Retzer Nature Center Earth Week EventS ARE such great Activities full of family fun in Waukesha!
The Friends of Retzer Nature Center’s Annual Earth Week Celebration Finale concludes week-long Earth-themed activities on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Retzer Nature Center. The Finale event is offering free exhibits, programs, and activities for all ages from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Retzer Nature Center is located at S14W28167 Madison Street, Waukesha.
Some programs do require registration, so secure your spot early!
Program Registration 262.970.6680 • waukeshacountyparks.com
ALL MONTH LONG IN APRIL: Story Hike
Come out to Retzer Nature Center to enjoy this spring’s Story Hike, featuring the children’s book, “What Matters” by Alison Hughes and Holly Hatam and learn about the impact we can make by picking up litter and keeping our environment clean. Set out on the Orange Trail to read the book while enjoying the outdoors at the same time! The Orange Trail is a mowed grass trail with some sloped terrain (0.75 mile approxiamately).
Free. No registration is necessary!
Link to the Story Hike Map on the Lake Country Family Fun Facebook Page.
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Outdoor Classroom
Learn and discover in the great outdoors! This program offers guided, hands-on exploration that brings seasonal topics to life for children ages 4-12.
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Earth Day Spring Ephemeral Hike
Celebrate Earth Day with the naturalists as we search for what is blooming at Retzer Nature Center. Meet at the Discovery Trail arch. Dress for the weather.
- Free
- All Ages
- No Registration
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium
Sunset Meditation and Hike
Come unwind under the dome of the Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium and meditate for your mental health! Unwind as you travel from the Grand Canyon to the North Pole, then relax under a night sky filled with stars and glimpses of the Northern Lights.
Following the show, take a quiet 45-minute hike with a naturalist through the tranquil landscapes of Retzer Nature Center (weather permitting). Discover peaceful sights and sounds that help you reconnect with nature and yourself.
- Sunset Meditation Planetarium Show: 7-7:30 p.m.
- Peaceful Night Hike: 7:30-8:15 p.m.
COST: $12 per person, per date (ages 10+)
Required: Register by April 21 at noon.
60 participants max. Sorry, no walk-ins.
Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Earth Week Story Hike
Celebrate Earth Week at Retzer Nature Center as we hike, read, and enjoy this spring’s Story Hike! While this hike is available all month for the public to walk through on their own, a Retzer Nature Center Naturalist will lead this hike. Together, we will set out on the Orange Trail to read “What Matters” by Alison Hughes and Holly Hatam and learn about the impact we can make by picking up litter and keeping our environment clean.
Story Hike is provided through a partnership with Retzer Nature Center and the Bridges Library System.
Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am
A Mindful Walk in Nature [Earth Week]
A walk in nature supports both physical and mental health, especially when we are fully present. Join this guided walk at Retzer Nature Center to explore simple practices that help deepen awareness and connection to the sights, sounds, and wonders of nature.
Friday, April 24, 2026 from 7:00 am to 8:30 am
Morning Bird Hike with the Benjamin Goss Bird Club
With 300+ species and 70+ eBird hotspots, Waukesha County is a birder’s dream! Join the Benjamin F. Goss Bird Club to see how many different types of birds you can find on an easy, 1.5 mile walk. All skill levels welcome!
- Free
- Ages 8+
- No registration
- Groups of 10 or more: Reserve your space no later than April 20 by contacting Retzer Nature Center at 262-896-8007.
Then come back Saturday for the Earth Week Finale Event!
Find EVEN MORE EARTH DAY FUN in our 2026 EARTH DAY GUIDE!
