Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Discovery World

While we had out of town visitors we finally made it to Discovery World. It's very expensive so find a discount coupon if you can! But the aquariam is very neat and my 3 year old loved touching some of the "sea life". She also loved exploring the boat - so it's definitely worthwhile!

While there we also saw their live show "Tesla Lives" - which is HIGHLY recommended for all - and especially science geeks. Just don't take young kids as they electricity might scare them and Discovery World asks that 6 and under be left at home. So, this would be a very fun date night (or afternoon, showtimes are limited)! You can pay JUST to see the Tesla Show - no pricey Discovery World admission needed. As of now the website only gives showtimes through Feb 1st - not sure if that means this is a limited engagement - so do it soon if you can!

Cedarburg Winter Festival

A trip to Cedarburg is ALWAYS a favorite of mine and in February they open up their streets and shops for the annual Winter Festival. We've lucked out with amazingly warm weather in the past... not so sure we'll be as lucky this year. But the ice sculptures are so darn cool! And this year's theme is "A Winter's Knight" - so the ice carvings are sure to amaze! Check out the link above for more details but events include: pancake breakfast, kiddie treasure hunt, wagon rides, and a parade among other things.

Holiday Cheer...

I know this post comes to way too late... but there's always next year! So, in preparation for next Christmas take a few notes and keep these fun things in mind:

1. Jingle Bus - this big bus meets at the Downtown Grand Avenue Mall and takes you around town for $1 a person! Killer deal! It highlights several of the downtown parks/light displays and gives some fun facts about Milwaukee and the buildings - do this next year! It's a nice warm way to enjoy Milwaukee history and the holiday cheer of downtown.

2. Cathedral Square - while on the Jingle Bus I learned that Cathedral Square and 99.1 WMYX host Santa's Mailbox - where you can drop off letters to Santa AND get a response! I will be doing this next year! But go early as the deadline is mid-December (around the 14th). (There are also summer concerts here as well as other surrounding parks - click here for concert news.)

3. Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival - again, I enjoyed these lights from the Jingle Bus - but there is lots to do during the Lights Festival - so check out their website.

4. Candy Cane Lane - a West Allis neighborhood teamed up with the MACCFUND and puts on a basic light display each year. Free admission, but donations are appreciated. It's a fun thing to do with the kids as you get to stay warm and dry in your own car. Check the 2009 calendar to see what "characters" - including Santa- will be making appearances.

5. Pabst Mansion - I myself have never done this tour during the Holiday Season, but it's a must-do for next year! I've been to the mansion during summer and it's a beautiful place to see. I can't wait to see how they deck it out for Christmas as I've heard it is truly amazing!!!

6. Holiday Night Lights at the zoo - again, something I have yet to go to, but it is on my must-do list for 2009! Starts in early December with an animal theme and visits from Santa and the Missus.

7. Outdoor Ice Skating - something I'm no good at, but kids always love it! A good way to get some physical activity during long winter months!