Building Description
The Dorothy K. Vallier Environmental Learning Center, designed by The Kubala Washatko Architects and built in 2003, is the portal to 185 acres of varied habitats. Features of the Gold LEED-certified building include extensive use of natural light with window systems that supply 10-20% of the building’s electricity. The building includes classrooms for Nature School through adult education. Located west of our Great Hall and viewable from inside, the Feeder Grove observation area recently underwent a breathtaking transformation, intentionally designed to attract and support both local and migrating birds.
Outdoors, six miles of trails take visitors through wetlands, restored prairies, forests, ravines, bluffs, and Lake Michigan shoreline. Our one-mile Central Wetlands Loop is fully accessible.
Visitor Experience
Guests can hike the trails and veiw our building during all open hours. From 9am-3pm, we’ll have 15-minute guided hikes available upon request. Educators will also have various animal ambassadors in our Great Hall from 9am-3pm. A raptor encounter will occur from 1pm- 2pm.
Address
1111 E Brown Deer Rd
Saturday Hours
Not Open
Sunday Hours
10 am - 5 pm
Photography
Photography allowed, Videography allowed, Tripod allowed
Accessibility
Fully wheelchair accessible
