text: The Henry Vilas Zoo is a not so hidden gem in Madison It is a smaller zoo but with a great variety of animals It is easy to navigate and you are able to see everything is a fairly short period of time which could be considered good or badfor our family it is good They offer train rides and carousel rides for per person regardless of age I think the carousel is worth itthe train not so much The train basically goes in a very short loop where you just see the backs of some buildings that you could just as easily walk around There is a petting zoo and a giant play structure that is fun for older kids nnThe biggest downfall of the zoo is the lack of parking If you are lucky you will get a spot in the lot but on busy weekends we have had to park multiple blocks away I can forgive this little flaw since the zoo itself is FREE If you have got a little change to spare be sure to throw it in the donation buckets located around the zoo This year on a trip in July we were told they were already out of maps for the year and there was no budget to print more nnFinally be aware that when they say the zoo closes at they really mean The petting zoo the park and all exhibits with doors are closed at They just leave the actual zoo open for another hour while they filter people out Do not go at and think you will have a full hour and a half to explore or you will be disappointed