Urban Ecology Center - Riverside Park - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Caitlin F.

This was the most breathtaking place we could've ever imagined getting married at! The colors of trees and overall forest feel gave us the most perfect magic forest wedding! The team was really helpful in making sure the day went perfectly. The ability to not only decorate the whole space but have the freedom to bring your own vendors was amazing! Lots of places lock you in to a crazy expensive meal/drink plan. So the fact they don't is underrated!

The inside of the building is almost as beautiful as the venue it's located on! The slides were a huge hit with kids and adults alike! The 2 levels were also great for balcony viewing and space to really spread out and dance!

Dan N.

At Tall Guy and a Grill, we love and admire the incredible team at the Urban Ecology Center. Their passion for sustainability and their dedication to creating unforgettable events are just a couple of the many reasons we love working with them! As a green caterer, we appreciate how they challenge us to continuously find new ways to lessen our footprint and be more mindful of our impact.

Danni, the events coordinator, is a joy to work with—her warmth, kindness, and passion make every event feel welcoming and seamless!

Brandon B. -. R. P.

Urban Ecology Center - Riverside is a fantastic and unique wedding venue. Surrounded by nature and strongly committed to environmentally sustainable practices, the venue combines warm wooden tones with a modern twist. In addition to the beautiful forest grove for ceremonies - there is a striking walking bridge and observation tower that provide great opportunities for photos and frivolity! It is the perfect background for wedding celebrations!

Patrick B. (. P.

The Urban Ecology Center is an amazing mulit-use location tucked away in a super peaceful nook of Milwaukee. As an Milwaukee Wedding Photographer, I've had the privilege of working there a handful of times, and what has highlighted my experience has been the down-to-earth nature of the staff and the space itself, as well as the variety of nature-first locations around the premises. With easy access to the Oak Leaf Trail and the river, it serves as a great starting point to begin an adventure on foot, whether you are taking photographs or not. Because it is a relatively small venue, it works perfectly for smaller celebrations and really works to provide a cozy space to have an intimate event. There is always more to explore at the Urban Ecology Center, and I always look forward to going back.

-Patrick (Betcher Photo)

Paul P.

The Urban Ecology Center - Riverside Park is a true gem in Milwaukee!

I’ve visited UEC Riverside several times and am always impressed by the variety of programs and the dedication of the staff. Whether it’s kayaking on the Milwaukee River, hiking the trails, or attending a community event, there’s something for everyone here.

The center does an amazing job connecting people to nature in an urban environment, offering a welcoming space for all ages and skill levels.

I particularly love their focus on environmental education and stewardship. It’s clear they care deeply about the community and the environment, and it shows in everything they do. Highly recommend visiting, whether you’re looking for outdoor fun, a place to relax, or to learn more about Milwaukee’s natural spaces.

Sandi L.

Beautiful, accessible nature trails. Accessible building with local reptiles to look at. Nice venue for gathering or weddings. It was especially lovely with the fall colors. Various programs to get involved, including crafts, adult evening walks and drinks, sewing, etc.

Gina L.

Thoroughly enjoyed my day. The paths are well marked & the riverwalk is beautiful. It's free, or join and rent all kinds of equipment canoes, tents/camping equipment, kayaks, bikes, tennis rackets, ect for only $5
Great place for bird watching too. Hard to believe this place is in the middle of the city.

Lore L.

Awesome community oriented facility. Great place for kids to learn about conservation in an urban setting.