If there is one attraction in this city that you really must see, it is this wonderful zoo. Lincoln Park extends for six miles from North Ave but the zoo occupies an area one mile north from the park’s southern boundary. One major bonus is that entrance here is free; the other is the sheer number of exhibits and animals that are on view in such a relatively small area.
We took the # 151 bus which dropped us outside the main entrance. On this warm, sunny day, it was good to see so many families making the most of the lovely weather but the place wasn’t at all crowded, its wide main arteries affording easy access to the major exhibits. The zoo is the country’s oldest, having opened in 1868 after receiving a gift of two swans from New York’s Central Park. It occupies 35-acres lakeside setting affording great views back towards Downtown with the John Hancock Building looming ominously over the treetops.
The three major exhibits here are the Regenstein African Ape Centre, the Primate House and the Kovler Lion House. All the enclosures are spacious and the animals seemed content, considering the lack of "pacing" usually associated with the animals at some less spacious zoos. The lions were sunning themselves on a large boulder, providing excellent photo opportunities for those poised with their cameras waiting for that special shot. Other major enclosures include the rhino, hippo, giraffe, and Bactrian camels; aquatic entertainment is on hand in the form of penguins and sea-lions, both species seemingly born comedians who delighted all with their effortless marine acrobatics.
Having followed "Meerkat Manor" on UK TV, I was personally delighted to find the large Meerkat enclosure containing various family members including several youngsters who were engaged in play fighting, much to the amusement of the onlookers.
The zoo often puts on special exhibits and today was no exception with the large African display which features animals such as aardvarks, reptiles, and fish as well as various dwellings as would be occupied by the indigenous populations.
Highlight for me were the gorillas. How such powerful creatures can be so gentle is a wonder; to see a hugely-muscled silverback playing lovingly with a tiny baby was wonderful but I’m glad there was an inch of reinforced glass between us. In true monkey tradition, the chimpanzees kept everyone amused by peeing all over each other and looking no further than their noses to provide an easy snack. "Chaque a son gout" you could say...
There are ample restroom facilities within the zoo, all in spotless condition, food vendors, ice cream stalls and a large restaurant. The zoo also features a brasserie where we took lunch in the warm sunshine with a great view down the lagoon towards the Loop.
Entrance is at 2200 N. Cannon Drive
Opening times Nov – Mar 9am – 5pm, Apr – Oct 9am – 6pm, open till 7pm Sat summer only.
Tel. (312) 742-2000 website:
www.lpzoo.com