Washington Park

Historic Design

Washington Park, originally called West Park, is a historic 128.5-acre urban park located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in 1891-1892, it is one of the oldest parks in the Milwaukee County Parks system.

The park features rolling terrain with elevations between 130 and 180 feet above Lake Michigan. Olmsted's design incorporated the site's existing 15-acre native forest and created open meadows, strategic plantings of thousands of trees and shrubs, and ample picnic areas.

Natural Features

The centerpiece of the park is a naturalistic 7-acre lagoon that serves multiple recreational purposes throughout the year.

Washington Park was home to Milwaukee's first zoo from 1892 until 1958, when the zoo relocated to a larger site. After the zoo structures were removed, the area was restored to its former pastoral layout.

Cultural Landmarks

In 1938, the Emil Blatz Temple of Music, an Art Deco-style bandshell, was constructed within a natural amphitheater in the park. This venue became famous for its "Music Under the Stars" concert series, which ran for over 50 years.

Modern Use

Today, Washington Park continues to be a vital community resource. It houses a branch of the Urban Ecology Center, which provides environmental education and outdoor recreation opportunities.

The park hosts various community events, including summer concerts and movie nights. Its diverse amenities cater to a wide range of recreational activities, making it a popular destination for local residents and visitors alike.