See the animals at the free Lincoln Park Zoo

Insider Tips for Visiting North Avenue Beach and Lincoln Park Zoo

North Avenue Beach is a short walk over the North Avenue Bridge when you park at the southern end of the Lincoln Park Zoo lot. Explore the zoo, then stroll over to the beach for an afternoon in the sand. – Cortney Fries

Experience Lincoln Park Zoo

Located 2 miles north of the Loop in the North Side neighborhood of Lincoln Park, the Lincoln Park Zoo is home to nearly 200 species of animals. Here, you'll see everything from zebras and sloths to hippos, bears, turtles, and rabbits.

Featured Attractions

Check out the gorillas in the sprawling, award-winning Regenstein Center for African Apes or head to the Kovler Seal Pool to observe harbor seals via underwater viewing tunnels. Seal training and feeding occur daily at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Additionally, the zoo boasts an impressive variety of plant life, with more than 850 species across its 49-acre landscape.

Reputation

The zoo earns praise for its well-kept grounds and its policy of free admission.

How to Get to the Lincoln Park Zoo

Planning on using public transportation or a taxi to get to the zoo is advisable due to the limited availability in the zoo’s parking lot. Parking is free for the first half-hour, but fees range from $35 to $45 per day after that.

Public Transportation

The Lincoln Park Zoo is not within walking distance of an L station; however, two bus routes – Nos. 151 and 156 – have Lincoln Park Zoo stops. Bus Nos. 22 and 36 also drop passengers two blocks away from the zoo.

Hours and Tickets

Hours vary by season. Generally, the gates open at 8 a.m. and close at 5 p.m.

Admission and Extra Costs

All of the zoo's exhibits are free to visit, but bring money if you plan on riding the zoo's carousel and train, or purchasing items at the on-site gift shops and cafes.

Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo website to learn more about exhibits, facilities, and special events.