Cosley Zoo: A Suburban Oasis of Wildlife and Conservation
Discover Illinois wildlife and farm animals at Cosley Zoo, a family-friendly conservation center in Wheaton, Illinois. Open year-round!
Cosley Zoo in Wheaton, Illinois, offers an intimate encounter with native Illinois wildlife and farm animals. This 5-acre zoo, built on the site of a historic train station, provides a fun and educational experience for all ages, emphasizing conservation and community engagement.
A brief summary to Cosley Zoo
- 1356 N Gary Ave, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187, US
- +1630-665-5534
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wheaton Park District residents get free admission with a resident ID.
- Check the zoo's website for daily animal feeding times and special events.
- Visit during the off-season or weekdays for a less crowded experience.
- The zoo is very walkable, but wear comfortable shoes.
- Consider combining your visit with a stroll through downtown Wheaton, which is nearby.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Wheaton, Cosley Zoo is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head north on Main Street, then turn left onto Jewell Road. Continue west on Jewell Road until you reach Gary Avenue. The zoo is located on the west side of Gary Avenue. There are crosswalks available to safely cross Gary Avenue.
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Public Transport
The closest Metra station to Cosley Zoo is the Wheaton station. From the station, you can take a Pace bus or a taxi/rideshare to the zoo. Pace bus routes 714 and 715 have stops near the zoo. Check the Pace Suburban Bus website for schedules and fare information. A single-ride fare is $1.75. A taxi or rideshare from the station to the zoo will cost approximately $8-$12.
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Driving
Cosley Zoo is located at 1356 N Gary Ave, Wheaton, IL 60187. From I-88, exit north onto Naperville Road. Continue onto County Farm Road, then turn right onto Geneva Road. Turn left onto Gary Avenue. The zoo will be on your left. Parking is available in the lot adjacent to the zoo. Additional parking is available across the street. Parking at Cosley Zoo is free. However, parking can be limited during peak times. Be aware that construction is currently taking place at the entrance to the zoo as part of the City of Wheaton's Gary Avenue Improvement Project. Please allow extra time for potential delays.
Discover more about Cosley Zoo
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Cosley Zoo
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Discover Illinois wildlife and farm animals at Cosley Zoo, a family-friendly conservation center in Wheaton, Illinois. Open year-round!
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