Zoo in Chippewa Falls


Few outside of the Chippewa Falls area realize it, but there is a zoo in the city. Just after the turn of the 20th century, William Irvine decided it was his duty to enhance his hometown of Chippewa Falls. For this reason, he donated land to the city which has become the Irvine Park. It now clocks in at 318 acres and is the heart and soul of Chippewa Falls. Children love this park and enjoy the variety of features including the playgrounds and the zoo.

There are a number of places to play and relax in the park. Picnic areas feature tables and cookout space, and there is a historical pavilion that is frequently reserved for events like family gatherings and weddings. Another popular spot for weddings is the bandshell in the center of the park. Throughout the season, there are occasionally music performances featured at the historic bandshell. Also on the grounds of the park is the Sunny Valley Schoolhouse, the Irvine Park Museum, and the Glen Loch Dam. Hiking is a favorite pastime of those who visit the park and many of them enjoy cross country skiing on the trails during the winter.

The zoo is one of the main attractions at the park. Featured there are elk, buffalo, deer, and monkeys. Changes are being made at the park and the zoo is growing. New exhibits include a complex designed for cougar, bobcats, and black bear. The new bear enclosure is 5,000 square feet and ensures the bear and those who visit them are kept safe. Much of the funds needed to build this were donated, as well as materials and labor. The animals were originally sequestered in out of date structures that meant being kept behind bars. With the updates, these large animals can roam freely in a more natural environment, which is healthier for the animal and safer for those visiting. The opinion of zoo goers and those who frequent the park has been improved since the facility was upgraded.

A complaint of a lot of zoo goers, especially at the larger establishments, is the fact is can get crowded and make it tough to see the animals. This zoo is rarely crowded. It may not feature the rare species of some of the larger zoos, but if you are looking for a place to take your kids and expose them to nature and wildlife, this may be the solution.

The town of Chippewa Falls features a variety of Midwest adventures that can be enjoyed by the entire family. It is considered the gateway to the Northwoods of Wisconsin and features a number of the state's most famous industries like Leinenkugel Brewery and Cray Computers. There is a variety of shopping, dining, and recreational activities throughout the town, as well as accommodations for those who would like to spend a night or two. If you are headed north, or if you are looking for a place to kick back and unwind, consider heading to Chippewa Falls. While you are there, you can pay a visit to the Irvine Park and its zoo.

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