Group Nature Experiences

The Urban Ecology Center offers group nature experiences that are perfect for bringing people together in a meaningful way. These experiences are tailored for corporate teams, community groups, schools, or other organizations looking for unique, hands-on experiences in nature.

Request a Program

Take on new challenges with nature on your side!

  • Paddle the Milwaukee River
  • Hike while building community
  • Bike the Hank Aaron State Trail
  • Learn new skills
  • Explore nature in your neighborhood!
Request a Program
Please note: Requests made 6 weeks in advance allow for best chances of booking

Here’s what makes them stand out:

Customizable and Nature-Focused Experiences

Your group nature experiences are all about connecting participants to the natural world through interactive activities. Groups can choose from a menu of activities, ranging from mindfulness hikes and team-building challenges to kayaking adventures and camping preparation workshops. Each program can be tailored to align with the group’s interests, goals, or skill levels.

Led by Expert Facilitators

Each program is facilitated by the Urban Ecology Center's knowledgeable staff, who are experts at blending environmental education with hands-on learning and fun. Whether it’s paddling down the Milwaukee River, exploring habitats in your parks, or learning outdoor skills, participants leave with both memories and a deeper appreciation for nature.

Perfect for All Types of Groups

From corporate retreats looking to foster teamwork, to scout groups earning badges, or friends wanting a unique outing, these programs are designed to suit a wide range of audiences. They're also great for schools seeking to supplement science or environmental education with experiential learning.

Eco-Friendly Venues

Programs take place in local urban green spaces including: Riverside Park, Menomonee Valley, or Washington Park. These spaces offer access to trails, water, and a variety of ecosystems, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor exploration.

Experiences for Every Season

The UEC’s group experiences aren’t just for the warmer months. Groups can enjoy year-round programming, including snowshoeing in the winter, bird-watching in the spring, or survival challenges in the fall.

Support with a Purpose

By booking an experience with the UEC, groups are directly supporting the Urban Ecology Center's mission to connect people to nature and maintain Milwaukee’s urban green spaces.

Request a Program
Please note: Requests made 6 weeks in advance allow for best chances of booking

Program Offerings

See our menu of 1.5 - 2-hour programs to choose from.

Winter ProgramsSpring ProgramsSummer Programs
A view of the Washington Park building from across the Washington Park lagoon
Two girls writing down observations about a leaf in the park

Latest from our Blog

Rooted In Community

By
Olivia
Polony
on
December 11, 2024
When José first came to the Urban Ecology Center, he was planting a tree in Riverside Park. Since that day, José has become a vital part of the UEC community, particularly through the ROOT (Restoring Our Outdoors Together) volunteer program, where he dedicates time to plant trees, restore green spaces, and support Milwaukee’s local habitats. Over the past year, José has planted more than 100 trees and nearly 500 plants, all while gaining new skills in environmental stewardship.

Healing Steps: Finding Peace in Caminatas

By
Olivia
Polony
on
December 11, 2024
Imagine waking up early, before the day’s busyness begins, filled with excitement to meet your friends for a morning walk. For Lupita, Irene, Aurora, and Olivia, this is a weekly tradition they cherish at the Menomonee Valley branch of the Urban Ecology Center (UEC). Imagina despertarte temprano, antes de que comience el ajetreo del día, lleno de emoción por reunirte con tus amigas para una caminata matutina. Para Lupita, Irene, Aurora y Olivia, esta es una tradición semanal que atesoran en la sucursal de Menomonee Valley del Urban Ecology Center (UEC).

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By
Olivia
Polony
on
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Returning Home: A Sturgeon Release Story

By
Olivia
Polony
on
September 17, 2024
If I’m being honest, I couldn’t even visualize a sturgeon in my head prior to working at the Urban Ecology Center. So, when a coworker mentioned there’d be a sturgeon release at UW-Milwaukee’s Great Lakes Research Facility, I jumped at the chance. It sounded intriguing—plus, I’d never heard of a fish release before. Which got me thinking: What exactly do sturgeons do? What is their backstory? And why do they need releasing in the first place? I quickly realized I didn’t have the faintest idea.

Artist Highlight: Richard Knight

By
Urban Ecology
Center
on
September 10, 2024
What do you hope people leave with after engaging with your work? I like being a part of the whole UEC experience. For me it’s so much about seeing something for the first time as well as seeing something familiar but in a different way. I hope people come away with a shared awareness of my studio efforts and UEC’s mission. 
Read More