It’s been a VERY long and cold winter in the Midwest; maybe you’re experiencing a little cabin fever and need to get out of the house, but it’s still a little too chilly. Why not consider a museum tour of Central Wisconsin? Here are a few suggestions for admission-free museums in the Ancient Glacial Lake Wisconsin region that might appeal to you.
UWSP Museum of Natural History – Arctic Tundra Exhibit
The Museum of Natural History on the University of Stevens Point campus is a modest facility that offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural and cultural heritage of Central Wisconsin—and Africa! Warm your toes in front of the African Savanna exhibit. Other featured exhibits include the Menominee Clans Story that features small highly detailed wood carvings by a Menominee artist and an exhibit entitled “Celebrate” that shares the cultural diversity of Native American societies.
The museum is located within the UWSP Library at 900 Reserve Street. Admission is free. The museum is open daily when the college is in session, including on weekends. More information here.
Conservation Hall of Fame – Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center
While in Stevens Point, consider a visit to the nearby Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center located on the northern edge of the UWSP campus. The Center houses the Wisconsin Land of Wealth Museum and the Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame . The diverse museum exhibits introduce the visitor to Wisconsin wildlife and the history of natural resources management, including the life of lumberjacks and conservation wardens. The Hall of Fame is a tribute to the 70 individuals who have shaped the conservation history of Wisconsin, including Aldo Leopold, John Muir and Gaylord Nelson. The Schmeeckle Reserve offers five miles of trails through woodland and wetland. Open daily from 8am to 5pm and free to the public. More information here.
Alexander House in the Summer
Port Edwards is home to the gracious and historic Alexander House, a period-furnished colonial home that serves as a cultural museum featuring the history of lumbering and papermaking as well as a modern art gallery with regularly changing exhibitions. The Alexander House (1131 Wisconsin River Drive, Port Edwards) is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 1:00pm to 4:00pm and is free to the public. More information here.
portion of Mortensen artifact collection (Photo: New Lisbon Library)
While in Central Wisconsin, don’t miss the extensive Harry A. Mortenson collection of over 4,000 arrowheads and other Native American artifacts collected in Juneau County that are on display at the New Lisbon Memorial Library, 115 W. Park Street in New Lisbon during normal library hours. More information here.