In Madison, there’s a lively little park that’s a one-stop destination for family fun. Vilas Park is a short drive or bike ride from downtown Madison and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, but it’s another world, a place that entertains visitors of all ages. Take a swim, visit some friendly polar bears, or enjoy a quiet stroll – this is a park where you can do it all. Here’s what’s waiting for you at Madison’s Vilas Park.

The park is located on the northern shore of Lake Wingra. Humans have enjoyed this beautiful place for a very long time – there are effigy mounds at the site that are more than 1,000 years old.
Madison Parks/Facebook
Today the property is a city of Madison public park. It’s one of the city’s oldest parks and it draws visitors in every season.
Tripadvisor / AASparks
The park has a sandy swimming beach, numerous shore fishing sites, and an outdoor winter ice skating rink that has a seasonal warming shelter with concessions and skate rentals.
Tripadvisor / AndyB5542

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Walkers, hikers, and runners can be found in the park throughout the day. Scenic paths wind through Vilas Park and it’s located right next to the UW Arboretum, which has many more miles of hiking trails and paths.
Tripadvisor / Management
The park has one feature that’s truly amazing. It’s home to Henry Vilas Zoo, one of the few free zoos in North America.
Tripadvisor / Jesse White
The zoo has been around for more than a century and it has houses amphibians, birds, fish, insects, mammals, and reptiles from several continents. Its residents include capybaras, badgers, and polar bears. Pay them a visit!
Tripadvisor / Chuck2010

Learn more about Vilas Park on the city of Madison website. If you love parks with tons for families to see and do, here’s a park in Fond du Lac that also hits the mark in a big way.

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Vilas Park Drive, Madison, WI, USA