Milwaukee Public Museum
All Things To Do
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Discover the Milwaukee Public Museum
If you're looking for ancient creatures, human history, and live butterflies all in the same place, the Milwaukee Public Museum has you covered. With a collection of 4 million specimens, the museum's exhibits range from a 14,000-year-old Hebior mammoth skeleton to a life-size "Streets of Old Milwaukee" diorama, offering a glimpse into early 1900s city life.
Exhibits and Attractions
Enjoy a walk through a re-created century-old village inspired by 33 different European cultures. Visit the Puelicher Butterfly Wing to watch butterflies flit around a two-story garden. In the Native Games exhibit, learn about the history and significance of games played by tribes throughout the U.S. and Canada. The Daniel M. Soref Planetarium and Dome Theater offer stargazing programs (included in admission) and educational films (for a fee).
Visitor Impressions
Previous visitors praised the butterfly exhibit and the dinosaur displays. The "Streets of Old Milwaukee" exhibit was a favorite, although some travelers were disappointed by its lack of representation of people of color. Several reviewers noted that some displays felt a bit "tired." However, a new facility is expected to open in 2026 in the Haymarket neighborhood, including refreshed exhibits.
Planning Your Visit
The Milwaukee Public Museum is located on West Wells Street, just a few blocks west of the convention center. Several MCTS routes, such as nos. 14, 30, 143, and the GoldLine, can be used to get there. The museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays). Tickets, which include a planetarium program, start at $22 for adults, $18 for seniors, students, and the military, and $16 for children ages 4 to 13. On the first Thursday of each month, visitors can enjoy free access to the permanent exhibits from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Additional Amenities
The Milwaukee Public Museum offers a cafe, coffee cart, and gift shop. Metered street parking is available near the museum, and the MacAuthur Square Parking garage is adjacent and accessible on the ground floor. For more information about the new facility, theater show times, and current exhibits, visit the museum's website.
