Wehr Nature Center - Franklin, Wisconsin

Beto

This is, without a doubt, the best place to birdwatch and see wildlife in the Milwaukee metro area. The nature center is fantastic; inside, the staff always maintains a wall displaying which flowers are in bloom. Additionally, there are multiple bird feeders that are always well-stocked, attracting a variety of birds. Surrounding the bird feeders, you'll find numerous wildflowers in bloom throughout the spring and summer months. There are diverse habitats to explore, offering opportunities to see different types of birds.

The trails are extremely well-maintained, and there is always something new and exciting to discover while walking them, from huge puffball mushrooms and intricately webbed spider webs to playful chipmunks. I highly recommend visiting for anyone interested in nature and wildlife.

Teagan F.

I really love coming and walking on these trails! It’s close to home for so it’s not as long as driving to a state park but still has the feel of them! Highly recommend if you seeking to get into some city nature.

Jeremy I.

First time visiting, and on a drizzly Thursday I spent the majority of my day exploring the grounds. Upon arrival I went into the Nature Center paid for my parking and the young lady was very informative and answered all my questions.

While there was not much greenery yet the trails are easily accessible and clean! I even saw a few deer grazing deep in the brush. Overall I had a fantastic time and I recommend people come visit!

Tierney K.

Really cool place. Our first visit was on Cider Sunday which was a phenomenal event!

Loved all the trails. They are open year round and have tons of events.

We became members and the price for an annual membership was so reasonable and the costs for the events are also very reasonable. Great local place, an oasis in the city. Beautiful way to get away from screens and out into nature.

Alane Z.

My friend was brave and went "hiking" with the All Terrain Chair! A deer crossed our path, we paused at the waterfall and had a fun adventure on the trail around the lake. The staff was so helpful and gave instructions on how to use the chair. So glad this is available at Wehr Nature Center!

Zach P.

Great place to go for a little hike and for taking photos. It is $4 to park in the parking lot but they do accept credit or cash. The lady at the desk (so sorry that I forgot your name, you were lovely!) was really nice and informative. Even told me where the prime spots were for photos even though the waterfall was dried up. Even encountered a family of turkeys while I was there. The people I came across were friendly as well.

Andy B.

We didn’t know this place existed. We were going to go to Boerner Botanical Gardens and saw the sign to Wehr, so took a chance. Best decision in days. This place, different from Boerner, but so much better.
We were given a recommendation based on what’s in bloom and had great walk to see the ‘Queen of the Prairie’ (pictures). Will definitely be back.

Jim A.

Wehr Nature Center has several miles of trails that range from prairie to marsh, forest to grassland. At the center of the park is a small lake. Some of the trails are handicap-accessible. The park is free; parking is $4. The park's trails are open year-around.