Each provides a unique opportunity for the participant to connect with nature.

Program #1: Growing and Thriving Workshop

A FREE WORKSHOP FOR ADULTS 60+ AND A GUEST

Slow down among growing things — and take one home

There’s something quietly restorative about being surrounded by plants. Growing and Thriving invites Milwaukee-area adults 60 and older, along with a caregiver or guest of their choosing, to slow down inside the Domes, reconnect with nature, and leave with a plant of their own. It’s free, it’s hands-on, and it’s built around the simple joy of caring for something green.

What to expect

Guided by Interpretive Educator Pete Stobie, you’ll explore the history of the Domes and the world-class plant collection that lives inside our three iconic glasshouses. Then you’ll get your hands in the soil: choose a plant from our gift shop, learn how to repot it in a handmade pot from La Familia de Arte, and head home with your new plant and everything you need to keep it thriving.

Pete will walk you through the houseplant basics that make all the difference:

• Watering and humidity
• Choosing the right soil
• Repotting with confidence
• Reading your plant’s light needs — and more

The workshop includes: a guided look at Domes history, hands-on houseplant care, and a plant to take home with full care instructions.

Why it matters

Connecting with nature isn’t only a pleasant way to spend an afternoon — a growing body of research suggests it’s good for us. Caring for plants can engage and stimulate the mind in ways that support cognitive health as we age, and regular time in green space is linked to lower stress and better emotional wellbeing. At the Domes, nurturing that connection to nature is exactly what we’re here for.

Choose your session

Growing and Thriving runs as a series this year. Pick the date that works best for you and register below — each session is the full hands-on experience.

The details

• Location: Mitchell Park Domes
• Cost: Free for Milwaukee-area residents 60 and older, plus one guest. Pre-registration is required.
• Funded by: Bader Philanthropies

Before you register

Photo and media policy. Photos and video taken during the workshop may be used in Milwaukee Domes Alliance marketing. By registering, you consent to this use. If you’d prefer we not include you, just email us and we’ll honor that.

Cancellation. Spaces in this free program are limited, and demand is high. If your plans change, please cancel your registration at least one week in advance so we can offer your spot to someone on the waitlist.

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Program #2: SPARK! at the Domes

SPARK! at the Domes is a program that provides older adults with memory challenges and their caregivers nature-based activities and experiences at Milwaukee’s most beautiful indoor setting: the Mitchell Park Domes.

SPARK! at the Domes is available at no cost to those experiencing memory loss and their caregivers. Each session is 1.5 hours.

Guests are encouraged to participate each month (or as often as possible), with new activities and themes offered at each session. Come learn about music, plants and nature while sharing experiences at The Domes.

Cost: Free for anyone experiencing memory loss and their caregivers (pre-registration is required)

Location: Mitchell Park Domes Lobby

Submit Interest Form Here

If you prefer to speak with someone about the SPARK! at The Domes Program, please call (414) 257-5600.

Upcoming SPARK! Programs

Program #3: Discounted Milwaukee Domes Alliance Membership

Senior memberships for those 60+ are only $30 annually and include the following benefits:

1. Free year-round admission to The Domes for the senior plus one guest
2. Member-only events
3. 10% discount at the Gifts Under Glass Gift Shop
4. Free access to 300+ other gardens through the American Horticultural Society reciprocity program.
5. Much more!

You can purchase a membership the following ways:

1. Online by clicking here
2. At The Domes Gift Shop (let the admissions booth know and you will not be charged an entrance fee)
3. By calling (414) 257-5608

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