Adorable Animal Encounters in Wisconsin Dells—You Won’t Believe What Your Family Can Do!
Get up close with deer, pet baby goats, ride horses through breathtaking landscapes, and even meet exotic wildlife in Wisconsin Dells. 🌐 #News #WisconsinDellsWI #Wisconsin #Travel
WISCONSIN DELLS, WI – Wisconsin Dells isn’t just about waterparks and scenic landscapes—it’s also a paradise for animal lovers. Whether you want to walk among majestic deer, feed farm animals, or come face-to-face with exotic wildlife, this destination has it all. From hands-on experiences at local farms to awe-inspiring views of rare cranes, there’s an animal attraction for every kind of adventurer. Get ready to explore the wild side of Wisconsin Dells with these must-visit locations.
Up-Close Encounters with Amazing Animals
Wisconsin Deer Park: A Classic Family Favorite
For more than 70 years, Wisconsin Deer Park has been a cherished stop for families. This 40-acre park lets visitors pet and feed over 100 deer, including the elegant Virginia White Tail and the unique Spotted English Fallow deer, whose antlers resemble those of a moose. If you visit between May and mid-June, you might even witness the magic of newborn fawns taking their first steps.
Country Bumpkin Farm Market & Lil’ Bumpkin Play Village: A Slice of Farm Life
This charming farm offers fresh produce and an adorable petting area where guests can meet goats, donkeys, chickens, ducks, and a friendly miniature horse named Duke. Summer visitors are in for a special treat—baby goats arrive throughout the season, making for an unforgettable experience for children and animal lovers alike.
Timbavati Wildlife Park: An Exotic Adventure
At this 25-acre park, visitors can get up close with over 75 species of exotic animals, from towering giraffes to powerful rhinos and energetic kangaroos. Timbavati is a fourth-generation family-owned park with a strong focus on conservation. Want to take your experience to the next level? Book a VIP Behind-the-Scenes Tour to interact with a variety of species or schedule a meet-and-greet with sloths and red pandas for an experience you won’t forget.
Saddle Up for a Horseback Adventure
Canyon Creek Riding Stables: A Wild West Experience
For a horseback ride with a twist, head to Canyon Creek Riding Stables. This family-friendly destination (open March–November) features an Old West theme, where riders trot through a tunnel, cross a bridge, and arrive at the stunning Lost Canyon. A hidden waterfall adds to the charm. After your ride, stop by the petting zoo to meet the friendly goats and donkeys.
Woodside Ranch Riding Stables: A Trail Rider’s Paradise
With 1,400 acres of scenic trails, Woodside Ranch Riding Stables (open March–November) is perfect for riders of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s a horse suited just for you. Pony rides are available for young children, and visitors can also see a buffalo herd roaming the property.
Red Ridge Ranch: A Winter Wonderland
For a magical cold-weather adventure, book a sleigh ride at Red Ridge Ranch (open year-round). Glide through the countryside in a horse-drawn sleigh or wagon, then warm up by the campfire with a cup of hot chocolate. It’s a perfect way to embrace winter in Wisconsin.
Lost Canyon Tours: A Horse-Drawn Wagon Journey
For a different kind of ride, take a horse-drawn wagon tour through the shaded gorges of Lost Canyon (open March–November). It’s a relaxing, picturesque way to take in the area’s natural beauty while enjoying a cool summer breeze.
Rare and Majestic Creatures
International Crane Foundation: A Global Conservation Effort
Just outside the Dells in Baraboo, the International Crane Foundation is the only place on Earth where visitors can see all 15 species of cranes. This 300-acre sanctuary offers guided and self-guided tours, live crane exhibits, and four miles of scenic trails. Watch as cranes perform their graceful dances and observe chicks being cared for—an experience that stays with visitors long after they leave.
Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Center: A Sanctuary for Majestic Predators
This non-profit sanctuary provides a safe home for abused and abandoned big cats. The dedicated couple who runs the center has spent nearly 20 years caring for these powerful creatures. For a deeper look, take a guided Founders Tour to hear the individual stories of these magnificent animals.
The Magic of the Circus
Circus World: A Legendary Performance
Baraboo is also home to Circus World, located on the historic grounds of the original Ringling Bros. winter quarters.
Throughout the summer, visitors can enjoy thrilling Big Top performances featuring talented animals like prancing horses and charming dogs. Pony rides are available, and the on-site museum houses an incredible collection of circus artifacts, from flea circus props to lavishly decorated parade wagons.
Create Your Own Fun Adventure
Looking for a hands-on experience that combines learning with fun? Wisconsin Dells offers plenty of opportunities to try something new and make lasting memories.
- Tommy Bartlett Exploratory – Interactive Science Center: With 175 activities, including a Giant Lever that lets you lift a 5,000-pound car, science has never been this fun.
- MagiQuest: Let the kids pick out a magic wand and embark on a thrilling interactive adventure at Great Wolf Lodge.
- Booby Trap Escape Rooms: Race against the clock to solve puzzles and escape before time runs out.
- Hot Rocks – Sear. Sizzle. Savor.: Cook your own meal on lava rocks heated to 750°F for a dining experience like no other.
- Dells Mining Co.: Pan for gemstones with soil sourced from North Carolina—who knows what treasure you might uncover?
- B & H Trout Fishing & Bait Shop: Catch a trout in the spring-fed ponds and have your fish cleaned on-site for a small fee.
- Brushes & Bubbly: Take a painting class with options for both adults and kids—creativity meets relaxation in the Dells.
From thrilling wildlife encounters to hands-on experiences, Wisconsin Dells delivers excitement at every turn. Whether you’re feeding a deer, riding a horse, or discovering rare cranes, this destination guarantees unforgettable adventures for the whole family. Start planning your trip and get ready to explore the wild wonders waiting in Wisconsin Dells!
RELATED TOPICS: Animals | Travel | Wisconsin
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