Business Details
Your Horticultural Oasis in Milwaukee
Friends Of The Domes serves as an operating partner for the Mitchell Park Conservatory, dedicated to fostering a lifelong appreciation for nature among visitors of all ages. Our organization offers engaging educational programs, family-friendly activities, and youth field trips designed to create meaningful connections with the natural world. As a private nonprofit, we rely on philanthropy to enhance the visitor experience at this iconic Milwaukee cultural institution. Our initiatives include the Domes Reimagined Plan, which ensures the preservation and evolution of this beloved horticultural oasis. With over 5,000 members, we provide year-round access to three distinct domes showcasing diverse plant ecosystems.Our team manages special events like the Holiday Show and Art in the Green auction while maintaining commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Through corporate partnerships and volunteer programs, we extend our impact across southeastern Wisconsin. Our Education Center offers hands-on learning experiences that align with state science standards. We maintain transparency in operations and comply with civil rights protections, ensuring inclusive access to all our programs and facilities.
Services
Youth Education Programs
Adult Education
Corporate Engagement
Gift Shop
Membership Programs
Highlights and features
- We offer 5,000+ member benefits including year-round dome access
- Our Education Center provides standards-aligned science programming
- We maintain three distinct climate-controlled plant ecosystems
- We host 300+ annual events connecting community with nature
- Our nonprofit status ensures mission-driven conservation efforts
Services
Youth Education Programs
Our hands-on educational experiences align with Wisconsin science standards while fostering nature connections. Programs include guided dome explorations, plant science workshops, and seasonal outdoor activities. Designed for Pre-K through 12th grade students, our curriculum supports classroom learning through immersive horticultural experiences.
Membership Programs
Membership provides unlimited dome access, exclusive event invitations, and reciprocal benefits at 300+ gardens nationwide. Tiered options include individual, family, and corporate memberships. Members receive our quarterly newsletter and special discounts on gift shop purchases and educational programs.
Corporate Engagement
We offer tailored corporate partnership opportunities including event sponsorships, employee volunteer programs, and branded educational initiatives. Partners gain visibility through on-site recognition, marketing collaborations, and exclusive access to special events like the Art in the Green auction.
Gift Shop
Our onsite and online gift shop features nature-themed merchandise, botanical gifts, and Wisconsin-made products. Proceeds support conservation efforts while providing visitors with unique souvenirs. Items include plants, books, home decor, and educational toys for all ages.
Special Events
We host seasonal celebrations like the Holiday Show, Day of the Dead festivities, and the Art in the Green auction. Member-exclusive events include preview nights and appreciation celebrations. The domes also feature special exhibitions and community art installations throughout the year.
Questions
What are the Mitchell Park Domes' operating hours?
The Domes are open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday-Sunday 9am-4pm. Holiday hours vary, with closures on Thanksgiving and Christmas Days.
What educational programs do you offer?
We provide youth field trips, adult education workshops, and senior programs focused on horticulture and environmental science. All programs align with Wisconsin educational standards.
How does membership benefit visitors?
Members receive unlimited dome access, exclusive event invitations, reciprocal benefits at 300+ gardens, and gift shop discounts while supporting conservation efforts.
Can I host events at the Domes?
Private rentals require coordination through Milwaukee County Parks. We host special events like the Holiday Show and Art in the Green auction annually.
How is the organization funded?
As a nonprofit, we rely on memberships, donations, corporate sponsorships, and the Greenhouse Guild program to support operations and conservation efforts.
What accessibility features are available?
We comply with civil rights protections and provide accessible pathways, service animal accommodations, and sensory-friendly programs for visitors with disabilities.
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