We recently headed to Milwaukee to visit one of our favorite places, the Discovery World Museum. Located right on Lake Michigan, Discovery World seemed like a great choice on a fine, Fall day: walks along the lake, a great view of the ships, and sailboats…
But it was not to be. For reasons still unknown to us, that entire section of town was blocked off by police. Several ramps from the interstate were closed, and when we tried to reroute via side-streets, we met the same fate- blocked streets. We asked a police officer how to get to the museum, and he just shook his head- “You can’t.”
Well, all the museums we are familiar with are in this same area, but there was no way to get close to them. We had to quickly change gears in order to save the day. Searching our brains, and the internet for new options, we finally remembered reading about the Urban Ecology Center. It looked to be far enough away from the blocked streets that we would be able to access it, and we’d never been there before- so it would be a new adventure for everyone!
Boy, were our instincts right!
The Urban Ecology Center is a beautiful oasis in the middle of urban Milwaukee. It is close to a main bus route, has access to a river, and a bike path going right through the main property, so it is easy to get to it by a variety of transportation options. Once you arrive, you’ll find miles of nature paths winding through woods and prairies, up to the river and back. The Center itself is a beautiful building with several small tanks of live, local animals; musical instruments you can play; arts&crafts tables; A funky slide from outside to inside; and a cozy woodstove. Outside the building you’ll find more animal habitats, a huge climbing wall, and a tall (but sturdy) observation tower. All offered with no admission fee.
Entering the secret slide!
We explored the area for quite a while before heading off for lunch, with vows to return to explore some more.
Next time your intended destination doesn’t quite work out, don’t throw in the towel! Check out some of the lesser known places in your area, you never know what you’ll find.