This was an unexpected gem encountered on a day of driving across Wisconsin. In addition to the museum, there is a nature trail on a boardwalk through the northern forest. There were birches, marshland grasses, flowers, butterflies and more. Take your camera and take pictures. The back porch was shaded, had a nice breeze, had rocking chairs, and was a wonderful place for a snack or sack lunch.
Nice views of Apostle Islands. Informative multimedia presentation. Very helpful people. Interesting exhibits, too. Clean, well maintained. Even a fun gift shop.
You're going to want a little extra time here.There are trails to walk, a look out tower, a theater of different presentations, historical archives, an interactive museum, a shop, and more. It was certainly more than we had expected.
The center a beautiful structure overlooking marsh land and a small lake. I toured the interior and looked at all the "climate change" propaganda and wondered how the huge glacier that carved out the Great Lakes area melted on its own without man-made carbon emissions. The trails and walkways are well constructed and I did see several birds and other wildlife even though it was late in the season. No fee, donation suggested.
We have been coming up to Ashland for years. It is only 2 hours from our house. It was a rainy weekend and we decided to visit the warm visitor center. WOW.....what a surprise!!!! It is a great museum with history that we never knew about Northern Wisconsin. They have artifacts, movies and so much more. You can go to the 3rd floor by either stairs or elevator. On the third floor there is an observation deck. They have a box of FREE binoculars to use!!! I'm afraid of heights but felt quite safe! You can see the light house in Ashland and many other sights from the observation deck. See each floor....they all have different cool things that will bring a smile to everyone's face....young and old. There is also a cool hiking trails.
this was our first trip to Ashland in several years and we were surprised to find this visitor center there. it represents both Wisconsin and Minnesota history in the region. Mining, lumber, fishing, geology...you name it. It has a great circular observation tower that can be reached by stairs or elevator. Nice trails and parking. The exhibits were well thought out and designed for both kids and adults. This place is so nice and attractive there were people there planning to have their wedding held at the visitor center.
This is a wonderful teaching facility. Stop in - stay for as long as you want - you will learn, you will be introduced to the beauty of the Greatest Lake and its history, cultures, habitats, and become aware of how you can make a difference in our Natural World. Also a great resource for those who are planning a stay in the area - many resources. A MUST if you have children - many exhibits that are interactive, and a wonderful walkway through the area surrounding the Center. Something new every time we stop in! Oh, did I mention that it is absolutely FREE?
Everything about this place was great - our family really enjoyed it. Only downside was the fact that we visited near closing time on a Friday, and I don't think the staff could've shooed us out any faster if they tried. We were even patronizing their gift store and buying stuff - probably would've spent more if they would've let us!
A lot of information on display. Well set up and an excellent view from the tower. A theater for presentations, gift shop and good bathrooms.
We decided to give this place a try and it was a nice way to get info on the area. It is almost like a mini museum and there are little movies about different topics that I found very interesting. If you like info on the history of a area and surroundings it is worth a look.