Henry Vilas Zoo

Henry Vilas Zoo is a 28-acre public zoo located in Madison, Wisconsin, and one of just ten remaining free-admission zoos in North America, welcoming over 750,000 visitors annually. AZA-accredited, the zoo is home to more than 100 species including polar bears, grizzly bears, African lions, Amur tigers, flamingos, penguins, Aldabra tortoises, and camels. Key exhibits include the Arctic Passage, a walk-through rainforest aviary, a herpetarium, and a primate building. Families can also enjoy a historic carousel and a zoo train. Open 365 days a year from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Henry Vilas Zoo is a cherished community treasure supported by Dane County, offering high-quality wildlife education and family entertainment completely free of charge throughout the year.