Summer Activities for Seniors in Glendale, WI
Lots of people would agree that their favorite season has to be summer, by far. Autumn probably comes a close second, but it still can't beat a good summer day.
As summer rolls into Glendale, Wisconsin, the days grow longer, the sun shines brighter, and opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and community connection abound.
For older adults, this season offers a perfect time to stay active, explore the outdoors, and engage in summer activities that enhance well-being and boost mental and physical health.
Whether you're a senior looking for ways to enjoy the season or a caregiver hoping to find enriching experiences for a loved one, this guide covers some of the best senior-friendly outdoor fun in Glendale (a suburb north of Milwaukee) and the surrounding areas.
Explore the Outdoors at Kletzsch Park
Kletzsch Park is a Glendale gem, featuring beautiful trails, a scenic waterfall, and plenty of shady spots to relax. Seniors can enjoy strolls along the Oak Leaf Trail, birdwatching by the Milwaukee River, or simply picnicking in the park with family and friends.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and bring a foldable chair, water, and sun protection for a comfortable outing.
Join a Senior Fitness Class
Staying physically active is essential for seniors, and Glendale offers a range of fitness programs tailored to older adults. The Nicolet Recreation Department and local senior centers often provide low-impact classes such as:
- Chair yoga
- Tai chi
- Aqua aerobics
- Walking clubs
These classes offer more than just physical benefits. They're also a great way to meet new people and stay socially connected during the summer months.
Take Advantage of Farmers Markets
Fresh produce, homemade jams, and local crafts await at area farmers' markets. The Glendale and North Shore Farmers Market, located at the Bavarian Bierhaus grounds, is not only a source of fresh fruits and veggies but also a hub for live music and community interaction.
Seniors can enjoy:
- A healthy shopping experience
- Sampling local products
- Talking with growers and vendors
- Relaxing under shaded seating with a cool lemonade
Walking through the market is a gentle activity that encourages both movement and meaningful social interactions.
Attend Summer Concerts in the Park
The Summer Concert Series at The Yard at Bayshore is a highlight of the Glendale summer season. These live music events are held in a comfortable, open-air setting with ample seating and shade.
Seniors can:
- Enjoy live jazz, classic rock, or blues performances
- Bring a lawn chair and a picnic
- Dance or tap along to familiar tunes
- Spend a pleasant evening with family or neighbors
Concerts like these are especially enjoyable for older adults with a love of music and a community atmosphere.
Explore Art and Culture at the Milwaukee Art Museum
Just a short drive from Glendale, the Milwaukee Art Museum offers cool indoor relief from hot weather and a chance to explore one of the Midwest's premier art collections. Seniors can spend hours enjoying exhibitions, strolling through quiet galleries, or taking part in guided tours. They can also participate in summer crafts in assisted living communities, if they are part of one.
Many museums, including the Milwaukee Art Museum, offer discounted or free admission days for seniors, as well as accessible entry points and seating throughout.
Participate in Library Summer Programs
The North Shore Library in Glendale provides a host of senior-friendly summer events. From book clubs and technology classes to film screenings and craft workshops, the library is a hub of learning and memory care engagement ideas for older adults.
Benefits include:
- Air-conditioned comfort
- Opportunities for lifelong learning
- Safe, accessible spaces for group interaction
Libraries are also a wonderful place for seniors who may be less mobile or prefer quieter indoor activities.
Volunteer and Give Back
Summer is a great time for seniors to get involved in the community through volunteerism. Glendale is home to several nonprofit and community organizations that welcome older adult volunteers.
Options include:
- Local food pantries or meal delivery services
- Animal shelters
- Community centers or places of worship
- Active aging programs
- Hospital gift shops or visitor desks
Volunteering keeps seniors engaged, provides a sense of purpose, and connects them with others in meaningful ways.
Try Gardening in Raised Beds or Container Gardens
For seniors who enjoy the outdoors but prefer staying close to home, gardening is a fulfilling and accessible summer hobby. Container gardening, raised beds, or even a windowsill herb garden can offer hours of joy and relaxation.
Glendale's climate is perfect for growing:
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Peppers
- Herbs like basil, mint, or parsley
Gardening provides light physical activity, reduces stress, and can lead to delicious meals with homegrown ingredients. It's a perfect example of seasonal events in Glendale, WI.
Enjoy Dining Outdoors at Local Restaurants
Many of Glendale's restaurants offer outdoor patio seating during summer. Seniors can enjoy a meal al fresco at establishments like:
- The Brick Pub & Grill - Known for classic comfort food and a casual outdoor setting.
- Dr. Dawg - A local favorite for Chicago-style dogs and frozen custard.
- Bavarian Bierhaus - With a large shaded biergarten and live music events.
Dining out in the open air is a great way to enjoy the season without straying too far from home. If you are a foodie, then this is an even better option for you.
Take a Day Trip to Lake Michigan
Just a short drive east, the shores of Lake Michigan provide beautiful scenery, cool lake breezes, and relaxing vistas. Seniors can take a slow walk along Atwater Park in nearby Shorewood or enjoy the beach views from shaded picnic areas.
Day trips are a perfect way for seniors to feel refreshed and adventurous without needing to travel far or overnight.
Summer Activities - It's Senior-Friendly Outdoor Fun for Days to Come
Glendale, WI, offers a warm and welcoming community with an abundance of summer activities for seniors to enjoy. At Discovery Commons North Shore, we have myriad summer activities for our residents to choose from. There's something for everyone, no matter their mobility levels or their interests.
This way, our residents stay happy, healthy, and engaged, no matter the season. Interested to see this for yourself? Schedule a tour today.