ZooIllinois, US

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is a captivating urban oasis offering free admission to a diverse world of wildlife.

About

Lincoln Park Zoo is a captivating urban oasis offering free admission to a diverse world of wildlife. As one of the oldest zoos in the United States, established in 1868, this 35-acre sanctuary is nestled within Chicago's vibrant Lincoln Park and is dedicated to connecting people with nature, while championing wildlife conservation and education. It proudly maintains its status as one of the few free zoos in the country, thanks to a strong community of support, housing approximately 1,100 animals representing around 200 species.

Visitors can embark on a global journey, encountering magnificent creatures from various continents. Marvel at the powerful African Lions in the Pepper Family Wildlife Center, watch the playful antics of African Penguins at the Robert and Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove, and observe intelligent Western Lowland Gorillas and chimpanzees at the Regenstein Center for African Apes. The Regenstein African Journey transports guests to diverse African habitats, home to towering Giraffes, endangered Eastern Black Rhinoceroses, and elusive Pygmy Hippos. Don't miss the curious Japanese Macaques in their forest habitat or the unique Pied Tamarin and Hoffmann's Two-Toed Sloth within the Helen Brach Primate House.

Beyond its incredible animal collection, Lincoln Park Zoo offers a memorable experience with its beautifully maintained gardens, historic architecture, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline. It’s a place where education meets engagement, fostering an appreciation for the natural world through interactive exhibits and daily animal encounters. The zoo's commitment to accessibility and its vibrant seasonal events, like the enchanting ZooLights, make it a cherished destination for all ages, proving that a world-class wildlife experience doesn't have to come with a ticket price. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

Lincoln Park Zoo's rich history dates back to 1868, when its first inhabitants, a pair of swans, were gifted by New York's Central Park. This initial donation sparked the formal development of an animal collection in Chicago's Lincoln Park. A significant milestone occurred in 1878 when the Lincoln Park Commissioners declared that the zoo would forever remain free to the public, a commitment it upholds to this day. Over the decades, the zoo expanded and evolved under visionary leadership. Directors like Cy DeVry in the late 19th century and the renowned Marlin Perkins (1944-1962), host of "Zoo Parade," played crucial roles in organizing the collection, encouraging naturalistic enclosures, and fostering a strong connection with the public. Since 1995, the Lincoln Park Zoological Society has privately managed the zoo, ensuring its continued operation as a free, world-class institution focused on animal care, education, and conservation.

What to do here

Explore animal habitats and themed exhibits.

* Attend daily free animal training and feeding demonstrations (e.g., seals, penguins, apes, giraffes, Farm-in-the-Zoo animals).

* Ride the Endangered Species Carousel or the Lionel Train Adventure (ticketed attractions).

* Enjoy a meal or snack at one of the cafes, such as The Patio at Café Brauer.

* Participate in seasonal events, from summer festivals to winter's ZooLights.

* For an enhanced experience, consider a Malott Family Penguin Encounter or a Behind-the-Scenes Tour (paid).

Seasonal info

Summer: Enjoy longer weekday hours (8 AM - 7 PM), various family-friendly events, and adults-only evening gatherings.

Fall: Look for Fall Fest, Halloween-themed events like "Boo at the Zoo", and autumn foliage.

Winter: Experience ZooLights, a spectacular holiday light display, and adults-only events such as BrewLights. Many animals have heated indoor habitats, while cold-adapted species are particularly lively.

Accessibility

Lincoln Park Zoo is highly accessible for visitors with disabilities.

* The zoo features paved trails throughout, making it wheelchair and stroller-friendly.

* Manual wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for rent at the Searle Visitor Center.

* Designated accessible parking spaces are provided in the zoo's main parking lot.

* The Searle Visitor Center offers sensory bags (with noise reduction headphones, fidgets), weighted lap pads, and quiet rooms for neurodivergent and sensory-sensitive guests.

* The zoo hosts Sensory-Friendly Hours and events, providing a more inclusive experience with limited crowds and reduced sensory input.

* Public transportation options, including CTA buses and L train, are largely wheelchair-accessible.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Plan for a visit of 3 to 5 hours to fully explore the diverse exhibits and enjoy some animal encounters, though you could easily spend a full day.
Best time to visit: Lincoln Park Zoo is open year-round, 365 days a year. * **Spring (March-May):** Enjoy blooming flowers and pleasant weather. * **Summer (June-August):** Longer operating hours, frequent animal activity, and special events like Family Fun Fur-iday and Zoo Fiesta. Mornings are generally best for cooler temperatures and active animals. * **Fall (September-November):** Experience Fall Fest and other seasonal celebrations. Late fall brings the magical setup for ZooLights. * **Winter (December-February):** Witness the spectacular ZooLights display and observe cold-weather animals like polar bears and snow leopards, which may be more active. Early mornings typically offer fewer crowds.
Location: Illinois, US
Species in this guide: 12

Best for

Families With Children:** Engaging Exhibits Like The Pritzker Family Children's Zoo And Farm In The Zoo, Along With Rides And Interactive Programs.Couples: Picturesque Setting For Strolls, Skyline Views, Dining At The Patio At Café Brauer, And Adults Only Evening Events.Photography Enthusiasts: Offers Diverse Subjects From Iconic Animals To Historic Architecture, Lush Gardens, And City Skyline Backdrops. Formal Photography Permits Are Available For Professional Shoots.Nature Lovers & Conservation Enthusiasts: An Accredited Arboretum With Over 850 Plant Species, The Nature Boardwalk Showcasing A Prairie Ecosystem, And A Strong Focus On Conservation And Research.Budget Travelers: Free Admission Makes It An Ideal, Accessible Attraction For Everyone.

Official website Open in Maps

Don't miss

Pepper Family Wildlife Center

Home to African Lions.

Robert and Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove

Observe African Penguins waddling and swimming.

Regenstein Center for African Apes

See Western Lowland Gorillas and chimpanzees.

Regenstein African Journey

Features Giraffes, Eastern Black Rhinoceroses, and Pygmy Hippos.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Duck

Canada Goose

Red Winged Blackbird

House Sparrow

Wood Duck

Green Heron

American Bullfrog

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive Early

Visit in the morning, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, to enjoy cooler temperatures, more active animals, and fewer crowds.

Check Daily Schedules

Consult the zoo's website or web app upon arrival for daily schedules of animal feeding, training sessions (like the popular seal and penguin feedings), and keeper talks.

Utilize Public Transportation

To avoid parking costs and potential traffic, consider taking CTA buses (routes 22, 36, 151, 156 stop near the zoo) or the Brown, Purple, or Red Line L trains, followed by a short walk or bus transfer.

Bring Snacks/Drinks

While food is available for purchase, you are welcome to bring your own non-alcoholic food and beverages to enjoy picnics on the grounds, saving money.

Explore the Nature Boardwalk

Don't miss this serene path around the South Pond, offering beautiful views of the city skyline and a chance to observe local wildlife in a native ecosystem.

Visit the Searle Visitor Center

Stop here upon arrival for maps, information on exhibits, accessibility resources, and helpful staff or volunteers who can answer questions.

Frequently asked questions

: Yes, Lincoln Park Zoo proudly offers free admission to all visitors, 365 days a year. This commitment to accessibility has been a hallmark of the zoo since 1878 and is maintained through support from the Lincoln Park Zoological Society, members, donors, and the Chicago Park District.
: Lincoln Park Zoo is home to a diverse collection of approximately 1,100 animals from around 200 species. Key species and popular exhibits include African Lions, Western Lowland Gorillas, African Penguins, Eastern Black Rhinoceroses, Giraffes, Japanese Macaques, Pygmy Hippos, Grey Seals, Red Pandas, Snow Leopards, and various primates, reptiles, and birds. You can also interact with farm animals at the Farm-in-the-Zoo.
: Yes, Lincoln Park Zoo has a paid parking lot located on Cannon Drive, just north of Fullerton Parkway. Parking is free for the first half-hour, after which daily rates apply, ranging from $35-$45. Zoo members often receive discounted or free parking benefits. Additionally, several other private parking garages and lots are available within walking distance.