Skip to content
BusinessesGrow
Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL
Sport & OutdoorFamily FavoriteLocal Gem

Lincoln Park Zoo

2001 N Clark St · Chicago, IL

Why you should go…

Founded in 1868 and still completely free, Lincoln Park Zoo puts lions, gorillas, and penguins in a gorgeous lakefront park setting just north of downtown. Pair it with the neighboring conservatory and Nature Boardwalk for a perfect low-cost family day. The winter ZooLights display is a Chicago holiday tradition.

  • #zoo
  • #free
  • #lincoln park
  • #family
  • #gardens

Good to know

General sport & outdoor guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Weather calls the shots

    Check the forecast the morning of and keep an indoor backup in your pocket for the day it turns.

  • Shoes, water, sun cover

    The three things that decide whether you last the whole outing or cut it short after an hour.

  • Parking and launches fill early

    On a nice weekend, lots and trailheads are often full by mid-morning.

  • Daylight shrinks in shoulder season

    Spring and fall visits need an earlier start than the same trip in July.

Maps and brochures

Lincoln Park Zoo: brochureLincoln Park Zoo: brochureLincoln Park Zoo: event schedule

What's around here?

The closest stops to Lincoln Park Zoo, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Museums
    History Buff

    Chicago History Museum

    Under $25

    You trace Chicago's story through restored dioramas, a vintage L car and hands-on galleries at Clark Street and North Avenue in Lincoln Park.

    0.6 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Theatre & Events
    Iconic

    The Second City

    $25–$50

    The legendary Old Town comedy theater that launched Bill Murray, Tina Fey, and Stephen Colbert. Sketch and improv nightly.

    0.7 mi awaySwitch it up: Theatre & Events

  • Museums
    History Buff

    International Museum of Surgical Science

    $25–$50

    The only North American museum devoted to the history of surgery, set in a Gold Coast mansion on Lake Shore Drive.

    0.8 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Iconic

    Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (The Bean)

    Free

    Snap your reflection in The Bean, splash at Crown Fountain, and catch free concerts downtown.

    2.7 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Iconic

    Grant Park

    Free

    Walk Chicago's lakefront front yard, home to Buckingham Fountain, gardens, the Art Institute and the city's biggest festivals.

    3.2 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Local Gem

    Garfield Park Conservatory

    Under $25

    "Landscape art under glass", two acres of palms, ferns, and desert plants inside one of the nation's largest conservatories.

    4.9 mi awayMore like this