Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s most treasured neighborhoods, offering a rare blend of lush green space, urban energy, and family-friendly culture. At the heart of it all sits the Lincoln Park Zoo, a free-admission destination that has delighted children and parents for generations. While the zoo itself can easily fill a morning or afternoon, many families are surprised to discover how many other engaging attractions sit just minutes away.
Planning a day around the zoo often raises the same question: what should we do next? The good news is that the surrounding area is packed with hands-on museums, scenic outdoor spaces, and quiet beaches that appeal to a wide range of ages. Whether you have toddlers, school-aged kids, or a mix of both, you can build a full itinerary without ever getting back in the car.
This guide focuses on practical, walkable, and low-stress options that complement a zoo visit. You will find indoor spots for rainy days, open-air spaces for burning off extra energy, and a few hidden gems that locals love. Each recommendation is chosen for its proximity, family appeal, and ability to keep the day moving at a comfortable pace.
Rather than simply listing names, this article explains why each attraction works well for families and what makes it stand out. You will also find advice on timing, what to bring, and how to avoid common crowds. The goal is to help you spend less time planning and more time enjoying Chicago’s most family-friendly corner.
Below, you will find a carefully curated set of family attractions near Lincoln Park Zoo, followed by practical tips for making the most of your visit.
Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze
| Address | 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 595-5375 |
We stopped by this fun maze during our Navy Pier visit, even though it wasn’t originally on our list. The colorful lights at the entrance caught my son’s attention, and he really wanted to check it out, so we went in.
The mini 3D maze was fun, while the rest was more of a simple walk-through. It’s not very big, but still enjoyable, could use some updates to feel more engaging. There are a few small jump scares that might surprise little kids, but nothing too scary. Worth a quick stop if you’re already at the pier.
We had a great time! It cost $15.99 per person to go through the fun house. I honestly didn't think it was that expensive, considering where it is and compared to other nearby attractions. It's not huge, but was a lot of fun. There's a mirror maze at the beginning which we enjoyed! Most of it afterwards was simple to navigate, pretty straight forward. Definitely wear the 3D glasses they give you and try to go through it when it's not busy. There were a few jump scares that may frighten small kids, but overall not bad. We recommend visiting. If you're walking down the pier, the entrance is on the righthand side, maybe about halfway down.
We had a lot of fun at the Funhouse maze. If you look at the pictures with 3d glasses you will get an idea of what it is like inside. Beware if you are prone to vertigo. There is a rotating tunnel that makes you feel like you are turning upside down. There is also a mirror maze that is a little tricky but really fun. Keep your hands out in front of you to keep from running into glass.
We paid for a 5 and 7 year old to enter, within minutes the 5 year old came out screaming and crying and the 7 year old was lost for so long her father had to go retrieve her.
This company WILL BOT VERBALLY COMMUNICATE IT IS SCARY!There is a hand written sign with 15 sentences and the last one says may be scary for anyone under 8. All employees were incredibly rude and disrespectful towards me as their mother who was terrified my daughter was stuck in the maze. NO REFUND NO RESPONSIBILITY.
Just my problem for not reading the sign. GOD FORBID THEY WARNED US AT PURCHASE THE KIDS WOULD BE TERRIFIED.
We spent about $500 at the pier in 2 hours and SERIOUSLY THANKS to THE FUNHOUSE MAZE, we will NEVER EVER EVER return.
It’s overpriced for what it is but it was a lot of fun, the maze was a blast for my family. I won’t give anything away but there are great surprises to keep the family entertained. $4 less per person would be much more reasonable, however, it’s still a fun attraction
Pritzker Family Children's Zoo
| Address | 2197 N Stockton Dr Apt 2119, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Phone | (312) 742-2000 |
A great indoor area of the zoo with a lot of natural light. A great stop for kids. The improved climbing structure is much safer for kids and more navigable for adults which is fantastic. The bathrooms are clean and this is one of the cooler buildings temperature-wise so its a nice spot to rest on the hot summer days,
Though it is called Children's Zoo, its great for adults also. This is Lincoln Park Zoo's dedicated North American animal section of the park. Some of the notable species here are Black bear(s?), extremely rare red wolves, North American river otters and North American beaver, various native turtle species.
Fun Facts:
-For several years now, wild black crowned night herons have nested here.
-If an ambulance or fire truck drives by with its sirens on, you'll hear the red wolves howl along with it!
-Behind the indoor turtle pond, there is a lodge camera where you can view the beavers in their lodge.
Less about the merit of the current building and more of a wishful thinking thing, I miss the species diversity of the Children's zoo building before the redesign of the indoor play area. There used to be green snakes, tree frogs, walking sticks, American toads, and more. I hope in the future, this building gets a few more native species like it once did. Northern walking sticks are still visible to the public in the Regenstein Small Mammal & Reptile House.
Hello everyone! Thank you for reading my reviews! My family and I love this zoo. We visited a very interesting part of the zoo. Here we saw a cute family of beavers. There are children's attractions. I recommend visiting!
it was wonderful ☺️ My toddler and I really enjoyed walking around the zoo grounds and the animals. We'll come back a million times)
Not too bad but probably because we went there on sunyny day,we could not see many animals in habitat..but you have to consider it is a free zoo.The best part is seal section..Kids really enjoyed.We loved the conservatory area with lots of different plants..You can get free parking near zoo if you are early in the morning.
This play area is much smaller and darker than anticipated. There are no benches around the perimeter, so it feels like a space you aren't supposed to stay in very long. At the time of our visit a camp of older kids was barreling around making my 2.5 year old feel unsafe in the structure. If you are at the zoo and want a place for your under 3 to play for more than 10 minutes, the playground across the street is a better choice.
Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo
| Address | 2121 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
My child loved this walk. My child is afraid over everything which can be slightly annoying to most but I dont mind. However, this walk calms the child to levels we have not seen. So for us, this walk is so essential. Thank you Chicago, and thank you Chester/Abragam Lincoln Park for making this park
I've walked this every morning for the last 4 months. Such a pleasant place to Center and ground yourself. My Pomeranian loves these walks and many people walk their dogs here every morning and day. Great sense of safety and community in Lincoln Park. We love watching the beavers that are out early.
This is a fabulous way to spend an afternoon or the entire day and it’s free. Very easy to get to via car or public transport. Well maintained with lots of room for kids to run around. Wandered around the zoo, the boardwalk, the gardens, and the conservatory.
We parked a little far from the zoo. But we enjoyed the walk through the Nature Boardwalk. Awesome views of the Chicago Skyline and beautiful plants all around. A great place to stop for a little breath and break. Or just to cross while jogging, walking or running.
What a beautiful walk! Great place to stroll after leaving the zoo to watch sunset and see animals in the wild.
Farm in the Zoo
| Address | 1911 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 742-2000 |
The farm is simply yet amazing. It was one of my favorite parts. The kids really get excited about it. The petting zoo wasn't open when we went but I know how special something like that can be for little ones
LOCAL TOUR GUIDE HERE!!! LOADS of fun facts on this spot. Chicago’s official motto is “urbs in horto,” a latin phrase that translates to “City in a Garden." An ode to the cities proximity to the lake and its green spaces. But this particular green space, Lincoln park, is designed around a family farm that has been around for generations. The family simply wouldn't sell! Now they carry on with their crops and livestock here as the city bustles around them. Super cool!
This exhibit at the zoo is such a fun and interactive experience, especially for city kids who get the chance to learn where their food comes from. It’s family-friendly, walkable, and provides a unique opportunity to connect with farm life in the middle of the city. The space is also available as a rentable event venue, making it a versatile addition to the zoo. Having grown up on a farm, I truly enjoy walking through this area and appreciating the thoughtful design. The staff are always ready to answer questions, everything is kept clean, and the animals appear happy and well cared for. A wonderful addition to the zoo that blends education, fun, and community.
I remember visiting this place back in 1988. Even then, I thought this was a great idea. I was fortunate to grow up in a large agricultural area in California. I visited farms. We had friends in the Ag industry. However, as I got older, I met many people who had no idea how the part of our lives operated. They had no idea how we got milk, eggs, bacon, ribs beef & chicken. While this place doesn't go into the harsh side of Ag, it does a good job of teaching the basics of a farm and farm animals. I was there in November and most of the fruit trees were empty. Glad to see that 40 years later, this place still exists to teach city kids about where food comes from, and not just thinking it comes from a grocery store.
Nice place special in the early morning if you have toddlers I'm going to enjoy it the animals are active they do have some decent restaurants but unfortunately the rabbits but nowhere to be found looks like it was too cold for them but all in all it's worth it especially the pony and the pigs are not smelling as bad as they should that's a bonus point
Kovler Lion House and Pepper Family Wildlife Center
| Address | 2101 N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 742-2000 |
The Lion House is always a stop while visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo. I have been coming to the zoo since I was a little kid and that's a number of decades. The building design has changed a lot over the years.
Today Jabari and the ladies were napping, while the 18 month old cubs chilled on the other side of the exhibit.
Today was our first visit back since CV19 and the remodel - wow, what a difference! I used to live across the street from LP Zoo and we loved listening to the big cats at night but their enclosure (which seemed fine at the time) was *so* much smaller than the upgrade! There's much more space for the cats to move around when they want and there are huge observation windows, too!
Almost bone chilling experience, truly phenomenal.
Beautiful facility and really incentive exhibits. The lions looked very happy
Excellent zoo, many animals, many beautiful landscaping, free tickets
Lincoln Park Conservatory
| Address | 2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Phone | (773) 883-7275 |
Free, and a breath of fresh air. I highly recommend visiting this conservatory before or after the zoo, or if you want to have a picnic this is the perfect place! My favorite features were the “nerve plants” and the fern room. A wide variety of plants to learn about or see for the first time, and the staff is very friendly helping you get your free tickets online. There is a 90 minute limit but you could crawl the entire place and still be out in half that time. Overall, I would highly recommend this beautiful place and will be back soon! Thank you to the kind staff.
Such a gorgeous garden. And so happy that it’s FREE! We went to the zoo and walked over here right after. It’s a small garden but it is so cute! Make sure to reserve tickets ahead of them even though it’s free!
This was a beautiful free botanical garden right next to Lincoln Park! Make sure you reserve your entry time early online. It’s encouraged to give a $2 donation, but not required. It’s all covered and separated into different sections with lots of pretty plants to look at.
It feels like a different world the moment you walk in. It's warm and humid and paired with all the lush greenery, towering palms, and carefully maintained plant rooms make it feel peaceful compared to the city outside.
I liked how calm it was inside even when there are other visitors, it never feels crowded or rushed and you can just wander slowly through each section and take everything in. The different rooms each have their own vibe, from tropical plants to more structured floral displays, it doesn't feel repetitive.
One of Chicago's best kept secrets — and it's free! Beautiful Victorian greenhouse filled with lush tropical plants and gorgeous orchids. A peaceful, magical escape right in the city. Absolutely worth a visit! 🌿🌸
Walter Family Arctic Tundra
| Address | 2262-2332 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 742-2000 |
Unfortunately, I didn’t see any polar bears here. I looked in all of the different viewing windows and couldn’t find them anywhere. There’s lots of nice windows and the enclosure looks very nice. There was a small pile of snow as well as a large block of ice that you could poke even in summer.
Polar bears looked happy and well cared for
When the polar bears are out and active, it is a fascinating place to watch them at one of three tiers of tundra and water. I've never been able to predict when the polar bears are out, as it seems to vary by the day. Unfortunately the ice wall no longer seems to be functioning, and the exterior viewing areas could do with a bit of refurbishment, but it's still enjoyable.
If you can afford too put snakes in a air conditioned area you can put the polar bears in a better arena then youve given them..
Beautiful place with a white 🐻❄. Amazing to visit with family.
A lot of animals around to seeing. I visited during January month and we had 30°F surprised that is one of the coldest months but it was nice weather. We visited during weekday with no probkem. Not all animals were available to see but it was very nice time spent walking around for a couple of hours. We were fortunate to see the bear 🏊♂️ swimming. It is an incredible view on the window and lovely. The best time to visit is May to September when The weather is a lot better. We will go back whenever is possible because it is amazing this zoo and all of the animal. Recomendable to visit alone or in a family group.
Adler Planetarium
| Address | 1300 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 922-7827 |
All of the staff I encountered were very friendly and welcoming.
If you're really into planetariums or visiting with kids, I think you'll enjoy this place. The location is fantastic, with amazing views and a beach just a short walk away. However, I felt that most of the exhibits were geared toward children, so I personally didn't find the $25 admission worth the price.
The $10 planetarium show, on the other hand, was excellent. The visuals in the theater were stunning, and it was definitely the highlight of my visit.
As for parking, it's normally $27, but if you park before 9:30 a.m. and leave by 3:00 p.m., it's only $14, which is a much better deal.
While I enjoyed the show, I don't think I'd recommend the museum itself or visit again.
The Adler Planetarium is an absolute gem on Chicago’s lakefront and one of the most memorable stops of our trip. Founded in 1930 as the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, it was named after philanthropist Max Adler, whose vision was to create a place where the public could explore astronomy, science, and the wonders of the universe. Nearly a century later, the Adler continues to deliver on that mission with creativity, innovation, and heart.
The facility offers a fantastic mix of engaging exhibits, hands‑on learning, and immersive sky shows that make astronomy accessible and exciting for all ages. From historic telescopes to interactive displays and beautifully designed galleries, every part of the planetarium invites you to explore and discover. The staff members were kind, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about sharing the science of the skies.
We planned our visit around the Pink Floyd “The Dark Side of the Moon” Fulldome Show, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The visuals, sound, and atmosphere created an unforgettable experience. I would watch it again in a heartbeat. Even though we came specifically for the show, we ended up enjoying every part of the planetarium.
The Cosmic Café was a pleasant surprise as well. The food we had for lunch hit the spot, and the seating area offers some of the best views of the Chicago skyline you’ll find anywhere in the city. It’s the perfect place to take a break and soak in the scenery.
Whether you’re a lifelong astronomy fan or just looking for a unique and inspiring experience, the Adler Planetarium is absolutely worth the visit. A blend of history, science, creativity, and breathtaking views, all in one iconic Chicago destination.
Visiting the Adler Planetarium was one of the highlights of my trip to Chicago. The exhibits are engaging and well designed, making space and astronomy fascinating for visitors of all ages. The views of the Chicago skyline from outside are absolutely stunning and worth the visit on their own. I spent much longer here than I expected and enjoyed every minute. If you’re visiting Chicago, this is a place I would highly recommend.
The Adler Planetarium was a great experience and definitely worth visiting. The exhibits were interesting, interactive, and enjoyable for both adults and children. The sky show was one of the highlights and made the visit feel even more special. The staff were friendly, and the museum was easy to explore without feeling overwhelming. You also get beautiful views of the Chicago skyline from outside. I recommend buying tickets in advance and allowing a few hours to enjoy everything.
I loved that this was the oldest planetarium! We visited Chicago for our anniversary and purchased a city pass which had the planetarium as one of the options!! I'm glad we chose to visit as it holds a ton of history dating back thousands of years which is crazy how people tracked the stars n planets Soo long ago!! I enjoyed walking thru the old n new parts of the planetarium but will say it wasn't well thought out during the expansions it's kind of confusing getting from place to place if using an elevator and going from original space to added spaces. I didn't find it to be the best one I've been to but it's definitely worth the visit! N the views from outside of Chicago n the waterfront l are stunning!!
Lincoln Park
| Address | 500-5700 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 742-7726 |
This park is such a beautiful and peaceful escape in the middle of Chicago. It was our first time in the city and after the zoo, we just wanted to take a walk. Suddenly we found ourselves on a lovely boardwalk by a pond, then we’re in the middle of tall grassy fields, and then lawns with lots of shady benches and walking paths, with the skyscrapers in the background. It was a surprising, well-designed, and lovely place to relax or exercise.
We spent there 3 hours and we couldn't finish the whole zoo. It is very organized, animals looked great.. usually I am not a fan of zoos because of its capitalistic mentality. This zoo is free for decades, which makes it so special.
In addition to that, the walking area around is worth visiting it.
I have been going here since I was a child and the had paddle boats. No more paddle boats but the park is still amazing and fun. There are plenty of events at the park for adults at night as well. Check their website and enjoy.
Fantastic experience for everyone. If you're expecting the best zoo in the world, just remember this place is free. But even with that expectation, it's a good place. My only complaint would be that the food area seems to be a little understaffed
Lincoln Park is beautiful amd well taken care of. I love when I get to visit because there are so very many happy dogs throughout the park. I mainly visit Lincoln Park for softball games. The fields are good.
Oz Park
| Address | 2021 N Burling St, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 742-7898 |
We were interested in the sculptures (didn’t photograph the Cowardly Lion whoops) but found much more. Lush green gardens. Kids on the playhouses. People picnicking and pushing strollers. The idea of this homage to the literary classic brought us there. The rest of the park is what we remember the most. Parking on a nice day is hard to come by, but it’s worth it.
Interesting is the word. My first time there, so I had a little problem finding the scruptures. Which after I had walked around the entire park that's when I saw 3 of the statues, theyre not close together, but you can actually see them. Now one of them is totally off to itself. Not bad, if you're into chasing scruptures like I am... It was worth the time and gas, lol.
We started coming to this location because we got sick (and I mean SICK- thought I was going to die) from the location closer to our house. The order is always fresh and the wings are good. The food is good, I eat bone in wings and my husband eats boneless and kid eats the tenders. The drink options are coke, sprite, root beer etc. The restaurant is located in the first little shopping mall on canal by mattress firm and Baskin Robbin’s (facing Roosevelt).
It's a nice place in a quiet neighborhood, great for walking around and relaxing with friends. Views are great experience with some parking spots avaliable if you're lucky. Playground doesn't allow dogs.
The playground has lots of different obstacles to play. Each section had a name from the movie. Clean n friendly atmosphere
Shedd Aquarium
| Address | 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 939-2438 |
The aquarium had some really nice exhibits. The sharks were beautiful. I got to pet a Great Lakes Sturgeon. The frogs and snakes were cool too. We had a really good time but for the amount of exhibits, even though they were really beautiful and fun. The price was too high. It was over $100 for two tickets and we probably spent about an hour there. Additionally, there were tons of little kids about eight and under running around and cutting people off and putting their hands all over the glass and tapping at the animals and that was a lot to handle as well.
Shedd Aquarium was a wonderful experience and one of the highlights of our visit to Chicago. There are so many different marine animals to see, including colorful fish, sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and other fascinating creatures. The exhibits were interesting, educational, and well organized, making it easy to explore without feeling lost. The aquarium is larger than it looks, so I recommend planning to spend at least a few hours there. It is also a good idea to purchase tickets in advance and arrive when it first opens, especially on weekends, because it can get crowded later in the day. The staff were friendly and helpful, and there were plenty of opportunities to learn about the animals and their habitats. The location is also beautiful, with great views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline nearby. Overall, Shedd Aquarium is definitely worth visiting and is a great attraction for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys animals and marine life.
Been waiting years to finally be able to visit the Shedd Aquarium and it was absolutely worth it.
It was ana amazing end of vacation stop to just be able to chill with some fish. They had some touch tanks which were cool and plenty of seating all through out.
Everything was well thought out and a lot of fun seeing all the different exhibits. Especially fond of the cuttlefish tank.
Reserve your tickets in advanced they did sell out for certain time slots. We spent about 2.5-3 hours in there.
Haven't been here in a very long time even though I live within walking distance. Even when it's crowded, it's a surprisingly peaceful place. I'm not sure what exactly it is about watching fish swim that feels so serene and calming. The aquatic habitats are quite beautiful and there are so many different species of fish, rays, starfish, octopus and so on. I really enjoy the jellyfish and the seahorses and the different kinds of anemone too.
*We went in a middle of an afternoon. The Aquarium was not crowded.
*Always recommend you check out their discounts page from the website.
*The galleries were clean, accessible, and staff were very visible and helpful.
*Look for the Wild Reef! It is a separate part of the building and the shark tank is incredible! No additional fee.
*Pricey. In addition to tickets, we paid 32.00 for parking. Give yourself time to find good parking or alternate.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
| Address | 2430 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 755-5100 |
What a delightful hidden gem in Lincoln Park! The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum instantly warmed my heart with its beautiful Butterfly Haven, where hundreds of colorful butterflies flutter around you like living magic. The hands-on exhibits are engaging and educational for all ages, and the whole space feels light, welcoming, and full of wonder. Perfect for a peaceful, inspiring afternoon reconnecting with nature right in the city. Highly recommend!🌿🦋
My son and I loved exploring nature at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Our first visit was when he was just 19 months old, and we recently returned at 3 years 3 months—both experiences were equally enjoyable, which really speaks to how well the museum engages a wide range of ages. The highlight of the visit was watching the butterfly release—it’s such a special, memorable experience. We also spent a lot of time in the kids play areas, which are interesting and interactive. The live animals were another favorite, and we especially appreciated the learning opportunities woven into places like the Nature’s Lunchbox Café.
It’s a wonderful blend of play and education, and definitely a place we’ll keep coming back to.
September 2026 Update: We took our time through the museum, focusing on more detail than in the prior visits. It's safe to say that we love this museum.
We had a wonderful time exploring the Nature Museum with our two kiddos (2.5yrs & 5.5yrs old) today! There was tons to do - water play (in multiple areas), living & taxidermy creatures to see/learn about, two play spaces to get the wiggles out, and of course the beautiful Butterfly Haven.
We went on a weekday around 11am during spring break and it was moderately busy, but there was no line to get in. We paid extra to visit the butterfly haven (100% worth it!). The 1st exhibit included water play, which our kids loved, but def bring a change of clothes for when they get wet. There is another water play zone on the 1st floor next to the play area as well.
The highlight of our visit was the Butterly Haven. It’s very beautiful and I honestly could sit there forever watching butterflies flutter around. They release butterflies daily at 2pm, but we didn’t see that. We also enjoyed the digital interactive butterfly exhibit, where kids color a butterfly on paper, scan it, and it appears fluttering on a giant digital screen.
Street parking was full, but there is a small lot across the street from the entrance and it was $24 to park. It was a short walk to the entrance. The gift shop is super cute and has snacks/drinks, but nothing fresh-made (mostly pre-packaged options). They have tables & high chairs near the entrance for snacking/resting. Also family restrooms, stroller parking, & an elevator. Super kid/family friendly and we’ll definitely be back!
I love this museum very family/kid friendly. the seasonal exhibit where they change themes is the coolest and always keep kids on their toes. The new one (July 25) is so cool, theres creativity, hands on, action. It is play at your own risk, I feel like there should be an employee just to facilitate. Can never go wrong here.
I used to bring my children here and now I bring my grandchildren. It excites them and expands their knowledge as as much as they do with their parents. The butterfly garden is also an amazing exhibit you don’t want to miss! Lastly, be sure to stop at the taxidermy station if they are there working on an animal.
Parking is a nightmare if you don’t arrive early or during lunch as parents are leaving.
Tips for Visiting Family Attractions Near Lincoln Park Zoo
A little preparation goes a long way when you are exploring Lincoln Park with children. The neighborhood is very walkable, but distances can feel longer for little legs, and popular spots can get busy on weekends and school holidays. Use these tips to keep the day smooth, flexible, and enjoyable for everyone.
-
Start early to beat crowds and heat. Many nearby attractions, including the zoo and nature museum, are quieter before 10:30 a.m. An early start also gives you cooler temperatures for walking between locations.
-
Pack light but smart. Bring water bottles, a compact stroller, sunscreen, and a small snack bag. Several attractions have picnic-friendly areas, but having quick snacks on hand prevents meltdowns between stops.
-
Check free admission days and hours. The Lincoln Park Zoo is always free, but nearby museums may have suggested admission or special free hours. Verify current schedules online before you go to avoid surprises.
-
Combine indoor and outdoor stops. Balance active outdoor play with a calm indoor break. For example, pair a beach or park visit with a stop at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum or Chicago History Museum to reset energy levels.
-
Use public transit or park once. Parking near the zoo can be expensive and limited. If you drive, park once in a central location and walk between attractions. The CTA bus and Brown Line also provide easy access to the area.
-
Let kids choose one “wildcard” stop. Giving children a small say in the day’s plan increases cooperation and excitement. Pick two or three age-appropriate options and let them vote on one bonus activity.
-
Bring a change of clothes for water play. Several nearby parks and the lakefront have splash pads or beach access. A dry outfit and a small towel make spontaneous water play stress-free.
Exploring beyond the zoo gates reveals a side of Lincoln Park that many visitors miss. You can watch butterflies in a free-flight exhibit, climb aboard a historic ship, dig in the sand at a quiet beach, or simply sit under a tree with a skyline view. These experiences turn a simple zoo trip into a full day of discovery.
The best family days are not about checking off the most attractions, but about finding a rhythm that works for your crew. With a flexible plan, comfortable walking shoes, and a spirit of curiosity, Lincoln Park offers one of the most rewarding family outings in Chicago.
