Wehr Nature Center and the Friends of Wehr are dedicated to the goal of becoming the most accessible nature center in southeast Wisconsin. Wehr Staff and Volunteers hold the belief that Wehr is "a place for all seasons, a place for everyone." We are striving to make our building, trails and programming more accessible and inclusive for all abilities.
Complete Inclusion Assessment including photos
Accessibility & Inclusion Coordinator: Our Accessibility & Inclusion Coordinator is happy to help with information and accommodations. Call 414-425-8550 or email the coordinator.
Aira Services for BLV (Blind and Low Vision): The Wehr Nature Center offers Aira users free access to Aira services while visiting the nature center and surrounding grounds. For more information about Aira, visit www.aira.io.
Amphitheater: Bench seating, height of 18 inches, without backs. Platform at the top of the amphitheater is used as accessible seating. Three temporary companion seats can be added to accompany the three accessible seats during public events. Ramp access to stage.
Entrances: Front entrance is currently the only accessible entrance with automatic doors with a clear open width of 32 inches. There are no stairs to building entrance.
Food Service: There are no food services; juice, water, hot chocolate, coffee and granola bars are sold at the front desk.
Nature Exhibits: Permanent and seasonal exhibit areas throughout the building have an accessible route of travel. Overall, items are within average line of site. Mobile, hands-on tables are between 21-24 inches tall. One table displays skulls, shells and other artifacts. Another table is full of sensory items, including feathers, skins, etc.
Nature Store: Gift shop with nature-themed gifts, books, and activity kits. Doors remain open, with clear open width of 59 inches. Overall, there is a clear route of travel throughout the shop.
Observation Deck: Accessible deck offers a scenic view of Mallard Lake and is a great spot for bird watching. The deck has three benches for companion seating.
Parking: Accessible parking is available in the marked spaces closest to the Nature Center building. There are two spots on the first side of the lot and three spots directly across. Distance from parking to entrance is 246 ft.
Pier: An accessible pier is located on Wetland Trail. Scenic view of Mallard Lake and wildlife viewing. No fishing permitted on Nature Center property.
PreK-12 Fieldtrips and Scout/Youth Groups: Supports and activity accommodations available. Please contact the Accessibility & Inclusion Coordinator to make arrangements prior to your visit.
Reception: Reception area is easily located just past automatic front entry. Front desk is marked with large "Admissions" sign. The area stands out front the rest of the building as its walls are painted bright green. Counter height is 40 inches.
Restrooms, Men’s: Push plate entrance, pull handle exit. Doors can be propped open upon request. Free floor space in stall 62 inches X 32 inches with toilet height of 17 inches, 2 grab bars. Sink height is 33 inches.
Restrooms, Women’s: Push plate entrance, pull handle exit. Doors can be propped open upon request. Free floor space in stall 70 inches X 36 inches with toilet height of 17 inches, 2 grab bars. Sink height is 33 inches.
Service Animals: Pets are not allowed on the Nature Center property. Service animals that assist individuals with disabilities and comply with the Milwaukee County ADA Service Animal Procedure are welcome at the Nature Center.
Sign Language Interpreters: Individuals needing a sign language interpreter should contact the Accessibility & Inclusion Coordinator in order to request an interpreter for a future visit date. Sign language interpreter requests will be directed to the Office for Persons with Disabilities.
Specialized Programs or Services for Adults: General nature talks and hikes available for groups with disabilities. Please contact the Accessibility & Inclusion Coordinator to coordinate your visit.
Trail: Wetland Trail is currently being converted to a loop trail with a connection from the accessible amphitheater area. It is an elevated boardwalk through the wetland natural area including; accessible pier, scenic view of lake, gathering area with benches, bridge over stream bed. Sections of the boardwalk trail are still under construction. Until final boardwalk connections are made, the trail is used as a one way trail (out and back on the same trail).
Transportation: Wehr Nature Center is not located on a Milwaukee County Bus line. Transit Plus provides transportation services to people who are found eligible for paratransit services. For more information, phone: 414-343-1700 (voice), 414-343-1704 (TTY) or visit the Transit Plus website.
Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids, and Other Power Driven Mobility Devices: Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids, and Other Power Driven Mobility Devices that comply with the Milwaukee County ADA Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids, and Other Power Driven Mobility Devices Procedure are welcome at the Nature Center.
