The Milwaukee County Zoo has been in existence since 1892 and is an accredited institution of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Offering fun for the whole family, The Milwaukee County Zoo displays more than 330 species of mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles. The Milwaukee County Zoo is open 365 days a year, though hours vary. The zoo also offers several Family Free days throughout the year and special holiday admission on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
If outings that involve science, technology and the environment are more your style, Discovery World in Milwaukee is the place for you. Discovery World offers interactive exhibits and learning programs in its 120,000-square-foot facility. Discovery World also houses freshwater and saltwater aquariums, learning labs and television and audio studios. Discovery World is open Tuesday through Sunday with special membership rates available. During the summer months, teen workshops and summer camps are also available.
The Milwaukee Public Museum is located in downtown Milwaukee and hosts more than 500,000 visitors each year. In its 150,000 square-foot facility, guests can visit exhibits from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Arctic, South America, Middle America, the Pacific islands and the rain forest of Costa Rica. Home to the largest known dinosaur skull, the Milwaukee Public Museum also displays a life-sized Tyrannosaurus Rex replica. The museum is closed only on Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
The Mitchell Park Conservatory, which opened in 1899, is home to the world's only conoidal glass houses. Each of the three domes is half of a football field wide and seven stories high. The domes are home to 20 species of wildlife including lizards, frogs, toads, fish and turtles. There are more than 1,200 tropical plants species in the tropical dome. Guests will also see a large water mirror and fountains throughout the domes. The Mitchell Park Conservatory offers free admission on Monday mornings for residents of Milwaukee County.
For families who enjoy the great outdoors, Wisconsin is home to the Oak Leaf Trail. This 100-mile trail system runs partially along the Milwaukee river and includes areas of off-road trails and streets. You will always know where you are, as the trail system is clearly marked at regular intervals and has convenient on and off ramps. This trail system accommodates joggers, bikers, skaters, walkers or even skiers in the winter months.
