Enjoy 483 acres of Nature Center grounds featuring prairies, woodlands, wetlands, trails, gardens, and wildlife.
In addition, Retzer's Environmental Learning Center offers a variety of outdoor activities and educational programs for people of all ages.
Office Hours:
*Gift shop closes 15 minutes prior to close.
Closed on County-observed Federal Holidays
Trail Hours: 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Address: S14W28167 Madison St, Waukesha, WI 53188
Email: retzer@waukeshacounty.gov
Phone: 262-896-8007
No dogs allowed at Retzer Nature Center | Leashed service dogs are permitted
Free Entry and Parking Available | No Annual Membership or Daily Permit required
Trails
Nature Center Trails
Enjoy diverse hiking experiences on Retzer Nature Center's trails.
From early morning bird watching to evening star gazing, there is an outdoor discovery awaiting everyone at Retzer Nature Center.
View and print a Discovery Trail map.
Discovery Trail
The Discovery Trail includes a variety of "Exploration Stations" for outdoor education, sensory-based play experiences, and STEM activities for families and school groups. It provides access for all ages and abilities.
View and print a Discovery Trail map.
The Discovery Trail was made possible by contributions from the Waukesha Rotary Club Foundation, the Friends of Retzer Nature Center, and funding from Community Development Block grants.
Retzer Room Rental
Interested in renting space at Retzer's Environmental Learning Center?
Are you an educator, scout group, individual, or family looking for fun offerings and hands-on learning? We’ve got you covered with our environmental education programs and events!
Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium
School District of Waukesha
Looking for programs, shows, and more information about the Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium?
Additional Information
View Retzer Nature Center rules, policies, and more.
Retzer Nature Center Policies
Retzer Nature Center Rules
These rules are in addition to all Park Rules.
Retzer Nature Center History
Retzer Nature Center was John and Florence Retzer’s retirement home. John purchased the original 90 acres from the Federal Land Bank in 1938. The Retzer’s immediately began restoring the degraded land with over 26,000 trees, shrubs, and flowers, many obtained from the Wisconsin Conservation Department. These plantings can be enjoyed today. In 1973, Florence Horn Retzer bequeathed her property to Waukesha County for park purposes. Her vision was "to conserve the scenery, natural life and wildlife, leaving the land unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations."
Guided by Mrs. Retzer’s wishes, the Waukesha County Park System began developing a nature center in 1974. Significant land acquisitions in 1980 and 1984 expanded the site to 335 acres. The Nature Center focuses on environmental education, natural land management, community restoration, and wildlife habitat improvement. Today restored prairies, a colorful butterfly and rain garden, and an oak opening demonstration area greets visitors and compliment the Retzer’s original homestead.
The Retzer Environmental Learning Center and the Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium addition opened in May of 2005.
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