Top-Ranked Zoological Parks and Aquariums Best Suited for Children in Chicago
Free Fun for All: Exploring Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo and Beyond
Lincoln Park Zoo, nestled in the heart of Chicago, stands out as a unique gem among American zoos. Established in 1868, this free zoo is home to over 1,100 animals of about 200 species, offering visitors a chance to encounter lions, gorillas, and polar bears, among others, without the need for an entrance fee [1][2][3].
While there are no traditional top-paid attractions within the zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo does provide opportunities for visitors to support it financially through donations or the purchase of special experiences or gift items [5]. Nearby attractions like the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and other museums do charge admission fees, but Lincoln Park Zoo remains a free haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
Just a stone's throw away from the bustling city, Miller Park Zoo offers a rich and diverse animal collection, including monkeys, tigers, alpacas, alligators, snow leopards, and otters. This zoo, covering 190 acres, also boasts the Hamill Family Wild Encounters exhibit, where visitors can interact with goats, and the wallaby exhibit, which is particularly popular with children [6]. Admission to Miller Park Zoo is reasonably priced, with the highest fee capped at $9, and concessions are relatively inexpensive.
Racine Zoological Gardens, another nearby destination, houses 100 species of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. Families can enjoy activities like barnyard safari, playgrounds, and a miniature train called the Zoo Choo express. For a small fee, children can even feed birds in the Norco Aviary [7].
The Shedd Aquarium, located in downtown Chicago, is a must-visit for aquatic life enthusiasts. Its Caribbean Reef, a 90,000-gallon circular aquarium with 360-degree views, showcases various marine life [8].
Potawatomi Zoo, located in South Bend, Indiana, is currently raising funds for a new big cat habitat to enhance its experience. The zoo currently offers exhibits featuring animals from Australia, the Americas, Africa, Asia, and a farm exhibit [9]. Potawatomi Zoo's newest additions include Andean bear brothers and a family of giraffes.
Lastly, the Regenstein Center for African Apes at Lincoln Park Zoo offers a unique opportunity to view gorillas and chimpanzees up close [10]. These attractions, along with the interactive Pritzker Family Children's Zoo, provide a tactile and engaging experience for children, encouraging a love for wildlife from an early age.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, these zoos offer a variety of experiences for all ages and interests. So, pack your bags and get ready for a wild adventure!
[1] https://www.lpzoo.org/ [2] https://www.chicagomag.com/chicago-magazine/july-2018/the-lincoln-park-zoo-is-free-and-amazing/ [3] https://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/ct-ent-lincoln-park-zoo-free-guide-20180709-story.html [4] https://www.chicagomag.com/chicago-magazine/july-2018/the-lincoln-park-zoo-is-free-and-amazing/ [5] https://www.lpzoo.org/support/ways-to-give [6] https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/dnr/Pages/MillerParkZoo.aspx [7] https://www.racinezoo.org/ [8] https://www.sheddaquarium.org/ [9] https://www.potawatomizoo.org/ [10] https://www.lpzoo.org/animals/regenstein-center-for-african-apes
- For those who appreciate fashion-and-beauty, the city nearby boasts various museums like the Field Museum, offering artifacts that trace the evolution of human civilizations.
- After a day of exploring wildlife at Lincoln Park Zoo, one can unwind at home-and-garden cafes within the park, savoring delicious food-and-drink options while enjoying the serene surroundings.
- Post-zoo adventures, travel enthusiasts can plan their next destination to the Regenstein Center for African Apes at Lincoln Park Zoo, offering an up-close encounter with gorillas and chimpanzees, or venture to the Shedd Aquarium for a mesmerizing underwater experience with diverse marine life. For sports lovers, a trip to watch a Chicago Bulls or Chicago Bears game can be an exciting addition to the itinerary.
