About Lincoln Park Zoo

Vision

Inspire communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world.

Mission

Lincoln Park Zoo is dedicated to connecting people with nature by providing a free, family-oriented wildlife experience in the heart of Chicago and by advancing the highest quality of animal care, education, science and conservation.

Funding

Lincoln Park Zoo is a privately managed institution that depends primarily on the support of its visitors, members and donors to remain open and free every day. More than two-thirds of the zoo’s operating budget is provided by revenue from its food service, retail shops, parking, and fund-raising activities. The remaining portion is provided by a fixed annual subsidy from the Chicago Park District.

Leadership

Lincoln Park Zoo is ambitious—a direct reflection of our executive staff and the passion they bring to the zoo each and every day. Their talents lead to the conservation of animals around the world, the cataloguing of critically endangered plants at the zoo, the development of learning programs throughout Chicago, and the creation of animal-care techniques that benefit individuals across the globe. The zoo also relies on its Board of Trustees for leadership and guidance. Providing insights on financial and operational matters, they are primarily responsible for the fiscal health of the zoo. The Women’s Board and Auxiliary Board provide supportive funds through extensive fundraising efforts, such as Zoo Ball, and public service initiatives, such as Spooky Zoo.

Reservation and Ticket Policies

Lincoln Park Zoo reserves the right to increase or reduce the number of reservations available on any given date/time based on visitor data, operational capacity, and/or City and State guidelines.

At times, Lincoln Park Zoo may open a waitlist for select days. A waitlist allows guests to sign up and be notified if additional reservations become available. We cannot guarantee additional reservations will be made available, but if reservations are released, Lincoln Park Zoo will contact you 24 to 48 hours prior to the event to provide purchase instructions.