Lincoln Park Zoo

About

Lincoln Park Zoo sits on 35 acres along Chicago's lakefront, offering free admission every day of the year. Founded in 1868, it's one of the oldest zoos in the country and remains one of the few free zoos in the nation. That combination of history, quality, and accessibility makes it a standout destination for families, solo travelers, and groups of all abilities.

The zoo is home to over 200 species, from African lions and western lowland gorillas to red pandas and polar bears. Exhibits are thoughtfully designed to bring visitors close to the animals while preserving natural habitats. The Regenstein Center for African Apes offers floor-to-ceiling windows for incredible viewing. The Kovler Sea Lion Pool is a crowd favorite, especially during feeding times. Smaller gems like the Nature Boardwalk - a prairie ecosystem wrapped around a pond - provide quieter moments between the big exhibits.

For families, the Pritzker Family Children's Zoo lets kids climb, explore, and interact with domestic animals in a hands-on setting. Seasonal events like ZooLights in winter and evening concerts in summer add extra reasons to visit throughout the year.

Getting there is straightforward. The zoo is accessible by CTA bus and train lines, and ADA Paratransit Services are available. Street parking and nearby garage parking give drivers options too. Once inside, paved pathways connect the major exhibits, and the grounds are generally flat, making it comfortable to explore at your own pace.

Lincoln Park Zoo has made a public commitment to full, just, and integrated accessibility for all visitors, including people with disabilities. The zoo has collaborated with accessibility experts and community members to co-design learning experiences and improve infrastructure. Whether you're visiting for an hour or spending a full day, the zoo's free admission means there's no pressure - come when you're ready, stay as long as you like, and come back whenever you want.

Accessibility

Lincoln Park Zoo permits the use of wheelchairs and other power-driven mobility devices throughout the grounds. All public buildings have at least one wheelchair-accessible entrance, so visitors with mobility needs can access every major exhibit.

The zoo's pathways are mostly paved and relatively flat, connecting exhibits across the 35-acre campus. Visitors should note that some adjacent areas, like the Lily Pool managed by Lincoln Park Conservancy, have gravel and stone pathways that are only partially ADA accessible, with some steps on the west side.

Getting to the zoo is manageable by multiple transit options. CTA bus and train lines serve the area, and ADA Paratransit Services are available. Accessible street parking can be found nearby as well.

The zoo has invested significantly in inclusive programming. Staff have worked with the ADA National Network on creating full, just, and integrated access to all zoo experiences. This includes co-designing learning experiences with people who have disabilities, ensuring that educational programs and exhibits work for visitors of varying abilities.

Wheelchair rentals, specific restroom accessibility details, and sensory accommodation programs (such as quiet hours or sensory bags) should be confirmed directly with the zoo before your visit. Contact Lincoln Park Zoo's guest services for the most current information on assistive devices, companion restrooms, and any seasonal accessibility changes. The zoo's accessibility map, available on their website, can help with planning your route through the grounds.

More accessible places in Illinois

• Adler Planetarium (Chicago)
• National Museum of Mexican Art (Chicago)
• Museum of Science and Industry (Chicago)
• DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center (Chicago)
• Garfield Park Conservatory (Chicago)
• Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (Chicago)