Cold weather in Wisconsin doesn’t mean you need to stay indoors. With a little planning, you can keep moving, stay active, and enjoy all the season has to offer in Milwaukee and beyond. Staying physically active is just as important to your health as regular checkups like Primary Care visits.

1. Play Outside in Milwaukee Parks

The Milwaukee area offers great parks with sledding hills perfect for outdoor fun. If you don’t have kids—or yours are grown—borrow a friend’s and head for the hills to embrace the winter spirit. Spending time outdoors helps boost energy and supports long-term wellness, much like consistent care through an Urgent Care Membership that gives you reliable access to medical services year-round.

2. Visit the Urban Ecology Center

With three branches in Riverside Park, Washington Park, and Menomonee Valley, the Urban Ecology Center provides exciting programs year-round. During winter, you can borrow snowshoes, sleds, ice skates, and even cross-country skis to make the most of the outdoors. Just as this center encourages staying active, services like Women’s Health & Wellness ensure you’re supporting both your physical activity and your overall health.

3. Take a Walk at the Mitchell Park Domes

One of Milwaukee’s hidden gems in winter is the Mitchell Park Domes. Stroll through the park, then step inside to shed your coat and enjoy the warm, tropical environment surrounded by beautiful plants. It’s like summertime in the middle of winter—a refreshing break for both body and mind.

4. Walk Indoors at Milwaukee Malls

When it’s too cold outside, head to a local shopping mall. Wear your walking shoes and get some laps in before shopping. Walking indoors is a simple way to stay active while staying warm. And if mobility ever becomes a challenge, Homebound Care can provide essential support while helping you maintain your independence at home.

5. Try a Fitness Class or Home Workout

Explore a new fitness class in your neighborhood, join a gym, or keep an exercise DVD ready for days when the weather keeps you homebound. The key is consistency, no matter the setting. Pairing regular physical activity with quality healthcare—whether it’s Urgent Care for immediate needs or long-term Primary Care—can help you stay strong through every season.

Stay Active, Stay Healthy

Limit your time in front of the TV or computer, avoid making snacking your main winter activity, and dress properly for the weather. With a little effort, you’ll discover that Wisconsin winters can be active and enjoyable. And remember, just as you plan for physical activity, keeping up with routine healthcare—whether through Primary Care, Urgent Care, or specialized services—ensures a healthier, happier season.

Peg Gonzales-Charles is a Physical Therapist with over 27 years of field experience. Peg received her BS in physical therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and has advanced training in integrative and functional medicine as well as extensive post-graduate coursework in spine/orthopedic dysfunctions, male and female pelvic health, chronic pain and cancer rehabilitation. She frequently lectures to the physical therapy programs at Carroll College and Marquette University.