Henry Vilas Zoo

Henry Vilas Zoo is a public zoo located within Vilas Park in Madison, Wisconsin. Established in 1904, it is operated by the Dane County government and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. A defining feature is its long-standing policy of free admission, funded through a public-private partnership involving county taxes and the non-profit Henry Vilas Zoological Society.

History

The zoo's origins trace to 1904 when the city of Madison received a gift of deer from William H. Henry, son of former Wisconsin governor and United States Senator William Freeman Vilas. The animals were housed on land donated by the Vilas family, which became part of the larger Vilas Park. Early additions included a Monkey Island exhibit and a bear grotto constructed by the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression. A major transformation began in the late 20th century, moving from antiquated cages to naturalistic habitats. This modernization was championed by the Henry Vilas Zoological Society, founded in 1975, and led to the zoo's accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 1989.

Exhibits and animals

The zoo houses over 650 animals representing more than 115 species across its campus. Major exhibits include the **Heritage of the Americas**, a complex featuring animals like the Andean bear, Mexican gray wolf, and American alligator. The **Arctic Passage** is home to polar bears and harbor seals, while the **Aviary** showcases birds from global rainforests. The **Primate House** contains species such as the white-cheeked gibbon and Colobus monkey, and the **Tropical Rainforest Apes** building houses orangutans and other primates. Other notable areas include the **Children's Zoo** with domestic animals, the **Big Cat Complex** for Sumatran tigers and African lions, and the **Zooline Railroad** offering seasonal rides.

Conservation and education

As an Association of Zoos and Aquariums member, the zoo participates in numerous Species Survival Plan programs for endangered species like the Sumatran tiger, Mexican gray wolf, and polar bear. Its veterinary staff contributes to field conservation and research projects globally. Educational outreach is central to its mission, managed by the Henry Vilas Zoological Society. Programs include on-grounds classes, summer camps, wildlife presentations, and collaborative efforts with local school districts like the Madison Metropolitan School District. The zoo also hosts annual conservation-themed events to engage the public.

Governance and funding

The zoo is uniquely owned and operated by Dane County, with operational oversight from the county's Dane County Executive and Dane County Board of Supervisors. Its free-admission model is sustained by a combination of county property tax revenue and philanthropic support channeled through the Henry Vilas Zoological Society. This non-profit organization, governed by an independent board, manages memberships, operates the gift shop and concessions, and runs capital campaigns for major exhibit renovations, such as those for the **Arctic Passage**.

Visitor information

Located at 702 S. Randall Avenue within Vilas Park, the zoo is open year-round with seasonal hours. Admission and parking are free. Amenities include concession stands, the **Zoological Society** gift shop, picnic areas, and a carousel. The site is adjacent to other attractions like Vilas Beach on Lake Wingra and the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus. It is accessible via Madison Metro bus routes and is a frequent destination for school field trips and community events throughout Wisconsin.

Category:Zoos in Wisconsin Category:Buildings and structures in Madison, Wisconsin Category:1904 establishments in Wisconsin Category:Association of Zoos and Aquariums