Having fun doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, you can have a wildly good time without spending a dime…all it takes is a visit to Henry Vilas Zoo. One of only a few free zoos in North America, a visit is a real treat. But don’t assume its admission-free status means it’s lacking. In addition to hundreds of animals, the zoo boasts amazing tours, opportunities for animal encounters, and the chance to dine with polar bears. Take a look:

Open year-round and always free to visit, Henry Vilas Zoo is located in Vilas Park in Madison.

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Each year, over 750,000 people take advantage of the no-cost attraction – and you should definitely be one of them.

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The 28-acre zoo is home to more than 650 animals from all around the globe.

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The menagerie of animals includes over 115 species, 20 of which are endangered or vulnerable.

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Lions, tigers, and bears are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the zoo’s wild residents.

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In addition to the variety of outdoor exhibits that fill the zoo, there are several indoor exhibits.

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Visiting the zoo is completely free – no admission and no parking fees. However, you do have to pay for extras, like rides on the carousel and train, which are $2 each.

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Dining at the zoo will cost you, too, but you probably won’t mind since the on-site eatery, Glacier Grille, serves up tasty grub with close-up views of polar bears! Pretty unique, it’s the only indoor restaurant in the US to look onto a polar bear exhibit.

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Behind-the-scenes tours, which are perfect for those who want a closer look at how the animals are cared for, are also available for a cost. Each tour focuses on a specific animal or species. Depending on the tour, prices range from $25 - $80.

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The zoo also hosts a variety of events, such as zoo sleepovers and summer camps, throughout the year.

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Henry Vilas Zoo is open daily, from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., year-round. For more information, call (608) 266–4732. You can also visit the Henry Vilas Zoo website or Facebook page.

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Did you know about this zoo? Ever visited? If so, what’d you think? Know of another amazing admission-free attraction? Tell us in the comments section.

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Address: 702 S Randall Ave, Madison, WI 53715, USA