Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, WI is named for a little boy born in the early 1900s who died of complications from diabetes. His parents donated the property and developed a zoo for the community to enjoy. In a visionary move, the Vilas family stipulated it must always remain free. Today, it is home to an impressive collection of animals including the state animal -- the badger, alongside giraffe, tapirs, rhinos, elephants, seals, bears, tigers and my favorite, the Galapagos tortoises. The zoo is situated in the beautiful Vilas city park very near downtown with a large children's play yard, a miniature train offering rides and a beautiful carousel. We seem to stop at the zoo every summer, and we always find something new to explore.
