Overview
Lincoln Park Zoo is a beautiful, free-admission zoo located in the heart of Chicago. It is home to a vast array of animals, lush gardens, and a variety of educational programs.
It is one of the oldest zoos in North America and a major attraction in Chicago, offering a blend of wildlife and scenic beauty.
Location
Address
2000 N Clark St, Chicago, Illinois
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Coordinates
41.919300, -87.635300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April to October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, animals more active
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring blooms
- • animal births
summer
hot and humid
- • extended hours
- • outdoor concerts
autumn
cool and crisp
- • fall foliage
- • harvest displays
winter
cold and snowy
- • holiday lights
- • indoor exhibits
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Free admission, but donations appreciated
- Arrive early for parking
- Check for seasonal exhibit closures
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate (lots of walking)
- • stroller-friendly paths, but some areas may be uneven
Medical facilities: first aid stations available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, walking shoes, waterproof in spring/fall, inappropriate or offensive clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but special events may need advance tickets
- • official website for special events
- • varies by event
- • not applicable (free admission)
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Lincoln Park Zoo
Size: 45 MB
Features: Map, Animal info, Event calendar, Tickets for special events
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas, cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: O'Hare International Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Free admission, beautiful gardens, and a great place for family outings
Historical Significance: One of the oldest zoos in North America, founded in 1868
Insider Tips
- Visit the zoo early on weekdays for a more peaceful experience
- The best food options are near the north entrance
- Check the daily schedule for animal feedings and shows
Local Recommendations
- • Try the deep-dish pizza at nearby Lou Malnati's
- • Visit the Chicago History Museum right next door
- • Ask staff about their favorite animals to see
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, ASL (American Sign Language)
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Lion Habitat
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Capture the lions in the foreground with the Chicago skyline in the background
Result: Iconic zoo shot
Farm Area
Best Time: Late afternoon
Tips: Get low to capture the animals with the barn in the background
Result: Charming farm scene
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Chicago History Museum
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Museum
Nature Boardwalk
Distance: 800m
Walking: 12 min
Type: Park
Lincoln Park Conservatory
Distance: 600m
Walking: 9 min
Type: Botanical Garden
Lighthouse Place
Distance: 1.2km
Walking: 18 min
Type: Shopping Center
Reviews
Based on 25,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early for a peaceful experience"
- "Check the daily schedule for animal feedings"
- "Don't miss the lion habitat"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (3)
Quick Info
Available Tours
14
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
25,000
Adult Entry
Free (suggested donation $10-$20)