Kovler Lion House at Lincoln Park Zoo
Nestled under the shadows of Chicago's towering skyscrapers, the Lincoln Park Zoo is an unexpected oasis for animal lovers. Home to over 1,100 animals, the zoo is one of the oldest in the country, having been in operation for over 140 years. Guests can explore one of the largest polar bear exhibits in the world, which features a 266,000-gallon pool with underwater viewing windows, or see Black howler monkeys, White-cheeked gibbons, Geoffey's marmosets and other primates play around at eight exhibits in the Helen Brach Primate House. Camels, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles and ostriches color the landscape of the Regenstein African Journey.
For a truly unique zoo experience, guests can hop on one of 48 wooden animals on the AT&T Endangered Species Carousel; take a leisurely paddle boat ride on the South Lagoon; or journey into the wild savannah on the African Safari Ride. In 2010, visitors can also look forward to a zoo's new Nature Boardwalk. Here, guests can stroll the boardwalk encircling a pond to catch a glimpse of its native wildlife.
Catering to a wide range of event types, the Lincoln Park Zoo offers a host of venues for rental, including the Kovler Lion House, Helen Branch Primate House, Foreman Pavilion and Park Place Café. The zoo grounds are generally open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Winter and summer weekend hours vary. Admission is free. Additional charges for certain attractions may apply. For more information: 312-742-2400
