Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wisconsin is one of only a few admission-free, community-supported zoos across the country. The Vilas family, who donated the land to the Madison Park and Pleasure Drive Association in 1904, stipulated that the park be free to the public. As the zoo developed within the park, it too remained free thanks to community support. Henry Vilas Zoo is an accredited AZA (Association of Zoos & Aquariums) zoo and our mission is to conserve and protect the wonders of the living natural world. At Henry Vilas Zoo we are proud to provide free admission to our visitors, thanks to the generosity of the Vilas family and the ongoing support of the community. We strive to give everyone the opportunity to explore and appreciate the wonders of the natural living world. As an accredited AZA zoo, we are committed to our mission of conservation and protection. We invite you to join us in our efforts to ensure the preservation of our living world for future generations.