Kern Park

Riverside Escape

Nestled along the west bank of the Milwaukee River, Kern Park sprawls across 30.2 acres of urban greenery. Located on North Humboldt Boulevard, the park features some genuinely beautiful river views that provide a nice backdrop for outdoor activities. If you're into fishing, you'll discover plenty of spots to cast your line - it's quite the popular activity here, and for good reason.

The park strikes that perfect balance between open green spaces and wooded sections, giving you options whether you're looking for sunshine or shade. Take a moment to appreciate the majestic oak and beech trees near the tennis courts - these natural giants are truly something special.

Get Your Game On

Active types will feel right at home here. The park includes baseball fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts for various sports activities. Bringing the kids along? The children's playground will keep them entertained while you catch your breath.

One of the best things about Kern Park is its connection to the Oak Leaf Trail - Milwaukee County's extensive trail network. This means you can start your walk or bike ride in the park and end up exploring much more of what Milwaukee has to offer.

Trail Life & Wildlife

The scenic trails winding through the wooded areas along the river are definitely a highlight here. These paths offer a surprisingly peaceful experience that feels removed from city life, even though you're still in Milwaukee. Keep your eyes peeled for local birds and wildlife that call this riverside habitat home.

There's something refreshingly untamed about these trails despite their accessibility. They're ideal for walking your dog or enjoying a relaxed hike without having to venture far from the city.

Picnic Perfect

Kern Park makes gathering with friends and family easy with its several picnic areas complete with tables and grills. The pavilion includes restroom facilities, which is always a practical bonus for longer visits.

With plenty of open green space around the park, you'll have no trouble finding a spot to throw a frisbee, kick a soccer ball, or simply spread out a blanket for a lazy afternoon.

Environmental Renewal

It's worth noting that Kern Park is currently undergoing some positive environmental changes. The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) has been conducting cleanup work to remove polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from sewers in and around the park.

This project kicked off in 2022 with the goal of improving the environmental health of both the park and nearby waterways. You might notice some areas temporarily blocked off for restoration work, but it's all in service of making this natural space even better for future visits.