The Baird Center’s public entrances are accessible, and ramps are available at the main entries. The entrance to the North Building is located at 405 W. Kilbourn Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53203.

Directions:

1. Arrive at 405 W Kilbourn Ave. (North Building main entrance).
2. Use the curbside drop-off area if available — the venue mentions “curbside passenger drop-off” as accessible.
3. At the entrance, locate the ramp (rather than stairs) — the site states ramps are provided at public entrances.
4. Once inside, use the elevator to access your specific floor if needed.
5. If you need assistance, head to Guest Services (or a security/concierge desk) for help.

Please note: Some event entrances, drop-off locations, or parking lots may change depending on the event, which could affect accessibility routing. We will do our best to provide updated accessibility information should this occur.

The main pedestrian entrance is located at 405 W. Kilbourn Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53203.

1. Approach from the street—W. Kilbourn Ave is pedestrian-friendly; cross at marked crosswalks.
2. Once you reach the building corner for 405 W. Kilbourn, look for the main doors of the North Building.
3. Enter through the automatic/large main entry doors into the lobby. At the entrance, you’ll find the guest services/information desk if you need assistance.
4. From the lobby, you can access elevators, escalators, or ground-level event spaces depending on your destination within the building.

Transit Options

Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS)

• All MCTS buses are ADA-compliant and equipped with ramps or lifts, kneeling features, and designated wheelchair spaces. Operators are trained to assist passengers boarding and securing wheelchairs.
• Common routes to the Baird Center include Routes 19, 31, 34, 80, and CN1.
• Closest accessible stops are at Wisconsin & N 5th St or Wisconsin & N 6th St, approximately a two-minute roll to the North Building entrance at 405 W. Kilbourn Ave.

The Hop Streetcar

• Every vehicle on Milwaukee’s Hop Streetcar line is fully accessible with level boarding from raised platforms and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs.
• Exit at the Wisconsin Avenue stop, then proceed one block north to Kilbourn Ave. for the main entrance.

From Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE):

• Route 80 provides direct service from the airport to downtown. The buses are wheelchair accessible. The trip typically takes 25–30 minutes.

Areas of Note or Caution
On the final approach, the sidewalk may have gaps that may pose a tripping hazard. It is best to slow down as you get closer to the building.

The primary garage for the venue is the Baird Center Garage with indoor parking and entrances at 500 W Wells St. and 501 W Kilbourn Ave.

• Once inside, look for the standard ADA signage (wheelchair symbol) directing you to accessible parking stalls — these are located close to the elevator/lobby access points.
• At the garage elevator or exit to the building, ask staff (garage attendant or venue guest services) to identify the closest accessible route to the accessible entrance of the North Building lobby.
• There are other parking options elsewhere. However, because other locations are not within the control of the Champions Retreat, we cannot guarantee or advise on the accessibility of those locations. Any use of other parking facilities are at your own discretion.

There is a set of stairs at the main entrance of the north building, a collaborative staircase (a wide wood-accented stair structure) near the tall glass-wall front of the building.

• The stairs ascend from the lobby up to the next level(s) of the North Building’s exhibition/meeting space. The stairs feature stainless-steel or brushed-metal handrails on both sides and along the central divider. They are typically located adjacent to the elevator/escalator banks.
• For events on higher levels, use these stairs as a visible alternative to escalators/elevators.
• The North Building’s grand staircase connects the main lobby to upper levels where large events, conventions, and breakout sessions are held. During peak arrival or departure times, the stairwell can become crowded and noisy.
• Watch for uneven pacing from others and always keep one hand on the railing. Allow extra time to avoid rushing in high-traffic moments.
• The stairs are designed with sleek finishes and may have polished stone, tile, or wood treads. While they are slip-resistant by code, shoes with smooth soles can slide—especially in wet or snowy weather, because the entrance doors are nearby.

The Baird Center North Building has ramps at public entrances. The ramp is designed to allow individuals using a wheelchair or mobility device to enter the building without needing to use stairs. The ramp connects from the sidewalk/curb level to the lobby entry door, featuring a gentle incline that complies with ADA standards. Inside the entrance, adjacent to the ramp, there are automatic or wide-opening doors to facilitate smooth access for mobility devices.

• Incline & Surface: Even though the ramp is compliant, sometimes the incline may feel steeper for some users. If the surface is wet (rain/snow), it can become slick—so take care to maintain control of your device.
• Transition Zones: The points where the curb meets the ramp, the ramp meets the door threshold, and the ramp meets the lobby floor may have slight changes in level or texture. These transitions can be particularly challenging, especially for smaller mobility devices or when someone is pushing a companion.
• Doorway Congestion: At busy events, the lobby entrance can get crowded. The ramp leads directly into the main public entry, so you may need to navigate around people entering/exiting—this can slow you down or make maneuvering a little tighter.

The public entrance doors of the North Building at the Baird Center North Building are automatic, push-button, or sensor-activated.

There is a few-second delay between the button being pressed and the door opening.

There is a Welcome Desk on the bottom (main lobby) floor of the Baird Center North Building.

• The counter height is designed to accommodate wheelchair users, with a lowered service section so visitors can check in or ask questions comfortably.
• Clear floor space in front of the desk allows for turning and positioning mobility devices. Excessive background noise in the entrance area can make communication difficult for those with hearing issues. Alternative methods, such as text, may be needed.

Once you enter via the main lobby, you’ll find the elevator accessible without needing to descend or ascend significant steps. The elevator serves multiple floors (meeting rooms, exhibit levels, etc.), making it a convenient option if you prefer not to use stairs or escalators.

During large conventions or show openings, you may encounter lines or longer wait times—especially if attendees are moving equipment or luggage.

The Baird Center prioritizes bathroom accessibility. All public restrooms feature accessible stalls with wide turning spaces, support bars, and easy-to-use fixtures. The building also offers all-gender (family/universal) restrooms, providing every guest with a private and comfortable option. At least one adult changing table is available on-site, which is especially helpful for guest who require additional support. Wayfinding signage is clear, and restrooms are located on every level.

The conference and meeting rooms at Baird Center are thoughtfully designed to be accessible and inclusive for all attendees. With 52 modern breakout and meeting rooms as part of its recent expansion, the center offers wheelchair-accessible spaces throughout. The inside of the meeting rooms support contemporary requirements like video-conference capabilities and accessible AV setups, making them functional and comfortable regardless of attendee needs.

Live closed captioning will be provided on the Main Stage throughout Wednesday, April 22, and Thursday, April 23, and in select breakout rooms on Thursday, April 23. We are committed to ensuring that closed captioning is available to anyone who requires it. If you need closed captioning, please reach out to us at champsionsretreat@usca.borporation.net.

Baird Center sensory rooms were specially designed to create a safe, comfortable, and controlled environment for people who are feeling over stimulated and need to decompress. The Baird Center is Sensory Inclusive™ certified by KultureCity and invite guests to use the therapeutic spaces at the \ North Building on the 200 Level and Baird Ballroom Level to get a few moments of calm.

Sensory bags are also available by request from a guest services team member. They are filled with items designed to lessen sensory overload.

The rooms do have items in there such as soft sound machines, soft seating, touch related activities and devices with different surfaces that can be used by guests when in the room. Each room is different a little bit but both contain space for a guest with needs and a family member or 2 to be in the same room until the guest is feeling more at ease.

The Baird Center is a large venue featuring extensive windows that allow natural light throughout the space. On sunny days, this may result in areas of noticeable glare. The venue incorporates significant use of exposed wood finishes, contributing to a visually warm and natural environment. Overhead lighting is warm and evenly diffused across the convention center. A variety of spaces will be utilized during the Champions Retreat; participants are encouraged to identify and select seating that best meets their comfort and accessibility needs during plenary and breakout sessions.

Announcements will be made from the stage using microphones, and assisted listening devices will be available upon request. Participants are encouraged to select seating that best accommodates their comfort and accessibility needs during plenary and breakout sessions. While in the Marketplace, featuring B Corp exhibitors, attendees may experience general ambient noise typical of large groups in conversation.

The Baird Center also features sensory rooms designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and controlled environment for individuals who may feel overstimulated and need to decompress. The venue is proud to be certified as Sensory Inclusive by KultureCity. Participants are invited to use the therapeutic spaces located in the North Building on the 200 Level and Baird Ballroom Level, as well as the South Building on the 100 Level, to take moments of calm as needed.

Additionally, sensory bags are available upon request from a guest services team member. These bags contain items intended to help reduce sensory overload and enhance comfort during the event.

Breakfast and lunch on both days will be designed to align with the participants’ dietary preferences provided at registration. A variety of food and beverage options will be available, with plant-based choices offered by default. Participants wishing to access non-plant-based options are asked to opt in during registration and will receive information regarding where these items are served.

Personal water bottles are welcome, and refill stations will be available throughout the venue.

Participants are invited to engage with interactive experiences in the Marketplace and are encouraged to plan their visit accordingly. A variety of textures and tactile experiences may be encountered throughout the offerings. The venue is expansive and provides several quiet spaces, as well as curated healing spaces, to support participant comfort and well-being.

Participants should be aware that food service will be provided throughout the event, including breakfast, breaks, and lunch. As a result, food aromas may be present in common areas and dining spaces.

There are stairs directly upon entering the Baird Center; there are also escalators and adjacent elevators. The conference level is carpeted, but it is a level floor with abundant space for moving and walking. Note that the size of the corridors may affect persons using assistive walking devices.

The venue provides both non-gendered and gendered restrooms, all of which are fully accessible. The event will include a range of experiences varying in energy levels. Participants should note that certain times, such as meals and transitions between sessions, may be busier and more crowded.

• All Domes pathways are on one level, with no interior stairs. Some garden areas feature gentle inclines, but all public areas are accessible.
• Wheelchairs are available on a first-come basis at the Welcome Center.
• Accessible washrooms and family restrooms are located in the lobby.
• The Domes’ temperature-controlled environments can vary (humid Tropical Dome, dry Desert Dome) — dress in layers.

Transportation will be provided for the Champions Retreat. Accessible seating and transportation options will be available.

A member of our Champions Retreat organizing committee will connect with you shortly to confirm any accessibility needs and ensure you have the right support in place.

If you haven’t heard from us and would like to share your requirements, please email mteixeira@green-living.ca.

There is a single main public entrance to the Mitchell Park Domes, and all visitor route leading to it are fully accessible for both wheelchair users and those without wheelchairs.

Paved walkways connect the parking lots and drop-off zones directly to the entrance, with curb cuts, ramps, and automatic doors for accessibility.
The main walkways are flat and well-maintained, though a few areas near the parking lot have gentle slopes. Benches and shaded rest areas are available along the approach path and inside the lobby.

Directions:

1. From downtown Milwaukee, head west toward Mitchell Park via West National Avenue or West Greenfield Avenue.
2. Follow signs for The Domes / Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory.
   Enter through Mitchell Park’s main gate off Layton Boulevard (South 27th Street).
3. Follow the internal park road toward the large domed glass structures — the entrance is clearly marked at the Welcome Center, located between the domes.

If you’re traveling from downtown Milwaukee:

1. Take the MCTS Bus Route 18 or 27 toward the south side.
2. Exit at South Layton Boulevard & West Pierce Street (Domes stop).
3. From there, it’s approximately a 3-minute walk to the entrance — follow park signage.

If you’re arriving from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE):

1. Take a bus or rideshare to downtown Milwaukee, then transfer to Route 18 or 27 heading toward Mitchell Park.
2. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare takes approximately 15–20 minutes directly from the airport to the Domes.

• Free parking is available in the main lot directly adjacent to the Domes.
• Several accessible parking spaces are located closest to the main entrance.
• A designated drop-off lane is available at the front for guests needing shorter walking distances.
• The lot surface is paved and level, with curb ramps connecting to the main walkways.

Upon arrival at the Mitchell Park Domes, please proceed to the main entrance of the Conservatory/Domes complex. The primary entrance features automated doors for accessibility.

Once inside, walk past the ticket booths. From there, you may choose which Dome you’d like to explore first.

All exhibits at The Domes are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible.

The Tropical Dome and Desert Dome feature paved pathways, and the Show Dome has brick pathways. Please note that some areas have steeper grades, which may be challenging for visitors using manual wheelchairs or walkers. The Floral/Show Dome has brick pathways and presents a challenging grade for manual wheelchair or walker users.

Greenhouse No. 7, located on the Domes campus is used for special events, and is wheelchair-accessible and suitable for mobility-device users. This part of the venue offers step-free access, and is a wheelchair-friendly environment. However, some visitors have noted that the walk from the main entrance to the greenhouse can feel long.

Accessible restrooms are located at the front of the Conservatory complex near the main entrance. Restrooms include accessible stalls and fixtures positioned at wheelchair height. These are the primary washroom facilities for visitors; guests attending events in Greenhouse No. 7 may need to travel back to the main building to access these facilities.

There are no stairs inside the Mitchell Park Domes on the visitor pathways. All public areas within the Domes are on one level, with accessible routes throughout. Some pathways have gentle slopes, particularly in the garden areas, but guests can move through the spaces without encountering stairs.

For your comfort, a variety of drink and food stations will be available throughout the event. Stations will be set up in the lobby area outside the Domes, as well as in Greenhouse No. 7. Guests are welcome to enjoy refreshments at their own pace.

Accessible table heights and clear pathways will be prioritized in both spaces. If you require assistance carrying items or finding a comfortable seating area, event staff will be happy to help.

The excursion to the Mitchell Park Domes will provide a range of visual sensory inputs. The experience begins with a 15-minute bus ride from the main Retreat venue; participants wishing to enjoy additional views of Milwaukee are encouraged to sit in window seats.

Upon arrival, attendees will exit the bus and enter the Domes through the front doors. The venue is brightly illuminated outside, with multiple sources of warm ambient light and natural light inside. Participants should note that sunset is approximately 7:44 pm.

The Mitchell Park Domes offers Aira users free access to Aira services while visiting the Domes and surrounding grounds. For more information about Aira, visit www.aira.io.

Participants should be aware that the bus trip may include general noise typical of a small group of people in a confined space. Announcements may also be made during the ride.

At the Mitchell Park Domes, the venue will feature live entertainment and interactive experiences across multiple rooms and Domes. Some areas may be quieter than others; however, the venue does not have designated quiet spaces.

Food and beverages served during the evening reception will align with attendees’ dietary preferences provided at registration. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available. Food will be plant-based by default, with non-plant-based options available to participants who opted in during registration; details on where these options are served will be provided.

Guests can expect passed canapés and designated food stations, with multiple options for beverage service.

While indoor venues will be heated to a comfortable temperature, participants should note that the bus and the Desert Dome may feel warm or temporarily uncomfortable due to the combination of humidity and the number of people in these enclosed spaces.

Participants may encounter bus exhaust scents during transportation to the Mitchell Park Domes. Food service will be available during the event, including passed canapés and food stations, so attendees should expect associated food aromas in these areas.

The excursion to the Mitchell Park Domes begins with a 15-minute bus ride through Milwaukee. Every effort will be made to ensure a comfortable journey; however, unforeseen factors such as traffic may cause delays or additional motion. Participants who are prone to motion sickness are encouraged to select seats accordingly.

Upon arrival, the Domes provide accessible paths that allow visitors to move between Domes. The Tropical Dome and Desert Dome feature paved pathways; however, the slope may be challenging for individuals using manual wheelchairs or walkers. The Show Dome has brick pathways with a similar grade, which may also present difficulties for participants with mobility limitations.

Participants may experience heightened internal sensory awareness during the Mitchell Park Domes excursion due to factors such as temperature changes, humidity in the Domes, physical activity while walking between areas, and general crowd density. Those who are sensitive to internal bodily cues, such as heart rate, breathing, or motion, may wish to plan for breaks or access quieter areas when possible.

The venue provides both gendered and fully accessible washrooms to accommodate all participants.

• Milwaukee’s public transport system (MCTS) is fairly robust downtown and includes real-time tracking via mobile apps.
• If you have luggage or prefer fewer transfers, a rideshare or taxi from the airport to the brewery may be faster.
• The neighborhood around the brewery (Beerline B / East Side) is walkable once you’re nearby, so be ready for a short walk after your stop.
• Check bus schedules ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting in the evening or during off-peak hours.

There is one main entrance to the building, and all routes leading to it are fully accessible for both wheelchair users and non-wheelchair users.

Directions:

1. From anywhere in downtown Milwaukee, head toward Commerce Street.
2. If you are north of Pleasant Street, turn south onto Commerce Street.
3. If you are south of Pleasant Street, turn north onto Commerce Street.
4. Lakefront Brewery is located at 1872 N. Commerce Street, near the Holton Street Bridge and along the Milwaukee River.
5. The main entrance is marked by the Lakefront Brewery sign above the double doors at the front of the building.

Areas of Caution:
There is a gentle slope for those approaching from the south along Commerce Street (heading north). The sidewalks are wide and well-maintained, with railings and resting areas available along the way. Benches and seating are also available near the brewery entrance and along the riverwalk area.

If you’re starting from downtown Milwaukee (central area):

1. Use the MCTS Bus System — for instance, Bus #15 is a direct, popular route.
2. Board the bus at a downtown stop, for example near Water & Wisconsin Avenue.
3. Ride to the stop Holton & Glover (or other nearby stops such as Farwell & Ogden, Burns Commons) which are within a 2–3-minute walk of the brewery.
4. Once off the bus, walk the remaining short distance to the address above.

If you’re arriving at the airport (Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport – MKE):

1. Exit the airport and catch a public transport option (bus) to downtown. For example, you can take a bus via Michigan Avenue & Cass Street.
2. After reaching downtown, transfer as needed to a bus that services the brewery area (for example Bus #15 or other route heading toward Beerline B / Commerce Street).
3. Alight at the stop near Holton & Glover, Farwell & Ogden, or Burns Commons, then walk to Lakefront Brewery

Street parking is unrestricted (and free) along Commerce St. and includes a loading zone in front of the building, should it be needed for being dropped off. There is a parking lot located to the east of the building, which includes multiple accessible parking spots.

The entrance doors face Commerce Street and are easily visible. During open hours or events, they’re usually propped open or staffed to welcome guests inside.

Features:

• Clear approach: The entrance is easily visible from Commerce Street, offering wide, unobstructed access from the sidewalk.
• Cover from the weather: An overhead awning provides partial shelter near the main doors.
• Queuing area: There is ample space for guests to line up outside the entrance, with visible signage guiding the flow during tours or events.
• There is no power-operated entrance door. However, during open hours or events, the doors are typically propped open or staffed to assist with entry.
• The surface immediately outside the entrance is level and paved but may be slightly uneven near the curb.

There is an accessible ramp to enter the building, so you do not need to use stairs to enter the facility from Commerce Street.

On the tour route, however, there are stairs involved, but Lakefront Brewery will make accommodations as long as they are notified prior to the event.

Dance Floor Area:
The dance floor area, which is the main part of the building, is immediately visible upon arrival.

Features:

• Epoxy flooring, suitable for wheeled mobility devices.
• Some sound-dampening features to reduce echoes and reverb.
• Lighting levels in the Beer Hall and dance floor area can vary depending on the event or time of day. Some guests may find it darker than expected, particularly when ambient or decorative lighting is used.
• There are no tactile flooring indicators or audible navigation cues present. Guests with low vision may have difficulty orienting or navigating within the dance floor’s wide, open space.

Inside the Beer Hall, seating is open‐plan and flexible: tables and chairs are movable.

Outside, there is a riverside patio with table seating and bar‐top stools along the riverwalk railing, with views toward downtown Milwaukee.

• The Beer Hall does not utilize booths and has very limited high-top and bar seating. If guests prefer booth-style seating (for stability, accessibility), please let us know, and we can arrange accommodations.
• Outdoor patio seating includes bar stools along the railing—these may not suit all body types or accessibility needs.

There is a bar on the right side of the Beer Hall when you enter.

Features:

• Bar counter is at a higher level. There are no lower options.
  Assistance may be required.
• There are no communication technologies for those with hearing issues. Please consider text-based alternatives if needed

The venue features men’s and women’s restrooms located downstairs, which also include a separate lactation room. A gender neutral, single-use washroom equipped with a change table and grab bars is also available. Additionally, there are two accessible, gender-neutral washrooms located within the patio area.

Lakefront Brewery is a historic brewery in Milwaukee, offering attendees the opportunity to experience its rich brewing heritage. The venue will have ambient lighting throughout, with brighter lights focused on brewing stations and activity areas. The program may include guided tours, demonstrations, and interactive experiences, resulting in variable lighting and sensory inputs during the visit. The venue will have lots of lights, primarily centered on the stage. The evening program will vary between emcee announcements, DJ sets, and live performances; therefore, the stage lighting will change throughout the evening.

The event at Lakefront Brewery will be loud and sensory-rich. Entertainment and music will be temporarily paused to allow the emcee to make announcements from the stage. Attendees should be aware that the venue wil experience significant crowd noise due to the large number of participants in attendance. No designated quiet spaces are available on site.

Sound-dampening measures have been implemented in the beer hall to help soften ambient noise levels and improve overall acoustic comfort for attendees.

Food and beverages served during the evening reception will align with attendees’ dietary preferences provided at registration. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available. Food will be plant-based by default, with non-plant-based options available to participants who opted in during registration; details on where these options are served will be provided.

Guests can expect passed canapés and designated food stations, with multiple options for beverage service.

The venue may become warm as the evening progresses. Coat-check service will not be available, so participants are encouraged to dress accordingly for comfort. Attendees should be prepared to spend extended periods standing and in close proximity to others. Seating will be available; however, it may not be sufficient for all guests.

Attendees should expect general scents associated with a large group of people moving and dancing throughout the event. Food service will be available, including passed canapés and food stations, and participants may encounter food-related aromas in these areas.

All areas of the facility, including the brewery tour, are fully accessible to wheelchair users. The patio area is also accessible and can be reached by traveling around the exterior of the building.

The venue features men’s and women’s restrooms located downstairs, which also include a separate lactation room. A gender-neutral, single-use restroom equipped with a change table and grab bars is also available. Additionally, there are two accessible gender-neutral washrooms located within the patio area.

The event will be a high-energy experience with loud music and bright lights.