Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory - The Domes
Nestled in the heart of Milwaukee's vibrant Clarke Square neighborhood, an unexpected oasis awaits. The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, lovingly dubbed "The Domes" by locals, offers a whirlwind tour of the world's most captivating ecosystems—all under three striking glass bubbles that have become an iconic part of the city's skyline. As you step into The Domes, the bustling city fades away, replaced by the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft mist of tropical air. Each dome is a portal to a different corner of the plant kingdom, inviting visitors to explore, learn and marvel.
Hours, Ticketing & More
The Mitchell Park Domes welcome visitors Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last admission at 4 p.m.) and Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (last admission at 3 p.m.) Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Admission:
Milwaukee County Residents: Receive discount on admission - ID required.
Adults: $10.00 | $9.00 residents
Military (active duty & veterans - ID required): $6.50
Seniors (60+): $10.00 | $6.50 residents
Adults with disabilities: $6.50
Juniors (3-12): $6.50
Students (with ID): $6.50
Children (2 & under): Free
Adult Group Rate (20 or more): $8.00 per person | $7.00 residents
Junior Group Rate (20 or more): $5.00 per person | $5.00 residents
Last Thursday of Every Month: $5 per person (2 & under are free)
Sticker Wednesday: Free themed sticker with each paid admission (while supplies last)
Milwaukee Domes Alliance Members: Get free entry to the Domes for a full-year, plus other benefits.
AHS Members: Receive two free admissions.
Admission covers all three domes except during show transition. During this period, the Show Dome will be closed and only the Desert and Tropical domes will be open for touring - at full Domes admission prices.
Educational Field Trips are arranged through Milwaukee Domes Alliance. Request a Milwaukee Domes Alliance field trip >>
Self-Guided Group Visit Request for your group of 10+ people >>
Guided Group Tours: Explore the Domes with your own personal guide! Our Park Naturalist, Paula Zamiatowski shares her knowledge in a one-hour tour of the Domes, where you’ll focus on plants and trees with uniquely interesting features, vivid and fresh blooms, and original plant residents dating to the mid-1960s.
Guided tours for up to 50 people are available for adult and family groups.
● 1-25 people, $50 plus admission
● 26-50 people, $75 plus admission
Group discounts do not apply to Guided Tours.
Tours are offered Wednesday through Saturday. Please make your request at least two weeks before your desired tour date.
Must-See Domes
Discover a world of natural beauty and immersive experiences all in one place. Wander through warm, dry landscapes, step into lush, tropical greenery, and marvel at ever-changing bursts of color and blooms. With so much to see and explore, plan your visit today to uncover the many wonders waiting inside.
Desert Delights
The arid beauty of the Desert Dome hits you immediately. Towering Saguaro cacti reach skyward, while a colorful array of succulents creates a living tapestry at your feet. It's a photographer's dream and a testament to nature's resilience. Don't miss the desert blooms—their fleeting beauty is all the more precious in this harsh environment.
Tropical Treasures
Stepping into the Tropical Dome feels like being transported to a lush rainforest. The humid air carries the scent of exotic flowers and the canopy above teems with life. Over 1,200 species call this dome home, from delicate orchids to massive palms. Take a moment on one of the benches to absorb the tranquility—you might even spot a colorful bird or butterfly flitting among the foliage.
Seasonal Spectacles
The ever-changing Floral Show Dome is where horticultural artistry takes center stage. Whether it's a riot of spring tulips or a festive winter wonderland, each visit promises a new visual feast. It's a great place to gather ideas for your own garden or simply enjoy the creative displays.
A Green Escape for Everyone
What makes The Domes truly special is their accessibility. Wheelchair-friendly paths wind through each dome, and descriptive signs cater to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. It's an ideal destination for families, couples seeking a unique date spot, or solo visitors looking for a moment of zen.
Explore All Three Environments
Food & Drink Nearby
After soaking up the sights, Botanas in Walker’s Point delivers a lively and reliable Tex-Mex escape. Patrons love the perfectly executed burritos and margaritas, plus fast and friendly service, and bonus: they have a private lot for easy street-side relief. Just a short riverfront stroll away, the Twisted Fisherman offers a chill coastal crab shack vibe right on the Menomonee River. Feast on fresh seafood, juicy burgers, ribs, beach-bar cocktails and maybe even enjoy live music or their famous Friday fish fry, backed by scenic water views Finish the evening at Sobelman’s Pub & Grill, Milwaukee’s iconic Schlitz tavern, famed for its over-the-top Bloody Marys topped with full meals and award‑winning burgers, served in a warm, Valley neighborhood atmosphere with solid service
