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Phillips Park Zoo: A Free Family Outing

4.5 (2041)

Discover native animals and natural beauty at this free zoo in Aurora's Phillips Park, a historic and family-friendly destination.

Phillips Park Zoo in Aurora, Illinois, established in 1915, offers a free, year-round opportunity to see native animals. From bald eagles to playful otters, it's a compact and engaging experience for all ages, nestled within the larger Phillips Park.

A brief summary to Phillips Park Zoo

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the spring to see the Sunken Garden in full bloom with thousands of tulips.
  • Check out the Stover Visitor Center to view the mastodon bones found in Phillips Park.
  • Combine your zoo visit with other Phillips Park attractions like the Mastodon Trail or a picnic.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the parking lot across from the Stover Visitor Center, the zoo entrance is a short walk. Follow the paved path towards the main zoo entrance. The Sunken Garden will be on your left as you approach. Admission is free.

  • Public Transport

    Pace bus routes 530 and 540 stop near Phillips Park. From the bus stop, follow Ray Moses Drive towards Phillips Park. The zoo is a short walk from the main road. Check Pace bus schedules for accurate timings and fares, typically around $2 for a single ride.

  • Driving

    Phillips Park Zoo is located at 1000 Ray Moses Drive in Aurora. Parking is available across from the Stover Visitor Center. Parking is free. Handicapped parking is available near the Stover Visitor Center entrance.

Discover more about Phillips Park Zoo

Phillips Park Zoo, a long-standing Aurora attraction since 1915, provides a delightful and free experience for visitors of all ages. Originally home to exotic creatures, the zoo shifted its focus to native animals in 1934. Today, you can observe over 100 animals from 41 species, including majestic bald eagles, gray wolves, mountain lions, and playful North American river otters. Farmyard animals like llamas, pygmy goats, ducks, geese, and swans add to the diverse collection.The zoo is located within Phillips Park, a 325-acre municipal park offering a variety of attractions. Don't miss the David and Karen Stover Visitor Center, which features exhibits of mastodon bones discovered in the park in 1934. The nearby Sunken Garden bursts with color, especially in spring when over 10,000 tulip bulbs bloom.Phillips Park itself offers more than just the zoo. Explore the Mastodon Trail, visit the aquatic center, or enjoy a round of golf. With its rich history and diverse attractions, Phillips Park and its zoo provide a memorable outing for the whole family.

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Explore native animals and natural beauty at this free zoo nestled within Aurora's historic Phillips Park. A perfect family destination!

City of Aurora- Phillips Park Zoo

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