Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Chicago, a trip to Lincoln Park Zoo this summer provides an engaging, educational and budget-friendly adventure for all ages. With a variety of free daily programs, special events and nearby attractions, your perfect summer day awaits!
“Daily admission to Lincoln Park Zoo is always free and we are open 365 days a year,” says Gretchen Kirchmer, director of marketing and events. “Summer is a really great time to visit with extended hours and special events.”
Here are just some of the amazing things you can do with the fam at Lincoln Park Zoo this summer.
Combine your trip with nearby attractions
Lincoln Park Zoo’s prime location means you can easily combine your zoo visit with other fun Chicago activities. Just minutes away, you can explore North Avenue Beach or the Lincoln Park Conservatory, both offering beautiful and free experiences.
Plus, Lincoln Park Zoo shares a parking lot with North Avenue Beach, making it easy to do a trip that combines both activities.
“Families can spend a whole day or weekend in the area,” Kirchmer says. “The zoo’s Nature Boardwalk is also a must-see, with seven native turtle species and a lot of other wildlife.”
Interactive and accessible visits with the new web app
Planning your visit has never been easier with the zoo’s new web app, which you don’t have to download to your phone. Instead, you simply scan the QR code once inside or go to go.lpzoo.org.
“The app allows you to plan your trip, find restrooms or food options, see free daily activities, and get detailed information about the animals at every habitat you visit,” says Kirchmer. “It even has a section on other Lincoln Park-area activities so you can explore the neighborhood beyond the zoo.”
You’ll also find self-guided zoo tours and information on daily zoo events, ensuring you don’t miss highlights like the Big and Furry or Weird and Wonderful tours.
Play and learn at the Farm-in-the-Zoo
Every Wednesday, bring your little explorers to the Farm-in-the-Zoo for interactive, hands-on activities designed for younger children. No registration is required, so you can easily add this fun experience to your day.
“From feeding chickens to learning about farm life, it’s a wonderful way for kids to connect with nature,” Kirchmer says.
Daily programs and animal encounters
Every visit to Lincoln Park Zoo offers something new, says Kirchmer. “Just like the programs and events that change daily, you’ll likely see different animals doing something different, too.”
Summer is an especially fun time, because you get to experience some unique daily programs. These may include seal or giraffe training and monkey cognition demonstrations where macaques use their skills to solve puzzles on touchscreen computers.
These free programs provide an up-close look at the animals and their care, says Kirchmer. “You get to see the animals in training sessions and learn why these activities are essential for their wellbeing.”
Endless fun at the Children’s Zoo
Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is a haven for the littles and a respite for parents and caregivers. With a giant treehouse and climbing structures, kids can burn off energy while the adults enjoy a well-deserved break.
“Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is a great place for younger children to socialize and for families to meet their neighbors,” says Kirchmer.
Exciting summer events for adults
Don’t miss out on the zoo’s special summer events tailored for adults! On Friday, July 26, Summer Wine Fest features over 50 wines to sample, garden tours and live music. Bring your partner or friends for an unforgettable evening.
Looking ahead, Sept. 6 is the 90s and 2000s night, complete with a DJ, cover band, karaoke and pop-up bars. Pay tribute to the past while you party at the zoo. Plus, your ticket purchase helps keep the zoo free all year.
And if you want a truly unique experience, check out Sound Meditations with Jay Taylor in Pepper Family Wildlife Center from 9-10 a.m. This monthly event happens on the first Saturday through October, with the next one coming up on Aug. 6.
The best part? The lions typically run outside to explore their habitat following the mediation.
“Let one parent take the kids through the zoo while the other relaxes to the peaceful sounds of singing bowls,” suggests Kirchmer.
Why membership is a must
Membership at Lincoln Park Zoo offers busy families plenty of useful perks that enhance every visit, says Kirchmer.
“Our memberships start at just $69 to enjoy exclusive access to events, discounts on attractions, gifts shops, food and parking. Parking is free depending on membership level. Plus, members get early access to ZooLights tickets and the inside scoop on all zoo happenings.”
Members also enjoy special perks like the members-only Super Zoo Picnic each summer where all attractions are open and learning staff are available for enriching experiences.
And for those of you dreaming of Christmas in July, members get to purchase their ZooLights tickets a week in advance, and they receive up to eight complimentary tickets, discounted Ferris wheel rides, free hot chocolate and access to a members-only lounge.
Plan your zoo visit today
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a fun family day or participate in special events, there’s always something exciting happening.
A little rainy or windy? Not a problem, says Kirchmer. “Many species at the zoo have incredible adaptations to thrive in all types of weather. There are also many indoor spaces and habitats to explore.”
As Kirchmer says, “Every time you visit Lincoln Park Zoo, there’s something different to see and do. It’s an enriching experience for the whole family.”
Start planning your visit with the zoo’s web app at go.lpzoo.org and visit lpzoo.org for more information.
