The Milwaukee County Zoo has been a fixture in the Milwaukee landscape since 1892, when it was a simple display of mammals and birds in downtown’s Washington Park. By 1902, the zoo had expanded to 23 acres and housed 800 animals. In 1958, the Zoo moved to its current location on Bluemound Road in Wauwatosa, and is home to more than 1,700 mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, and reptiles.
One of the top zoos in the United States, the facility draws over a million visitors every year. Offering superb educational programs, the zoo attracts both young and old alike. The zoo also holds summer concerts, special events (like breakfast with Santa), and food festivals. The large picnic areas are also a great place to hold a company or family party.
For visitors it may be worthwhile to purchase a Zoo Pass through the Zoological Society. With the pass you get unlimited admission to the Milwaukee County Zoo and other zoos across the country. You also have the option to add parking to your pass, and you receive a discount on some purchases made within the zoo property.
Zoo admission prices are normally $10.50 for adults and $7.50 for kids, depending on the time of year you go. Parking is an additional $9.00. Milwaukee County residents receive a discounted admission price every day, and reduced rates every Wednesday.
The Milwaukee County Zoo has a number of not-to-miss exhibits. It’s almost too difficult to see everything at the zoo in one day. To maximize your visit, local visitors make many trips to the zoo, and discover new things every visit. For traveling visitors, try to visit the zoo over a two day period, so that you are able to see everything without having to rush through your day.
Monkey (Macaque) Island and the Primate building are favorites, especially with children. The baby bonobos and majestic low land gorillas are a must-see indoors. Outside on Monkey Island, the animals entertain visitors daily.
The Aquatic and Reptile Center will please fish lovers. The large aquarium allows visitors to get a taste of Wisconsin’s varied life under its waters. Don’t miss the jelly fish display close to the entrance. Snake lovers will be amazed at the amount of species found here.
The newly renovated feline building is home to African lions, hyenas, jaguars, and snow leopards. Check out the lion call display at the rear of the building to test your knowledge of lion calls.
The “Family Farm” or children’s area is a perfect spot to take young children, where they can learn more about animals, feed the goats, and see a cow getting milked. Stop at the concession stand to refresh yourself with a ice cream bar or scoop of ice cream. Educational programs and a petting area are found at the Animal Education Building. A large play area will keep your kids entertained if you want to rest on the benches.
(To be continued in “Make the Most of Your Visit: Day Two”)
