If you are someone who adores animals and enjoys the excitement of seeing them, you will certainly have a great time at zoos. If you are curious about the number of zoos in Chicago, there are plenty to choose from. Chicago is considered one of the finest places to visit zoos due to the abundance of options available. The entire city of Chicago is filled with a diverse range of zoos. However, if you are unsure which ones to visit and which ones are the best, we have got you covered with the top zoos in Chicago.
9 Finest Zoos in Chicago
In this piece, we will be discussing the top 10 zoos situated in and around the city of Chicago that are a must-visit for you.
1. Lincoln Park Zoo
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The Lincoln Park Zoo is perhaps the largest and one of the finest zoos in Chicago. Covering a vast area of over 35 acres, it is situated in the Lincoln Park of Chicago, hence the name. It is entirely a free admission zoo and is one of the few zoos in the United States that offer free entry. It is also a recognized member of the renowned Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The majority of individuals who have explored the Lincoln Park Zoo have nothing but praise for it. The zoo also actively participates in the Grevy’s Zebra Species Survival Plan. If you plan on visiting during winter, make sure to check the timings as it closes early.
Location: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USATimings: 10 AM to 5 PMAdmission fees: Free
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2. Brookfield Zoo
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The second zoo on the list of popular zoological destinations around Chicago is the Brookfield Zoo. It is also known as the Chicago Zoological Park. The zoo is situated in the Chicago suburb of Brookfield which gives it its name. It covers an area of 216 acres and is home to over 450 animal species from various kingdoms, making it one of the most renowned zoos in the area. Some of the key attractions in the zoo include the Pinniped Point, Big Cats, and the Salt Creek Wilderness.
Place: 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513, USASchedule: 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 6 PM on weekendsFee: $13.50 for grown-ups; $9.50 for kids aged 3 to 11; and $9.50 for seniors aged 65 and above
3. Willowbrook Wildlife Centre
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The Willowbrook Wildlife Centre is a very popular location to visit and observe animals in their natural surroundings. It is situated in the Willowbrook Forest Preserve in Glen Ellyn. It is mainly a local wildlife rehabilitation center that concentrates on offering the necessary care and treatment to injured wildlife for their quick recovery. Not only that, but it also acts as a valuable resource to educate the residents of DuPage County on how to coexist harmoniously with wildlife.
Place: 525 S Park Blvd, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137, USASchedule: 8 AM to 5:30 PMFee: Free
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4. Scales and Tales Travelling Zoo
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As the name implies, the scales and tales travelling zoo is exactly what it sounds like. The zoo and its animals are not confined to a single location, but rather they move around. The zoo is primarily based on S Racine Avenue but is constantly on the move. Also known as the Chicago Travelling Zoo, it has been entertaining the general public for 20 years. All the animals are taken care of by Beth, who nurtures and looks after them. They are known for putting on one of the friendliest shows in town and are considered one of the petting zoos in Chicago.
Place: 1804 S Racine Ave, Chicago, IL 60608Schedule: (varies while on the move)Fee: Free
5. Bill Jarvis Migratory Bird Sanctuary
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If avians and serene nature allure you, paying a visit to the Bill Jarvis Migratory Bird Sanctuary would be everything you would require while in Chicago. This is one of the largest migratory bird sanctuaries around and is believed to be abode to thousands of species of such migratory fowls. The entire place is spread throughout an area of 7.84 acres that has natural paths, viewing routes, and platforms. It attracts all kinds of bird enthusiasts who love to simply sit down and relish the enchanting environment with which they are bestowed. It is situated at 3550 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60613, USA, and commences its operations at 6 AM every day.
Location: 3550 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60613, USAHours: 6 AM to 11 PMAdmission fees: –
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6. North Pond Nature Sanctuary
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Situated within Lincoln Park itself, the North Pond Nature Sanctuary is yet another one of the animal exhibitions that is cherished and admired not only by the locals but also by tourists. It is believed that the same is approximately a 130-year-old pond nature sanctuary, which in itself is a remarkable sight. It is located at N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614, USA, and commences its operations when the Lincoln Park Zoo opens as well. Visitors assert that strolling by the pond is calm and if you plan your visit during the spring season, be on the lookout for the ducks.
Location: N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614, USAHours: 10 AM to 5 PMAdmission fees: Free
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