Milwaukee County Zoo Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Milwaukee County Zoo is a cornerstone of the city’s cultural and natural heritage. Spanning 190 acres, the zoo is home to more than 3,100 animals representing over 350 species and welcomes over a million visitors annually. With a rich history dating back to 1892, the zoo has evolved from a small deer park into a leader in wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement. Whether you are an animal enthusiast, history buff, or family seeking a memorable outing, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan your visit—covering visiting hours, ticket prices, major exhibits, accessibility, travel tips, and more.
For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the Milwaukee County Zoo official website.
Contents
- Introduction & Visitor Overview
- Historical Evolution
- Signature Exhibits and Attractions
- Visiting Hours & Ticketing
- Accessibility, Transportation, and Parking
- Special Events & Seasonal Highlights
- Educational Programs & Conservation Initiatives
- Nearby Attractions
- FAQ
- Summary & Plan Your Visit
- Sources
Historical Evolution of the Milwaukee County Zoo
Early Beginnings (1892–1950s)
The Milwaukee County Zoo began as a modest deer park in Washington Park, established in 1892. It quickly grew in popularity, expanding to 23 acres by the early 20th century and housing over 800 animals. Innovations like Monkey Island (the first of its kind in the U.S.) and the construction of specialized animal habitats marked the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare and public education (emke.uwm.edu). Community engagement was fostered through events, concerts, and free admission, with local farms supplying animal food during tough economic times.
Relocation and Expansion (1950s–1980s)
Recognizing the need for more space, the zoo relocated from Washington Park to its current Bluemound Road location in the late 1950s. The new facility opened in stages, with the grand public opening in 1961 (wikipedia.org). Key features included the primate house, feline house, and the beloved miniature train. The 1960s–80s saw further expansion with the addition of the aviary, aquarium, small mammals building, and innovative exhibits such as the polar bear underwater viewing area—one of the first in the nation (milwaukeezoo.org).
Modernization, Conservation, and Community Engagement (1980s–Present)
Recent decades have seen the zoo focus on conservation, education, and community inclusion. Highlights include the Adventure Africa exhibit, community-funded modernization efforts, and educational programs for all ages. The zoo actively participates in Species Survival Plans and supports international fieldwork, such as mountain gorilla conservation in Rwanda. Volunteer programs, free community days, and accessible facilities underscore the zoo’s commitment to serving all visitors (milwaukeezoo.org; emke.uwm.edu).
Signature Exhibits and Attractions
Adventure Africa
A sprawling, state-of-the-art habitat built for African elephants, cheetahs, zebras, and other species. The exhibit features innovative enrichment spaces and educational signage on African wildlife (all-maps.com).
Apes of Africa
Home to gorillas, bonobos, and colobus monkeys, this exhibit emphasizes conservation and provides guests with insights into these primates’ complex social behaviors (all-maps.com).
Aquatic and Reptile Center
This climate-controlled building houses aquatic creatures, reptiles, and amphibians, offering interactive displays and educational programs highlighting aquatic conservation (all-maps.com).
Aviary
A walk-through sanctuary filled with free-flying birds from around the world, including flamingos, toucans, and songbirds. Naturalistic landscaping encourages natural behaviors (all-maps.com).
Bear Hollow
Designed with pools and climbing structures, Bear Hollow houses grizzly and black bears, offering multiple viewing vantage points (all-maps.com).
Big Cat Country
Features African lions, Amur tigers, and snow leopards in spacious, enriched enclosures with excellent photo opportunities (all-maps.com).
Small Mammals
Hosts meerkats, porcupines, armadillos, bats, and more, with exhibits focusing on their unique adaptations (all-maps.com).
Northwestern Mutual Family Farm
An interactive area with domestic farm animals and agricultural demonstrations, connecting visitors to Wisconsin’s farming heritage (all-maps.com).
Sky Safari & Safari Train
The Sky Safari aerial tram offers panoramic views of the zoo, while the Safari Train provides a relaxing, scenic tour of the grounds—a favorite for families (all-maps.com).
Zoomobile
A tram service connecting major exhibit areas, especially helpful for families and those with mobility needs (all-maps.com).
Visiting Hours & Ticketing
Hours
- Spring & Fall: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Summer (Memorial Day–Labor Day): 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Winter: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day
Always confirm current hours before your visit via the official website.
Ticket Prices (2025)
- Adults (13-64): $15.75–$18.95 (season/discounts may vary)
- Seniors (65+): $13.75–$16.95
- Children (3-12): $12.75–$14.95
- Under 3: Free
Special event exhibits (e.g., Exploration Dinosaur) may require an additional fee. Discounted tickets and memberships are available, and online advance purchase is highly recommended (milwaukeezoo.org/tickets).
Accessibility, Transportation, and Parking
- Address: 10001 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI
- Parking: On-site lots, $7–$8 per vehicle, with accessible parking near entrances
- Public Transit: Served by Milwaukee County Transit System and Waukesha Metro routes
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible paths, rental wheelchairs and strollers, accessible restrooms, sensory-friendly programming, and service animal accommodations (milwaukeezoo.org)
Special Events & Seasonal Highlights
Annual Events
- Groundhog Day Celebration: Zookeeper talks, games, and crafts on February 2 (2025 event info)
- Exploration Dinosaur Exhibit: May–October, features life-size animatronic dinosaurs and hands-on activities (visitmilwaukee.org)
- Boo at the Zoo: Halloween festivities with themed activities and costume contests
- Zoo a la Carte: Food festival with live music and local vendors
- Family Free Days: Sponsored events offering free admission on select dates
Seasonal Tips
- Summer: Extended hours, outdoor events, and peak animal activity
- Fall: Colorful foliage, harvest events, and increased animal activity
- Winter: Focus on indoor exhibits, lower rates, and special winter programs
- Spring: New animal births and blooming gardens
Educational Programs & Conservation Initiatives
Education
The Zoo and the Zoological Society of Milwaukee offer camps, workshops, school programs, and specialized tours for all ages, aligned with science standards. The Northwestern Mutual Family Farm, Kohl’s Wild Theater, and the innovative Gorilla Trek VR Experience engage visitors in hands-on learning (milwaukeezoo.org).
Conservation
The zoo participates in Species Survival Plans, supports global conservation initiatives (e.g., mountain gorilla preservation), and conducts sustainable habitat management on its grounds (milwaukeezoo.org).
Nearby Attractions
- Milwaukee Public Museum: Natural history and Samson the gorilla legacy
- Harley-Davidson Museum: Iconic motorcycle history
- Milwaukee Art Museum: Renowned architecture and collections
- Historic Third Ward: Shopping and dining
- Pabst Mansion: Milwaukee’s historic brewing heritage
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Milwaukee County Zoo’s visiting hours?
A: Typically 9:30 AM–5:00 PM, with seasonal extensions. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Q: How much are tickets?
A: $15.75–$18.95 for adults, $13.75–$16.95 for seniors, $12.75–$14.95 for children 3–12, free for children under 3.
Q: Is the zoo accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ADA-compliant routes, accessible restrooms, rentals, and service animal accommodations.
Q: Can I bring my own food?
A: Yes, in designated picnic areas. Glass containers and alcohol are not permitted.
Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Online (milwaukeezoo.org/tickets) or at the entrance.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, including behind-the-scenes and specialty tours—reserve in advance.
Summary & Plan Your Visit
The Milwaukee County Zoo is a vibrant blend of history, wildlife, conservation, and family fun. With acclaimed exhibits like Adventure Africa, engaging special events, and a robust educational mission, the zoo provides an exceptional experience for visitors of all ages. By planning ahead—knowing visiting hours, ticket options, and transportation—you’ll maximize your visit. Participation in zoo programs and events supports ongoing conservation and education efforts, making every visit meaningful.
Start your adventure today:
- Review current hours and ticket pricing at milwaukeezoo.org
- Download the Audiala app for interactive maps and exclusive content
- Follow the zoo on social media for event updates and behind-the-scenes stories
- Explore nearby Milwaukee attractions for a full day of discovery
Sources
- Milwaukee County Zoo: Visiting Hours, Tickets, History, and Visitor Guide, 2025, emke.uwm.edu (https://emke.uwm.edu/entry/milwaukee-county-zoo/)
- Milwaukee County Zoo, 2025, Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milwaukee_County_Zoo)
- Milwaukee County Zoo Visiting Hours, Tickets, and a Guide to Conservation, Education & Community Impact, 2025, milwaukeezoo.org (https://milwaukeezoo.org)
- Milwaukee County Zoo Events, Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Seasonal Highlights, 2025, visitmilwaukee.org (https://www.visitmilwaukee.org/blog/posts/post/exploration-dinosaur/)
- Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Milwaukee County Zoo: Hours, Tickets, Exhibits & More, 2025, all-maps.com (https://all-maps.com/milwaukee-county-zoo-map/)
