If you’re driving from Milwaukee to Madison—or simply out exploring the scenic Oconomowoc area—there’s a hidden gem waiting for you just off I-94: Concord General Store & Petting Zoo.
This old-fashioned gas station is an experience the whole family will love!
Located right off exit 275, this pit stop is perfect for stretching your legs, grabbing a snack, and meeting some friendly animals.
Behind the store, you’ll find a free petting zoo that’s home to an adorable mix of animals like goats, alpacas, miniature horses, donkeys, cows, pigs, and even chickens.
Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, the Concord Zoo gives visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy some fresh air. It’s the perfect break if you’ve got kids—or if you’re just an animal lover yourself.
You can pick up cones or carrots inside the store to feed the animals. (Due to health and safety guidelines, the grain dispensers are currently non-operational.) Just remember to skip the outside snacks—the zoo carefully monitors the animals’ diets to ensure they stay healthy.
And with a visitor capacity of 20 people at a time, you’ll get an up-close and personal experience with these gentle residents without the crowds.
Beyond the zoo, the Concord General Store is a cozy stop with a lot to offer. Whether you need to fuel up or grab a snack for the road, you’ll find plenty of options—from typical convenience store staples to unique, locally sourced products.
If you’re a coffee lover, don’t miss the Moose Café, where you can grab your favorite specialty coffee drink, like a latte or mocha, before hitting the road again. Plus, they’ve got NessAlla Kombucha on tap, with refreshing seasonal flavors like raspberry, lemongrass, and watermelon.
You’ll also find local products like Concord Honey, Just Coffee, and the ever-popular Suzy Bars, all while supporting small businesses in Wisconsin. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick snack or looking for a unique gift to take home, you’re sure to find something special.
Location: N6485 County Rd F, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Bonus: Pair this visit with a trip to Imagination Station—an inclusive, accessible playground in nearby Oconomowoc that’s also great for kids!
Related Post: 5 Adorable Petting Zoos Around Milwaukee
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.