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Scovill Zoo

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

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

About Scovill Zoo

A small-town Decatur zoo where a carousel, a train, and 400 animals share the grounds.

Open since 1967, Scovill Zoo is a longtime community fixture in Decatur, Illinois, mixing animal exhibits with rides and play areas for younger visitors.

What you'll see and do - Meet roughly 400 animals representing species from six different continents - Ride the Endangered Species Carousel and the Z.O. & O. Express Train - Let kids loose on Project Playground, a community-built play area - Look out for special events like adults-only Sip and Stroll evenings and discounted Twilight Tuesdays

Attraction Details

Opening Times

  • Monday9:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday9:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday9:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday9:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday9:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday9:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday9:30 AM to 5 PM

Events at Scovill Zoo

  • Zoo Buddies Class: Laughing Kookaburra

    April 14

    A class for 3-5 year olds focusing on the laughing kookaburra.

  • Sip and Stroll

    May 28

    An adults-only evening event at the zoo.

  • Twilight Tuesdays

    May 26, June 30, July 28, August 25

    The zoo stays open until 8 p.m. with discounted admission from 5 to 7 p.m., allowing guests to observe animals' bedtime routines.

  • Donuts with Dad

    June 20

    Enjoy donuts, an animal presentation, and early entry into the zoo; dads are free with a paying child.

  • Grandparents Day

    September 7

    Grandparents enter free all day with a paying child, featuring an old-fashioned fall festival from 1-4 p.m.

  • Boo at the Zoo

    October 16-19, 23-26, 29-30

    A family tradition with treats, decorations, carousel rides, and a non-extended train ride. Reservations required.

  • Boo at the Zoo: Sensory Friendly Hour

    October 18 & 25

    A quiet hour with less traffic for carousel and train rides from 1-2 p.m.

  • Critter Egg Hunt

    April 4, 2026

    A free event for children aged walking-10 with various egg hunt heats, and a special needs heat. Zoo admission is $4 before and after the egg hunt.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Scovill Zoo.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Scovill Zoo is at 71 S Country Club Rd, Decatur, IL 62521. 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

Scovill Zoo

71 S Country Club Rd, Decatur, IL 62521

Get DirectionsVisit Website

This attraction has been claimed and verified.

Last updated 10/17/2026

Scovill Zoo Reviews

Frequently asked questions

  • Is Scovill Zoo worth visiting?

    Scovill Zoo has been a cherished part of the Decatur community since 1967, featuring 400 animals from six continents, diverse exhibits, an Endangered Species Carousel, and the Z.O. & O. Express Train, offering an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

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

    Visitors to Scovill Zoo can explore various animal exhibits, enjoy the Endangered Species Carousel, ride the Z.O. & O. Express Train, and experience Project Playground, a community-built play area for children.

  • What are the opening hours at Scovill Zoo?

    Scovill Zoo is open for the 2026 season. Please check their official website for date-specific hours.

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

    Scovill Zoo is suitable for "All ages," providing an engaging and educational experience for everyone.

  • How many animals does Scovill Zoo have?

    Scovill Zoo is home to approximately 400 animals representing diverse species from six different continents.

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