Most of us know that Milwaukee is full of greenery- we have over 150 parks! What you might not know is that there’s a ton of wildlife right outside of the city, too. Check out this wildlife sanctuary just under an hour outside of Milwaukee in West Bend. It’s fun for the whole family!

Welcome to Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary.

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

Shalom Wildlife started in the 1970s as a small sanctuary, and has grown into a zoo that’s over 100 acres.

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

This wildlife park is bustling with animals from elk, to bison, to raccoons, and everything in between!

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

Whether you’re walking through the park, driving golf carts they have for rent, or driving through in your own car during the winter, there’s so much to see!

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

Shalom Wildlife also operates as a farm and truly cares about their animals.

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

Just check out their mission statement: “To preserve the wilderness, while providing education, enjoyment, and wildlife encounters in a natural ecosystem.”

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

Throughout the park there are informational signs to learn from. Fun fact: donkeys are amazing protectors and often watch over the young ones!

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

The park often has animals that are born there! In 2014, Shalom welcomed these two bear cubs, Lewis and Clark.

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

Their birthday is in January!

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

Shalom Wildlife is well worth the visit any time of the year. This is one spot that the whole family will want to come back to visit the awesome wildlife over and over!

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary is located at 1901 Shalom Dr., West Bend, WI.

Have you visited this wildlife park near Milwaukee? What was your favorite animal? Share your experience with us in the comments!

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary / Facebook

Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary is located at 1901 Shalom Dr., West Bend, WI.

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