Milwaukee Public Museum will be OPEN for all of 2026
We're thrilled to remain open for all of 2026, giving MPM fans near and far an entire year yet to make memories in the current building! This will be the Museum's final full year in this location before moving to our new home, the Nature & Culture Museum of Wisconsin. But first, we're going out with a bang! Read on to learn more about the epic year we have planned.
In January 2026, the Museum will kick off a year-long celebration called Greatest Hits, commemorating MPM's most iconic and beloved exhibits with exciting theme days, after-hours adult events, guest lectures, hands-on activities for young learners, educational opportunities for field trips, merch drops, and more. Greatest Hits invites everyone to experience the magic of the Museum and enjoy a year full of discovery, curiosity, and community—with a few fun surprises along the way! More details coming soon.
Ancient Civilizations
January 10-February 14, 2026
The ancient world will come to life during this Greatest Hit as we explore the rise of the earliest civilizations across the globe. Programming will celebrate the exhibit Crossroads of Civilization, which highlights ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Persia.
Diorama-RAMA
March 14-April 17, 2026
MPM's world famous “Milwaukee-style” dioramas, including Muskrats created by taxidermist Carl Akeley, will be the inspiration behind several fresh, engaging programs and interactive events that put a fun twist on some of the Museum's oldest displays.
Rainforest & Butterflies
May 7-June 6, 2026
This Greatest Hit takes visitors to the tropics to celebrate two of MPM's groundbreaking and immersive exhibits, Rainforest and Puelicher Butterfly Vivarium, which showcase some of the planet's most beautiful biodiversity—using recreated and real specimens.
Dino Days of Summer
July 11-August 6, 2026
Dig up discovery during this Greatest Hit as we travel 65 million years into the past to the age of dinosaurs! From examining real fossils to competing in T. rex trivia, dino lovers of all ages will unearth fascinating details about these prehistoric creatures.
Streets of Old Milwaukee & European Village
October-December 2026
Two of MPM's most beloved exhibits close out Greatest Hits with a bang. The walkthrough streetscape dioramas set at the turn of the 20th century will be decked out for Halloween and Christmas—the perfect backdrop to celebrate both holidays in style, all season long.
Museum Membership For 2026
This next year promises to be the most exciting and worthwhile time to become a MPM member, as we pack in as many unique experiences as possible for visitors during this Museum location's last roar! Renew or purchase your membership today to enjoy FREE admission during MPM's Greatest Hits programs.
The last day of operation at the current location will be January 3, 2027. An official opening date for the Nature & Culture Museum of Wisconsin is still being determined. Stay updated on our monumental move.