Henry villa. Henry Vilas Zoo: A Complete Guide to Madison’s Free Wildlife Attraction

Where is Henry Vilas Zoo located. How much does it cost to visit Henry Vilas Zoo. What are the operating hours of Henry Vilas Zoo. What attractions are available at Henry Vilas Zoo. How can visitors support Henry Vilas Zoo.

Exploring Henry Vilas Zoo: A Gem in Madison, Wisconsin

Henry Vilas Zoo stands out as a rare gem among American zoos, offering a unique experience for visitors of all ages. Located in the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, this zoo is one of the few remaining admission-free, community-supported zoos in the United States. Its commitment to conservation, education, and accessibility has made it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

Key Features of Henry Vilas Zoo

• Fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums
• Free admission and parking
• Diverse exhibits and attractions for all ages
• Community-supported model
• Focus on conservation and education

The zoo’s unique funding model relies heavily on community support, allowing it to remain open and free to all visitors. This approach not only makes wildlife education accessible but also fosters a sense of community ownership and pride.

Planning Your Visit: Essential Information for Zoo-goers

Before embarking on your Henry Vilas Zoo adventure, it’s crucial to know the basics to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Zoo Hours and Admission

When can you visit Henry Vilas Zoo? The zoo welcomes visitors daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Indoor exhibits, including the Herpetarium, Aviary, Discovery Center, and Primate Building, as well as the Children’s Zoo, are open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

How much does it cost to enter Henry Vilas Zoo? True to its mission of accessibility, admission to the zoo is completely free. However, donations are greatly appreciated and help support the zoo’s operations and conservation efforts.

Seasonal Closures and Special Hours

Are there any days when the zoo operates on different hours? Yes, visitors should note that the zoo closes at noon on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

Navigating to Henry Vilas Zoo: Location and Transportation Options

Finding your way to Henry Vilas Zoo is straightforward, with multiple transportation options available to suit different preferences and needs.

Zoo Location and Entrances

Where exactly is Henry Vilas Zoo located? The zoo’s address is 702 South Randall Ave., Madison, WI 53715, conveniently situated near the University of Wisconsin’s Camp Randall Stadium. Visitors can access the zoo through two entrances:

1. The main entrance at the intersection of Drake St. and Randall Ave.
2. The “bridge entrance” on the southeast side on Vilas Park Dr., across from the beach

Parking and Public Transportation

Is parking available at Henry Vilas Zoo? Yes, the zoo offers free parking in three lots. However, spaces can be limited, especially during peak times. A three-hour parking limit is strictly enforced.

For those preferring public transportation, Madison Metro operates several bus routes that stop within 5-6 blocks of the zoo. This option provides an eco-friendly alternative to driving.

Alternative Transportation Options

Are there other ways to reach the zoo? Indeed, visitors can take advantage of Madison’s B-Cycle bike rental station located at the corner of Mills St. and Wingra Dr. Additionally, electric vehicle owners will find a charging station in the parking lot across from Vilas Park Beach.

Attractions and Exhibits: Discovering Wildlife at Henry Vilas Zoo

Henry Vilas Zoo offers a diverse range of exhibits and attractions designed to educate and entertain visitors of all ages.

Animal Exhibits

What kinds of animals can you see at Henry Vilas Zoo? The zoo houses a wide variety of species, from primates to reptiles. Some popular exhibits include:

• Primate Building
• Herpetarium
• Aviary
• Children’s Zoo

Each exhibit is carefully designed to provide optimal living conditions for the animals while offering visitors an up-close view of diverse wildlife.

Special Attractions: Zoo Train and Conservation Carousel

Beyond animal exhibits, what other attractions does Henry Vilas Zoo offer? Two popular features are the Zoo Train and the Conservation Carousel.

The Zoo Train operates from April 1st through October 31st, weather permitting. It takes visitors on a journey around the Children’s Zoo animal exhibits and the Red Barn, offering a unique perspective of the zoo grounds.

The Conservation Carousel, a beloved attraction in the Children’s Zoo, operates daily from April 1st through October 31st. Both attractions cost $3 per ride, with proceeds benefiting the zoo’s operations and conservation efforts.

Dining at the Zoo: The Glacier Grille Experience

After exploring the zoo, visitors can refuel at the unique Glacier Grille restaurant.

A One-of-a-Kind Dining Experience

What makes dining at Henry Vilas Zoo special? The Glacier Grille offers a truly unique setting, being the only indoor restaurant in the country that looks out onto a bear exhibit. This distinctive feature allows diners to enjoy their meals while observing these magnificent creatures in their habitat.

Menu and Options

What kind of food does the Glacier Grille serve? The restaurant combines healthy and tasty options, catering to various dietary preferences. While specific menu items may vary, visitors can expect a range of family-friendly options that complement the zoo experience.

Supporting Henry Vilas Zoo: Community Involvement and Donations

As a community-supported institution, Henry Vilas Zoo relies heavily on public contributions to maintain its free admission policy and high-quality animal care.

Ways to Contribute

How can visitors support Henry Vilas Zoo? There are several ways to contribute:

• Leave donations in tubes located throughout the zoo
• Donate online through the zoo’s official website
• Purchase ride tickets for the Zoo Train and Conservation Carousel
• Patronize the Glacier Grille and gift shop

Every contribution, no matter the size, plays a crucial role in supporting the zoo’s mission and ensuring it remains a free resource for the community.

The Impact of Community Support

Why is community support so important for Henry Vilas Zoo? As one of the few remaining free zoos in the country, Henry Vilas Zoo depends on community support to:

1. Maintain high-quality animal care
2. Develop and improve exhibits
3. Fund educational programs
4. Support conservation efforts
5. Keep the zoo accessible to all visitors, regardless of their financial situation

By contributing, visitors become an integral part of the zoo’s mission to educate, conserve, and inspire.

Conservation and Education: Henry Vilas Zoo’s Core Mission

Beyond providing entertainment, Henry Vilas Zoo plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation and public education.

Conservation Efforts

How does Henry Vilas Zoo contribute to wildlife conservation? The zoo participates in various conservation programs, including:

• Species Survival Plans (SSPs) for endangered animals
• Habitat preservation initiatives
• Research collaborations with scientific institutions

These efforts extend the zoo’s impact far beyond its physical boundaries, contributing to global wildlife preservation.

Educational Programs

What educational opportunities does Henry Vilas Zoo offer? The zoo provides a range of educational programs designed to foster understanding and appreciation of wildlife and conservation. These may include:

• Guided tours
• Interactive exhibits
• School programs
• Summer camps
• Volunteer opportunities

Through these initiatives, Henry Vilas Zoo aims to inspire the next generation of conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts.

Planning Your Visit: Tips for an Optimal Zoo Experience

To make the most of your visit to Henry Vilas Zoo, consider the following tips:

Best Times to Visit

When is the ideal time to visit Henry Vilas Zoo? While the zoo is enjoyable year-round, consider these factors:

• Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends
• Early mornings often see more active animals
• Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and active wildlife

What to Bring

What should you pack for a day at Henry Vilas Zoo? Consider bringing:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Sunscreen and hats for sunny days
• Reusable water bottles
• Cameras to capture memories

Remember, while the zoo is free, bringing some cash for donations or attractions like the train and carousel can enhance your experience.

Henry Vilas Zoo offers a unique blend of wildlife education, conservation efforts, and family-friendly entertainment, all within a free, community-supported model. Its diverse exhibits, special attractions, and commitment to accessibility make it a standout destination in Madison, Wisconsin. By visiting and supporting the zoo, you not only enjoy a memorable experience but also contribute to important conservation and education initiatives. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist, Henry Vilas Zoo promises an engaging and enlightening adventure for all ages.

Visit Henry Vilas Zoo – Plan Your Trip

Plan your visit

The Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, WI is one of only a handful of admission-free, community-supported zoos in the country. Fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, our beautiful zoo features exhibits and attractions for the whole family!

The zoo relies on support from the community to remain open and admission-free. If you’d like help, please leave a donation in the donation tubes located throughout the zoo or donate online.

All are welcome at the Henry Vilas Zoo!

Zoo Hours & Admission

The zoo is open daily from 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Face masks are OPTIONAL on zoo grounds and inside our buildings.

Thanks to generous contributions from members of the community, there is no charge for admission or parking, but donations are greatly appreciated!

The indoor exhibits (Herpetarium, Aviary, Discovery Center, and Primate Building) and Children’s Zoo are open from 10:00 a. m. – 4:00 p.m.

The Conservation Carousel is open daily April 1st through October 31st. The Zoo Train will resume operation once weather allows. Rides operate daily from 10am – 4pm, and cost $3. All member punch cards are accepted.

The zoo is closed at noon on the following days:

• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
• New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day

Directions

The Henry Vilas Zoo is located at 702 South Randall Ave., Madison, WI 53715, just down the street from the University of Wisconsin’s Camp Randall Stadium.

Entrances

There are two entrances to the zoo, each with their own parking lot. The main entrance is on the north side at the intersection of Drake St. and Randall Ave. The alternative “bridge entrance” is on the southeast side on Vilas Park Dr. across from the beach.

Vilas Park

The zoo is surrounded by Vilas Park, which features lush, open space for active play, as well as two playgrounds for children to explore. The park boasts a ball diamond, a beach, and a lagoon maintained for ice skating in the winter.

Parking

Visitor Parking:

Parking is free at the Henry Vilas Zoo, and visitors can take advantage of three parking lots. Parking is limited due to the zoo’s location and can be challenging on weekends and busy summer days. When the lots are full, visitors can usually find a space within a block or two of the zoo.

Please note: Parking is owned and managed by the City of Madison. Restrictions are strictly enforced, and zoo parking lots have a three-hour parking limit.

Bus Parking:

Buses are prohibited from parking in single-vehicle parking areas within Vilas Park. All parking regulations are enforced and citations may be issued without warning. Buses should use the Wingra Drive entrance to load and unload passengers. No bus stopping, idling, or parking is allowed at the Drake Street entrance.

After unloading, bus drivers are encouraged to relocate to the rear parking lot at Bowman Park where there is no fee to park.

Directions to Bowman Park:

• Please use the Wingra Dr. entrance to drop off passengers near the Herpetarium
• Exit Vilas Park via Wingra Dr. and follow Wingra Dr. southeast
• Make a right on Fish Hatchery Rd. and a quick left onto Plaenert Dr.
• Take the first right into Bowman Park (after Wright Middle School)
• Park in the rear lot, leaving ample room for other buses

Public Transportation:

Madison Metro has several routes that will bring you within five to six blocks of the zoo. We encourage you to use the bus as an easy, environmentally-friendly alternative. As bus schedules are subject to vary by day, please visit Madison Metro to view the most up-to-date routes and schedules.

Bike Rentals:

At the corner of Mills St. and Wingra Dr. is a Madison B-Cycle station for renting and returning bicycles. For current availability, visit madison.bcycle.com.

Electric Vehicle Recharge:

Those with electric vehicles can take advantage of a charging station on the south side of the zoo in the parking lot across from Vilas Park Beach.

Train & Carousel

THE CAROUSEL IS OPEN DAILY. THE ZOO TRAIN IS OPEN AS WEATHER ALLOWS.

Zoo Train

Mingled with the calls of the zoo’s white-handed gibbons, visitors may hear the call of our Zoo Train. The electric train travels through a tunnel and around the perimeter of the Children’s Zoo animal exhibits and the Red Barn. The Zoo Train runs April 1st through October 31st – weather permitting.

Conservation Carousel

A beloved attraction in the Children’s Zoo, the Conservation Carousel began spinning in 2006. The Conservation Carousel is open daily April 1st through October 31st.

Cost: $3.00 per ride per passenger. You can purchase tokens and multi-ride punch cards in the carousel building or at the gift shop.

All proceeds benefit the community-supported Henry Vilas Zoo.

The Glacier Grille & Zoo Snacks

Dine with the bears! The zoo’s Glacier Grille combines healthy, tasty food with a one-of-a-kind setting. Our Grille is the only indoor restaurant in the country to look out onto a polar bear exhibit!

The Glacier Grille is open daily from 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily.

All purchases support your community zoo.

Just feel like a coffee or cool snack?

Visit the Cup and Cone for Colectivo Coffee and ice cream as weather allows.

Henry Vilas Zoo Gift Shop

Find the perfect gift for the wildlife enthusiast or zoo fan in your life. Our selection ranges from fun and affordable keepsakes, toys, and crafts to fine, handcrafted gifts from around the globe. You can also find wild apparel for zoo fans of all ages! The gift shop is open daily from 9:30am – 5pm.

All purchases support your community zoo.

Exhibits & Attractions

Where to first?

Henry Cole & Villa Locura

$20.00

Includes digital download (mp3).

Release Date: 19 Nov 2021

Product Code: 085218025816

Format: Audio CD

Label: La Musica Artesanal

The New Jazz Works endowment (2020) allowed Cole to broaden his vision and unleash his “Superpowers. ” The result is Buscando La Vida, created under enormously challenging conditions. “Death became the word of the day,” writes Cole in the liner notes, “the Death of humans, work, faith, plans, bank accounts and so much more. In the middle of so much death, I decided to look for Life.”

The result is a work, rooted in Jazz with elements of Funk, Rap, R&B, and Afrobeat augmented by the artistry of vocalists (rapper) Negro Gonzalez, vocalist Duke Amayo (of Antibalas), and the Netherlands-based multiple Grammy-winning jazz and pop orchestra Metropole Orkest.

Buscando La Vida consists of eight original tracks, penned by Cole.

No Estamos Solos (We are Not Alone) – A reflection on unexpectedly crossing paths with like-minded people and realizing, we are not alone.

Y en Sueños te Persigo (And in Dreams I Chase You) – The tune speaks to being so obsessed with a vision, the creator pursues it in dreams.

Dime Donde Estas (Tell Me Where You Are), and H.C.S. – Is dedicated to Cole’s estranged father, Henry Cole Simon.

De Frente (Head On) – A meditation on confronting and taking responsibility for one’s life plus the “good” and “bad” qualities.

Azul Turquesa (Blue Turquoise) – A Love song dedicated to the color, turquoise.

Shinobi – Dedicated to the figure of the Ninja. This speaks to the ability to develop a “killer” instinct ability without sacrificing one’s essence.

Vueltas (Turns) – The composition pays homage to the community that created the Delta Blues and its relation to the Puerto Rican Jibaro, and the “gatekeeper” to our hearts.

ALBUM PERSONNEL

Henry Cole – Drums, Synths, Rhodes, The Metropole Orkest, Jahaziel Garcia – Trumpet, Jonathan Acevedo – Tenor Sax, Andrew Gutauskas – Baritone Sax, Kalani Trinidad – Flute, Benito Díaz – French Horn (3-4) , Randy Roman – Trombone (3-4), Giovanny De La Rosa – Guitar, Javier Perez – Guitar, Ricardo Rodriguez – Bass, Emanuel Rivera Gambaro – Keyboards, Synths. Alberto “Beto” Torrens – Baril, Bryant Huffman – Chekere, Duke Amayo – Main Vocals (8) Negro Gonzalez – Main Vocals (5),- Antoinette Rodriguez, Melissa Orsini, Dayanira Arzuaga, Genesis Z. Cordero – Backup Vocals (8).

Quantity:

Add To Cart

Rent a villa in Greece – rent a villa on the sea in Greece. Luxury villas and houses for rent by the beach

Jacuzzi for 5 persons

• Price
• Distances
• Amenities
• In the price of
• For children
• All photos of

Price

From 14.000 to 25.900 € per week

Distances

Mykonos Airport: 9 km

Mykonos Town: 10 km

Shops and village: 3 km

Restaurants: from 400 meters

Elia sandy beach: 400 meters

Amenities

• Air conditioning
• Security alarm
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Washing machine
• Dishwasher
• Safe
• Automatic Night Light
• Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

• Stereo System
• Cable/Satellite TV
• Internet WiFi
• Fresh Water Pool
• Infinity Pool
• Panoramic Veranda

900 05 BBQ/Wood Burning Stove

• Sun deck with sun loungers

• Outdoor Dining Area
• Furnished Verandas & Balconies
• Private Parking
• Sports Equipment / Jim
• Central heating
• Outdoor heated Jacuzzi
• Large swimming pool

Price includes

• Daily cleaning
• Basic set
• Garden and pool maintenance

• Pool towels
• Bathrobes and slippers
• Bath accessories

• Change of linen and towels 2 times a week
• Concierge service

For children

Reservation request

CPL: 5+
VAT: 5+
Seats: 12

BSS

Henry’s new luxury villa is an impressive presentation of captivating elegance and indulgent comfort, with breathtaking views of the crystal blue waters of the Aegean Sea and 400 meters from the wonderful organized sandy beach of Elia. The architectural and design concepts of this mansion convey a subtle ambience of modern luxury, fused with the pure and sophisticated traditional Cycladic style of Mykonos.

Exclusive villa 340 sq.m. in 2 floors consists of:
– 6 spacious bedrooms
– 6 bathrooms
– guest WC
– jim (gym)
– comfortable living room
– dining area
– fully equipped kitchen.

The interiors and exteriors of the villa have been created using the highest quality materials, modern technology and equipment, the rooms are furnished with designer furniture: everything to ensure that guests get the best experience of relaxation and living among exquisite conciseness.

The villa is equipped with air conditioning and ceiling fans, stereo system inside and outside, alarm system.

Villa area of ​​20 acres, where:
– refreshing large outdoor private infinity pool
– outdoor shower
– spacious outdoor jacuzzi for 5 people
– summer lounge relaxation area with luxurious sun loungers
– barbecue and bar counter
– landscaped garden
– private parking.

The villa is located in a quiet private place, next to another villa in this luxury mini-complex.
Everything is done so that guests have fun and spend unforgettable moments in the fresh air at any time of the day or night.

Show More

Booking Request

Marsh Hill Villa, McHenry – Updated 2023 Prices

• Holiday Home and Price Information
• Amenities
• Accommodation Conditions
• * Notes
• No reviews yet

Entire home

184 m² area

Barbecue

Washing machine

Free Wi-Fi

Air conditioning

Heating

We are working on translating this description into your language. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Boasting a hot tub, Marsh Hill Villa is located in McHenry. Featuring a patio, the holiday home is in an area where guests can engage in activities such as skiing and cycling.
This air-conditioned holiday home is equipped with 5 bedrooms, a satellite TV, a dining area, a kitchen with a fridge, and a living room. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
The nearest airport is Morgantown Municipal Airport, 65 km from the holiday home.

Marsh Hill Villa has been welcoming Booking.com guests since Nov 1, 2019. 2022.

More details

Most popular amenities and services

Free Wi-Fi

Select dates to see available locations and prices.

Accommodation Type

Capacity

5 Bedroom Vacation Home

Bedroom 1:

1 Extra Large Double bed

Bedroom 2:

1 extra large double bed

Bedroom 3:

1 extra large double bed

Bedroom 4: 900 03

1 large double bed

Bedroom 5:

1 large double bed

Living room:

1 sofa bed

Show prices

Something went wrong. Please try again.

Managed by: Taylor Made Deep Creek Vacations

Company Review Score: 8. 6 Based on 23 reviews from 487 properties

487 managed properties

Company details

Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales is the most innovative Real Estate & Property Management Company in the Deep Creek Lake area. With a wide array of Deep Creek Lake home and cabin rentals from which to choose, we invite you to stay in one of our Deep Creek Lake Vacation Rentals to experience the beauty of Deep Creek Lake and the surrounding mountains. Offering four seasons of activities and adventure, you will want to come back time and again just to experience it all! Rent a jet ski or a boat and spend the day playing on the water or take a fishing tour with one of our local guides. Tackle the rapids at the Adventure Sports Center’s man made white water rafting course or brave some of the nation’s top rivers with local rafting companies. When the weather turns cold, you can ski, snowboard, and more at Wisp Resort.

Property Information

Create new family memories when you choose to experience your next Deep Creek vacation in the lovely 5-bedroom townhome known as Marsh Hill Villa.
Beautifully appointed, it boasts stylish and contemporary decor throughout the spacious interior. The great room is highlighted by a stone fireplace. Bask in its warm glow when you curl up on the sectional sofa to watch TV. This will quickly become a favorite gathering space for you and your group!
Fully equipped, the kitchen has all the essentials to make everything from big breakfasts to late-night snacks. There is plenty of seating for everyone to share meals together throughout your stay.
At bedtime, the main level bedroom with an en-suite bath is your own private haven. It is furnished with a queen bed and TV to keep you completely comfortable.
Upstairs, there are two large bedrooms with attached, private baths. Outfitted with king beds and TVs, a good night’s sleep is guaranteed. As an added bonus, one of them even has an electric fireplace to keep you cozy.
Head to the lower level to find the family room where the kids will love watching their favorite movies or challenging each other to fun filled game of pool. There is another bedroom with an en-suite bath on this floor along with a bedroom that has access to the hall bath. Both have queen beds and TV’s.
Outside, you have great space to enjoy the scenery. You can barbecue on the deck or unwind with your favorite beverage on the patio. Nearby walking trails are perfect for an early morning stroll. At the end of the day, relax around the fire pit and follow that up with a dip in the bubbling hot tub.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the location! It’s a short walk to Wisp Resort (less than a quarter-mile to the ticket window) where you can come and go on the slopes as you please. During warmer months, take advantage of Wisp’s two golf courses, ziplines, and mountain coaster.
Centrally located, you are surrounded by restaurants, mar…

Landmarks nearby *

Amenities – Marsh Hill Villa

Most Popular Amenities

Free Wi-Fi

Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge.

Bedroom

Bathroom

• Towels

Living area

9 0004