We’ve made it through the holidays and into the heart of winter. But when living in Brew City, there’s no need for hibernation—there’s too much fun to be had. From treat-making to ice skating to decorating, bundle up and explore ideas for outdoor and indoor winter fun in Milwaukee.
Skate Under the Skyline
Located in the heart of downtown, you might call Slice of Ice in Red Arrow Park Milwaukee’s own Rockefeller Center. Enjoy an evening moving about the refrigerated ice rink—meaning it stays frozen when temperatures aren’t below freezing—while taking in great views of the city. Skate rentals are available, or if you have your own skates, you skate for free! Skater aides and ice sleds are also available, making the experience open to nearly everyone.
Take a break by the fire in the cozy warming house. Treat yourself to a hot cocoa or latte and refuel with a snack or smoothie.
Bonus fun: Speaking of skating, the Milwaukee Admirals are well into their season. If you’re looking for more things to do in winter, maybe it’s time to catch a game?
Mix Up Something Special
Whether you’re staying in or taking an evening stroll, there’s no shortage of winter drink recipes to keep you warm. From hot chocolate to chai to cider, stir up something festive this season to dazzle your company or sip yourself. A few possibilities:
- Mexican hot chocolate: A spicy take on a winter classic. Add cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to kick up your sips!
- Ultimate homemade chai tea latte: A comforting blend of sweet and spice that combines warm milk and a homemade chai tea concentrate.
- Mulled apple cider: Cinnamon sticks, allspice berries, cloves and maple syrup are just some of the delights in this winter warmer.
Spruce Up Your Place with Non-Holiday Winter Decorations
Turn your apartment into a cozy winter retreat with decorations that can stay up all season. These simple, winter-inspired decorating ideas will warm your spirits all season long.
- Soft lighting: Swap harsh overhead lights for warm lamps, string lights or battery-powered candles. Bring that cozy golden-hour glow to the most frigid winter nights.
- Lots of layers: Mix chunky knits, fleece and other soft fabrics to make your sofa a haven of blankets, throws and pillows.
- Winter whites: Decorate with soft neutral colors, like whites, grays and icy blues, to keep your place feeling fresh. These shades can also make small spaces feel bigger.
- Warm scents: Use essential oil diffusers or simmer pots with notes of vanilla, cinnamon and cedar to get an instant mood lift.
- Touches of nature: Take a walk in the woods to collect pinecones and evergreen sprigs. Assemble your finds in a vase or jar for a natural, earthy charm.
Flurry of Fun Things to Do in Winter in Milwaukee
There’s no reason freezing temperatures need to make winter a drag. Whether hitting the rink, mixing up a new concoction or putting a seasonal spin on your décor, there’s plenty of winter fun to be had in Milwaukee.
