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Zoos

Lincoln Park Zoo

πŸ“ Lincoln Park, IL

β˜…4.6(37,790 Google reviews)πŸ’°FreeπŸ‘ΆAll ages

Free admission zoo in the heart of Chicago featuring eastern black rhinos, lions, and gorillas. Zoo Lights in winter and Spring Egg-Stravaganza are the standout seasonal events.

βœ“ Free admissionβœ“ Zoo Lights winter eventβœ“ Central Chicagoβœ“ Gorilla exhibitβœ“ Seasonal animal availability
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β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by lbsalafidawah

The zoo is located in the heart of Chicago, offering a wonderful mix of outdoor exploration and family-friendly fun. While some of the animals were moved to indoor habitats for the season, we still had a memorable time. Visiting Lincoln Park Zoo in winter was a special experience. While the animal variety may change with the season, the zoo’s charm and commitment to educating visitors about wildlife remained unchanged. It was a fantastic family outing, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting during the colder months, just be sure to check which animals will be available for viewing!

πŸ† Family Action Verdict

Best for families visiting Chicago who want a full animal experience without admission costs. Zoo Lights is worth a dedicated evening visit during the holiday season β€” the light installations are creative and several indoor displays offer warming stations.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘Download the zoo's navigation app before arriving β€” it improves wayfinding across the grounds
⏰Visit Zoo Lights on a weeknight for smaller crowds and better photo conditions
🎟️Bring warm layers for winter visits β€” indoor warming areas are available and outdoor sections are exposed
πŸš—A photo booth near the entrance offers souvenir prints for families

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
4.6
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37,790 Google reviews

Free admission exceptional value45%
Exhibits spacious and well-maintained30%
Zoo Lights a standout winter experience15%
Some animals move indoors seasonally10%
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lbsalafidawah

a month ago

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β€œThe zoo is located in the heart of Chicago, offering a wonderful mix of outdoor exploration and family-friendly fun. While some of the animals were moved to indoor habitats for the season, we still had a memorable time. Visiting Lincoln Park Zoo in winter was a special experience. While the animal variety may change with the season, the zoo’s charm and commitment to educating visitors about wildlife remained unchanged. It was a fantastic family outing, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting during the colder months, just be sure to check which animals will be available for viewing!”

D

Daniel O'Brien

3 months ago

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β€œWe attended Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo last night and it is amazing! It was cold but there are several indoor displays where everyone can warm up. The lights are creatively displayed and even surprising in their beauty and sparkle. The grandkids were mesmerized with the lights and the animals. We got hot chocolate and popcorn which was perfect for the occasion and our mood. I highly recommend Zoo Lights for a wonderful, holiday adventure!”

T

Tarai. L

2 months ago

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β€œSuch a fun free experience. My first time going to a zoo and I had so much fun. It’s well maintained the lion and glorilla enclosures were so spacious. Very family friendly and the staffs were very attentive, knowledgeable, and welcoming. There’s a photo booth by the entrance if you want a fun souvenir I believe it was $6 or $7. 11/10 would recommend checking out this zoo.”

M

MARIA JESUS GARCIA A

a month ago

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β€œI think it's a great place to spend some time, even though I know it's a fairly small zoo, it's very comprehensive. Best of all, it's free! Although I went during the cold season, there were plenty of animals on display and several places to warm up. I'll go back in the summer because I imagine it must be even better.”

Reviews from Google

Overview

Lincoln Park Zoo offers free admission year-round on Chicago's lakefront, with animal exhibits spanning eastern black rhinos, African lions, western lowland gorillas, and primates in spacious enclosures. Seasonal programming includes Zoo Lights during winter and the Spring Egg-Stravaganza. Educational programs run alongside conservation research. A navigation app supplements the physical signage.

πŸ• Opening Hours

Monday10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday10:00 – 17:00
Thursday10:00 – 17:00
Friday10:00 – 17:00
Saturday10:00 – 17:00
Sunday10:00 – 17:00

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