The best things to do in Columbus

“Whether you're here for a serious round or a social Sunday, The Wisconsin Club Country Club delivers a Harry Smead/David Gill 18-hole course with tree-lined fairways and smart bunkering that actually makes you think, plus 4 tennis courts, 6 pickleball courts, a heated junior-olympic pool, fitness center, and a…”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Old-school alley featuring glow bowling, dollar specials, an American pub-grub menu & league play.”

“AMF West Lanes is that no-fuss spot for a quick game with friends, kids’ parties that don’t spiral, or joining a league without the drama. Think classic bowling, casual eats, pitchers that do the job, and an arcade to keep everyone moving between frames.”

From the Kenosha newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Milwaukee County Zoo packs 190 acres with animal exhibits, a classic train loop, pony rides, a carousel, and a splashy sea lion show. Recent buzz includes penguin chicks and spring-born scimitar-horned oryx, plus hands-on pollinator fun and up-close summer encounters...”

From the West Allis newsletter, September 4, 2026

“When you want a venue that screams Milwaukee without the fuss, American Family Field rents out everything from the Northwestern Mutual Legends Club to outdoor plazas for weddings, grad parties, trade shows, even run/walks.”

From the West Allis newsletter, September 3, 2026

“League night vibes, friendly 2-person scrambles, and a driving range where you can work out that mid-iron mystery, The Bridges Golf Course keeps golf fun without the fuss. This week, book a tee time, hit the pro shop, then refuel at the on-site restaurant like a champ.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 6, 2026

“When the group chat stalls, Spare Time Madison has you bowling on luxury lanes with giant video screens, leveling up in a huge arcade, battling in laser tag, or cracking escape rooms, then refueling with hand-tossed pizzas, chef-crafted burgers, and a full bar.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Studio and venue for free line-dancing lessons (Chicago Steppers-style), plus space for event rentals and parties.”

“Long-running theater at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee spotlighting original movies.”

“Reindahl Park Splash Pad is your no-fuss way to beat August heat, with plenty of splashy action that is always free. When the kiddos need a breather, the surrounding playground, courts, and wide open fields make it easy to switch gears and stay outside a little longer.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Yahara Hills Golf Course features a renovated 18 in 2026 that locals will appreciate for its wide fairways, large greens and multiple tees, a combo that lets you swing away then chase birdies. City owned and proudly Madison, it’s a reliable place to groove the swing with friends.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Noyes Park Golf Course is a compact par-3 with nine holes all under 110 yards, perfect for sharpening your short game between errands. Show up when you feel like it, first-come with no tee times, and bring a wedge and putter for a breezy midweek reset.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.”

“Family-friendly arcade with classic 1980s and 1990s video games, plus pinball and air hockey.”

“Dretzka Park Golf Course brings tree-lined fairways, legit elevation changes, and water in play on 12 holes, starting with a wake-up forced carry on No. 1. Four tee sets keep it friendly, plus a solid range and a revamped bar and grill for the post-round debrief.”

From the Kenosha newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Geeks Mania Arcade packs classic cabinets, pinball, skee-ball, air hockey and pool, plus wild extras like a giant six-player X-Men setup, so grab a friend this week and see who still has the reflexes to rule Paperboy and Ms. Pac-Man.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Vitense Golfland packs a heated Toptracer range with 25 Golf Suites, plus one indoor and two outdoor mini golf courses, batting cages, and Wisconsin’s first and only lighted 9-hole golf and footgolf course. Grab a bay, get Babes at Vitense Grill & Bar service, and call it your most productive 'practice' this week.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Maple Bluff Country Club is that rare members-only spot where golf days roll into pool time, racquet matches, and a legit dining scene. Expect a polished course, a golf simulator and pro shop, junior sports and fitness, plus space to host those milestone celebrations without leaving the neighborhood.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Times Cinema keeps it classic with a cozy neighborhood vibe, curated screenings, and the kind of throwback picks that make you whisper remember this part. If your week needs a low-stress escape, their special shows are a perfect excuse to sit, snack, and bliss out. Check it out.”

From the Janesville newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Whether you're sneaking out after work or hunting a tidy card, Monona Golf Course on Madison's east side brings a 9-hole, par-36 test with well-bunkered fairways and greens. Dial in the swing on the large all-natural grass tee driving range, then regroup in the fully equipped clubhouse or plan a small outing.”

From the Sun Prairie newsletter, August 27, 2026

“TPC Wisconsin reopened in 2023 as the 30th TPC Network club after a Steve Stricker redesign that elevated the former Cherokee course. Expect pristine holes near Cherokee Marsh, a legit Golf Academy, and that private-club polish your game has been quietly begging for this week.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Well-kept short golf course featuring par-3 holes, plus practice putting greens.”

“Museum with historical exhibits, including a replica of an old-time Milwaukee street.”

“Flix Brewhouse Madison mashes blockbuster flicks with a legit dine-in menu and on-site brews, so you can hit a button from a luxury recliner and summon wings, hand-tossed pizza, or a Nebulas Hazy IPA. Great for a weeknight escape, date night, or a private screening with your crew.”

From the Sun Prairie newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Engine Company No. 3 turned its historic firehouse into a full-time event space, so your next gathering instantly comes with character and great photos. If you want something that feels local and memorable, their crew makes planning smooth so you can actually enjoy your own party.”

From the Fond du Lac newsletter, September 11, 2026

“With a stream weaving through unique, tree-lined holes, Brown Deer Park Golf Course is Milwaukee County’s number one public track and famously where Tiger Woods turned pro. Sneak in a round this week. It’s a classic 1929 design that still brings the grind and the grin.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 14, 2026