Chicago's 49-acre Lincoln Park Zoo houses more than 1,100 mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds, as well as thousands of fish and insects. More than 200 different animal species are represented. One of the child-oriented exhibits is the Prizker Family Children's Zoo, which is devoted to North American wildlife. In addition to the exotic animals on display, the Farm-in-the-Zoo exhibit features domesticated farm animals, such as chickens, cows, goats, pigs and ponies. The Lincoln Park Zoo is open year-round. Hours vary throughout the year; admission is free.
Lincoln Park Zoo
2001 North Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60614
312-742-2000
lpzoo.com
The John G. Shedd Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, is home to more than 32,600 aquatic animals that represent approximately 1,500 species, including sharks, rays and sea turtles. Shedd's Oceanarium also features a variety of marine mammals, including beluga whales and dolphins.
John G. Shedd Aquarium
1200 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60605
312-939-2438
sheddaquarium.org
With three floors that house 13 permanent, interactive exhibits, the Chicago Children's Museum has the potential to keep children entertained for hours. The Dinosaur Expedition exhibit features an authentic excavation pit in which children can experience digging for fossils, while the Water Ways exhibit offers children the opportunity to learn about and play with pulleys, pumps, water wheels, locks and dams.
Chicago Children's Museum
700 E. Grand Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
312-527-1000
chicagochildrensmuseum.org
The Amazing Chicago Funhouse Maze is an interactive maze that offers a variety of games and sensory experiences, which include mirrors, elevators and strobe lights. The maze is open every day, which the exception of Christmas and Thanksgiving; hours vary throughout the year.
Amazing Chicago Funhouse Maze
600 E. Grand Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
630-990-4570
amazingchicago.com
