As autumn leaves begin to cover the ground and the air turns crisp, Fall Fest Presented by Jewel-Osco at Lincoln Park Zoo invites families to dive into the cozy, vibrant spirit of the season.
Fall Fest transforms the zoo into an enchanting celebration of all things fall. We spoke with Meg Hein, Lincoln Park Zoo events manager and zoo insider, to give you our ultimate family guide to Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Event details
Fall Fest runs Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 27 to Oct. 27, plus Monday, Oct. 14 (Indigenous Peoples Day).
Fall Fun Zone
The Fall Fun Zone is a lively area featuring a range of inflatables, including an inflatable axe throwing game. Or, challenge your kids to a game of giant Connect 4 or checkers.
“The Fall Fun Zone is designed with families in mind, offering something for everyone,” says Hein. “It’s a great way to start off your day at the zoo.”
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and give your kids plenty of time to enjoy all the activities before moving on to other attractions.
Fall Fest faves: The Ferris Wheel and Fun Slide
No visit to Fall Fest is complete without a spin on the 65-foot Ferris Wheel. This towering attraction offers breathtaking views of the zoo’s colorful autumn landscape not to mention the iconic city skyline.
Alongside the Ferris Wheel, the gentle slopes of the Fun Slide offer a thrill for kids and parents alike.
Tip: “A ride on the Ferris Wheel is a unique way to enjoy the fall foliage,” says Hein. Take a ride in the late afternoon for “golden hour” fall photos.
Animal enrichment activities
During the festival, you may even see animals playing or eating a fall favorite: pumpkins! Animal enrichment activities happen at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. during Fall Fest.
“Many species throughout the zoo enjoy pumpkins,” says Hein. “From lions batting them around like soccer balls to vultures picking through jack-o-lanterns for buggy treats, there is always something to see.”
These activities are designed to encourage species-specific behaviors, such as foraging and play, Hein explains.
“It’s fascinating to watch how different animals interact with the pumpkins. Whether they’re playing, investigating or eating them, visitors can learn more about animal behavior in a fun and engaging way,” says Hein.
Tip: To make sure you don’t miss a chance to watch the animals with pumpkins, Hein suggests visiting the zoo in the morning.
Fabulous fall flavor
Fall Fest is packed with live performances, character visits and special animal activities that make every visit unique. You can sample seasonal food and drink at pop ups throughout the zoo, including areas to toast marshmallows and enjoy a gooey s’more.
Looking for pumpkins and corn to decorate your home? You can buy these at Fall Fest.
“It feels like a warm, small-town festival, but you are right in the heart of the city,” says Hein.
Select days offer live music and pumpkin carving demonstrations. Visits from stilt walkers, living statues, princesses and superheroes add a “Halloween” vibe. “You never know who you might see,” Hein says.
You also will want to check out the newly returned Malott Family Penguin Encounter, where small groups interact with penguins in their habitat.
Tip: Become a member and get discounts on things like Penguin Encounter ($10 off a ticket) and don’t forget to use the free Lincoln Park Zoo app during your visit (no download required) to make sure you don’t miss a favorite activity.
Festive photo ops
“Our horticulture team works tirelessly to make the zoo feel like a fall wonderland,” says Hein.
You especially won’t want to miss The Pumpkin Zone near Park Place Café, ideal for capturing those Instagram-worthy family moments. “There’s a little pumpkin patch right outside the zoo gift shop with a hay bale, a couch and pumpkins all around, creating great photo ops,” Hein notes.
Tip: Be sure to visit the pumpkin setups near the gift shop early in your visit to avoid waiting for the perfect photo opportunity.
Quiet spots and sensory-friendly areas
The zoo offers several serene spots where you and the kids can take a break. Searle Visitor Center and Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo are perfect for a peaceful retreat with plenty of restrooms, plus spots for nursing mothers.
The nature play area within the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is particularly beautiful in the fall, providing a tranquil environment where you can relax and recharge, Hein says. “The fall environment feels all-encompassing when you’re in the nature play area. The views are stunning.”
If the weather turns rainy, there are indoor spots where you can take shelter while still enjoying the sights, including an indoor accessible play space.
Tip: Check out the treehouse in the indoor area of Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo.
Adults Night Out: Howl-o-ween
Parents, grab your guys and ghouls and take a night off with Adults Night Out: Howl-o-ween on Thursday, Oct. 24. “It feels like you’re going to a haunted house right in the zoo,” Hein says.
This 21-plus event features a spooky, light-up haunted trail, live DJ, special cocktails, musicians and more.
Tip: Get into the spirit by dressing in costume!
Membership enhances your experience
While admission to the zoo is always free, becoming a zoo member entitles you to free or discounted parking, discounts on food and the gift shop, plus deals on ticketed attractions and events.
“Right now is the perfect time to get a Lincoln Park Zoo membership,” says Hein. “Not only will you save on Fall Fest attraction tickets, but you can take advantage of savings and special member pre-sale for ZooLights Presented by ComEd and Invesco QQQ.”
To find out more about Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo, visit .lpzoo.org/fallfest. Learn more about becoming a member at lpzoo.org/join.
