The Milwaukee County Zoo

The Milwaukee County Zoo hosts special exhibits every year. In 2007, a 11,000 gallon pool will house barb-less sting rays and sharks for an interactive great. (This exhibit is $2, not included in the regular admission price.) Guests have a chance to touch these amazing creatures.

For a break in the day, buy tickets to the Sea Lion Show, held right next to Monkey Island. For an additional $2.00, you will be treated to a light-hearted and heart warming show. You can also buy a photograph alongside a sea lion, for an extra cost. You can also arrange to have a private session with these amazing creatures.

In 2003, the Milwaukee County Zoo opened the Animal Health Center. Guests can get an up-close and personal look at how the zoo's vets treat their animals. (Squeamish visitors might want to by-pass this attraction.) Follow the path just to the right of the entrance.

The Atrium is a long-standing favorite to zoo visitors. Home to birds from penguins to ducks, each climate-controlled area is a delight. Check out the egg display found after the penguin area to test your knowledge of all things aviary.

For visitors wanting a taste of the wild, Wolf Woods will give you a glimpse of wolves and other wildlife. As in all areas of the zoo, take notice of the superb landscaping throughout the grounds. During the summer months, the beds are filled with beautiful annual flowers. Look for the butterfly and herb gardens.

The Polar Bear Exhibit sits along side the Sea Lion area, and both species are entertaining and fascinating to watch. Go "underneath" the water and watch from the underwater viewing area, watching these graceful creatures move through the water with ease.

The giraffe, elephant, and rhinoceros areas are found adjacent to one another at the center of the park. For adventurous spirits, try a camel ride. For little visitors, the pony rides are always a good bet.

The Australian section at the zoo is found at the southern end of the park. Home to kangaroos and koalas, this area will give you a taste of the animals "down under".

For visitors wanting an overview of the park, try the Zoomobile, a paid attraction that sends you by the attractions in a long tram. A zoo employee gives you details about each area as you pass by.

As a unique souvenir, try one or more "mold-o-ramas" found throughout the grounds. Plunk you quarters into the slot, and watch as the machine forms each animal before you eyes.

Finally, the Zoo Train is an absolute must for visitors, especially children. Following tracks around the zoo complex, the train's friendly whistle can be heard for miles around. Be sure to wave to other visitors as you pass by - they'll be waiting for you!