BEST ZOOS IN CHICAGO IN 2023

Chicago has a few notable zoos. The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States and is located in Lincoln Park. There’s also the Brookfield Zoo, which is located in nearby Brookfield. Both of these zoos offer a variety of animal exhibits and educational programs for visitors. One interesting aspect of zoos in Chicago, particularly at the Lincoln Park Zoo, is their commitment to conservation and education. Many of these zoos participate in various conservation initiatives and programs aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats.

Zoos In Chicago

Chicago is home to several zoos and aquariums, offering visitors the chance to see a wide variety of animals up close. These zoos may not offer as many animals or attractions as Lincoln Park Zoo and Brookfield Zoo, but they are still great places to visit and learn about animals and conservation efforts.

Here are the zoos in Chicago:

#1. Lincoln Park Zoo

Founded in 1868, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest and most established zoos in the country. It is located in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood and offers free admission to all visitors. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including big cats, primates, birds, reptiles, and more.

#2. Brookfield Zoo

Located just 14 miles west of downtown Chicago in Brookfield, Illinois, the Brookfield Zoo is a 216-acre zoo that is home to over 2,000 animals. The Chicago Zoological Society runs it, and among its many exhibits and attractions are a dolphin show and a kids’ zoo.

#3. Shedd Aquarium

While not a zoo, Shedd Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the aquarium is home to over 32,000 animals, representing more than 1,500 species.

#4. Kohl Children’s Museum

Located in Glenview, Illinois, the Kohl Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum that includes a petting zoo, where visitors can interact with a variety of farm animals.

#5. Willowbrook Wildlife Center

Located in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, the Willowbrook Wildlife Center is a wildlife rehabilitation center that is open to the public. Visitors can see a variety of native Illinois wildlife up close and learn about conservation efforts.

#6. The Animal Gardens

Located in Delavan, Wisconsin, which is not far from Chicago, this is a unique animal attraction with a focus on interactive experiences. Visitors can feed and interact with a variety of animals, like giraffes, kangaroos, and goats.

#7. Cosley Zoo

Located in Wheaton, Illinois, the Cosley Zoo is a small zoo that is home to a variety of animals, including cows, pigs, goats, and more. The zoo also has a small petting zoo and offers educational programs for children.

#8. Phillips Park Zoo

Located in Aurora, Illinois, Phillips Park Zoo is a small zoo that is home to a variety of animals, including wolves, otters, foxes, and more. The zoo is located within Phillips Park and also offers a playground and picnic area.

#9. Fox Run Environmental Education Center

Located in Libertyville, Illinois, Fox Run Environmental Education Center is a nature center that offers educational programs and animal exhibits. The center is home to a variety of animals, including birds of prey, reptiles, and more.

#10. Ziggy’s Zoo Farm

Situated in the southwest suburban Countryside, this small petting zoo provides interactive animal experiences and is a good place for kids to learn about farm animals.

Attributes of Zoos In Chicago

The zoos in Chicago, particularly the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Brookfield Zoo, offer several notable features:

#1. Diverse Animal Exhibits

Both zoos boast a wide variety of animal exhibits, showcasing creatures from around the world. You can encounter everything from big cats and primates to aquatic animals and reptiles.

#2. Conservation Efforts

The zoos are dedicated to conservation and often participate in breeding programs for endangered species. These efforts help ensure the survival of vulnerable animals and contribute to global conservation initiatives.

#3. Educational Programs

Chicago’s zoos prioritize education. They offer workshops, guided tours, and interactive exhibits that teach visitors about animal behavior, habitats, and conservation challenges.

#4. Immersive Environments

Many exhibits are designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats, providing a more immersive and realistic experience for visitors.

#5. Family-Friendly Activities

The zoos offer family-oriented activities, such as children’s play areas, petting zoos, and educational play zones.

#6. Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, the zoos host various events, including seasonal festivals, holiday celebrations, and animal-themed activities.

#7. Dining and Shopping

Both zoos have dining options ranging from casual cafes to more upscale eateries. There are also gift shops where visitors can find souvenirs and animal-related merchandise.

#8. Accessibility

The zoos strive to be accessible to all visitors, with features like wheelchair rentals, accessible pathways, and sensory-friendly events.

#9. Research and Conservation Partnerships

Zoos in Chicago collaborate with scientific institutions on research projects to further understanding of animal behavior, health, and conservation needs.

#10. Community Engagement

The zoos are active in their communities, offering educational programs for schools, wildlife conservation talks, and community events.

#11. Admission Fees

Most of the zoos in Chicago charge an admission fee, with prices varying depending on age and membership status.

#12. Membership Programs

Membership programs are available at both the Brookfield Zoo and the Lincoln Park Zoo, offering perks such as free admission, discounts, and early registration for events.

#13. Attractions and Exhibits

The zoos in Chicago feature a variety of attractions and exhibits, including wildlife exhibits, playgrounds, and seasonal events such as Fall Fest at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

#14. Parking

Both the Brookfield Zoo and the Lincoln Park Zoo offer parking for visitors, with fees varying depending on the type of parking and membership status.

Benefits of Zoos In Chicago

Here are the benefits of the zoos in Chicago

#1. Education and Awareness

Zoos offer educational programs, exhibits, and workshops that teach visitors about animals, their habitats, and conservation challenges. This helps raise awareness about wildlife and the importance of protecting biodiversity.

#2. Conservation of Endangered Species

Many zoos participate in breeding programs for endangered species, contributing to their survival and genetic diversity. These efforts often involve reintroducing animals into the wild when feasible.

#3. Scientific Research

Zoos engage in research that contributes to our understanding of animal behavior, health, and ecology. This research can also inform conservation efforts and wildlife management strategies.

#4. Environmental Advocacy

Zoos play a role in advocating for the protection of natural habitats and the need for sustainable practices to ensure the survival of both wildlife and ecosystems.

#5. Economic Impact

Zoos contribute to the local economy by attracting tourists and visitors who spend money on admission, food, souvenirs, and nearby accommodations.

#6. Job Creation

Zoos provide employment opportunities for a diverse range of professionals, including animal care specialists, educators, researchers, and administrative staff.

#7. Supporting Wildlife Protection

Zoos often collaborate with conservation organizations and contribute to fundraising efforts for wildlife protection projects around the world.

#8. Recreation and Relaxation

Zoos offer a space for people to relax, unwind, and connect with nature, which can have positive effects on mental well-being.

Disadvantages Of The Zoos In Chicago

Here are some disadvantages of the zoos in Chicago

#1. Animal Welfare Concerns

Zoos have faced criticism for confining animals in limited spaces, potentially leading to stress, behavioral issues, and compromised physical health. Ensuring proper care and enrichment for captive animals is a continuous challenge.

#2. Limited Natural Behavior

Animals in zoos might not be able to exhibit their full range of natural behaviors due to space constraints and artificial environments. This can lead to frustration and boredom.

#3. Conservation vs. Entertainment

Zoos sometimes face a balancing act between conservation and entertainment, with some animals being displayed more for their appeal to visitors rather than their conservation needs.

#4. Environmental Impact

The construction and maintenance of zoo facilities can have environmental consequences, including habitat disruption, resource consumption, and waste generation.

#5. Cost and Funding

Running and maintaining a zoo can be expensive.

#6. Animal Trade

Zoos might participate in the buying, selling, or trading of animals, which could potentially contribute to the unethical exotic animal trade.

Activities Displayed In The Major Zoos in Chicago

Here are some of the things you can do at the major zoos in the Chicago area:

Lincoln Park Zoo:

#1. Animal Exhibits

Explore a diverse range of animal exhibits featuring mammals, reptiles, birds, and more. Learn about their habitats and behaviors.

#2. Conservation Programs

Discover the zoo’s commitment to conservation through informative exhibits and programs that highlight their efforts to protect wildlife.

#3. Educational Programs

Participate in workshops, talks, and interactive sessions that teach about animals, conservation, and the natural world.

#4. Nature Boardwalk

Walk through the serene Nature Boardwalk area, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with a pond and native plantings.

#5. Farm-in-the-Zoo

Interact with farm animals and learn about domesticated animals’ role in our lives.

#6. Children’s Zoo

Visit the Children’s Zoo area, which offers kid-friendly exhibits and activities designed to engage young visitors.

#7. ZooLights

During the holiday season, experience the magical ZooLights event, when the zoo is adorned with festive lights and decorations.

#8. Nature Boardwalk Fishing

Participate in catch-and-release fishing at the Nature Boardwalk pond, giving visitors a chance to experience urban fishing.

#9. Carousel and Train Rides

Enjoy a ride on the colorful carousel or the miniature train that takes you on a loop around the zoo.

#10. Photography

Capture the beauty of animals and exhibits through photography. The zoo provides many picturesque opportunities.

#11. Adult Events

Attend after-hours events tailored for adults, offering a unique experience with animal encounters, live music, and more.

Activities Exhibit In Brookfield Zoo

#1. Habitat Encounters

Explore immersive exhibits designed to replicate animals’ natural environments, including Tropic World, Great Bear Wilderness, and more.

#2. Dolphin Presentations

Attend live dolphin presentations at the Seven Seas exhibit to learn about these intelligent marine mammals.

#3. Hamill Family Play Zoo

Engage in interactive play and educational activities, allowing children to connect with animals through hands-on experiences.

#4. Butterflies

Walk through a butterfly habitat where you can observe these colorful insects up close.

#5. Feeding Opportunities

In select areas, you might have the chance to feed animals like giraffes or parakeets.

#6. Special Events

Attend seasonal events, holiday celebrations, and themed activities throughout the year.

#7. Zoo Chats

Join informal zoo chats led by educators, who share insights about animals, conservation, and zoo operations.

#8. Giraffe Feeding

Feed lettuce to the tall and graceful giraffes at Habitat Africa! The Savannah exhibit.

#9. Motor Safari

Embark on a guided Motor Safari adventure that takes you around the expansive grounds, providing a different perspective of the animals.

#10. Landscape Photography

Brookfield Zoo’s extensive grounds provide ample opportunities for capturing stunning landscape photographs.

#11. Zoo Camp

Enroll children in Zoo Camp, where they can engage in hands-on learning, animal encounters, and outdoor activities.

Activities Display At Shedd Aquarium

#1. Aquatic Exhibits

Explore diverse aquatic environments, from the Amazon Rainforest to the Pacific Northwest. Observe marine life such as fish, dolphins, penguins, and more.

#2. Dolphin Shows

Watch captivating dolphin presentations that showcase their intelligence and agility.

#3. Underwater Beauty

Immerse yourself in the Underwater Beauty exhibit, which showcases the stunning colors and forms of aquatic life.

#4. Aquatic Presentations

Attend talks and presentations on topics like conservation, marine biology, and the challenges facing our oceans.

#5. Stingray Touch

Interact with gentle stingrays by touching and feeding them in a safe, supervised environment.

#6. 4-D Experiences

Enjoy sensory-rich 4-D theater experiences that bring aquatic stories to life with special effects.

#7. Aquatic Yoga

Take part in yoga sessions held in front of mesmerizing aquatic exhibits, offering a unique and calming experience.

#8. Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Join special tours that take you behind the scenes to see the inner workings of the aquarium and interact with experts.

#9. Animal Encounters

Participate in animal encounters where you can touch animals like sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and more.

#10. Conservation Action

Learn about the aquarium’s conservation efforts and how you can support marine life protection.

#11. Shedd Adventures

Embark on immersive learning experiences that include outdoor activities, workshops, and hands-on encounters.

How Many Zoos Are There In Chicago?

There are 4 zoos in Chicago and 6 zoos near Chicago.

What Is The Main Zook In Chicago?

There are two main zoos in Chicago: Lincoln Park Zoo and Brookfield Zoo. Both are well-established and popular zoos that offer a variety of exhibits and attractions for visitors. Lincoln Park Zoo is located in the heart of Chicago and was founded in 1868, while Brookfield Zoo is located in Brookfield, Illinois, just outside of the city limits, and covers 216 acres.

Does Chicago Have Two Zoos?

Chicago has two main zoos: Lincoln Park Zoo and Brookfield Zoo.

What Are The Names Of The Zoos In Chicago?

The names of the zoos in Chicago are Lincoln Park Zoo and Brookfield Zoo.

Which City Has The Biggest Zoo In The US?

The city that has the biggest zoo in the US is Columbus, Ohio. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, which is located in the northwest corner of the city, covers 582 acres and is home to more than 8,000 animals. It is also considered one of the largest zoos in the world.

Where Is America’s Biggest Zoo?

America’s biggest zoo is located in Columbus, Ohio. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium covers 580 acres and is home to more than 7,000 animals, making it the largest zoo in the United States.

Conclusion

Zoos in Chicago offer benefits such as education, conservation, and community engagement. They raise awareness, aid endangered species, conduct research, and provide recreational spaces. However, they also face disadvantages, including animal welfare issues, limitations on natural behavior, ethical concerns about captivity, and potential environmental impacts. Modern zoos strive to mitigate these drawbacks by improving animal care, prioritizing conservation, and enhancing education efforts.

These zoos often engage visitors through educational exhibits, workshops, and events to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and the role zoos play in preserving biodiversity. These zoos sometimes collaborate with researchers and institutions to contribute to scientific research and understanding of animal behavior and ecology. This combination of entertainment, education, and conservation makes Chicago’s zoos not only fun places to visit but also important centers for promoting environmental awareness and sustainability.