Franklin Woods' playground area has greatly improved since they put in Kayla's Playground- a…read morehandicap-friendly and large playground to suit many ages. This playground and nearby picnic area is much improved, and they've also doubled the size of the parking lot, which is nice, and the playground is really a popular attraction. I've been coming here to hike the woodland trail for years, and it's a nice secluded hike with one main trail and a short offshoot. It's dog friendly, and we like to hike it year-round. If hiking in the winter, wear boots, as the trail can get icy. It's a nice secluded trail that connects to the neighborhood nearby. The paved loop around the marsh is nice as well. I would like to see them bring back the interpretive nature sign by the woodland path that told you about the numbered trees in the trail. The signs that do remain look unused, and the one by the marsh is broken with a small beehive inside. Small improvements to the "nature center" part of this area would make it five stars.

This park has greatly improved from what it was just a few years ago. It started with a tiny…read moreparking lot and trails through the woods. Then a playground and walking track was added. Now there is a big parking area and a handicap accessible playground- but my favorite part is still the original woodsy trails. From spring through fall(not a fan of winter walking) I have walked these woods, watching the birth, life and death of so many cool plants and foliage. In spring there is an impressive Trillium bloom that can be seen from the road. The trails are good for walking dogs too, but please clean up after them! The walking trail is very flat so anyone of any age can enjoy it. I can't speak for the playground as I'm a bit too old to partake, but the swings were always fun ;)

Hawthorn Glen is a 23-acre nature center that primarily serves as a field trip location on weekdays…read morefor 12,000 children annually. Natural features include steep bluffs, flood-plain hardwood forest, spring-fed wetland, and a restored prairie. Visitors to this urban nature center can explore five different habitats interconnected by a trail system. The public is welcome to utilize the facility and the well-marked ¾ mile self-guided nature trail in the evenings or on weekends (the lower trail is mostly blacktopped and ADA accessible). Many seasonal programs are offered on the weekends. Trails are designated for hiking only. Hikers are reminded to leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories, and watch for wildlife. Hawthorn Glen is home to deer, foxes, raccoons, opossum, rabbits, chipmunks, woodchucks, two species of hawks, many migratory birds, and songbirds of all kinds year-round. The website states, also, "Come visit our Nature Museum and see native animals of Wisconsin, including tree frogs, several species of turtles and our six foot bullsnake. It is open weekdays (4:00-5:00 pm) and weekends (11:00-11:45 am and 3:00-4:00 pm). Admission is FREE." Check out the Hawthorn Glenn YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ru99rqELBcA

A lovely and unexpected sanctuary in the middle of the city. Located in Wauwatosa, Hawthorne and…read moreGlen is a perfect place for families, couples, or anybody who wants to go on a hike, have a picnic, or go into their little educational center. If you're just up for a short, beautiful hike, I recommend going here. You will not feel like you are in the middle of the city. It is beautiful, and we had an incredible hike! It would be a beautiful place to have a picnic, or bring your kids as they have children's playgrounds and the educational center. They even have goose ducks and a few animals that you can go look at.

This is a tiny little park at the end of the Root River parkway in Greenfield. It is quiet and…read moreperfect if you're looking for someplace to escape and relax or read a book. It has a small playground and a couple of picnic tables, but that's about it. So, why the four stars? It faces a huge grassy area that is pretty nice for watching wildlife, whether you're looking at swallows swooping up and down after mosquitoes, or deer grazing in the tall grass. On one end of the park,the lawn gives way to trees and shrubs. Behind the playground is a bit of lawn, and more trees. Behind the trees starts a fairly quiet neighborhood that I bet many people don't know exists. On the other end of the park is Meadow Drive and, across the street, is the home of Bill Radler, breeder of the Knock Out rose! His yard is beautiful to look at as you sit in the parking lot of the park... 32/2018

First time visiting this park and it was for the 4th of July weekend…read more The organizers put on a really nice show, fitting for the scenery and location. This park, perfectly situated overlooking Lake Michigan is perched on a plot of that land gives great 360 degree views of the area. There is plenty of parking, a playground, an expansive green space perfect for picnics and a pavilion with restrooms.

Lake Vista Park: Located in Oak Creek and nestled along the shore of Lake Michigan, this park has…read moresomething for everyone. First, there is a modern playground for kids along with a spacious field for recreational activities. A pavilion that can be rented for social events (parties) is also available near the playground. For nature enthusiasts, a handicap accessible paved walkway leads down to the lake, but for more adventurous parkgoers, there are also trails through the dense forest. The views of the lake can be spectacular at the right time of day and when the weather cooperates. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area. I can't wait to visit in the autumn when the peak color changes occur.

Lime Kiln Park - A Hidden Gem in Menomonee Falls…read more We took a hike through Lime Kiln Park today and absolutely loved it! Tucked away in Menomonee Falls, this park feels like a peaceful little escape with just the right mix of nature, history, and fresh air. We explored both the upper and lower falls, and the views did not disappoint--especially with the sound of the rushing water and all the lush greenery around us. The trails are paved and easy to follow, which made our walk feel more like a relaxing stroll than a workout. There's something really cool about walking past the historic lime kilns--like you've stepped back in time for a moment. Between the rock formations, bridges, and little scenic spots to pause and take it all in, we found ourselves stopping often just to appreciate the beauty around us. It's the kind of place where you can go for a walk, clear your head, or bring the family for a peaceful afternoon. We even saw a few people playing disc golf and lots of birds hanging out near the water. If you haven't been yet, Lime Kiln Park is totally worth the visit. Bring your walking shoes, your camera, and a little curiosity--you'll leave refreshed and maybe even a bit inspired.

Very beautiful path way along a river, also a historical landmark in Menomonee Falls... beautiful…read morewalkway through down but is the feel of being in the country... the sound of the stream is so relaxing... right smack dab in the middle of town but yet hidden to the point I've been around the areas for many years and just recently found this amazing place

Best park in Germantown, Now they even have a sand volley ball courts…read more Also has 1. walking path around entire perimeter of park. 2. Disc Golf Course 3 Playground equipment 4 Bathrooms and shelter 5 Dual B Ball court 6 Dual Tennis court 7 full size soccer field I am probably forgetting some stuff but this is literally the best park I have been to in a while. Lots of stuff to do in the warmer months and all for free. I think they also just installed new lighting in the park as well. This park is always well kept and very clean. Take your kids here for a full day of fun without opening your wallet.

Great park in Franklin located right behind the public library and fire department. There are nice…read morewalking trails, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, volleyball courts and a little playground. Plenty of street parking is available with easy access to and from Drexel Ave and Loomis Rd.

Pretty spot with lots of critters and birds! The chipmunks are next-level, though! They will run…read moreright up to/past your feet. It's so close you will "yelp" out of surprise because they come so close. They have rentable rooms, my cousin rented one for her brother's memorial and I will say this is a very nice and soothing spot for a memorial with all of the nature surrounding. We took a little walk over to the pier and all of the lily pads are really pretty to look at. There was a small kids/learning area up front and some snake terrariums, too. I only explored the one section, I am sure there is much more to explore. This is a really nice option if you are looking for something to memorialize a loved one. They have bricks all over with little messages honoring people who have passed.

There are forested trails. There are trails through prairie lands. There's a 2 mile loop around the…read morepond. Kids play area has a log cabin and mud kitchen. Their Halloween hike is phenomenal. A guided walk along a jack o lantern lit path, with stops for woodland characters- owl, witch and much more. I really should keep that a secret though because it already sells out too fast. Also nearby: Boerner Botanical Garden (including Margie's garden)