A trip to the zoo is always a great way to spend the day with the kiddos, and the new nature-based play area at Lincoln Park Zoo is sure to make your zoo outing even more memorable.
The Houston Family Play Treehouse is replacing the previous kids climbing area in the indoor Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo. Little ones will love exploring the accessible tunnels and slides that were designed for kids of all ages and abilities. The nature-based play space also features immersive sensory and tactile components that will encourage kids to be curious about the world around them.
Quick details about the Houston Family Play Treehouse
- Address: 2001 N. Clark Street, Chicago
- Cost: Lincoln Park Zoo is always free!
- Getting there: The 22, 36, 151 and 156 CTA buses stop at the edge of the zoo.
- Parking: The zoo’s parking lot is free for the first 30 minutes. After that, it ranges from $20-$35 depending on the day.
Kids won’t be the only ones getting wild at this new play space. Otters, turtles, beavers and other creatures are safely housed within The Children’s Zoo. Once your kiddo is done playing, they’ll enjoy watching and learning about these aquatic animals.
The treehouse is open to the public now, so what are you waiting for? Let loose and embark on your own wild adventure at Lincoln Park Zoo. Before you go, check out our tips for families exploring the Lincoln Park neighborhood and the zoo this winter.
Other things to do with kids at Lincoln Park Zoo
- Check the daily activities schedule to get in on the fun! The zoo offers free educational sessions on seal training and ape cognition and care.
- Ride the endangered species carousel.
- Play at the Wild Sapling Play Forest, the zoo’s outdoor play area for kids.
- Learn about domestic farm animals at Farm-in-the-Zoo. Kids can explore at the Main Barn open-ended play area.
- Tour the zoo on the Lionel Train Adventure. The trackless train departs from a red brick station and offers riders views of forest and canyon scenery.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Nature Boardwalk when you dine at Cafe Bauer, or feast on burgers, sandwiches, ice cream and more at Park Place Cafe.
Things to do near Lincoln Park Zoo
- Is your little explorer eager for more? Head to the nearby Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum for more interactive play opportunities. It also has a new play space.
- The Lincoln Park Conservatory is just north of the zoo, offering tours of Lincoln Park, Wildflower Walks and more.
- Walk the yellow brick road at Oz Park, a small park with an Oz-themed playground, Emerald City flower garden and statues of the Tin Man, Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion and, of course, Dorothy and Toto.
- After a long day of exploring, enjoy dinner at Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company. This popular spot is known for its inventive take on Windy City pizza. Heads up — you’ll likely want to make a reservation.
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.
