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Lincoln Park Zoo

Write a Review Chicago, Illinois All ages Verified•Zoo & Wildlife

Published October 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

About Lincoln Park Zoo

See lions, gorillas, and polar bears for free at one of America's oldest zoos.

Founded in 1868, this is one of North America's oldest zoos and one of the few in the country that's still free to enter. It sits in a beautiful lakefront setting between Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan.

What you'll see and do - See over 170 species and around 800 animals, including lions, red pandas, polar bears, giraffes, gorillas, otters, penguins, and hippos. - Catch daily animal feedings and training demonstrations. - Navigate with the zoo's interactive web app. - Explore exhibits, gardens, and seasonal events.

Attraction Details

Facilities

  • Parking
  • Wheelchair access

Events at Lincoln Park Zoo

  • Summer Kickoff at Lincoln Park Zoo

    Memorial Day Weekend

    A free and family-friendly celebration marking the start of warmer weather and sunnier days.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Lincoln Park Zoo.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Lincoln Park Zoo is at 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614. Check the operator's site for parking and transit options.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Lincoln Park Zoo

2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

Get DirectionsVisit Website

This attraction has been claimed and verified.

Last updated 10/17/2026

Lincoln Park Zoo Reviews

Frequently asked questions

  • Is Lincoln Park Zoo worth visiting?

    Lincoln Park Zoo is a free, world-class zoological park dedicated to wildlife conservation, care, and connecting people with nature. It is one of the oldest zoos in North America, housing approximately 800 individual animals from over 170 species, and is open 365 days a year.

  • How much do tickets to Lincoln Park Zoo cost?

    Lincoln Park Zoo offers free admission, making it one of the few free-admission zoos in the United States. Visitors' contributions help support its conservation and animal care programs.

  • What are the opening hours at Lincoln Park Zoo?

    Lincoln Park Zoo is open today from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with gates closing at 5 p.m. and buildings opening at 10 a.m. Please check the official site for date-specific hours, as they may vary.

  • Is Lincoln Park Zoo suitable for young children, and what ages is it best for?

    The zoo is suitable for all ages, offering a great experience for the whole family to connect with nature and wildlife.

  • What events are coming up at Lincoln Park Zoo?

    Visitors can enjoy daily activities like animal feedings and training demonstrations, and explore various exhibits, gardens, and seasonal events. Please check the official site for details on upcoming events.

  • What are the best things to see and do at Lincoln Park Zoo?

    Lincoln Park Zoo houses animals including lions, red pandas, polar bears, giraffes, gorillas, otters, penguins, and hippos. Visitors can explore various exhibits, gardens, and attend daily animal feedings and training demonstrations.

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