Visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the most popular things to do in Lincoln Park. With over 200 species of animals, birds, and sea life, it is a favorite among children and animal enthusiasts. The zoo is among the oldest in the US and has a vast variety of wildlife, including seals, apes, and many others. If you are also looking forward to visiting this beautiful zoo, knowing if Lincoln Park Zoo is free can help determine the budget for the trip.
This article tells you if the zoo entry and parking are free, along with other information.
Where is Lincoln Park Zoo?
Lincoln Park Zoo is located at N. Clark St., Chicago, Illinois, United States. The mesmerizing Chicago is known for many free things to do, and this Lincoln Park Zoo stays on top. The zoo is just a few minutes from downtown Chicago at Fullerton Parkway and Lake Shore Drive.
Established in 1868, the zoo is a famous attraction among locals and tourists. Its location among skyscrapers makes it a perfect escape from the city chaos.
Is Lincoln Park Zoo Free Admission?
Lincoln Park Zoo entrance is absolutely free. Visitors can enter the zoo from opening until closing without paying an admission fee.
Is Lincoln Park Zoo Free for Everyone?
Whether you visit the Lincoln Park Zoo solo, with children, older adults, or a group of youngsters, the park does not charge an entrance fee. The zoo will offer free admission for the next 30-plus years after an extended contract with the city.
Why is Lincoln Park Zoo Free?
The Lincoln Park Zoo is dedicated to providing a free wildlife experience to families, ensuring animal care, conservation, and education. Donors, visitors, and zoo members support 80% of the zoo’s operating costs.
Is Lincoln Park Zoo Open?
Lincoln Park Zoo is open throughout the year but closes early (3 pm) on Thanksgiving (Nov 23), Christmas Eve (Dec 24), and Christmas Day (Dec 25).
May 1 – May 26, 2023
Daily: 8 am to 4:30 for Farm-in-the-Zoo and 10 am to 5 pm for building
May 27 – Sept 4
Weekdays: 8 am to 4:30 pm for Farm-in-the-zoo and 10 am to 5 pm for building
Weekends and Holidays: 8 am to 4:30 pm for Farm-in-the-zoo and 10 am to 06:30 pm for building
Sept 5 – Nov 1
Daily: 8 am to 4:30 for Farm-in-the-Zoo and 10 am to 5 pm for building
Nov 1 (Winter Timings)
Daily: 10 am to 4:30 for Farm-in-the-Zoo and 10 am to 5 pm for building
The zoo will close at 3 pm and reopen at 4:30 pm on Zoolight nights.
How to Get to Lincoln Park Zoo?
You can get to Lincoln Park Zoo by bus, bike, or drive your car to the location.
Bus
CTA buses #22, #36, #151, and #156 are suitable for visiting the zoo from different parts of the city. Buses 151 and 156 have two Lincoln Park Zoo stops, and buses 22 and 36 are also two blocks away from the zoo.
Train
Alternatively, you can take the train; the Purple and Brown train stops at the Armitage station around one mile from the zoo.
Bicycles
Besides public transport, bicycles are another popular mode of transport in Lincoln Park. There are bicycle racks near the North, East, and West gates beside Café Brauer Gate and Stockton Drive.
Car
Drive to the zoo if you prefer to take your car. You get on-site and off-site self-parking spaces and a valet facility. As the entrance is free, it makes visitors wonder, “Is Lincoln Park Zoo free parking?” it is, but only for half an hour.
How Much is Lincoln Park Zoo Parking?
If you plan on getting to the zoo in your own vehicle, remember that they have limited parking space in the parking lot. Also, you have to pay $20 to $35 per day after the first half an hour of free parking.
Lincoln Park Zoo Free Parking Coupons
Unlimited Free Parking for One Car per Membership
- Curators’ circle
- Explorers’ circle
- Ecologists’ circle
- Council associate
- Council patron
- Council steward
- Council ambassador
- Chairman’s council members
- Safari members
Two Free Parking Passes during Zoo Hours for One Car per Membership
- Household members
$12 Flat-rate Parking for One Car per Membership
- Individual members
The Bottom Line
Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the US and a popular family spot in Lincoln Park. It is common among visitors to wonder, “Is Lincoln Park Zoo free?” Yes, it is. Lincoln Park Zoo offers free admission to visitors of all ages. You can enjoy a fun-filled family day at the zoo that aims to conserve animals and educate visitors. It is open throughout the year with specific seasonal timings. However, remember that the zoo charges a parking fee after the first half an hour.
Cristina Silva has graduated from New York University and has written for the Associated Press, the Tampa Bay Times, Salon, and NPR. She has reported from Mexico, Honduras, Cuba, Germany, Italy, and Bahrain, as well as from across the United States.