Franklin WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Franklin, Wisconsin.
1. Wehr Nature Center
SCENIC NATURE PRESERVE
Wehr Nature Center is a tranquil 220-acre refuge featuring five distinct natural habitats, including wetlands, woodlands, and prairie. Visitors can explore over 5 miles of walking trails year-round and enjoy guided nature programs, birdwatching spots, and interactive exhibits at the visitor center. The site provides a peaceful escape, ideal for families and anyone seeking time in nature within Franklin.
2. Kayla's Playground
ACCESSIBLE FAMILY PLAYGROUND
Kayla's Playground is an award-winning, fully accessible play area designed for children of all abilities. The playground features safe, inclusive play structures, specialized swings, and a soft surface, making it ideal for children with mobility differences. With ample seating and an adjacent open field, it's a favorite spot for local families and visitors alike.
3. Crystal Ridge
WINTER SPORTS HUB
Crystal Ridge is well known in Franklin for its winter sports facilities, offering tubing, skiing, and snowboarding during the colder months. The site is home to The Rock Snowpark, featuring various hills and terrain parks for different skill levels. In the off-season, the area hosts baseball events and community gatherings, making it a year-round attraction.
4. Franklin Woods Nature Center
PEACEFUL FOREST RETREAT
Franklin Woods Nature Center provides a serene forest setting with well-maintained trails and interpretive signage. The center is ideal for quiet walks, bird watching, and learning about the region's native plant life. Visitors appreciate the preserved natural beauty just minutes from the city's main streets.
5. Winter Wonders Wisconsin
DAZZLING HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Winter Wonders Wisconsin is a popular seasonal drive-through light show held at the Boerner Botanical Gardens area in Franklin. Guests enjoy millions of animated holiday lights synchronized to music, creating a magical winter experience. The attraction is perfect for family outings and draws large crowds each holiday season.
6. Pleasant View Neighborhood Park
LOCAL COMMUNITY PARK
Pleasant View Neighborhood Park offers green open spaces, playground equipment, and picnic facilities for residents and visitors. The park is a favorite spot for casual outdoor gatherings, youth sports, and relaxation. Shaded areas and well-kept paths make it inviting for families throughout the year.
7. Lions Legend Park
CITY RECREATION CENTER
Lions Legend Park is a vibrant community hub featuring sports fields, tennis courts, and an event pavilion. The park hosts local festivals, music concerts, and recreational leagues, making it a lively center of Franklin's social life. Its accessible playground and scenic walking paths provide recreation for all ages.
8. Oakwood Park Golf Course
POPULAR PUBLIC GOLFING
Oakwood Park Golf Course is a well-maintained, 18-hole public course known for its challenging layout and scenic landscaping. The facility includes a driving range, practice greens, and a clubhouse with refreshments. It attracts golfers from across the Milwaukee County region seeking quality play in a convenient location.
9. The Rock Sports Complex
YEAR-ROUND SPORTS VENUE
The Rock Sports Complex is a multi-use recreational campus featuring baseball fields, BMX tracks, and winter tubing hills. It's home to local sports teams and hosts a variety of tournaments, camps, and family-friendly events throughout the year. The complex also offers dining options and live entertainment, ensuring something for everyone.
10. Milky Way Drive-In Theater
RETRO MOVIE EXPERIENCE
The Milky Way Drive-In Theater offers a nostalgic movie experience with double features shown on a massive outdoor screen from spring to fall. Patrons watch from the comfort of their vehicles and enjoy themed nights and concessions. It's a beloved seasonal attraction for families, couples, and groups of friends.
11. Tuckaway Country Club
PREMIER PRIVATE GOLF
Tuckaway Country Club is an exclusive, private golf club offering an 18-hole championship course, elegant dining, and a full calendar of social events. The course's beautifully manicured greens and upscale facilities attract golf enthusiasts and wedding parties alike. Members enjoy a refined country club atmosphere in the heart of Franklin.
12. Boerner Botanical Gardens
SPECTACULAR FLOWER DISPLAYS
Boerner Botanical Gardens, located just north of Franklin in Hales Corners, features 40 acres of themed gardens, including rose, peony, and perennial collections. The gardens also offer seasonal events, educational programs, and walking trails for visitors. It's a favorite destination for photographers and anyone seeking natural beauty in the Milwaukee County area.
13. Mitchell Park Domes
ICONIC GLASS CONSERVATORIES
The Mitchell Park Domes, located in nearby Milwaukee, are three striking glass domes housing tropical, desert, and floral plant collections. Visitors enjoy exploring the unique horticultural displays and seasonal exhibits within these climate-controlled environments. The domes are a beloved regional landmark and educational attraction.
14. Milwaukee County Zoo
WILDLIFE AND FAMILY FUN
Milwaukee County Zoo, one of the premier zoological sites in Wisconsin, spans over 190 acres and houses more than 2,000 animals. The zoo offers interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and a miniature train ride for visitors of all ages. It is an essential day-trip destination for families staying in or near Franklin.
15. Southridge Mall
SHOPPING AND DINING HUB
Southridge Mall, located just minutes from Franklin in Greendale, is the largest mall in southern Milwaukee County. Home to national retailers, restaurants, and seasonal events, the mall offers something for shoppers of all ages. Its convenient location draws visitors from the entire Franklin region.