Conservation Carousel

The Conservation Carousel is the landmark structure in the completely new Children's Zoo. The carousel opened on Saturday, April 8, 2006.

The carousel is $1 per ride and is open from 10 A.M.- 4 P.M. daily throughout the summer season.


To learn how your Business or Company can sponsor rides for special events, please call the Friends of the Zoo at: (608) 258-9490

A Wonderful Gift

Thanks to the generosity of Anna Marie Hammerli, whose estate provided a significant gift to make this project possible, the Conservation Carousel opened in Spring of 2006.

A Vehicle for Change

The funds generated for the Conservation Carousel will provide significant revenue to help sustain the Zoo's and the Friends of the Zoo efforts to continually improve and update animal habitats at the Zoo, further serving the Zoo's education and conservation efforts. Those enjoying a ride on the Carousel will have the satisfaction of knowing they are supporting a vital cause - the preservation of the world's endangered species and the habitats where they live.

The building that will house the Conservation Carousel is taking shape. Inside it will be adorned with wonderful scenes of the area.

List of Animals

The cost of animal sponsorship is based on the size and uniqueness of each animal, and your gift is fully tax-deductible. Your payment may be made by check, Visa, MasterCard, or we can arrange for payments through a gift of stock.
Carousel Animals are priced from $5,000 - $15,000


Memories Created

The Conservation Carousel will remain a fixture at the Henry Vilas Zoo and for the community for decades to come. The memories created and taken away, and the messages learned will work in tandem to transform how our visitors -- and ultimately the entire community - understand the complex challenges of conserving endangered species.