Henry Vilas Zoo
About
Free Public Zoo in Vilas Park
Henry Vilas Zoo is one of the few free-admission AZA-accredited zoos in the U.S., sitting on 28 acres in Madison's Vilas Park beside Lake Wingra with the Children's Zoo, Conservation Carousel, and Zoo Train.
Zoo Camp, Preschool Pride, and Teen Programs
Programs include:
- Zoo Camp (summer)
- Preschool Pride early childhood program
- Teen Program
- School field trips
- Zoo After Hours Programs
- Behind the Scenes Tours
- Educational Encounters (giraffe feedings, etc.)
What's Included
- Free zoo admission daily
- Children's Zoo, Conservation Carousel, Zoo Train (small fees)
- Educator-led camp curriculum
- Group field trip booking
Experience
Outdoor free-zoo setting in a lakeside park. Best for kids who like big animal exhibits with low cost-of-entry and frequent return visits.