Programs and Special Events

Art in Nature:

A Six-Week Art Program Series — Come for one session or all!

Nature has some unique art to show us—colors, patterns, and textures everywhere! Let’s explore Retzer Nature Center to find inspiration. We’ll craft, sketch, and paint (both acrylic and watercolor). All supplies are provided.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Programs include an outdoor portion weather permitting; please dress for the weather.

Program Descriptions:

• Art Journal
  • Craft your own faux leather art journal to hold all your summer creations!
• Starting with a Sketch
  • You’ll sketch big scenes and tiny details in your journal. Let the creativity flow!
• Painting with Dots
  • George Seurat painted with dots…and now it's your turn to create an acrylic masterpiece, one dot at a time!
• Fabulous Flowers
  • Head to the prairie and paint your own Georgia O'Keeffe-inspired floral masterpiece in acrylics.
• Wonderful Watercolors
  • Master the basics of watercolor painting and then create your own beautiful prairie landscape!
• Frame It
  • Gather nature’s treasures to create a frame for your favorite summer painting.

Benjamin F. Goss Bird Club at Retzer Nature Center

Benjamin F. Goss Bird Club provides an opportunity for those interested in an active study of birds and their habitats. For more information, visit www.gossbirdclub.org.

Program Descriptions:

• Monthly Bird Club Meetings
  • The public is invited to attend an in-person meeting, led by expert guest speakers and members, or join the meeting virtually.
• The Big Sit! 
  • At this free, annual, international birding event count as many different species of birds that you can see or hear! Bring binoculars, a chair, and dress appropriately.
• Annual Waukesha Spring Bird Count
  • Join others for some birding fun during this event, which encompasses an area 15 miles in diameter to tally observed bird species.

Morning Bird Hikes at Retzer Nature Center

Scout areas of Retzer to see how many different types of birds can be found on an easy, 1.5-mile walk. No expertise is needed, and all skill levels are welcome.

Morning Bird Hikes at Retzer are free and open to the public. They are led by the Benjamin F. Goss Bird Club.

For more information, visit www.gossbirdclub.org.

Retzer Nature Center Camera Club

The Camera Club meets monthly with instructional programs, sharing/ critiquing of members’ photographs, discussing equipment and technique, and providing opportunities for taking photographs at Retzer Nature Center and other nature areas. Open to the public.

Explore Wisconsin’s recycling laws and the Waukesha County Recycling Program in this informative program. Learn how recyclables are collected, sorted, and processed – from your curbside to the recovery facility and beyond. An optional tour of a local Material Recovery Facility offers a firsthand look at recycling operations.

Nature Journaling:

A Six-Week Art Program Series — Come for one session or all!

Join us for a mindful hike at Retzer Nature Center, where you’ll find a peaceful spot to sit, observe, and let your thoughts flow. Whether you sketch, write, or simply reflect, Nature Journaling is a fun, calming way to focus and connect. Journal is included.

Dress for the weather, as program will be held outdoors. In poor weather, program may move indoors.

Outdoor Classroom

This series for elementary age students explores nature and our outside world with seasonal topics and hands-on discovery.

Students must be accompanied by an adult. Programs include an outdoor portion weather permitting; please dress for the weather. 

Program Descriptions:

• Mighty Eagles
  • We often see Eagles flying over Retzer. Where are they going? What are they doing? We’ll explore this creature and some relatives of Wisconsin.
• The Story of Bears
  • No need to fear - bears have a special place in our hearts. Let’s learn about their fascinating life, bear dens, and how they survive the seasons.
• All About Owls
  • Let’s take a close look at owl species that live at Retzer. We’ll learn about their amazing adaptations that help them survive Wisconsin’s winters, they're sounds and food.
• Winter Fur
  • Animals need to stay warm in the winter and many do that with fur! We’ll explore different mammal furs and see how they work to keep animals warm. We’ll hike outside (on Snowshoes if conditions allow!)  to look for clues Retzer’s mammals may left behind, including tracks, scat and fur.
• Plants and Papermaking
  • Let's learn about the natural materials that make things we use every day. Then we'll put the 4R's to use and make a paper craft.
• The Science of Spring
  • Let’s hit the trails to look for signs of spring, including flowers, plants and animals, using our senses and science, to investigate the new growth of the season.
• Secrets of Stream Life
  • Discover a whole hidden world of life in a local stream. Learn how these creatures survived through the winter and what they will become this year! Most importantly, we will learn simple actions we can take to protect our streams and the life in them.
• Warblers & What Not
  • Spring is a great time to see and hear lots of migratory birds returning to or passing through Wisconsin. Join us as we explore the Retzer trails looking and listening for birds and learn why warblers are unique.
• Nature Exploration
  • Using our powers of observation and sensory skills, we will have a hands-on outdoor experience exploring the natural treasures of the current season. These may cover animal habitats, plant and animal identification, food webs, plant and animal adaptations, and more. To our awesome returning guests: Share your knowledge from past Outdoor Classroom topics!
• Flex Your Freshwater Mussels!
  • Just what ARE mussels? Learn the fascinating life cycle and benefits (or not) of having these guys in our Wisconsin waters.
• Crazy Crayfish
  • Our several species of crayfish in Wisconsin are pretty cool. Some are not so good. Let's see them in action, learn their life cycle, & find out more about these fascinating creatures. 
• Colors in Nature
  • Come explore how humans and animals perceive colors differently. We’ll also see how different colors of feathers, fur, leaves and flowers help plants, animals and insects communicate, reproduce and survive.
• Terrific Turtles
  • Enjoy a visit from the Retzer's turtles! See how their physical and behavioral traits can help it to survive as we explore the concepts of habitat and adaptation and hike to their homes.
• Animal Classifications
  • How are our animals classified?  Let's break down how animals are grouped and learn why, and learn some cool scientific terms in the process. We'll embark on a hike - and fun quiz - to test our knowledge.
• Family BioBlitz
  • Learn how to Bioblitz - a citizen-science party to see the biodiversity of an ecosystem in particular areas. We'll document as many things as we can with special tools to help us figure them out.
• Your Actions Matter
  • See the Recycling Exhibit in Action!  Learn how your actions matter by exploring the 4 R's: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot! We'll learn what it means to close the recycling loop during our interactive exhibit tour and hands-on activities.
• The Heat is On - Sunprints!
  • Let the sun do the painting!  We will explore cool things about the sun and then see how it makes our art piece beautiful.
• Dragons & Damselflies
  • Join us as we learn about Dragonflies and Damselflies as we explore their habitat in the water and on the land. We’ll safely catch these winged predators and learn how to gently handle and release them.
• Hoppers!
  • Did you know we have many different species of "hoppers" in Wisconsin, many are insects, some are not. It's the best time to identify - and meet - a variety of these active critters!
• Bumble Bee Survey
  • Not all bees look the same. Join us as we learn about, then look for different kinds of bumble bees on flowers in the Retzer Children’s Garden and prairie. We’ll use photography-based monitoring methods and submit data to the Wisconsin Bumble Bee Brigade monitoring project.
• Home Sweet Habitat
  • Compare & explore wildlife habitats from the viewpoint of the animals that live there. Students will play the role of an animal as they go in search of their animal’s basic survival needs: food, water, shelter, and space. Decide which animal would call a given location home, and discover how they are connected to other aspects of their ecosystem.
• The Incredible Water Journey
  • Where will the water you drink today be tomorrow?  As we build our take-home craft, find out where water comes from and where it goes, in different forms.  Surprises in store!  
• Nature's Builders
  • Without hammers and nails, or hands for that matter, insects still create intricate and safe homes with incredible precision. Let's look up close at the home-building skills of different insects, and maybe try our "hand" at it ourselves.
• Glacial Wisconsin
  • Learn to read the glacial landscape of Retzer and recognize the importance of the glaciers to our region. Students will investigate different glacial landforms and how they were created with a hands-on activity.
• Thankful for Nature
  • Can you think of ways nature helps us? Feeds us? Protects us? Enjoy a fun discussion and hike to see some of these helpers in action.
• Hibernation/Migration
  • Hit the trails (with snowshoes if trails permit!) at Retzer to see which animals stay, sleep or leave during winter. Learn about their special adaptations and strategies that help them to survive and search for their various forms of shelter and food sources.
• Moon Phases
  • In preparation for the winter solstice, let's be the moon as we learn about it's phases, some history from past stargazers, and explore how the moon affects cycles of the earth!

Request a Parks Program

Waukesha County community groups and organizations can request programs at Retzer Nature Center.

Park Programs at Retzer Nature Center

• Nature Connections for Adult Groups
  • Join a Retzer Teaching Naturalist for a hands-on experience that engages and connects participants with the natural world.
    • Topics:
      • Animal Ambassadors
      • Prairie Above & Below
      • Plants & Pollinators
      • Butterflies
      • Birds
      • Animal Skulls
      • Owls
      • Nature at Night
      • Turtles
      • Insect Exploration

Park Programs at Your Location

• Groundwater - Our Buried Treasure
  • Ages: 8+
  • Duration: 30-60 minutes 
  • Description: Discover how the ground provides clean water for us to drink. Learn how that water can become contaminated and how to eliminate the dangers. Leave with actions you can take at home to keep your
    water safe.
• I Live in a Watershed
  • Ages: 8+
  • Duration: 45 minutes 
  • Description: Our watershed model provides a hands-on, interactive demonstration of the sources and effects of runoff pollution. Learn about the watershed you live in and see how it connects…all the way to the ocean! By the end of this program, you will understand what a watershed is, how it functions and how you are part of it.
• Rain Gardens & Rain Barrels
  • Age:16+
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Description: Rain barrels have been used for many generations. Discover how they can actually help restore a more natural water flow while saving you money. Not only will we explore how to install rain barrels, but we will learn about the benefits of rain gardens too! Rain gardens and rain barrels can be a beautiful solution to water pollution.
• Nature Connections for Adult Groups
  • Ages: 18+
  • Duration: 1 hour 
    • Topics:
      • Animal Ambassadors
      • Prairie Above & Below
      • Plants & Pollinators
      • Butterflies
      • Birds
      • Animal Skulls
      • Owls
      • Nature at Night
      • Turtles
      • Exploration
• Sustainable Yardening
  • Ages: 16+ 
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Learn how to make your yard and garden more than just another pretty place. Make your space a contributor to a healthy environment by creating habitat, planting native and protecting water. Discover practical ways to make a healthy environment around your home and see how together we can make a big difference.
• Food Safety
  • Ages: 8+
  • Duration: 30-60 minutes
  • Description: Become aware of food safety and the consequences of mishandling food. Hand washing is emphasized and interactive activities are available.

Request a Recycling Program

Get involved with Waukesha County's Recycling Education Programs and make a difference! Our programs are fun and interactive, suitable for all ages and provide practical tips to effectively recycle and reduce waste. 

Programs Available at Retzer Nature Center:

• Papermaking
  • Learn where paper comes from and how it is made. Make paper with wildflower seeds to plant at home. Then, head to the forest to learn what part of the tree is used to make paper products.
  • Optional: Add on the recycling Exhibit Tour, where students will learn how to "Recycle Right."

• Recycle Racoon Adventure Hike
  • Learn about recycling and natural resources from Recycle Raccoon, Waukesha County Recycles mascot. He’ll teach us what everyday actions you can do in and around your home and yard by exploring the 4 R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot. There will be lots of adventure along the
    way!
  • Optional: Add on the recycling Exhibit Tour, where students will learn how to "Recycle Right."

• Recycling: Your Actions Matter
  • Learn how your actions matter by exploring the 4Rs-Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rot! Students will learn what it means to close the recycling loop during our interactive exhibit tour and hands-on composting activities.
  • 5K Free Online Curriculum: How Can We Reduce Our Negative Impact on the Community?

Programs Available at Your Location:

• Composting from Start to Finish
  • Learn how to create and use your own compost. Look at different compost bin styles that you can build and buy. Understand how compost works to improve the health of your soils for lawns and gardens.
• Green Cleaning Workshop
  • We strive to keep our homes clean and healthy, but sometimes use toxic chemicals to do so. Is there a safer way? Find out what common household ingredients can be used to keep your home healthy, clean and safe.
• Home Makeover: Green Edition
  • Whether you're looking to green your home, your lawn, or wallet- we'll cover them all! Learn ways to live a comfortable and sustainable lifestyle from recycling right to lawn care.
• Recycling Assembly
  • For multiple grades or groups of 75 or more. Our high-energy recycling assembly is sure to rev up your students to recycle more and to recycle right! Students take part in a lively recycling relay race along with an interactive presentation. Learn what to recycle, where recyclables go and what recyclables become. Learn how your actions matter!
• Recycling: Up Close and Personal
  • We use a lot of finite resources. Discover the numbers behind consumption on a global and nationwide scale and how you can reduce this number. Find out what happens to many of these materials and how recycling helps us manage much of what we consume.

Request a Program: Summer

Waukesha County community groups and organizations can request programs at Retzer Nature Center or your location.

Summer Programs at Retzer Nature Center:

• Nature Storytime Hike
  • This program focuses on reading and roaming! Naturalists will share a story and lead indoor and outdoor hands-on explorations designed to complement the program topic and story. 
    • Hike topics:
      • Water Discovery
      • Insect Investigation
      • Life in a Shell
      • Terrific Trees
      • Color in Nature
      • Things with Wings
• Animal Adaptations
  • Enjoy a visit from the Retzer teaching animals! See how an animal’s physical and behavioral traits can help it to survive as we explore the concepts of habitat and adaptation
• Navigating Nature
  • Work as a team using a map to navigate Retzer’s trails. Depending on the trail you choose we’ll discover frogs, birds, skunk cabbage,
    insects, flowers and more as we navigate through nature!
• Water Discovery
  • Meet pond and stream creatures close-up! Learn about the adaptations and features they possess to live in
    these watery worlds. (One chaperone is recommended per four children for ages 6 and younger.)
• Insect Investigation
  • Meet some insects that call Retzer home. We will explore the insect world, learn about their adaptations and get a close-up look at these six-legged creatures!
• Nature Exploration
  • Using our powers of observation and sensory skills, we will have a hands-on outdoor experience exploring the natural treasures of the season.
• Art in Nature
  • Nature creates unique artwork all around us with beautiful colors, interesting patterns, and unusual textures. During this program, we will look for artistic inspiration on the Retzer Trails and create an ephemeral art piece or nature journal to record the art we found in nature.

Summer Programs at Your Location

The programs below are available to be booked and presented at your facility or location.

• Nature Storytime
  • This program focuses on reading and roaming! Naturalists will share a story and lead indoor and outdoor hands-on explorations designed to complement the program topic and story. 
    • Topics:
      
      • Insect Investigation
      • Life in a Shell
      • Terrific Trees
      • Color in Nature
      • Things with Wings
• Animal Adaptations
  • Enjoy a visit from the Retzer teaching animals! See how an animal’s physical and behavioral traits can help it to survive as we explore the concepts of habitat and adaptation
• Nature Storytime for Toddlers
  • This program focuses on reading and exploring! We will read a story, meet a Retzer animal and have an age-appropriate hands-on activity.
    • Topics:
      • Insects
      • Turtles
      • Birds
      • Frogs
      • Rabbits

Spring Break Programs

Events every day during Spring Break to keep folks and families engaged!

Morning sessions geared towards younger students with story included. Afternoon sessions geared towards older students.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Programs may include an outdoor portion weather permitting; please dress for the weather.

Sunset Meditation & Night Hike

Come unwind under the dome of the Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium and meditate for your mental health!  

View a planetarium show of an amazing sunset as you travel from the Grand Canyon to the North Pole, then relax under a night sky filled with stars with glimpses of the Northern Lights under the dome.

After the planetarium show, take a quiet hike outside with a naturalist and discover tranquil sights and sounds of Retzer Nature Center (weather permitting).

Wee Wonders:

This monthly program involves a story and nature discovery for children, offering hands-on experiences in a variety of nature topics.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Programs include an outdoor portion weather permitting; please dress for the weather. 

Program Descriptions:

• Planetarium Show & Winter Forest Hike
  • Little Krhumka and friends watch Northern Lights, an asteroid, and constellations. Thrilling rides, magic and surprises await them on their journey. We'll enjoy a short hike after the show.
• Awesome Owls
  • Observe and learn about these wonderful birds, and hear about a "little owl's night."
    We will find out how many different things in our world have shells, and see and feel some things close up!
• Life in a Shell
  • Find out how different animals start their lives, challenges they may overcome, and watch them grow.
• Here Comes Spring!
  • What signs of spring will we see? Come explore the scents, colors, and celebrate living things coming alive on our hike.
• Things with Wings
  • Explore different living things that have wings - some surprises are in store!
• Exploring Amphibians
  • Find out what amphibians are, and see some up close! Some may be lurking nearby.
• Insects on the Move
  • Wander through the prairie to see how many Retzer pollinaors we can find and learn about their journey.
• Apples!
  • Let's learn about the life cycle of our favorite fall fruit! See some made for us, and some made for wildlife!
• Fall into Fall
  • Feel the cool breeze of fall with us as we learn about what is happening now outdoors and with animals, and explore signs of the changing season
• Busy Trees
  • All parts of a tree are alive with activity. We'll ready about them and then hike to see them in action!
• Winter Birds
  • Even when it's cold, there are birds out and about. Let's see how many birds at Retzer have come to say hello!

Click here to view the School Guide for 2025-2026.

Scouts BSA Merit Badges:

Join us for a week of merit badges at Retzer Nature Center and the Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium.

• August 18-22, 2025
• Registration begins February 1 and ends August 9, 2025.
• Merit badge workshops are for youth ages 11-17 that are enrolled in Scouts BSA.
• Please note that some merit badges have prerequisites.
• All requirements must be completed prior to final card signing at the end of the workshop.
• Scouts may make an appointment up to 60 days after merit badge workshops to complete their blue card.

Programs Available:

• Nature Study Merit Badge
• Astronomy Merit Badge
  • Registration for this merit badge must be done by purchasing tickets at https://hdplanetarium.ticketleap.com 
• Sustainability Merit Badge
• Space Exploration Merit Badge
  • Registration for this merit badge must be done by purchasing tickets at https://hdplanetarium.ticketleap.com 
• Bird Study 

Cub Scout Night

Cub Scout Nights are offered at Retzer Nature Center in fall, winter, and spring. Offerings may include the programs listed below. Please click on the "Register or Request a Program" button to see upcoming Scout Night dates and programs.

Programs & Descriptions:

• Fall Cub Scout Night - Arrow of Light Into the Woods
  • Learn about what trees and plants do for us and animals and why taking care of them is important to our planet’s well-being. Visit Retzer Nature Center and conduct a tree inventory. We will select a tree, classify it, learn how it deals with wildfire and how wildlife uses the tree. Requirements 1-5 will be completed.
• Fall Cub Scout Night - Webelos Champions for Nature
  • Learn about the wildlife we share our planet with - Explore the components of habitat, learn about an endangered species, what caused it to be endangered, and what is being done to protect the animal. Participate in a conservation service project to help endangered species habitat. Requirements 1-6 will be completed.
• Fall Cub Scout Night Planetarium Program - Tigers Sky is the Limit
  • During the Star Signs planetarium show, observe easy-to-see constellations and names of stars in the night sky. If weather permits, scouts will use a telescope, binoculars, or a sunspotter to observe distant objects, including but not limited to stars, planets, nebulae, galaxies and/or the sun. A live planetarium star talk will take place instead of telescope observation if the weather is not conducive for outdoor viewing. Lastly, a homemade model of a constellation will be made. Requirements 3-4 will be completed and guidance for Requirements 1-2 will be provided (weather permitting).
• Winter Cub Scout Night - Bear Champions for Nature
  • Natural resources are important to all living things an include water, soil and air. We will explore natural resources by investigating wastewater, soil and air pollution. Requirements 1-4 will be completed and guidance for Requirement 5 (conservation project) will be provided.
• Winter Cub Scout Night - Wolf Spirit of the Water
  • All living things need water to live but we use water for more than just survival. We'll learn where the water we use comes from, how water can become polluted, ways to conserve water in your home and how water is treated to become safe to drink. Requirements 1-4 will be completed.
• Winter Cub Scout Night - Lion & Tiger Champions for Nature
  • Discover natural resources and human-made items and how to recycle. Learn about the 4 R's: reduce, reuse, recycle, and rot, and discover what happens to the garbage in our community. Requirements 1-3 will be completed and guidance for Requirement 4 will be provided.
• Winter Cub Scout Night Planetarium Program - Tigers Sky is the Limit
  • During the Star Signs planetarium show, observe easy-to-see constellations and names of stars in the night sky. If weather permits, scouts will use a telescope, binoculars, or a sunspotter to observe distant objects, including but not limited to stars, planets, nebulae, galaxies and/or the sun. A live planetarium star talk will take place instead of telescope observation if the weather is not conducive for outdoor viewing. Lastly, a homemade model of a constellation will be made. Requirements 3-4 will be completed and guidance for Requirements 1-2 will be provided (weather permitting).
• Winter Cub Scout Night - Wolf Champions for Nature
  • The Earth provides valuable resources that we need - discover things you can do to ensure that the Earth's resources are taken care of and respected. Learn about the difference between renewable natural resources and nonrenewable. Learn about the four R's: reduce, reuse, recycle and rot, discover what happens to recyclables in our community and brainstorm ideas for a conservation project that will make a difference. Requirements 1-3 will be completed and guidance for Requirement 4 will be provided.
• Winter Cub Scout Night - Arrow of Light In the Wild
  • Go "into the wild" to learn about animals and how they contribute to the world in which we live. Visit Retzer Nature Center to observe animals and their behavior, create a model of an animal's ecosystem, see how animals and people coexist and learn about wildlife management. Requirements 1-5 will be completed.
• Spring Cub Scout Night - Lions & Tigers In the Wild
  • Take a hike at Retzer Nature Center and explore the outdoors! Learn about wild and domesticated animals, natural and manmade objects, and learn about the Outdoor Code and S.A.W. Requirements 1-4 will be completed.
• Spring Cub Scout Night - Bear Habitat
  • Come prepared for a one-mile hike at Retzer Nature Center! Review the Cub Scout Six Essentials and Leave No Trace Principles for Kids. Requirements 1-9 will be completed.
• Spring Cub Scout Night - Wolf Paws on the Path
  • Join us as we identify the Cub Scout Six Essentials, learn about the buddy system, how best to prepare for a hike, discuss the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace Principles for Kids and take a walk outside to explore Nature at Retzer. Requirements 1-5 will be completed."
• Spring Cub Scout Night Planetarium Program - Tiger Sky is the Limit
  • During the Star Signs planetarium show, observe easy-to-see constellations and names of stars in the night sky. If weather permits, scouts will use a telescope, binoculars, or a sunspotter to observe distant objects, including but not limited to stars, planets, nebulae, galaxies and/or the sun. A live planetarium star talk will take place instead of telescope observation if the weather is not conducive for outdoor viewing. Lastly, a homemade model of a constellation will be made. Requirements 3-4 will be completed and guidance for Requirements 1-2 will be provided (weather permitting).

Girl Scout Night

Girl Scout Nights are offered at Retzer Nature Center in fall, winter, and spring. Offerings may include the programs listed below. Please click on the "Register or Request a Program" button to see upcoming Scout Night dates and programs.

Programs & Descriptions:

• Fall Girl Scout Night - Brownie Bugs Badge
  • Talk to a bug specialist, see bugs in action, explore bug homes, take a brief bug walk outside (weather permitting) and take home a bug craft.
• Fall Girl Scout Night - STEM Career Exploration Badge Planetarium Program
  • The Horwitz-DeRemer team will assist Girl Scouts of all levels in fulfilling steps toward this badge. Watch Big Astronomy-People, Places & Discoveries; Drifting North; The Article Pulse; and Cosmix. Presenters will describe their STEM career path and answer questions. Arrive early or stay late to explore the lobby, where various books and displays about STEM careers will be on exhibit. 
• Fall Girl Scout Night - Think Like a Citizen Scientist Planetarium Program
  • The Horwitz-DeRemer team will help Girl Scouts of all levels get started in earning their badge by discussing various astronomy citizen science projects. Items covered include but are not limited to: explore what it means to observe, discuss the scientific method and find out how scientists use it to find answers to some of the most important scientific questions, explore how scientists do research and create solutions to real-world problems and more.
• Winter Girl Scout Night - Daisy Space Science Explorer
  • Explore space through a planetarium show called "Space Quiz - Earth, Moon, and Sun," and enjoy a moon-focused star talk or show. Safely view the sun with a sun spotter (weather/time permitting) or make a sundial.
• Winter Girl Scout Night - Brownie Household Elf
  • Learn how to make your home clean and green. Discover the importance of Reduce, Reuse & Recycle, and take away tips to save water and energy at home to earn your badge.
• Winter Girl Scout Night - Daisy Make the World a Better Place
  • Learn about making the world a better place with the 3 Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Read Rosie’s story and conduct a mock trash sort activity to complete the requirements to earn your rose petal.
• Winter Girl Scout Night - Brownie Space Science Adventurer
  • Watch the “Space Quiz: Solar System” show and explore moon phases through a star talk or show. Lastly, weather permitting, observe the sky with tools like a sunspotter or telescope.
• Winter Girl Scout Night - Junior Space Science Investigator
  • Watch the planetarium show “It’s About Time: Cosmic Cycles We Live By” and complete a star scavenger hunt under the dome sky. Learn how to read a skymap and create your own planisphere for year-round stargazing on your own (supplies will be given). You can also hike the “Purple Planetary Pathway” before or after the show.
• Spring Girl Scout Night - Daisy Eco Learner
  • Nature gives us many gifts. Daisy Girl Scouts will learn some ways to give back by protecting nature. Scouts will learn how to be prepared before going outdoors, play a wildlife game, observe plants and animals within a “nature circle”, and learn how to protect nature from trash.
• Spring Girl Scout Night - Junior Animal Habitat Badge
  • Junior Girl Scouts will learn about animal habitats in Wisconsin, investigate animal habitats at Retzer Nature Center, create animal houses for Retzer animals, and learn about endangered habitats and how to protect animal habitats. Steps 1-4 completed and guidance for Step 5 will be provided.
• Spring Girl Scout Night - Brownie Bugs Badge
  • Talk to a bug specialist, see bugs in action, explore bug homes, take a brief bug walk outside (weather permitting) and take home a bug craft.
• Spring Girl Scout Night - Think Like a Citizen Scientist
  • The Horwitz-DeRemer team will help Girl Scouts get started in earning their badge by discussing various astronomy citizen science projects. Items covered include but are not limited to: explore what it means to observe, discuss the scientific method and find out how scientists use it to find answers to some of the most important scientific questions, explore how scientists do research and create solutions to real-world problems and more.
• Spring Girl Scout Night - STEM Career Exploration Badge
  • The Horwitz-DeRemer team will assist Girl Scouts of all levels in fulfilling steps toward this badge. Watch Big Astronomy-People, Places & Discoveries; Drifting North; The Article Pulse; and Cosmix. Presenters will describe their STEM career path and answer questions. Arrive early or stay late to explore the lobby, where various books and displays about STEM careers will be on exhibit.

Cub Scout Programs

Retzer Nature Center offers Cub Scout programs for your den or pack!

• Minimum groups of 20 Cub Scouts required.
• Programs are scheduled Monday - Thursday starting no later than 4 or 4:30 p.m. depending on season.
• Fees and program length listed with each offering.
• Occasional Saturday program may be available for an increased fee and based on staff availability.
• Cub Scout programs without minimum enrollment numbers are available to attend when offered on Cub Scout Nights.
• Programs must be paid in full at the time of registration and are non-refundable.
• Please dress appropriately for outdoor portions of programs.
• Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium programs for Cub Scouts can be found by clicking the link here.

Program Descriptions and Information:

• Lion & Tiger - Champions for Nature
  • Ages: 5-7
  • Duration: 1
  • Cost: $6/Cub Scout
  • Description: Discover natural resources and human-made items and how to recycle. Learn about the 4 R’s: reduce, reuse, recycle, and rot, and discover what happens to the garbage in our community. Requirements 1-3 will be completed and guidance for Requirement 4 will be provided.
• Lion & Tiger - Mountain Lions & Tigers in the Wild
  • Ages: 5-7
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Cost: $6/Cub Scout
  • Description: Take a hike at Retzer Nature Center and explore the outdoors! Learn about wild and domesticated animals, natural and manmade objects, and learn about the Outdoor Code and S.A.W. Requirements 1-4 will be completed.
• Wolf - Champions for Nature
  • Ages: 7-8
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Cost: $7/Cub Scout
  • Description: Learn about the difference between renewable natural and nonrenewable resources. In addition, learn about the four R’s: reduce, reuse, recycle and rot, discover what happens to recyclables in our community and brainstorm ideas for a conservation project that will make a difference. Requirements 1-3 will be completed and guidance for Requirement 4 will be provided.
• Wolf - Paws on the Path
  • Ages: 7-8
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Cost: $7/Cub Scout
  • Description: Join us as we identify the Cub Scout Six Essentials, learn about the buddy system, how best to prepare for a hike, discuss the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace Principles for Kids and take a walk outside to explore Nature at Retzer. Requirements 1-5 will be completed.
• Wolf - Spirit of the Water
  • Ages: 7-8
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Cost: $7/Cub Scout
  • Description: All living things need water to live, but we use water for more than just survival. We’ll learn where the water we use comes from, how water can become polluted, ways to conserve water in your home and how water is treated to become safe to drink. Requirements 1-4 will be completed.
• Bear - Bear Habitat
  • Ages: 8-9
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Cost: $7/Cub Scout
  • Description: Come prepared for a one-mile hike at Retzer Nature Center! Review the Cub Scout Six Essentials and Leave No Trace Principles for Kids. Requirements 1-9 will be completed.
• Bear - Champions for Nature
  • Ages: 8-9
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Cost: $7/Cub Scout
  • Description: Discover natural resources then dig deeper into soil, learn about wastewater and investigate air pollution. Complete requirements 1-4 and receive guidance for requirement 5.
• Webelos - Champions for Nature
  • Ages: 9-10
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Cost: $7/Cub Scout
  • Description: Learn about the wildlife we share our planet with - Explore the components of habitat, learn about an endangered species, what caused it to be endangered, and what is being done to protect the animal. Participate in a conservation service project to help endangered species habitat. Requirements 1-6 will be completed.
• Arrow of Light - Into the Wild
  • Ages: 10-11
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Cost: $7/Cub Scout
  • Description: Explore the components of habitat, learn about an endangered species, what caused it to be endangered, and what is being done to protect the animal. Participate in a conservation service project to help endangered species habitat. Requirements 1-6 will be completed.
• Arrow of Light - Into the Woods
  • Ages: 10-11
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Cost: $7/Cub Scout
  • Description: Learn about what trees and plants do for us and animals and why taking care of them is important to our planet’s well-being. Visit Retzer Nature Center and conduct a tree inventory. We will select a tree, classify it, learn how deals with wildfire and how wildlife uses the tree. Requirements 1-5 will be completed.

Join us for a rejuvenating half-day experience that blends mindful walking, movement, meditation, forest bathing, and light environmental service. Over the course of four hours, you’ll be invited to slow down, ground yourself in the present moment, and engage with the natural world with intention and awareness.

Celebrate autumn at our family-friendly Apple Harvest Festival! Purchase fresh apples  and enjoy delicious apple treats like pies, crisps, and cider at the Apple Market. Visit the Delafield Brewhaus Beer Garden for food, creamy root beer, and beer (21+) – try the Retzer Apple Ale! 

Browse eco-friendly arts & crafts vendors and explore fun kids’ activities in “The Pines.” Take part in the Passport Expedition, silent auction, Scarecrow Lane scavenger hunt, story hike, Planetarium shows, and live music by JC Ayer. Cards accepted at select locations, and an ATM is on site.

Attend free, drop-in learning sessions at Retzer Nature Center! First, learn how to create and use your own compost and how it improves the health of your soils in lawns and gardens. Then, find out how to make your space a contributor to a healthy environment by creating habitat, planting natives, and protecting water. Finally, learn the five basic principles of soil health that farmers use and how to apply them at home.

Bring the family for kid-friendly activities (inside and outside) focusing on how your actions matter and what you can do to keep our planet safe and clean.

The hands-on Recycling Exhibit area will allow visitors to experience the complete route recyclable materials can take in our community and how you can help close the loop on this process.

Enjoy a fun evening out! Grab some food, drinks, and try the 50/50 raffle, with all proceeds benefiting the Friends of Retzer Nature Center in support of Retzer Nature Center programs and initiatives. The event will feature beer from North Pillar Brewing Co, live music from the J Ryan Trio, and all-new Planetarium experiences. Bring your family, friends, and help support a great cause!

Set out on the trails at Retzer Nature Center in search of the wildlife of winter. This self-guided hike will include a map with key highlights along the trail and a scavenger hunt!

Also explore the nature trails on your own by hiking on foot or with free use of the Retzer snowshoes if snow cover is adequate. Snowshoes are first-come, first-serve.

Stick around after the Friends of Retzer Nature Center Beer Garden for a magical night of moths and bats! Moth species are more numerous than butterfly species and come in many incredible shapes and colors. We’ll have special illuminated equipment close to the building which will safely bring in winged Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) and probably some other surprises, and we’ll identify the species!

In addition, you can join Bat Ambassadors on a short hike to detect different bat species flying above with special equipment. This is a great opportunity for adults and families and counts towards education hours for Wisconsin Master Naturalists.

Meet and learn from Wisconsin’s newest Master Naturalists! Join us for a special Open House event celebrating the newest class of Wisconsin Master Naturalist Volunteers! Meet and engage with these newly trained naturalists as they share insights on a variety of natural history topics in an informal, interactive setting.

The Wisconsin Master Naturalist Volunteer Training is an intensive, week-long program that covers core environmental subjects including Geology, Ecology & Plant Communities, Wildlife & Aquatic Life, Weather & Climate, Water Systems, and Natural & Human Connections.

Explore the magic of autumn at Retzer Nature Center with our fan-favorite self-guided hike along Scarecrow Lane! Wander the Blue Trail and take in the fall colors while discovering a variety of creative, one-of-a-kind scarecrow displays. Start your journey near the Children’s Garden on the west end of the Learning Center building and follow the Blue loop to the scenic Retzer pond.

Discover why birds captivate us and how we can help birds in our yards through certain native plantings. Experts will share information on bird biology, migration, tips for identifying birds, with an optional short hike to Retzer hotspots.

Step into the season at Retzer Nature Center’s Story Hike! Stroll the Orange Trail during the fall and spring as you read a family-friendly book. This offering is brought to you by Retzer Nature Center and the Bridges Library System. Come hike, read, and enjoy the season!

Embrace the beauty of winter at Retzer Nature Center this winter with a magical evening of outdoor and indoor fun for the whole family! Wander the trails on a serene self-guided hike lit by candlelight (with snowshoes available, weather permitting), then warm up with cozy beverages and sweet treats in the Community Room. Enjoy hands-on children’s activities, explore nature-themed programs, and have some family-friendly fun.

Presented by the Friends of Retzer Nature Center and the Friends of the Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium, this evening is a perfect way to celebrate the season and enjoy the magic of nature after dark.

The Wisconsin Science Festival is a statewide celebration of science, technology, engineering, art, and math with activities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and interests throughout Wisconsin. Events include hands-on science exhibitions, demonstrations, performances, tours, pub nights, workshops and more. More information and statewide event sites can be found here.

Retzer Nature Center and the Horowitz-DeRemer Planetarium are proud Wisconsin Science Festival Partners.