Visiting the Henry Villas Zoo in Madison Wisconsin

Lions, tigers, bears and no admission fee...oh my! If you happen to be in Madison, Wisconsin and enjoy zoo's you have to visit the Henry Villas Zoo.

I visited there the summer of 2009 and was amazed to find that it's totally run from donations! There is no admission fee. You donate whatever amount you feel like.

You can also become a member if you wish. The Zoo is open from 9:30am-5:00pm daily. The zoo officially started in 1910 & just celebrated their 100th anniversary! The zoo supports conservation of animals and educates visitors about the animal world.

I can tell you that Henry Villas zoo surpasses many others that have admission fees but simply aren't as nice or well maintained (for both the animals and the visitors). They also take steps to be green, which as you'll find with me is a big plus

You can get up close and personal with many of the animals at the zoo. Nothing like looking at an ostrich up close and personal. Or watching a giraffe chomp on some grass.

The King of the Jungle relaxes in his environment. They even have heated rocks in the habitat to keep him warm on cooler days.

While there, you can visit the primate arena, tropical rainforest aviary, Herpetarium (which you will NOT find me in-no snakes, reptiles for me!) and the Children's zoo where the kids (and you) can feed goats, ride the carousel and learn about some of the animals.

If you're hungry, grab yourself a chicken sandwich or a brat or cheese curds (c'mon it's Wisconsin, of course you can get bratwurst and cheese curds!) For those who desire something less "Wisconsin-ian", they do offer popcorn, nachos, and 'regular' concession food.

They also have new additions added regularly so you'll want to see who's coming to the zoo when you're visiting. I'd plan on spending the entire day there from when they open to close to be able to experience everything to the fullest!

This post was written by Guest Blogger, Tara Burner. Tara is an Author & Certified Inspiration & Health Coach who enjoys traveling as well!