Lincoln Park Nature Museum and Zoo Public Walking Tour

Chicago , United States

Lincoln Park Nature Museum and Zoo Public Walking Tour

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About this experience

Discover the wild heart of Chicago on our guided walking tour through Lincoln Park, where nature and history meet in one unforgettable experience. What sets our tour apart is the seamless blend of three iconic destinations—the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, the lush Lincoln Park Conservatory, and the vibrant Lincoln Park Zoo—curated into one dynamic, story-filled journey led by a knowledgeable local guide. You'll marvel at the butterflies in flight, wander through exotic gardens under glass, and encounter wildlife from around the world—all while uncovering the hidden history and surprising beauty of this beloved urban oasis. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong Chicagoan, this tour offers fresh insights, natural wonders, and photo-worthy moments at every turn. Book now and see why Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s most treasured gems!

Available options

Lincoln Park Nature Museum and Zoo Public Walking Tour

What's included

Admission fee

Expert Guide

Detailed itinerary

Start your guided tour at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum with a walk up to the scenic rooftop, where native plants and panoramic views of Lincoln Park and the city skyline set the stage for your experience. From there, head down to explore the museum grounds, where curated gardens and natural landscapes showcase the region’s diverse ecosystems. Inside, step into the tranquil beauty of the Butterfly Haven, a living greenhouse where hundreds of butterflies flutter around you in a lush, tropical setting. Then discover the Birds of Chicago exhibit, where your guide highlights fascinating facts about local and migratory birds through engaging displays and interactive features.

Stop 2

Step inside the lush, glass-enclosed world of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, one of Chicago’s most vibrant botanical treasures. Your expert guide will lead you through the Conservatory’s historic Victorian-style greenhouses, pointing out exotic plants, rare orchids, and tropical palms that flourish year-round in this warm and fragrant oasis.

Begin in the Palm House, where towering palms and ancient cycads create a canopy above a carpet of green. Continue into the Fern Room, a serene space filled with prehistoric foliage and a cascading indoor waterfall. Next, explore the Orchid House, a colorful gallery of blooming orchids and other delicate flowers, and then wander through the Show House, which features seasonal floral displays and rotating exhibits.

Throughout the tour, your guide shares stories of the Conservatory’s 19th-century origins, the unique care these plants require, and the ecological importance of plant conservation.

Stop 3

The last stop on our walking tour is Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in the country. Your expert guide will lead you through highlights of the zoo’s animal habitats, from majestic big cats to playful primates, sharing fun facts and conservation stories along the way. As we stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, you’ll get a glimpse into the zoo’s rich history and its mission of wildlife preservation. The tour concludes at the stunning Peoples Gas Education Pavilion, where you'll enjoy a peaceful view of the Nature Boardwalk and the Chicago skyline beyond.

What's not included

Gratuities

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We will meet up outside the main entrance to the Nature Museum at 2430 N. Cannon Dr.
Street parking is available plus you can park at the Zoo which is close to where the tour concludes.

Important notes

Show your confirmation to the guide when you arrive

About Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine. Situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.

Top Attractions

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a famous public park in downtown Chicago, known for its modern art and architecture. It's home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as 'The Bean'.

Park 1-2 hours Free

Art Institute of Chicago

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago houses an impressive collection of artworks from around the world.

Museum 2-3 hours $25 (adults), Free for children under 14

Skydeck Chicago

Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, Skydeck Chicago offers breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan. Visitors can step out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony extending out from the building.

Observation Deck 1-2 hours $28 (adults), $20 (children 3-11)

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.

Entertainment 2-4 hours Free to enter, individual attractions have varying costs

Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.

Sports 2-4 hours (game duration varies) Ticket prices vary depending on the game and seating

Must-Try Local Dishes

Deep-Dish Pizza

A thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce. It's a Chicago classic and a must-try for pizza lovers.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some restaurants.

Chicago-Style Hot Dog

A steamed or grilled all-beef hot dog topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, all served on a poppy seed bun.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some hot dog stands.

Italian Beef Sandwich

Thinly sliced beef cooked in its own juices and served on an Italian roll. It's typically dipped in the juices and topped with sweet or hot peppers.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten and beef. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some Italian beef restaurants.

Chicago-Style Popcorn

A sweet and savory snack made with caramel and cheese-flavored popcorn, often sold in colorful boxes at street corners and ballgames.

Snack Contains dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some popcorn stands.

Popular Activities

Kayaking on the Chicago River Biking along Lake Michigan Rock climbing at First Ascent Picnicking in Millennium Park Yoga in the park Spa treatments at The Peninsula Chicago Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago Attending a performance at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Chicago for outdoor activities, festivals, and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks and attractions.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Polish, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chicago is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Some areas of the city have higher crime rates, and visitors should research their destinations before traveling.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Avoid walking alone in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night

Getting there

By air

O'Hare International Airport • 27 km (17 miles) from city center
Midway International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Union Station, Ogilvie Transportation Center

By bus

Greyhound Station, Megabus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The 'L' is a convenient and affordable way to get around Chicago. It consists of eight color-coded lines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Loop Lincoln Park Wicker Park Magnificent Mile Pilsen

Day trips

Navy Pier

2 km (1.2 miles) • Half day to full day

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.

Wrigley Field

10 km (6.2 miles) • Half day to full day

Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.

Museum Campus

3 km (1.9 miles) • Half day to full day

The Museum Campus is a 57-acre park located on the southern tip of Grant Park in Chicago. It's home to several world-class museums, including the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium.

Festivals

Lollapalooza • Early August (4-day festival) Chicago Jazz Festival • Late August to early September (weekend festival) Chicago Food Festival • Early September (weekend festival)

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long wait times
Use the Ventra card for easy and convenient payments on public transportation
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods and culinary scene to get a true sense of Chicago's character and culture
Take an architecture river cruise to see the city's stunning skyline and learn about its architectural history
Visit the city's many parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy nature and outdoor activities, even in the heart of the city