Milwaukee County Zoo’s Family Free Day 2025

Get in free to the Milwaukee County Zoo!

The Zoo's upcoming October 4th Family Free Day offers the perfect opportunity to explore 190 acres of wildlife wonder without paying admission fees.

Thanks to sponsorship from Tri City National Bank and FOX6, families can enjoy a full day of animal encounters set against Wisconsin's fall foliage.

Note: you'll still need to pay for parking ($15) in the lot and optional attractions, but there is also free street parking conveniently located across the street as another option.

The October 4th free day is one of six offered throughout 2025, giving families multiple opportunities to experience one of the Midwest's premier zoos at no admission cost. With over 2,200 animals representing 340+ species, crisp fall weather, and special seasonal programming, this free day promises memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

What you'll discover on your visit

The zoo transforms into a particularly magical place during fall, with cooler temperatures bringing cold-climate animals like snow leopards and red pandas into full view. Your family can explore world-class exhibits including the Florence Mila Borchert Big Cat Country, where lions, tigers, and cheetahs roam spacious habitats, and Adventure Africa, home to magnificent elephants with multiple viewing areas.

Don't miss the Modern Woodmen Otter Passage, consistently rated as a visitor favorite with its underwater viewing areas where playful North American river otters put on entertaining shows. The Northwestern Mutual Family Farm offers hands-on experiences with over 30 Nigerian dwarf goats, perfect for younger children who want to interact with gentle animals.

Fall timing means you'll catch some exhibits at their seasonal best. The hippos at Adventure Africa will be visible through October before their winter closure, and many animals become more active in the comfortable autumn temperatures.

Timing your visit for maximum fun

Arrive early at the 9:30 AM opening to enjoy cooler temperatures and more active animals. The zoo operates until 4:30 PM through October 31st, giving families plenty of time to explore. Gates close 45 minutes before closing, so plan accordingly.

Consider attending the daily animal presentations that run year-round: gorilla talks at 10:30 AM, elephant presentations at 11:30 AM, and big cat talks at 3 PM. These educational programs help families understand animal behaviors and conservation efforts while getting closer looks at favorite species.

If your visit coincides with the "Boo at the Zoo" events on October 17-19 and 24-26, you can extend your fall zoo experience with Halloween-themed activities including trick-or-treat trails, pumpkin carving demonstrations, and costume contests.

Planning your budget and logistics

While admission is completely free on October 4th thanks to Tri City National Bank and FOX6 sponsorship, parking costs $15 per vehicle and cannot be avoided. Additional costs include popular attractions like the Safari Train ($4 per person), carousel rides ($3), and the Sky Safari cable cars ($4) that offer aerial views across the zoo's wooded landscape.

Families can bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages, making this an economical day out. Stroller rentals cost $12.50-$15.50 if needed, and the zoo offers nursing suites in multiple buildings for families with infants.

The zoo's 190 acres require considerable walking, so pack comfortable shoes, water bottles, and cameras to capture both wildlife and the beautiful fall scenery that serves as a natural backdrop throughout the grounds.

Making the most of seasonal activities

October visits offer unique advantages beyond the free admission. The zoo provides weekly fall foliage reports, helping you time your visit for peak color viewing. The wooded property becomes a photographer's dream, with autumn leaves framing animal exhibits and creating picture-perfect family moments.

Seasonal animal enrichment activities mean you might witness animals receiving special pumpkin-themed toys and treats designed to stimulate their natural behaviors. The zoo's "Leaf & Learn Scavenger Hunt" adds an educational element to your exploration, encouraging families to discover different aspects of the exhibits.

For families seeking additional entertainment, consider the Gorilla Trek Virtual Reality Experience ($7) or the Sky Trail Ropes Course for adventure-loving older children and teens.