Disclaimer: Parks and Planes LLC has taken great care to ensure the accuracy of this post as much as possible. However, over time, things like hours of operations, prices, even names of places may change. We recommend double checking details online or by calling the International Crane Foundation directly before you visit. As always, all photos, content and opinions are our own. We only recommend places, products and experiences we love!

The Crane Discovery Center is a Conservation Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin. It’s tucked among rolling farmland and a quick 10-minute drive from the popular (and touristy), Wisconsin Dells. It’s home to the International Crane Foundation’s global headquarters and the only place in the world where you can see all 15 species of crane from around the globe.

Our family spent a Saturday afternoon in September exploring the park. We enjoyed the quiet, peaceful energy and were surprised by the number of cranes we were able to observe. More importantly, we left with a profound appreciation for the work being done here and a new perspective on the ways in which humans and cranes are connected.

Even if you aren’t a birder with binoculars, the International Crane Foundation is for you. Here are the top three reasons why you should plan a visit here:

1. For the Birds

Cranes are among the most endangered family of birds in the world, with ten of the fifteen species threatened with extinction. The International Crane Foundation is the only place in the world where you will find all 15 species of cranes – including the critically endangered Siberian Crane. On any given day the total number of cranes you can see varies throughout the year. On average they typically have 100 to 120 cranes on the premises at any given time. You will not be able to view all the cranes that reside here during your visit. They typically have 30 cranes on display in the Cranes of the World Exhibit.

Below is the full list of crane species cared for, studied, and protected by the International Crane Foundation. Only two types of cranes are found in North America, the Sandhill Crane and the rarest crane of them all, the Whooping Crane. All other types of cranes found here are native to other parts of the world:

Black Crowned Crane

Blue Crane

Brolga

Black-necked Crane

Blue Crane

Demoiselle Crane

Eurasian Crane

Hooded Crane

Grey Crowned Crane (Endangered)

Red-Crowned Crane

Sandhill Crane

Sarus Crane

Siberian Crane

White-naped Crane

Wattled Crane

Whopping Crane (Endangered)

Something worth noting, the cranes that live here are not “wild”, meaning they do not migrate; instead, they are cared for year-round by the International Crane Foundation.

2. For the Trails

There is plenty more to discover once you hit the trails surrounding the crane exhibits. The 2 miles of easy trails that run through the park will lead you though more than 120 acres of restored oak savanna, prairie, and wetlands which are native to Wisconsin. Many species of birds visit these grounds making the trails a prime place to try your hand at birdwatching. Here are a few types of birds we spotted on our walk here: Geese, Hawks, Swallows, Warblers, and an Owl. For a full list of bird species you might see at the International Crane Foundation, click here.

3. For the Cause

For over 50 years the International Crane Foundation has worked to protect all 15 species of cranes found around the world as well as the wetland and grassland habitats they thrive in. But places are just places without the people behind them. It is through the employee’s extensive research, intentional breeding, careful reintroduction and commitment to habitat protection that has allowed cranes to have a hopeful future. At its core, the International Crane Foundation and the grounds here are an excellent example of conservation efforts in action.

Another significant purpose of the International Crane Foundation is to educate visitors about crane species and their importance in the world. We found this place to be one that honors the power of nature and the connection between humans and the environment. If you are anything like us, you will leave the International Crane Foundation with a deep appreciation for the work being done here and a desire to do your part to help protect the world’s crane populations.

Suggested Itinerary for the International Crane Foundation

Start your visit with a walk through the George Archibald Welcome Center. This is the International Crane Foundation main entrance/building. It’s the best spot to learn all about cranes before you see them and serves as the gateway to the park.

Next, meander through the Cranes of the World Exhibit.

This area features three interconnected spaces – one features ten species of cranes from diverse regions, the next showcases African crane species and lastly there is the Whooping Crane wetland area featuring the rarest type of crane in the world. You will also find the Siberian Cranes by the Whooping Cranes. The Siberian Cranes are the most endangered of the crane species and probably were are favorite to checkout. Also on the grounds, near to the African crane species, is the Migration Center. This is a relatively new space, and it tells the story of Sandhill Crane migrations.

The Migration Center is housed in a renovated barn, and it has a lovely mural inside depicting Sandhill Cranes along the Platte River (part of this river runs through Wisconsin). You will also find restrooms inside the Migration Center. After checking out the Migration Center, we took a break from the cranes and hiked the 2 miles of trails in the park. Then we resumed our exploration of the park and concluded our visit by the Siberian Crane showcase. For a detailed map of the grounds, click here.

After You Visit – Make an Origami Crane for Fun

After we explored the International Crane Foundation, Cranes were on our minds and a topic of conversation for a while. This led us to discover the ancient Japanese practice of folding 1,000 origami cranes for peace, wishes, longevity and healing. Personally, I find making origami cranes to be relaxing – once you get the hang of it. Try your hand at making your very own origami crane using these instructions.

Crane Discovery Center FAQs

Where is the International Crane Foundation? The International Crane Foundation is in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Here is the exact address: E11376 Shady Lane Road, Baraboo, WI, 53913. It’s very close to Wisconsin Dells. As a reference point, it’s a 7-minute drive from the Kalahari Resort. In contrast to the Waterparks of the Dells, the Crane Discovery Center is an ideal spot to slow down, watch closely and breathe it all in.

Is it like a zoo? No, not really. It’s a very serene, relaxed and quiet place. You’re able to view the cranes in the Cranes of the World exhibit. Here the cranes are kept in enclosed spaces which may feel like a zoo display. However, you cannot get close to the cranes or their exhibits in the same way you can at a zoo. You can observe the cranes at a distance that is nice and safe for them. The spaces they reside in are also specialized for each species of crane and allows them to be in their natural setting.

When is the International Crane Foundation open? The center is only open May 1 through October 31 from 9am to 5pm daily. This is not a spot that is open year-round.

Do they offer tours? Yes! There are timed public guided tours, or you can do what we did and go on a self-guided tour.

How long should you plan to explore here? We suggest you plan to spend 2 to 4 hours here.

Is there a gift shop and restrooms on the premises? Yes, there are both on site. The gift shop is lovely and full of unique, crane-themed items for all ages. We picked up the sweetest little pair of binoculars for our toddler / birder in training here!

Does it cost money to visit the International Crane Foundation? Yes, there is paid admission here. Visit the official Crane Discovery Center website for current admission rates.

Can you take pictures of the cranes? Yes! Camera’s and video cameras are allowed and encouraged.

Can you bring your dog to walk the trails? No, pets of any kind are not allowed here.

Can you feed the cranes? No, you cannot feed the cranes. They are all on specialized diets.

Final Thoughts

We think the International Crane Foundation is truly one of Wisconsin’s best kept secrets and a great example of ecotourism in the state. You will leave with a treasure trove of crane knowledge and have played a small part in ensuring these birds continue to grace our planet for generations to come. It is a place one comes for a half-day of educational immersion into the world of cranes or for a quiet, relaxing stroll through a habitat native to Wisconsin. Whatever your motivation for visiting, you won’t regret the time you spend here.

-Alyssa, Justin + Our Little Birder