Dates & Hours

United Spinal Association – Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter Respite Pavilion

The Stephen J. Schwalbe Respite Pavilion on the Summerfest grounds is open from noon until 10:00 pm every day for every major event held at the Henry W. Maier Festival Park.  This building is intended as an oasis for persons with disabilities and other special needs.  It is available to individuals of all ages and their families to escape the elements, noise, crowds and take care of any special needs they may have.  

It is a clean and welcoming facility with two large accessible restrooms, a large shower (with shower chair), changing area with an adult changing table, storage lockers, electricity for charging wheelchairs/scooters, and seating in the comfort of a temperature controlled environment along with a sectioned off patio and area for service dogs.  

It is continuously staffed by volunteers from the United Spinal Association – SE Wisconsin Chapter (www.unitedspinalwi.com) who built and donated this facility in 1996 for all to enjoy with the help of many generous volunteers and donors.  Per the feedback of the 2,000+ visitors we receive a year; it enables many people to attend all of the wonderful festivals and events on the fairgrounds who could not do so without a dedicated facility to address their diverse needs.  To our knowledge it is the only facility of its kind in the country.   It is located on the south end of the Miller Lite Oasis stage, midway between the South gate and the Main gate.  Service dogs are welcome.  Look on your event map for the heart icon with a wheelchair in the center to find us.