🦁 Henry Vilas Zoo – Madison’s FREE Gem! 🐯

Located super close to campus – just a short drive or bus ride away! 🚌✨ 🎫 No admission fee – one of the best free zoos in the US! 🦡 You can even see a live BADGER – the UW mascot in the fur! 😍 🐾 The zoo is well-maintained with a nice variety of animals: lions, polar bears, penguins, red pandas, and a cool tropical rainforest exhibit. Great for families, dates, or a relaxed solo trip! ⚠️ But heads up – avoid going on a snowy day ❄️🥶 I went once when it was snowing heavily… barely any visitors, eerie silence, and then… a tiger started roaring in the blizzard. So scary!! 🥲 Definitely not the cozy winter vibe you’d expect. 📸 Still, it’s a lovely place to spend a sunny afternoon. The zoo also has a carousel, gift shop, and small train ride (extra fee). Perfect for a half-day escape without spending a dollar! 👟 Wear comfy shoes – the zoo is bigger than it looks! Highly recommend if you’re new in town or just want a chill day around animals 🐒❤️ #Madison #UWMadison #HenryVilasZoo #FreeZoo #TravelWI #Wisconsin #StudyInTheUS