A guide to (local) healthy resolutions

Inside: Running, hiking, biking, dancing and more in the new New Year

Like many people, I have a few New Year’s resolutions related to being healthier. Is this the year I make a Lakefront Marathon comeback? Maybe a 5k. Can I get through a week or two of Dry January? I’ve stocked up on Rishi tea. I’ve compiled local resources here to at least see how far I can make it, and have some fun and adventures in the process.

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Running & Racing

Milwaukee's running scene offers something for every fitness level. If you want to start the year strong with a winter race, check out the Samson Stomp at the Zoo or the Frosty 5K. If you want to start The Cedarburg 5K on May 23 supports Camp Odayin and offers savings if you register before February 28. See our full list of family-friendly races.

Gyms & Fitness Centers

The North Shore offers lots of options. Wisconsin Athletic Club's North Shore location in Glendale has been Wisconsin's largest locally-owned athletic club since 1976, featuring pools, courts, a fitness floor, classes, and childcare. Family memberships give you access to all eight of their locations across the area. Elite Sports Club has the massive quad playing area in Glendale for kids, with indoor and outdoor pools for year-round swimming, tennis and basketball courts, exercise classes, and their Club14 childcare program for kids in grades 1-4. See our full guide to local gyms.

Biking & Trails

The Oak Leaf Trail spans 135+ miles of paved paths connecting parks and beaches throughout the county, completely free and accessible year-round. It's perfect for family bike rides of any distance, from short neighborhood loops to longer adventures. Up in Mequon, the Ozaukee Interurban Trail provides scenic connections between communities and works beautifully for both biking and walking.

Healthy Eating

Shopping local and eating fresh becomes infinitely easier when farmers markets run year-round, and Shorewood just made that possible. Their Winter Market launches January 4th and runs eight Sundays through February 22nd at The Atrium, bringing your favorite local vendors. Planning ahead for summer? See our full local farmers market guide. The local restaurant scene also features vegetarian, vegan, and health-conscious options, with many local spots emphasizing farm-to-table menus.

Hiking & Outdoor Adventures

The North Shore delivers excellent options right in your backyard. Estabrook Park connects to the Oak Leaf Trail with scenic river views, while Kletzsch Park offers not just the best sledding hill in the area but year-round hiking trails. Ready to venture beyond the immediate North Shore? Explore the state parks, including heading north to Kohler-Andrae State Park opens up beach and dune hiking experiences.

Sports & Active Adventures

Want to try a new activities for the New Year? Fresh Coast Dance in Whitefish Bay welcomes beginners of all ages, from 2.5 to adult. The Nicolet Recreation Department offers 171 Winter/Spring programs and activities at 24 different locations across the community for toddlers, youth, teens, adults, and senior adults! This edition includes 30 new programs including Youth Nature Classes and Yoga Fitness Classes.

Have a 2026 adventure goal we missed? Hit reply and share your family's resolutions—we'd love to hear what's on your bucket list!

Budgeting Made Easy

Get your finances in order in 2026! Sign up for the Monarch Money app with this link and get 50% off membership for the first year! The app that pays for itself!

See you out there,
North Shore Family Adventures

P.S. Forward this guide to anyone still asking, “What did we do in 2025???”

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