Henry Vilas Zoo sits in Henry Vilas Park on the shore of Lake Wingra in Madison. Its 28 acres hold more than 600 animals from tropical, arctic, savanna and prairie habitats, and admission is free all year. Polar bears, orangutans, red pandas and Amur tigers are among the most popular residents. The grounds are small enough to see in one to two hours, and the paths and several areas are wheelchair accessible.
Free entry and the Vilas gift
Colonel William and Anna Vilas gave the land to a Madison park group in 1904. Free admission was a condition of that gift, and the zoo still charges nothing to enter.
The zoo takes its name from the Vilas' son, Henry, who died young from complications of diabetes. The zoo first opened to the public in 1911 and is one of the last free zoos on the continent.
Ownership and accreditation
Dane County owns and runs the zoo. It is accredited by the AZA and supported by a local zoological society.
The zoo offers workshops, field trips for schools, group events, birthday celebrations, behind-the-scenes tours and a volunteer program.
What is inside
The Arctic Passage holds polar bears and seals, with an underwater viewing area. The Big Cats exhibit features Amur tigers and African lions, and the Primate House is home to orangutans. A giraffe house, a Herpetarium, a tropical rainforest aviary with free-flying birds, a North American Prairie and a Savanna and High Plains area round out the main exhibits.
The Discovery Center and a children's zoo include a penguin exhibit. A Wisconsin exhibit on the state's mining history features American badgers and sandhill cranes.
Animals from around the world share the grounds with native Wisconsin species, so the visit covers both exotic and local wildlife.
Rides and the self-guided tour
The Conservation Carousel has figures of animals such as an okapi and a seal. A mini electric train also runs around the zoo. Both carry a small fee, and the carousel, the train and the concessions run during summer.
The zoo's mobile app offers an informative self-guided tour. Download it before you arrive so you can follow the route at your own pace.
Food on site
The zoo has a cafe and several food vendors. The street fries are a standout, with sauces, cheese and bacon that blend into rich, savory flavors.
Prices are higher than many visitors expect for a free zoo, so plan a snack budget or pack your own food.
Parking, access and visiting in cold weather
A free parking lot and a paid parking lot serve the zoo, and free and paid street parking is nearby. Spaces fill quickly on busy days, so arrive early.
The entrance, restrooms, seating, parking lot and paths are wheelchair accessible. On colder days, many of the animals can be seen indoors.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
No. Admission to Henry Vilas Zoo is free all year. The carousel and the zoo train charge a small fee.
How long do you need?
Most visits take one to two hours. Families who stop at the playground can spend around three hours.
Is there parking?
The zoo has a free parking lot and a paid parking lot, plus free and paid street parking nearby. Spaces are limited, so arriving early helps.
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, restrooms, seating, parking lot and paths are wheelchair accessible.
