottle of locally made hot sauce, and some gourmet cheese from West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe (they have a stall in the Mequon Public Market as well). North Shore’s local grocers like Sendik’s or Outpost Natural Foods (Mequon) also stock Wisconsin-made BBQ sauces, spice rubs, and craft beers – great for the dad who loves to grill.

Tech and Hobby Gifts: For tech-savvy dads, you might swing by Apple’s Bayshore store or Best Buy (Glendale) to pick up a new gadget – but if you want a local twist, check if any North Shore businesses offer tech accessories. Sometimes smaller boutiques like The Brass Bell (a music store in Glendale) can be a treasure trove if Dad is a music lover – perhaps a vintage vinyl record or a new set of guitar strings as a gift. If Dad’s hobby is more about craftsmanship or DIY, a gift card to Neu’s Hardware in Mequon or the local Ace Hardware can let him choose the tool he’s been eyeing. It might not seem glamorous, but many dads would love the chance to pick out some new power-tool accessory guilt-free!

Food & Drink Experiences: Instead of a physical gift, you can treat Dad to an experience (often the most memorable gifts of all). For a beer enthusiast father, grab a growler or six-pack from a local brewery like Sprecher Brewery in Glendale – they not only brew beer but also make gourmet sodas. You could pair a couple of bombers of Sprecher beer with a pack of their root beer (so the kids can join a “cheers to Dad” at dinner). Sprecher’s taproom also has brewery tour tickets; consider booking a future date where the family can tour the brewery (kids are welcome on tours and get to sample sodas while parents sample beers). If Dad prefers whiskey or cocktails, Foxtown Brewery & Distillery in Mequon sells bottles of their house spirits – a bottle of locally distilled bourbon or gin with a nice glass could be a classy gift (for after the kids’ bedtime, of course!). And for the culinary dad, cooking classes can be a hit – Glorioso’s Appetito in nearby Milwaukee offers occasional grilling or Italian cooking classes, or closer to home, Bartolotta’s Cooking School at Mequon’s Mr. B’s might have a steak-grilling workshop. Signing up Dad (and maybe joining him) for a class gives him something fun to look forward to after Father’s Day.

Splurge-Worthy Gifts: If you’re looking to truly spoil Dad this year, North Shore has some high-end options too. Harleys: The Store for Men in Shorewood is an upscale men’s clothing boutique carrying designer suits, shirts, and accessories. A fine silk tie or a stylish pocket square from Harleys could elevate Dad’s wardrobe and make him feel like a million bucks at his next meeting. Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers in Whitefish Bay offers luxury watches and cufflinks – a timeless gift if Dad is a collector or appreciates the finer things (this is the place to go if you’re considering a major gift from the whole family). And for a completely offbeat luxury experience: Treat Dad to a supercar rental – there’s a luxury car rental in the area where you could rent a classic car or sports car for a day. Imagine Dad’s surprise when he gets to cruise up Lake Drive in a convertible Mustang or a Porsche for the afternoon! It’s a splurge, but one he’ll never forget.

Lastly, remember that sometimes the best gifts aren’t bought. Encourage the kids to make homemade cards or crafts – a hand-drawn “#1 Dad” picture or a photo collage of favorite memories can melt any father’s heart. Consider starting Father’s Day by letting the kids present their handmade gifts during breakfast; it sets a heartfelt tone for the day.

With this guide, your Father’s Day in Milwaukee’s North Shore will be filled with family-friendly adventure, delicious local food, and thoughtful gifts. Whether you’re trekking through a forest trail, clinking mugs at a beer garden, or browsing a charming local shop, the North Shore and nearby communities have everything you need to celebrate Dad’s special day. The key is to mix and match activities that fit your family’s style – maybe a morning bike ride followed by a big brunch, or an afternoon at the ballpark capped off with custard cones at sunset. Whatever you choose, Dad is sure to appreciate the quality time and the unique experiences you’ve planned. Here’s to a fun, engaging, and memorable Father’s Day with the whole family – Happy Father’s Day to all the North Shore dads! 🎉