Animal-related Activities to Crow About
Furry to feathered and everything in between, that’s the menagerie of animals to be seen at Wisconsin Dells animal attractions. What a perfect way to spend an afternoon.
While other destinations tout their zoos, Wisconsin Dells goes above and beyond with animal attractions that put visitors in touch with nature in new ways. Visit these five attractions to learn inspiring stories of conservation and preservation, to explore the farm heritage of the state, and to appreciate the diversity of Wisconsin wildlife.
This family owned and operated attraction is where farm meets fun. Established 25 years ago, the production methods here include both sustainable and some organic practices. The fruits and veggies are picked daily, so you know they’re super fresh. What makes this such a charming family attraction is the petting farm, populated with sweet farm animals. They have goats, alpacas, donkeys, peacocks, chickens, ducks, and a miniature horse named Duke.
Kids can also race around on pedal karts, zip along on the zip line, try the obstacle course, swing on the tire swings, and have lots more good old-fashioned fun in the Lil’ Bumpkin Play Village.
Season runs April through October.
There is only one place on earth to see the complete collection of all 15 crane species and it’s at the International Crane Foundation in nearby Baraboo. The Foundation is celebrating 50 years this year of safeguarding the world’s cranes through international cooperation and protection of millions of acres of wetlands and grasslands on the five continents where cranes live. The remarkable exhibits here offer an up-close lesson on these magnificent birds, many of which are endangered. Visitors can hike the nature trails through the restored landscape. Make time for the gift shop, featuring nature-themed items from around the world.
Save the date for the second annual Great Midwest Crane Fest, November 10-11, as thousands of sandhill cranes gather near the Wisconsin River before flying south for the winter. There will be guided crane-viewing tours, workshops, and conservation-related lectures.
Season runs May through October.
Less of a zoo and more a Wisconsin Dells wildlife encounter, Timbavati is a treat for animal lovers. Set aside a good three to four hours to get to all the animal areas at this 25-acre wildlife park. There are some 75 species represented, including giraffe, camel, antelope, rhinoceros, sloth, kangaroo, monkey, lion, lynx, and red panda.
Among the feathered friends, there are flamingos, parakeets, toucan, and kookaburra. Check out the petting zoo area, feed the giraffes and camels, climb the observation tower, or attend wildlife presentations. Timbavati Wildlife Park even offers a VIP-Behind the Scenes Tour, a personal guided interaction with multiple animal species, designed for parties of up to five people and available every morning at 8 a.m.
For a bit of nostalgia, take a spin around the park on the Safari Train Ride. Visitors from days gone by will recognize it as Engine Number 9 from the long-since-gone Old Fort Dells attraction.
Open year-round. Guided tours by appointment outside of the summer season.
The non-profit Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Center is a sanctuary for big cats that have been abandoned, abused, or seized. Lions, tigers, and leopards are sheltered in environments as close to natural as possible. The couple who operates this rescue Center has made it their life goal to give what they can to help the big cats live out their lives running, playing, relaxing, and receiving plenty of love and attention. Education is another part of the owners’ mission, so they offer tours during which they share the stories behind each of the majestic cats at the center.
Spend the night at Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue to enjoy the sounds of the cats and take part in the morning feeding tour. There are two cabins available to reserve.
Season runs April through November.
For more than five decades, this park has been welcoming families and children of all ages to see, pet, and feed the deer. This hands-on petting zoo adventure provides a chance to interact with the natural world in a way you may not have thought possible. See newborn fawns to mature adults with antlers, stroll the scenic wooded trails, and take photos…lots and lots of photos.
Along with white tail deer, the 40-acre park is also home to American elk and bison.
Season runs April through October.
Check out the complete list of Wisconsin Dells petting zoos and animal attractions.
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