Join us outdoors this spring! The Urban Ecology Center is excited to offer a variety of outdoor springtime activities. Check out our programs below.
Biking
Biking the Hank Aaron State Trail
Welcome warmer weather with a bike ride along the Hank Aaron State Trail. Learn about the history of the trail and its role in Three Bridges Park. For intermediate to experienced riders.
For adults and accompanied children
Program Cost: $28 | Member Discount: $20 | Price Break: $14
Sat. May 4 | 10 a.m. to noon | Menomonee Valley | Register
Climbing
Climbing for Beginners
Breathe the fresh air while learning how to climb our three story open-air rock wall. All equipment is provided and trained belayers are on hand to assist.
For adults and accompanied children
Program Cost: $28 | Member Discount: $20 | Price Break: $14
Sun. May 12 | 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. | Riverside Park | Register
Sun. May 19 | 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. | Riverside Park | Register
Sun. May 26 | 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. | Riverside Park | Register
Canoeing
Canoeing for Beginners
The Washington Park Lagoon is a beautiful, calm and spacious body of water – a great place to learn the basics of paddling! Learn how to choose the right equipment, boating safety and paddling technique, then practice with guidance from one of our trained educators. Perfect for those who are new to paddling or just want some more practice.
For adults and accompanied children
Program Cost: $28 | Member Discount: $20 | Price Break: $14
Wed. May 15 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. | Washington Park | Register
Coffee & Canoe
What better way to enjoy your Sunday morning than to sip on coffee and canoe down the Milwaukee River? Meet us at the Rowing Club (1990 N. Commerce Street) and we’ll have morning beverages and treats to get you fueled up. See you on the river!
For adults and teens
Program Cost: $36 | Member Discount: $25 | Price Break: $17
Sun. May 12 | 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. | Register
Sun. May 26 | 9:00 - 11:30 p.m. | Register
Full Moon Canoe
Paddle down the Milwaukee River with UWM’s Planetarium Director, Jean Creighton. While enjoying the full moon above you’ll learn about our nearest celestial neighbor, other exotic moons in the solar system, and more intriguing objects scattered through space from an expert astronomer. Meet at the Milwaukee Rowing Club Boathouse (1990 N Commerce St.).
For adults and teens
Program Cost: $40 | Member Discount: $30 | Price Break: $20
Fri. May 17 | 7:30 - 10:00 p.m. | Register
Sat. May 18 | 7:30 - 10:00 p.m. | Register
Remember, you can always create your own adventure this spring by borrowing our outdoor equipment! Become a UEC member for free access to canoes, kayaks, camping gear, and so much more.