What's Going On Archives - Discovery World

Get to Know Our New Shovelnose Sturgeon

Discovery World — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 15:00:15 +0000

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!

The post Get to Know Our New Shovelnose Sturgeon appeared first on Discovery World.

Welcome the New Ocellate River Rays!

Discovery World — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 21:05:21 +0000

Big news from Discovery World’s Reiman Aquarium, we’ve welcomed three incredible Ocellate River Rays to 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 New Rays!

Banana (Split) – The baby of the bunch! Banana was born on December 29, 2022, at the Belle Isle Aquarium. He’s the smallest of the trio at just 8 inches wide and has a unique split in his front fin/lip area. This gave him the playful name, Banana Split! Despite his size, he’s full of personality and always on the move.
Blue (Moon) – At 14 inches wide, Blue is the middle-sized ray. He has been at Belle Isle since 2014, though his exact age is unknown. His name comes from his smooth, dark markings, which give him a moonlit appearance as he glides through the water.
Moose (Tracks) – Our biggest new arrival! Moose measures 18 inches across and, like Blue, has been at Belle Isle since 2014. He’s a confident and graceful swimmer, making him a standout in the Amazon Exhibit.

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 three new 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 Banana, Blue, and Moose 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.

The post Welcome the New Ocellate River Rays! appeared first on Discovery World.

Is a Discovery World Membership Right for Me?

Discovery World — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 18:02:37 +0000

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

FREE admission all year long
Access to Members-only events like Halloween Members Night, Members Appreciation Night, and more!
FREE reciprocal admission to 300+ museums worldwide
Discounted parking in our underground garage
Reduced rates on Milwaukee’s top science summer camps
Two digital guest passes so you can bring a friend
10% off in the Gift Shop and Café (DK Express by Bartolotta’s)
Special discounts on Birthday Party Packages (Family Level & above)

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!

The post Is a Discovery World Membership Right for Me? appeared first on Discovery World.

Explore Spring Break at Discovery World

Discovery World — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Spring Break is right around the corner, and if you’re looking for an exciting, hands-on adventure, Discovery World is the place to be! Starting March 24th, 2025, we’ll be open 7 days a week for the spring and summer season, giving you even more time to explore, create, and discover. Are you ready to explore science, get up close with amazing aquatic animals, or unleash your creativity? There’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy!

Spring Break Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss!

Divers in the Lake Michigan Tank – Watch them in action as they care for our fishy friends on Wednesday, March 26!
Happy Birthday to Our Wood Turtles! – Join us in celebrating Salt & Peppa on Friday, March 28!
Animal Encounters – Meet fascinating snakes and turtles Friday, Saturday & Sunday!
Kohl’s Design It! Lab – Drop in on Saturday & Sunday to create a unique, hands-on project!

Everyday Fun Science Learning at Discovery World

Touch Lightning – Feel the power of electricity in Power On.
Pet a Stingray – Get up close with these graceful creatures in our Touch Tank.
Can you survive the Bed of Nails? – Test your bravery and learn the science behind this surprising experiment.
Challenge Your Building Skills in Block Party – Construct the tallest tower, strongest castle, or wildest invention using giant foam blocks.
Create at the Dream Machine – Design a totally unique souvenir at thanks to some robotic helpers.

Tips for the Ultimate Visit to Discovery World!

With hands-on exhibits, amazing animal encounters, and exciting special events, there’s so much to see and do. To make the most of your visit, we’ve put together some insider tips to help you plan a stress-free, fun-filled day!

1. Plan Ahead & Arrive Early
Spring Break is one of the busiest times of the year at Discovery World, so arriving early gives you a head start on all the action! Doors open at 9 AM, so if you want first dibs on exhibits like Virtual Explorer or the Flight Simulator, it’s best to be one of the first through the doors.

2. Grab Tickets in Advance
Save on the price of admission when you purchase your tickets online ahead of time. Plus, members get in free, so if you plan on visiting often, consider signing up!

3. Know Where to Park
Discovery World has an on-site parking in an underground garage, but it can fill up quickly during peak times.

4. Plan for Snacks & Breaks
Exploring all day can work up an appetite. Food and drinks are available for purchase in the cafe and gift shop. Plus, you are welcome to bring your own food and enjoy it in designated eating areas.

5. Capture the Memories!
Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures and tag us on social media! 📸

With so much to see and do, what will YOU discover? Plan your visit and join us for an unforgettable spring break adventure!

The post Explore Spring Break at Discovery World appeared first on Discovery World.