Based in World
Milwaukee County Parks oversees a comprehensive system of green spaces that has shaped the identity and quality of life in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, for over 130 years. Officially established in 1907, with roots tracing back to the 1830s, the organization manages an extensive portfolio of over 150 unique parks, encompassing 15,325 acres of parkland. This vast system includes more than 140 miles of trails – such as the Oak Leaf Trail – alongside a diverse range of recreational and natural areas. It features fifteen golf courses, numerous playgrounds, beaches, beer gardens, and natural environments. Among its key sites are the Mitchell Park Domes and the Boerner Botanical Gardens. Central to its mission, Milwaukee County Parks stewards a system designed to foster connections between land and community. The system prioritizes the conservation of thousands of acres of open space – including beaches, prairies, and forests – vital to the region's environmental health. It also undertakes capital improvement projects, such as trail maintenance and playground development. Its philosophy emphasizes providing accessible, inclusive, green, and resourceful spaces, actively engaging the community in planning and development to ensure equitable access and preserve natural resources for future generations. Recognized for its excellence, Milwaukee County Parks received the Gold Medal Award from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) in 2009 and has been recognized as a finalist in subsequent years.
