The native wildlife of any area is often enough to attract tourists from far and wide, and Minocqua, Wisconsin is no exception! A morning at the lake might bring a common loon or river otter into view, while an evening on the trails could send a deer, gray fox, red fox, and even a black bear or bobcat into your sights. Be sure to scan the skies for a bald eagle, too!

Discover the wild side of Minocqua, Wisconsin, where local and exotic species await to offer visitors a unique and immersive encounter with nature's marvels!

Northwoods Wildlife Center

Experience local Northwoods wildlife at the Northwoods Wildlife Center in Minocqua!

First opened in the summer of 1982, this center was among the first wildlife hospitals in the Midwest. At the time, Minocqua veterinarian Dr. Rory Foster saw the need to establish a sanctuary for injured wild animals. Dr. Rory Foster’s legacy lives on through his center, staff, and supporters, working to brighten the future for wildlife through education, rescue, rehabilitation, and research. 

If your visit to Minocqua falls between May and September, book a tour to learn about these animals.  Kids, in particular, will delight in witnessing wildlife like eagles and hawks up close!

Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari

Need to fill an open afternoon? Swing by the second-largest zoo in Wisconsin: Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari! A refuge for more than 1,700 animals and 229 species, their exciting exhibits will introduce you to animals native to the Northwoods as well as exotic and endangered species from all around the world.

Step onto the Safari Tram Ride for an unforgettable African adventure. Watch the wildebeests, kudus, and zebras roam through the flatlands and tall grasses. Then, hop off the train and head to the Giraffe Serengeti, where the all-around tallest land animals graze. Feed them a cup of carrots to steal their hearts—and in return, they just might steal a kiss!

Drop by Down Under to discover emus, kangaroos, and wallabies soaking up the sun, then fly on over to the nearby Parakeet Encounter and feed these funny, feathered friends. And speaking of feeding, there are plenty of “critter food” dispensers around the park. Pour yourself a handful of pellets and feed camels, deer, goats, sheep, and more!

When your day is winding down, go for a peaceful paddle on an adventure boat or take a rest at the relaxing Koi Pond. And don’t walk out the gate without taking a pit stop at the Wild Den Gift Shop! Pick up a plush animal, shop for a souvenir shirt, or grab a gift that’s sure to make a loved one smile.