A trip to Milwaukee's Domes transports you to environments in the tropics, the desert, and beyond!
Milwaukee's Mitchell Park Conservatory is known to most people as "The Domes". The three glass egg-shaped horticultural structures can be seen from I-94 just southwest of downtown. Each dome presents a different environment. The Show Dome changes displays a couple times throughout the year, the Arid Dome showcases desert-like plants, and the Tropical Dome is a steamy paradise.
The Show Dome
The Show Dome is the done to the left after you enter. One of the most popular shows in this dome is the model railroad show. This is often held for a few months at the beginning of each year. But check with their schedule to be sure. Flower shows such as Appalachian Spring also bring vibrant color and perfumed air to the Show Dome.
The Arid Dome
The central dome from the entrance is the Arid Dome, which showcases desert landscape, plants, and even birds. This dome is filled with succulents, plants such as cacti, that can store their own water. An array of twisted and spiky plants line the walkway. Slow down and listen for the sound of the birds that are hiding among the palm trees. There are always some desert flowers in bloom at The Domes.
The Tropical Dome
You will know which dome is the Tropical Dome the moment you step inside. The air is thick with humidity. This warm and wet oasis is the perfect escape for a winter day in Wisconsin. A waterfall and stream flows through this dome. Some of the leaves on plants in this dome are larger than a small child. Look for bananas and oranges in the trees.
A Human Sundial
On the sidewalk out front of the Domes you will find an Analemmatic Sundial, or a sundial that uses a person's shadow to tell the time. Stand on the box that shows the current month, raise your arms over your head and note where your shadow falls on the number grid above. This is what time it is.
Visiting The Domes
The Domes are open 365 days a year, from 9 am to 5 pm. On Monday mornings, Milwaukee County residents get free admission. The price of admission is $5 with discounts for the young and seniors. Group discounts are also available.
Weddings can be held at the dome, inquire for more information.
A gift shop is on the premises. Books and figurines are for sale, as are plants on occasion that have been taken out of the Show Dome.
How to Get to The Domes
The Domes are located at 524 S. Layton in Milwaukee. To get there, take I-94 and take exit 309B on 27th Street. Head south over the bridge. Just across the bridge the name of the street becomes Layton, and the domes are clearly visible on your left. There are parking lots on both sides of the driveway.
For more information on exhibits and times call, 414-649-9800.
