Lincoln Park Zoo

Have you ever wondered what the air smells like in a zoo? Stepping through the main gates of Lincoln Park Zoo, you’ll be greeted by a distinct aroma. It’s a mixture of earthiness from the many different animal enclosures, and the sweet, tangy scent of fresh cut grass. You can almost taste the energy of the animals and families roaming around. Lincoln Park Zoo, a 35-acre haven in the heart of Chicago, is a place where the wild thrives in the midst of a bustling city. Founded back in 1868, it’s the second oldest zoo in the United States, and one of the very few that offers free admission. That’s right, you can come face to face with amazing creatures like gorillas, penguins, and even polar bears without paying a cent. That’s a gift from its creators, the Lincoln Park Commissioners, who were gifted two pairs of swans from New York City’s Central Park. It’s a story as unique as the animals themselves that have called this zoo home over the years. From the first elephant and monkeys acquired by the flamboyant Cy DeVry to the popular gorilla, Bushman, who lived in the Primate House that opened in 1927, the Lincoln Park Zoo is rich in history. Of course, every zoo needs a story, right? Lincoln Park Zoo’s is about a 250-year-old burr oak tree that was cut down in 2023 due to poor health. Sadly, despite its majestic presence for so many years, the tree couldn’t withstand the changing times. But don’t fret, because thirty-six scions of the tree were grafted onto rootstock and are growing at the Morton Arboretum. It’s a testament to the zoo’s commitment to preserving its unique place in the story of Chicago. However, the zoo isn’t limited to preserving its own history. It’s also a champion for animal welfare and conservation. Explore the wide variety of habitats, from the Walter Family Arctic Tundra with its polar bears to the exciting Regenstein African Journey, where you can marvel at giraffes and African wild dogs. As you wander through Lincoln Park Zoo, the sights, sounds, and smells paint an unforgettable picture – one that blends the beauty of nature with the stories of the past.