Racine Zoological Gardens, Racine

A few weeks ago my husband, our daughter, and I came to visit the Racine zoo. They do charge admission now, $4 adults and $2 children. We were pleasantly surprised at the size and quality of the zoo. I expected it to be small and not have a diversity of animals. I was wrong. Not only do they have a wide variety of species, they are in very pleasant surroundings. I think the zoo is probably a hidden treasure. It was a fantastic zoo including childrens petting zoo and train rides. The combination of clean, well kept animal housing, pleasant staff, and the location on the shore of Lake Michigan make this an absolute jewel. A family could easily spend a nice half day strolling the grounds and eating a picnic lunch along the lake. Racine must be very proud of their zoo. We will be back!

This is one of the most coolest zoos around. Frist off it is free(did I tell you that parking is also free). The animals are also nice too (especially for the little ones) There is a rhino (looks mean) and giraffes. Also there is a monkey room with indoor and outdoor cages which they can be outside as well. The staff at the zoo is always working hard. You always see them cleaning but once in a while you can catch them feeding them (got to know the times ). The food stand is cheap and the food is quite good. You can pack also a picnic and sit at one of the benches overlooking Lake Michigan and eat too. The are opening up more exhibits each year it seems. Also in the summertime they have music with the animals too. I don't know if you have to pay for that. The only problem is the gift shop. It seems you have to put a second mortgage on your house to get a shirt. But I feel that if that is the only problem then let it be. Please make a donation to the zoo while you are there too. We try and at least a couple of dollars when we go. Hey for free you can't beat it. One other problem too is the light switch to cross from the free parking to the zoo takes too long to change [impatient zoo goers :-) ]

A Hidden Gem. Big time zoo quality in a compact package. Few visitors so the animals really react to people.