Henry Vilas Park

A Glimpse into History

In 1904, Senator William Freeman Vilas donated $35,000 to secure the land that would become Henry Vilas Park - and he dedicated it to his son Henry, who had passed away from diabetes at a young age. That personal history gives the 45.67-acre park a meaning beyond its size.

The park runs along the northern shore of Lake Wingra and has grown into one of Madison's most cherished green spaces in the years since.

Lakeside Fun

When summer hits, the park's sandy beach on Lake Wingra becomes an excellent spot to cool off. If fishing is more your style, you'll come across plenty of spots along the shoreline, including two accessible fishing piers that make the lake's bounty available to everyone.

Come winter, the frozen lagoon transforms into a magical setting for ice skating. A seasonal warming shelter opens its doors, offering a cozy place to warm up, grab some concessions, and even rent skates if you didn't bring your own.

One of the lions at the free-admission Henry Vilas Zoo

Photo: Eric Kilby (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Play All Day

Active types will appreciate the park's tennis courts, basketball court, and soccer field. There's also plenty of open, grassy space fantastic for picnics, frisbee games, or just lounging with a good book.

Kids have multiple playgrounds to explore, including one featuring the iconic "Old Woman in the Shoe" slide built back in 1962. This nostalgic attraction continues to delight today's children, while giving parents and grandparents a sweet trip down memory lane.

For those who prefer to keep moving, various hiking trails wind through the park, including a scenic lakeside path that connects to the University of Wisconsin Arboretum - ideal for a longer adventure.

The Annie Stewart Fountain surrounded by autumn foliage

Photo: Richard Hurd (CC BY 2.0)

Nature and Heritage

The park holds significant cultural history with its Native American burial mounds, including a fascinating bird effigy mound. These important archaeological features were designated as a City of Madison landmark in 1990.

With its diverse landscape and canopy of mature trees, the park offers wonderful opportunities for wildlife viewing throughout every season.

Spring blossoms near the zoo entrance

Photo: Drethelin (CC BY-SA 2.0)

The Zoo Next Door

Right adjacent to the park grounds is the Henry Vilas Zoo, a public zoo that remarkably remains free to all visitors. Here you can meet an impressive array of animals - lions, tigers, polar bears, red pandas, and various primates all call this place home.

Families particularly appreciate the children's area with its secure playground (featuring just one entrance and exit), making it easier to keep track of little ones. The zoo's carousel and train ride are reliable hits with the younger crowd.

You'll discover clean restrooms throughout both the park and zoo, along with multiple picnic spots - some under pavilions, others beneath the shade of towering trees.

With its blend of recreational activities, natural beauty, and lakefront charm, Henry Vilas Park offers something for everyone no matter the season.