Why the Shalom Wildlife Zoo Is Wisconsin’s Most Extraordinary Zoo Experience
A Wildlife Adventure Right Across the Street
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo is a stretch of Wisconsin woodland where wolves, elk, and tigers roam along four miles of wooded trails, and every turn brings you closer to them. It also happens to sit directly across the street from our front door. Longtime locals still know it as the Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary, and that name tells you something about the experience. This is not a place of concrete enclosures. Four miles of roads wind through woods and open meadows, and you can explore them on foot or from a rented golf cart during the regular season, making it a genuine wildlife adventure rather than a typical zoo visit.
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo may be the closest attraction, but plenty of others sit within a short drive. Our corner of Washington County puts you minutes from the Kettle Moraine State Forest’s hiking and biking trails, the Eisenbahn State Trail, and the Museum of Wisconsin Art downtown. When guests ask about things to do in West Bend, WI, we never run short of suggestions. The area deserves a full weekend, with mornings at the Shalom Wildlife Zoo, afternoons on the trails, and evenings in town.
And when the day winds down after visiting the best Wisconsin zoo, you are one crosswalk from comfort. Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast offers privacy, a delicious multi-course breakfast, and an in-house spa waiting after a day outside.
Experience the Shalom Wildlife Zoo Like a Local
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo has been part of West Bend since 1979, and it still runs more like a sanctuary than a traditional zoo. The zoo consistently earns outstanding visitor reviews and has become one of the area’s most popular wildlife attractions. The reason becomes obvious about five minutes in. A four-mile trail loops through woods and open meadows, and the animals live in large natural habitats rather than traditional exhibits. The visit is more like a hike to see the animals than a typical Wisconsin zoo visit.
The residents are the reason to visit the Shalom Wildlife Zoo. Elk herds rest in the grass, wolves watch from wooded hillsides, and tigers, cougars, zebras, and even capybaras appear as the trail unwinds. Down at the petting zoo, feed is available for getting face-to-face with the friendlier animals. The staff is always happy to answer questions about the animals, conservation efforts, and the history of the Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary, making the experience as educational as it is entertaining.
A little planning makes the day easy. During the main season, which runs from mid-April through early November, the Shalom Zoo is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with the last entry an hour and a half before closing. Plan on an entry fee, with children two and under free.
A leisurely walk through the sanctuary typically takes two to three hours, and if you would rather ride, three-hour golf cart rentals cover the same ground with less effort. Carts are rented for a fee beyond admission, seat up to four, and are first come, first served, so arrive early on summer weekends. You will not need to pack a lunch, either. The Grizzly Grill sits near the zoo entrance, and the Little Tiger’s snack area waits at the midpoint of the trail, perfectly timed for a break. Either way you travel, wear comfortable shoes, since personal vehicles are not permitted on the trail during this season.
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo does not hibernate, either. During the annual Christmas at the Zoo celebration, guests can drive the trail from the warmth of their own vehicles and experience festive displays. Seasonal winter events and operating hours vary each year, so check the dates before you visit. Whatever the season, plan on spending at least three hours exploring this unique West Bend zoo.
Rest Easy at a Top-Rated Bed and Breakfast Wisconsin Getaway
The best part of a day at the Shalom Wildlife Zoo is how it ends. Cross the street, and you are back at Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast. Detox in the steam room, brave the cold deluge shower, then settle into the hot tub or sauna in our private spa. Book a massage ahead of your stay, and it is waiting when the trail dust settles. Prefer to stay outside? Check out our property, which holds a 1.3-mile wooded hiking trail and lighted pickleball court. Each of our luxury guest rooms offers additional comfort with wooded views, fine linens, and amenities such as jetted tubs and cozy fireplaces.
Morning brings the best part of your stay. A gourmet breakfast is served fresh each day, often with maple syrup that we tap from trees right on the property.
Book Your Wildlife Adventure Today
Start planning your West Bend getaway at the Bed and Breakfast Wisconsin visitors choose for a relaxing wildlife adventure. Book your stay at Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Shalom Wildlife Zoo?
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo sits in West Bend, Wisconsin, directly across the street from Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast in Washington County.
How much are Shalom Wildlife Zoo tickets?
Shalom Wildlife Zoo charges an entry fee per visitor, with children two and under admitted free; golf cart rentals are available for an additional fee.
When did the Shalom Wildlife Zoo open?
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo, originally known as the Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary, has been part of West Bend since 1979.
Where should you stay near the Shalom Wildlife Zoo?
Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast sits directly across the street from the Shalom Wildlife Zoo, making it the closest lodging option for a West Bend wildlife adventure.