Henry Vilas Zoo

William and Anna Vilas gave land for a public park in 1904 in memory of their son Henry, with the condition that it remain free. The first animal exhibits opened in 1911, and Henry Vilas Zoo still charges no admission or parking fee.The grounds currently open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., while indoor exhibits and the Children's Zoo close earlier. Animals may choose indoor or outdoor areas, so visibility is never guaranteed. Parking has a three-hour limit, and some paths are narrow, uneven, or steep. More

William and Anna Vilas gave land for a public park in 1904 in memory of their son Henry, with the condition that it remain free. The first animal exhibits opened in 1911, and Henry Vilas Zoo still charges no admission or parking fee.The grounds currently open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., while indoor exhibits and the Children's Zoo close earlier. Animals may choose indoor or outdoor areas, so visibility is never guaranteed. Parking has a three-hour limit, and some paths are narrow, uneven, or steep. More