Wehr Nature Center with Kids: Waterfalls, Play Areas & Wildlife (2025)

If you’re anything like us, you’ve been feeling cooped up all winter. When the sun finally returns, there’s no better place to stretch your legs than Wehr Nature Center. Nestled in Whitnall Park, it’s Milwaukee County’s very own nature oasis—perfect for families with kids of all ages.

With 220 acres of forests, wetlands, prairie, oak savanna, and a 16-acre glacial lake, Wehr offers space to roam, explore, and breathe deep. Whether you’re chasing frogs, watching turtles, or letting your kids loose in the play space, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.

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🌿 Highlights for Families

Visitor Center:
Start your visit at the main building near the parking lot. Inside, you’ll find:

• A large fish tank (ask if your kids can help feed the fish!)
• Nature-themed puzzles, books, and games
• Hands-on sensory tables
• Nature Store

Nature Play Space:

Right behind the center is an incredible nature play space made of logs, tree trunk stepping stones, and a mini log cabin to explore. There’s even a mud kitchen! It’s designed for imaginative, active play using natural materials—and it overlooks beautiful Mallard Lake.

Parking & Admission:

• Parking: $5 per car
• Admission: Free, donations welcome at the box near the parking lot

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🚶‍♂️ Family-Friendly Trails

1. All Abilities Loop (1 mile, stroller accessible)

• This short loop is perfect for little legs. It starts just right of the Visitor Center.
• Expect soft woodchip paths, a scenic boardwalk, benches for breaks, and wildlife spotting (wild turkeys, anyone?).
• The trail highlights all of Wehr’s diverse ecosystems: wetland, woodland, and lakeshore.

2. Lake Loop / Waterfall Trail (1.5 miles, not stroller-friendly)

• Head left from the Visitor Center and walk along Mallard Lake.
• You’ll pass scenic clearings, great for spotting frogs and turtles.
• About halfway through, you’ll come across a lovely little waterfall flowing into the Root River—a perfect snack stop!
• Turn back early or complete the full loop depending on your crew’s energy.

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🧺 What to Bring

• Sunscreen & bug spray
• Water bottles & snacks
• A change of clothes (for the muddy explorers)
• Tick checks when you get home

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🧭 Quick Tips

• Start early to beat the crowds on weekends.
• The Family Friendly Trail is great for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Bring a baby carrier for the Lake Loop if your little ones aren’t up for walking.
• Watch Wehr’s event calendar for family programs, story hikes, and seasonal nature events.
• Plan your trip using the Live from Wehr page

Wehr Nature Center is more than just a hike—it’s a full-day family experience with opportunities to connect with nature, learn something new, and let kids be kids. It’s easily one of Milwaukee’s best spots for outdoor adventure.

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🌲 Want more like this?
Check out our full guide to the Best Nature Centers Near Milwaukee for Kids and Families and our roundup of the best Waterfalls Near Milwaukee for even more fresh-air fun!