Swetsville Zoo

Went to folk art and it was fantastic. We met Bill Mets in his shop. He was building another creation. I hope he survived the flooding, the place is right next to the river. Great place to go and identify the parts of cars or trucks that he used to make his creations. Loved the place and highly recommend it for a stop on your trip

This place was great. We took a 2000 mile trip that included stops in 7 states and this was my wife’s grandpa’s favorite stop of the trip. Very cool and right near the highway.

AMAZING place to stop! It’s called “Swetsville Zoo” and looks like a old farm community. It’s a self-guided tour through part of the property. It looks like some of it is still residential and occupied although we didn’t see anyone else. There’s no charge but donations are welcome. There’s a Dropbox at the front of the main part of the “park.”

I give it 5 stars for creativity! This is really interesting quirky place to visit. The driveway is easy to miss, and you feel like you are pulling into someone’s property, but if you just pull in and park, the “zoo” is to your left. There weren’t any guides left when we went but the slot for them is high on the wall to your right as you enter. And the donation box is on your left as you enter. It’s a self tour. This was VERY FUN to see what was used to create each display, the artist definitely has an eye for what he builds. The location by the river is awesome! I am so glad we stopped and experienced this! It was very much worth stopping for!

Fun and diverse collection of folk art. A range of artistic expression using rebar, tractor seats, car parts and various iron scrap. Small, medium and large - some musical, some kinetic, a few painted. The artist's sense of humor and creativity is evident. Worth the stop for all ages but kids 3-13 will enjoy, too.

Good place to get off and stretch your legs. Art work is cool. Parking is a bit weird so keep your eyes open

Awesome place! I highly recommend it. Parking is a little funny. We parked at Costco.

100% worth the stop! I absolutely loved the sculptures and the whimsy Bill Swets employs to each item - whether it's the Schultz tribute or a grinning Dino - these sculptures are a must see!

This is a neat place to get out and stretch your legs. We went really early in the morning and the sun was barely up so we did not see anyone else but the girls were glad to get out and stretch their legs. There is a short path surrounded by interesting up-cycled metal sculptures along the river. Would be a good place to bring a blanket for an interesting picnic.

A MUST stop if you are in the area. The site lists it as closed, but it was definitely open and we arrived around 9:30am. It’s was like something out of a twisted fairytale. Just wonderful. It’s a quick stop, about 30 minutes for us, but you could spend more time there. It has a picnic table and bathroom, outhouse really, if you are cool with that. It’s gorgeous with the river running in the back and bunnies everywhere. The driveway was tricky, it’s right on the corner once you pass Costco.