The Milwaukee Public Museum (MPM) is your ticket to an incredible staycation filled with thrilling discoveries and captivating experiences.
The immersive exhibits at MPM can transport you to Polynesia, Africa, the majestic mountains, and beyond, without ever leaving the city.
Journey with us as we take you through 5 global destinations you can travel to at the museum, offering a summer “getaway” that will leave your kids in awe.
1. Polynesia
Set sail to the Pacific Islands!
As you step into the Polynesia exhibit on the third floor, the rhythmic beats of drums will guide you through a mesmerizing exploration of the Pacific Island chains.
Since its opening in 1970, the Polynesia hall has been a gateway to the Pacific, showcasing over 260 objects from Australia, Indonesia, Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. Each artifact represents a unique story and offers a window into the lives, traditions, and history of the people who call these islands home.
You’ll learn about the intriguing rituals of the Papuan Men’s House and Samoan Dance, as well as visit the enigmatic Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, which is famous for its colossal stone heads called moai.
Dive deeper into the exploration as you learn about the practice of headhunting in Melanesia and encounter the mesmerizing masks and river art of the Sepik peoples of New Guinea.
2. Africa
Welcome to Africa, a captivating exhibit at the Milwaukee Public Museum that will transport you to the diverse landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage of the continent.
You’ll find it on the third floor of the museum. Let’s dive into its fascinating features:
The Savanna Bush
Step into the open grasslands dotted with acacia and baobab trees, known as the savanna bush. These expansive plains are characterized by scattered vegetation and serve as home to fascinating browsing animals.
Keep an eye out for the prehensile-lipped black rhinoceros, graceful impala, and majestic kudu as they roam this picturesque landscape.
Pro Tip: Be sure to look for Simba the Lion, a fan-favorite resident who once called the Milwaukee Public Library Central Branch home.
The Savanna Water Hole
Journey to the heart of the savanna, where rivers and water holes serve as crucial gathering points for a multitude of wildlife, especially during the dry seasons.
Witness the incredible sight of massive herds of wildebeest, graceful gazelles, and majestic zebras as they congregate near these vital water sources.
And as the rains return in September, watch these herds disperse across the plains, creating a breathtaking spectacle of movement and life.
The Salt Lick in the Bamboo Forest
Explore the rich diversity of Africa’s mountainous regions, where abundant rainfall nurtures the growth of rainforests on lower slopes and allows bamboo to thrive at higher elevations.
Discover a salt lick, an enticing attraction for elephants, bongos, and other smaller animals. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and learn about the unique ecosystems that flourish in these elevated environments.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for Timba the Elephant, another beloved fan-favorite of the exhibit.
3. Florida
The Sunshine State is closer than you think.
The Florida exhibit at the Milwaukee Public Museum offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems and remarkable wildlife found in this vibrant state.
Witness the wonders of far-flung environments, from the dense mangrove thickets of the Florida Everglades to the enchanting realm of Blue Springs, where the West Indian manatee reigns supreme.
Let’s dive into some fascinating facts about these incredible creatures:
American Crocodile and the Mangrove Thickets
Journey into the intricate mangrove thickets that line the shores of the Florida Everglades and encounter the formidable American crocodile.
Distinguishable by their slender bodies, pointed snouts, and long teeth, crocodiles exhibit remarkable agility and are more likely to target larger mammals, including humans.
The West Indian Manatee of Blue Springs
Explore the serene beauty of Blue Springs, Florida, and discover the gentle giants that call it home: the West Indian manatees.
These fascinating creatures are uniquely adapted to their aquatic lifestyle.
With the ability to breathe air, yet remain submerged for up to 5 minutes, they effortlessly navigate their watery domain.
Manatees can grow up to an impressive 15 feet in length and weigh as much as 1,500 pounds! They can also reach swimming speeds of up to 20 miles per hour in short bursts.
Marvel at their graceful movements and learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these magnificent creatures.
4. Mountains
As you explore the mountains exhibit, you’ll discover the wonders of the “high tundra,” the mountaintops of the Rockies, and gain a deeper understanding of the intricate balance between nature and wildlife in these majestic landscapes.
Rocky Mountains
Through captivating photos and displays, you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking Rocky Mountain.
Witness the incredible spectacle of American elk engaging in fierce combat during their breeding season, armed with their impressive 5-foot antlers.
These magnificent creatures, weighing over 1,000 pounds, demonstrate their strength and resilience during this captivating time of year.
Mountain Goats
Delve into the world of adorable mountain goats, fascinating creatures that are actually more closely related to antelopes.
You can watch as they navigate the treacherous terrain with deliberate and calculated movements, showcasing their remarkable climbing abilities.
Learn about the unique adaptations that enable them to thrive in their mountainous habitats.
5. Desert
Transport yourself to the Southwest!
Your kids can explore the rich cultural heritage of the Hopi and Pueblo peoples, learning about their traditions, artistry, and enduring connection to the desert landscapes.
You’ll also experience the contrasting beauty of both the Mojave and Sonoran deserts, two distinct desert ecosystems that showcase their own unique flora and fauna.
Encounter the towering Saguaro cacti, iconic symbols of the desert with their majestic arms reaching towards the sky.
Look out for the resilient Joshua trees, standing tall amidst the arid landscapes, and keep your eyes peeled for the tiniest elf owl, a master of camouflage, peering out at you.
The Milwaukee Public Museum offers an affordable opportunity for families to escape to faraway places without leaving the city.
Whether you’re seeking an enriching staycation or simply yearning for a dose of exploration and adventure, the museum has you covered.
From the vibrant dances of Polynesia to the captivating wildlife of Africa, the fascinating flora and fauna of Florida’s unique landscapes, the awe-inspiring beauty of mountains, and the arid splendor of deserts, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn from.
To buy your tickets, head to mpm.edu.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
