About Us

Discovery World is an extraordinary experience devoted to sharing the wonders of science and igniting a love of endless exploration. We are the spark of joy in a child’s eyes when they make a connection with a living creature.

We are the sudden and satisfying “Aha” when you discover something you didn’t even know you were looking for. We are the beginning of your lifelong learning adventure.

Here at our world-class facility on Lake Michigan’s shoreline (part of the largest freshwater system in the world!), a new discovery is always just around the corner, from exploring the underwater wonders of the Reiman Aquarium to launching rockets and hopping aboard the “semi-truck” of the Great Lakes. Bring your whats, whens, and whys; and embark on a path to discovering the answers to all of your curiosities—and unearthing new ones along the way!

Our love of science knows no bounds. We empower you to learn virtually anywhere with classroom activities, exciting summer camps, and more. And, as part of the STEM ecosystem, we also touch on disciplines in technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Welcome to Discovery World, where seeing the world differently is just an “Aha” away.

Child exploring

Our Mission

Discovery World exists to inspire generations to discover the wonders of science. We leverage the awesome powers of science and encourage you to embark on your own path to discovery.

Our Story

Discovery World was born out of an idea that our community would be a much better place if we could leverage the awesome powers of science to encourage everyone to embark on their own path to discovery. Our first home was in the basement of a Boys & Girls Club on the East Side of Milwaukee. We soon moved inside the Central Branch of the Milwaukee Public Library.

In 1995, we moved again and shared a building with the Milwaukee Public Museum. Under the guidance of local philanthropist and relentless tinkerer Michael Cudahy, in 2006 we built a world-class facility on Lake Michigan’s shoreline, part of the largest freshwater system in the world.

Today’s Discovery World exists to inspire generations to discover the wonders of science. Through interactive exhibits, the underwater worlds of the Reiman Aquarium, and unforgettable and ever-changing events and activities we have become an immersive science experience for families, students, and everyone in our community.

Our Commitment to DEAI

In alignment with our continued Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion (DEAI) efforts, we believe it is essential to create an inclusive and safe environment that welcomes and empowers people from diverse communities to have equitable access to a quality Discovery World experience.

As a part of our strategic priorities, we have committed to broadening participation to include communities historically excluded from science opportunities through identifying barriers to participation, establishing new and building upon existing partnerships and programs, establishing inclusive company culture and business practices, and ensuring the broader Milwaukee community is reflected in our board of directors and volunteers.

We will measure our success by seeing a larger presence in communities, expanding demographics among guests, participants, staff, board, and volunteers, and increasing attendance and participation of target audiences.

Our DEAI goals, values, and practices are interconnected and interdependent. If we are to inspire generations to discover the wonders of science, we must be considerate of and respectful to diverse perspectives both outside and within our organization.

Discovery World will continue to uphold this mission by:  

  • Revisiting our DEAI commitments on an ongoing basis, as we create updated content and increase access.
  • Continuing efforts to increase diversity in leadership positions within the museum and on our Board of Directors.
  • Growing community partnerships to find ways to provide more equitable science learning opportunities
  • Increasing access to science education and resources, through Discovery World’s initiatives such as–  
  • Access Programs for museum admissions, membership, and school group visits 
  • Summer Camp Scholarship Program
  • Educational programs and support in economically disadvantaged and educationally at-risk communities
  • Evaluating the exhibits, physical space, and programs to make sure an inclusive, quality environment is provided for all
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