The Lincoln Park Zoo combines the tranquility of a natural setting with the hustle and bustle of a large city. These two juxtaposed ideas create a zoo unlike most others in the United States. The Lincoln Park Zoo, which is dubbed "the wildest spot in Chicago'', is home to a number of animals, which visitors can watch while they are viewing the Sears Tower in the distance.
Founded in 1868, the Lincoln Park Zoo attracts around 3 million visitors every year, and as it is one of the country's last and largest zoos with no admission charge. It is located on nearly 50 acres along the lake and is open 365 days a year, weather permitting. The zoo has thousands of animals, which represent nearly 200 different species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and birds.
The Lincoln Park Zoo is accredited with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the highest accreditation level for zoos in the country. They've also been the recipients of a number of awards, including the "Exhibit of the Year'' award from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for this Regenstein Center for African Apes and for their Regenstein African Journey.
Along with being a place where visitors can view animals from around the world, the Lincoln Park Zoo has a large conservation and science program. There are five disciplines within this program: the Population Management Center (PMC), Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes, Alexander Center for Applied Population Biology, Davee Center for Epidemiology and Endocrinology, and the Urban Wildlife Institute. In addition, the zoo is home to a program that has been awarded the "Green Museum'' certification by the city of Chicago. They have seven green roofs with solar panels, recycling programs, sustainable transportation, energy-efficient lighting, sustainable and recycled packaging at their food stands, and organic and local options for foods.
The zoo's longest hours are between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when the weather is at its best for viewing all of the animals. Visitors can come to the zoo starting at 10:00 AM, and the facility is open until 5:00 PM on weekdays and 6:30 PM on weekends during these months. During April, May, September, and October, the zoo is open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day, and in the winter, from November to March, visitors are welcome from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Although admission is free, parking in the zoo's lot is fairly expensive, ranging from $17 to $30, depending on the time of year and how long you stay at the zoo. The location is also on two bus lines for those who live in the city. They offer membership for those who are willing to support the zoo to keep the admission free, and this membership gives visitors reduced prices to over 100 other zoos across the United States. Visitors can call the Lincoln Park Zoo at 312-742-2000 to learn more or schedule an event at the zoo.
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