SPRING & SUMMER HOURS
Open:
Monday-Sunday, 9:00am-4:00pm |
Closed Dates:
April 5, May 25, July 4, August 8-9
If you’ve ever wandered through Discovery World’s Reiman Aquarium, chances are you remember the magic of our Caribbean Tunnel Exhibit, a breathtaking walk-through experience where fish glide above and around you in all directions. The tunnel-shaped tank has long been one of our most iconic features, bringing the feeling of the tropics to Milwaukee like nowhere else.
As Discovery World approaches its 20th anniversary on the lakefront, we’re taking a fresh look at this beloved space.
The tunnel and new dome experience are OPEN for guests to explore.
Introducing animals into a renovated habitat takes time. Each species must carefully acclimate to the new environment, and our team closely monitors water quality to ensure conditions are just right.
Right now, the exhibit is home to a stingray and bamboo sharks, with additional animals planned to join as the system continues to stabilize.
Renovating an aquarium exhibit of this scale isn’t as simple as draining a tank and starting over. It requires technical precision, structural planning, and close collaborating between our animal care, facilities, and exhibit teams.
These improvements allow us to modernize critical systems, refresh the environment, and create new ways for guests to connect with life beneath the surface.
Big Fish, Big Moves at Discovery World
A big transition is underway at Discovery World. Our Lake Sturgeon from the Touch Tank have moved on up to our massive 85,000-gallon Lake Michigan Tank!
You might remember them as Larry, Mo, and Curly, the dynamic trio of freshwater giants who’ve been delighting guests up close in our touch tank for quite some time. But just like kids outgrowing their favorite pair of shoes, these guys have outgrown their tank.
Growing Up Lake Sturgeon Style
Lake Sturgeon are some of the oldest and most impressive fish native to the Great Lakes. Known for their prehistoric look and gentle nature, they can grow up to 7 feet long and live for over 100 years! While our Sturgeon are not quite that size (yet), they’ve reached the point where they need more space to thrive.
Curly made the big move into the Lake Michigan Tank back in September, and now Larry and Mo are joining him. With more room to swim and explore, these freshwater giants are settling into their new digs beautifully.
What About the Touch Tank?
We’re excited to welcome a new species of Sturgeon that’s perfectly sized for hands-on exploration: Shovelnose Sturgeon from the Mississippi River Museum in Dubuque, Iowa.
Help us welcome George, John, Paul, & Ringo!
Shovelnose Sturgeon may be smaller than their Lake Sturgeon cousins, but they share the same curious and sociable temperament. These fascinating fish are also known to approach visitors and swim right up for gentle touches and “back rubs” so get ready to meet your new best fishy friends.
Come Say Hi!
During this transition, the freshwater side of the Touch Tank may be temporarily closed as the Shovelnose Sturgeon acclimate to their new environment. Just like any move, it takes a bit of time to settle in and get comfortable. Our animal care team will be easing them into their new schedule to ensure they’re healthy, happy, and ready to meet their new fans.
We appreciate your patience and can’t wait for you to meet our new finned friends soon!
Have you watched the incredible Ocellate River Rays in our Amazon Exhibit! These freshwater stingrays traveled to us from the Belle Isle Aquarium in Detroit, Michigan – the oldest public aquarium in the U.S.
Unlike the saltwater stingrays you might recognize, Ocellate River Rays (or Potamotrygon motoro) are completely freshwater species found in South America’s Amazon Basin. They have beautiful, spotted patterns and are known for their intelligence, curiosity, and unique way of moving across the riverbed like living hovercrafts!
Meet the Rays!
Why Freshwater Stingrays Are So Unique
Unlike ocean-dwelling stingrays, Ocellate River Rays live in freshwater rivers and floodplains. Their flattened bodies help them camouflage against the sandy river bottom, and they use electroreceptors to detect prey hidden beneath the substrate. These rays are also incredibly smart. Some aquariums have even trained them to respond to cues for feeding time!
Our rays are settling into their new home, where they’ll be part of an exciting opportunity for guests to observe and learn about these fascinating creatures up close. We carefully monitor their diet, behavior, and interactions as they adjust to their new environment.
See Them in Action!
Next time you visit Discovery World, stop by the Amazon Exhibit to see them for yourself! Watch as they glide effortlessly through the water, using their wing-like fins to propel themselves forward. Our aquarium team is always happy to answer questions and share more about these incredible freshwater stingrays.
You can unlock a year of endless exploration, hands-on science, and aquatic adventures for your entire family at Discovery World. Whether you’re testing out the bed of nails, touching a lake sturgeon, or designing something new in the Kohl’s Design It! Lab, every visit offers something fresh, exciting, and inspiring. A Discovery World Membership gives you and your family unlimited access to our interactive exhibits, vibrant aquarium, and special events for an entire year.
A Year of Fun in One Pass!
✔ Explore immersive exhibits and hands-on experiences
✔ Encounter aquatic animals and witness expert-led dives
✔ Celebrate science in exciting ways with themed events all year long
✔ Enjoy new experiences with every visit
For lifelong learners, curious kids, and adventure-seeking families, a Discovery World membership pays for itself in just two visits—making it an exceptional value!
Exclusive Member Perks
Endless Adventures Await!
Did you know we’ve fit a replica of a Great Lakes schooner inside a ring as large as the Deep Tunnel under Milwaukee? Or that you can get up close to mesmerizing jellyfish, friendly stingrays, and even sharks? Every visit to Discovery World is filled with “Aha!” moments and with a membership, you’ll never have to miss out!
Your Membership Supports a Greater Mission
Discovery World is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and your membership directly supports our mission to inspire generations to discover the wonders of science. Every membership helps fund operations, programs, exhibits, and access initiatives, making a real impact in the community.
Find the Perfect Membership for You
With multiple membership tiers, there’s an option that fits every family and budget. Membership opens the door to exclusive experiences, discounts, and special event access, making each visit even more rewarding.
By becoming a member, you’re not just visiting a world-class science center—you’re becoming part of its mission. Join today and start your journey of discovery!
