Dretzka Park

Park History

Set on Milwaukee's north side, Dretzka Park stretches across 327 acres of public green space. The park bears the name of Jerome C. Dretzka, a Polish immigrant who dedicated an impressive 43 years of service to the Milwaukee County Park System Commission.

Landscape

Wandering through Dretzka, you can find yourself surrounded by diverse terrain - from tree-lined paths to gentle hills that create a surprisingly tranquil escape just minutes from Milwaukee's urban buzz.

Keep your eyes peeled while exploring - it's not uncommon to spot local wildlife including turkey, hawks, and coyotes going about their day in their natural habitat.

Golf Course

The crown jewel for many visitors is the sprawling 18-hole golf course that occupies 210 acres of the park. With its tree-lined fairways and generous greens, the course offers a pleasant challenge for golfers at any level. Water hazards come into play on 12 of the 18 holes, adding a strategic element to your round.

The grounds crew does an excellent job maintaining the course, which has earned it favorite status among Milwaukee County's golfing options. Just note that during routine maintenance periods, you might find play limited to certain sections.

Disc Golf Course

Perhaps the park's most secluded area is its remarkable 27-hole disc golf course. What makes this course special is its innovative dual basket setup for each hole, effectively creating multiple course layouts and difficulty options.

The thoughtfully designed course strikes a nice balance with open fairways and technical wooded holes, making it accessible for newcomers while still keeping experienced disc golfers engaged. Professional disc golfers contributed to its 1990s design, explaining the well-considered layout that players appreciate today.

There's a modest fee to play, which helps maintain the course's excellent condition and clear signage.

Recreational Activities

Beyond the golf options, Dretzka Park offers plenty of other ways to stay active. The park houses softball and baseball fields for organized games, plus playground areas where kids can burn off energy. Soccer fields and open grassy areas provide perfect spots for everything from structured practices to impromptu frisbee games.

Seasonal Activities

When winter blankets Milwaukee in snow, Dretzka transforms into a cold-weather playground. Its sledding hill has become something of a local legend, with multiple generations of Milwaukee families creating memories on its slopes over the years.

The park also sets aside areas for ice skating and skiing during the winter months. This year-round versatility makes Dretzka appealing whether you're looking for active outdoor adventure or just a peaceful natural setting to unwind.

Amenities

Scattered across the grounds, you'll discover several picnic areas suitable for intimate gatherings or larger group events. The park also maintains clean restroom facilities that are typically available most days, making it comfortable to spend extended time exploring everything Dretzka has to offer.