Skip to main content
Sign In

Zoos & Aquariums

🦁 Zoos & Aquariums for Kids in Chicago, IL

3 zoos, aquariums, and animal encounters rated and reviewed by families.

Activities & Venues in Chicago

Lincoln Park Zoo zoo in Chicago, IL🦁 Zoo
Photo: Tony's Lists
4.6(37,756)Free

Lincoln Park Zoo is a beloved Chicago institution that has delighted families since 1868, offering free admission to see over 200 animal species every single day of the year. This beautifully landscaped urban zoo provides an accessible, budget-friendly adventure where kids can encounter everything from majestic lions and playful primates to farm animals at the Pritzker Family Children's Zoo.

🕑 3 to 4 hours

Tap for hours, tips & photos

Brookfield Zoo zoo in Brookfield, IL🦁 Zoo
Photo: Mushtariy Ibrokhimova
4.6(28,220)$$11 mi · Brookfield

Brookfield Zoo is a sprawling 216-acre world-class zoo that brings families up close with over 2,000 animals from around the globe. With its award-winning interactive exhibits, engaging dolphin presentations, hands-on children's zoo area, and seasonal festivals, this beloved Chicago-area attraction offers something magical for every member of the family to discover and explore together.

🕑 4-6 hours for a full visit, or 2-3 hours if focusing on highlights only

Tap for hours, tips & photos

Shedd Aquarium aquarium in Chicago, IL🐠 Aquarium
Photo: Deplorable Rob
4.5(31,943)$$$

The Shedd Aquarium houses over 32,000 aquatic animals from around the world, offering kids the chance to touch stingrays, watch playful sea otters, and experience spectacular dolphin and beluga whale presentations. The underwater viewing galleries and Caribbean Reef exhibit create immersive experiences that make children feel like they're diving beneath the waves without getting wet.

🕑 3-4 hours for a thorough visit including shows

Tap for hours, tips & photos

Suburbs & Neighborhoods

Also in Chicago Metro