10 Fun Things To Do Near Franklin, Wisconsin (Milwaukee County)

If you’re looking for easy day trips and fun things to do near Franklin, Wisconsin in Milwaukee County, you’re in the right place. Franklin is a quiet suburban city just south of Milwaukee, but it’s surrounded by parks, trails, and family-friendly attractions that are perfect for a weekend or even a random Tuesday evening. Whether you live in Franklin or you’re just visiting friends or family, here are 10 things to do near Franklin, WI that are worth your time.

1. Explore the Trails at Whitnall Park

Whitnall Park is basically Franklin’s backyard playground. It’s one of the largest parks in Milwaukee County and sits right on Franklin’s northern edge in nearby Hales Corners. You’ll find:

Walking and biking trails
Shaded picnic areas
A beautiful pond with ducks and geese
Playgrounds for the kids

On a warm summer evening, it’s the kind of place where you can just wander without a plan. Bring a blanket, grab some subs from a local deli, and have an easy picnic. In fall, the trees explode with color, and the trails feel like a postcard. If you enjoy nature but don’t want to drive far, Whitnall Park near Franklin is an easy win.

2. Stroll the Boerner Botanical Gardens

Right inside Whitnall Park, you’ll find the Boerner Botanical Gardens, one of the most peaceful places near Franklin. The gardens offer:

Formal flower gardens that change with the seasons
Rose gardens in summer
Shaded walking paths
Special events, classes, and kids’ activities

If you like photography, this place is a dream. Couples come here for engagement photos, and it’s also a great spot for a calm Sunday walk. Tickets are affordable, and you can easily spend a couple of hours just wandering from garden to garden. If you’re planning a visit to Franklin, WI in spring or summer, put this high on your list.

3. Catch a Milwaukee Milkmen Game at Franklin Field

If you’ve never been to an independent league baseball game, Franklin Field (at Ballpark Commons) is a fun surprise. Home of the Milwaukee Milkmen, this modern ballpark offers:

Affordable baseball tickets
Fun between-innings games and contests
Family-friendly seating and lawn areas
Local food, snacks, and cold drinks

It’s baseball without the downtown hassle. Parking is simple, the atmosphere is relaxed, and kids have room to move around. On summer nights, there’s just something about sitting under the lights with a hot dog in hand that feels perfectly “Midwest.” If you’re searching for family activities in Franklin, Wisconsin, a Milkmen game should be near the top.

4. Play at The Rock Snowpark & Ballpark Commons

Right next to Franklin Field is The Rock Snowpark, a year-round playground for outdoor lovers. In winter, you can:

Go skiing or snowboarding
Try snow tubing (great for kids and beginners)
Warm up with hot chocolate after your runs

In the warmer months, the broader Ballpark Commons area often hosts:

Live music and events
Youth sports tournaments
Food trucks and pop-up activities

You don’t need to be an expert on skis to have fun here. Snow tubing is basically like sledding on a big, smooth hill with a lift to take you back up. If you’re looking for winter things to do near Franklin, WI, this spot is ideal.

5. Hike or Bike the Oak Leaf Trail

Love getting some fresh air? The Oak Leaf Trail is one of Milwaukee County’s best features, and Franklin has easy access points. This long paved trail winds through parks, neighborhoods, and woodlands. Near Franklin, you can:

Bike miles of smooth, well-maintained trail
Go for a jog or brisk walk
Push a stroller or walk the dog

You can make your outing as short or as long as you want. I’ve done quick 20-minute loops just to clear my head, and I’ve also ended up riding for a couple of hours when the weather was too nice to turn around. Looking for outdoor activities near Franklin, Wisconsin? This trail gives you plenty of options without a long drive.

6. Step Back in Time at Wehr Nature Center

Technically in nearby Hales Corners, the Wehr Nature Center sits close enough to Franklin that it feels like part of the same neighborhood. What you’ll find:

Easy, family-friendly hiking trails
Boardwalks over marshland
Birdwatching and wildlife spotting
Nature programs for kids and adults

The trails here aren’t difficult, so it’s a great spot for younger kids or anyone who doesn’t want steep hills. In spring, the frogs are loud, and in fall, the crunchy leaves make every step satisfying. If you want to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and maybe spot a deer or two, the Wehr Nature Center is a gem near Franklin.

7. Shop, Eat, and Unwind at Southridge Mall Area

Sometimes you just want something simple: a place to shop, grab a bite to eat, and not think too hard. For that, the Southridge Mall area in nearby Greendale is an easy go-to for Franklin locals. In and around the mall, you’ll find:

National retail stores and smaller shops
Plenty of restaurants and fast-casual spots
Seasonal events (like holiday photos and craft fairs)

It’s not a “tourist attraction” in the traditional sense, but if you’re visiting family in Franklin and need to run a few errands, replace a suitcase, or just walk indoors on a snowy day, this area does the job. It’s also a good base before or after exploring other Milwaukee County attractions near Franklin.

8. Spend a Day in Downtown Milwaukee

One of the best things about Franklin is how quickly you can reach downtown Milwaukee. In about a 20–25 minute drive (depending on traffic), you can be right in the middle of the city. Some easy ideas for a Milwaukee day trip from Franklin:

Milwaukee Public Market – Grab lunch, coffee, and local treats.
Milwaukee Art Museum – Even if you’re not an “art person,” the building and lake views are stunning.
Lakefront walks – Walk along Lake Michigan and enjoy the skyline.
Third Ward – Trendy shops, restaurants, and galleries.

It’s the perfect mix: sleep in quiet Franklin, then dip into the city for a few hours when you want that big-city energy. If you’re planning a trip and wondering, “Is Franklin, Wisconsin a good base to explore Milwaukee?” the answer is yes.

9. Tee Off at Local Golf Courses

If you enjoy golf, Franklin and the nearby area give you several courses to choose from. Popular options include:

Whitnall Park Golf Course – A classic Milwaukee County course with tree-lined fairways.
Other public and semi-private courses within a short drive

You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy these courses. Grab a cart, bring a couple of friends, and treat it more like a rolling picnic with golf clubs. On a bright June morning, it’s hard to beat. For travelers, it’s a nice way to stretch your legs after a long drive or flight into the Milwaukee area.

10. Enjoy Local Eats and Hidden-Local Favorites in Franklin

You don’t always have to leave Franklin to have a good time. One of the best ways to experience a place is through its food. Around Franklin you’ll find:

Casual bar-and-grill spots with classic Wisconsin fish fry
Pizza places perfect for takeout and movie night
Local coffee shops and bakeries

If you’re not sure where to go, ask a local, “Where do you go on Friday nights?” or “Who has your favorite fish fry?” In Wisconsin, people usually have strong opinions about that—plus, you might discover a spot you never would have found on your own. Food might not show up on official “top 10 things to do near Franklin, WI” lists, but sharing a relaxed meal is often what you remember most.

Planning Your Visit to Franklin, Wisconsin

Franklin, WI may not be a huge city, but that’s part of its charm. You get:

Quiet neighborhoods and green spaces
Easy access to parks and trails
A modern ballpark and snowpark
Quick drives to Milwaukee’s biggest attractions

Whether you’re into hiking, baseball, skiing, shopping, or just strolling through gardens, you’ll find something that fits your style within a short drive. So, how would you spend a perfect day in or near Franklin? Would you start with a peaceful walk at the Botanical Gardens, hit an afternoon Milkmen game, then finish with dinner in downtown Milwaukee?

Share Your Franklin Favorites

If you’ve been to Franklin, Wisconsin or live nearby, I’d love to hear from you:

What are your favorite things to do in Franklin or around Milwaukee County?
Do you have a go-to restaurant, park, or hidden gem?

Drop your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover new places too. And if you found this guide to things to do near Franklin, WI helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a visit. It might just inspire their next weekend adventure.

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