Wildlife Prairie Park, Prairie State Travel Guide

4.5 (1674)

Experience Illinois' native wildlife and natural beauty at this 1,800-acre park with hiking, lodging, train rides, and up-close animal encounters.

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Wildlife Prairie Park

Discover the beauty of Illinois' natural heritage at Wildlife Prairie Park, a 1,800-acre zoological park home to over 150 animals of 60 different species native to the state. See bison, wolves, black bears, and more in their natural habitats, and enjoy hiking, fishing, and unique lodging experiences.

A brief summary to Wildlife Prairie Park

3826 N Taylor Rd, Hanna City, Illinois, 61536, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wildlife Prairie Park.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking the extensive trail system.
Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing.
Check the park's event calendar for special programs and activities.
Consider staying overnight in one of the park's unique lodging options for an immersive experience.
Purchase tickets online in advance, or at the ticket gate upon arrival.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

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Explore Wildlife Prairie Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Wildlife Prairie Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Wildlife Prairie Park is located at 3826 N Taylor Rd, Hanna City, IL 61536. From Peoria, take I-74 West to IL-116 West. Follow IL-116 West to N Taylor Rd in Hanna City. Parking is available at the park. Check online for any parking fees or policies.
Public Transport

While public transportation options directly to Wildlife Prairie Park may be limited, CityLink has partnered with Wildlife Prairie Park to provide a limited-service shuttle from the Downtown Peoria Transit Center (407 SW Adams, Peoria, IL 61602) to Wildlife Prairie Park (3826 N Taylor Rd, Hanna City, IL 61536) on Sundays. Check the CityLink website for current schedules and fares. A regular bus fare is $1.00 per ride for adults, $0.50 per ride for students and seniors, and children under 54 inches ride free.

Discover more about Wildlife Prairie Park

Wildlife Prairie Park offers an immersive experience into the natural world of Illinois. Founded by William Rutherford, the park began with the intention of preserving native plants and animals. Today, the 1,800-acre park is home to over 150 animals representing 60 species that are native to Illinois. Visitors can observe animals such as bison, elk, wolves, black bears, river otters, and bobcats in spacious, naturalistic habitats. The park also features 24 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, six stocked fishing lakes, and a narrow-gauge train that takes passengers on a scenic ride through the forests.Wildlife Prairie Park offers unique lodging options, including converted Santa Fe train cabooses, grain bins, and cabins with views of the bison and elk pastures. The park is dedicated to conservation and education, offering programs for all ages to learn about the environment and how to be better stewards of our world. With its diverse wildlife, recreational activities, and educational opportunities, Wildlife Prairie Park provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.