Explore the Wonders of Lincoln Park Zoo
Discover Lincoln Park Zoo, a beautiful urban sanctuary in Chicago, home to diverse wildlife and lush landscapes, perfect for a family-friendly adventure.
Nestled in the heart of Chicago, Lincoln Park Zoo offers a delightful escape into nature, featuring diverse animal exhibits and lush landscapes, making it a perfect destination for tourists of all ages. This historic zoo, established in 1868, is one of the oldest in the country and is renowned for its commitment to conservation and education. Visitors can stroll through various habitats, from the African Savanna to the Regenstein Center for African Apes, and enjoy up-close encounters with over 1,000 animals from around the world. Admission is free, allowing families and solo travelers alike to revel in the beauty of wildlife without the burden of entry fees. The zoo is open year-round, providing a constant opportunity to connect with nature and wildlife.
A brief summary to Lincoln Park Zoo
- Chicago, Lincoln Park, Illinois, 60614, US
- Click to display
- Click to display
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Check the zoo's schedule for special events or animal feedings, which can enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring various exhibits and walking through beautiful gardens.
- Bring a camera to capture the memorable moments with animals and the scenic views of the zoo.
- Take advantage of the free admission to explore other nearby attractions in Lincoln Park for a full day of fun.
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Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, head towards Lincoln Park Zoo located in Lincoln Park, Chicago. From downtown Chicago, take Lake Shore Drive (US-41) north. Exit at Fullerton Avenue and turn left (west). Continue on Fullerton until you reach Cannon Drive. Turn right (north) onto Cannon Drive, and you'll find the zoo entrance on your left. Parking is available in the zoo’s parking lot, but be aware that it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
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Public Transportation
To reach Lincoln Park Zoo via public transportation, you can take the CTA 'L' train. Board the Brown or Purple Line train at any downtown station and get off at the Armitage station. From there, walk east on Armitage Avenue until you reach Lincoln Park. The zoo entrance will be located just ahead on your right. Alternatively, you can take the #8 Halsted bus from downtown, which will take you directly to the zoo.
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Bike
For those who prefer biking, there are bike lanes leading to Lincoln Park Zoo. If you are in downtown Chicago, you can ride north on the Lakefront Trail. Follow the trail until you reach the North Avenue Beach area, then exit and head west on North Avenue. Turn left on Cannon Drive, and the zoo entrance will be on your right. The zoo also offers bike parking for your convenience.
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Explore the Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo, where lush gardens and wildlife create a serene escape in the heart of Chicago.
Discover the heart of Africa at Regenstein African Journey, a captivating zoo exhibit in Lincoln Park, Chicago, showcasing diverse wildlife and conservation efforts.