Last Updated on December 10, 2023 by Usama
Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest wildlife parks in North America! Ever since 1868, it has been home to various animals and approximately 200 species. The zoo is located in Lincoln Park, Chicago, a few miles from the city center. Planning a visit is a breeze if you use our guide—Parking Access offers valuable information and tips on parking at Lincoln Park Zoo! Discover all about general admission, Lincoln Park Zoo parking rates, and several alternatives to parking.
Lincoln Park Zoo—General Admission
Lincoln Park Zoo is open from 10 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday and until 7 PM on weekends. The main office is located at 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614. The zoo has four gates, and the East one is the most convenient for drivers—it’s placed at 2400 N. Cannon Drive.
Unlike most zoos in the United States, Lincoln Park Zoo offers free admission! It’s always been free thanks to the support and donations by zoo members, donors, and the Chicago Park District. Therefore, you can visit it at any time free of charge!
If you’re coming to visit Chicago and want to explore the city, we suggest that you purchase Chicago CityPass to check out all the city’s attractions at a discounted price! The pass includes admissions to the following places:
Lincoln Park Zoo Parking
The entrance to the main Lincoln Park Zoo parking lot is at Fullerton Parkway and Cannon Drive—along the east side of the zoo. It’s a safe and convenient parking area with plenty of car parking spots available between 6 AM and 11 PM. Scroll down to check out the zoo parking map and discover public parking rates, as well as several alternatives.
How Much Is Lincoln Park Zoo Parking?
Searching for free parking at Lincoln Park Zoo? You can get a complimentary or discounted parking space if you’re a zoo member. Otherwise, free parking is available for up to 30 minutes, while the maximum daily parking rate ranges between $20 and $35. It’s usually around $25, but it depends on the day.
Accessible Parking
Handicapped parking at Lincoln Park Zoo is free and available at several locations:
- in the main parking area
- on northbound Stockton Drive, near Café Brauer
- near Farm-in-the-Zoo’s service gate
- near Lincoln Park Conservatory
Vehicles occupying these spots have to own and display disabled parking permits or license plates.
Lincoln Park Zoo Parking Alternatives
The official parking lot offers plenty of standard parking spaces, and the admission is free, so paying for parking isn’t an issue for many guests. However, some visitors look for cheaper alternatives; are you one of them? We’ll save your time, too—discover a few convenient money-saving options.
Parking Near Lincoln Park Zoo
We looked into city parking facilities by Lincoln Park that charge less than the official zoo lot. You have several suitable parking options located within walking distance of the zoo. The listed rates apply for 3 hours of parking.
| Parking Garage/Lot | Address | Parking Rate |
| LAZ Parking – Webster Square | 527 W Webster Ave | $10 |
| Hemingway House – Valet Parking | 1850 N Clark St. | $10 |
| Carriage Lot | 1552 N Wells St | $12 |
| Lincoln Commons Garage | 2316 N Lincoln Ave | $15 |
| Americana Towers Condominium | 1636 N Wells St | $15 |
| SP + Garage Parking | 345 W Fullerton Pkwy | $19 |
| Hotel Lincoln | 1816 N Clark St | $20 |
Chicago Street Parking
Metered street parking availability is high along the North Clark Street, and the hourly parking cost is $2.25. If you plan on staying for up to two hours, this is a good choice. Use the ParkChicago app for all the relevant info. You must pay attention to the signs, though—you don’t want to end up with a parking ticket. In case you do, learn how to contest parking tickets properly!
Public Transportation
Using alternative transportation methods instead of driving helps reduce your costs but also your carbon footprint! CTA 22, 36, 151, and 156 buses are the most cost-effective way to get to the zoo—a one-way bus fare is only $2.25. They stop along the western edge of the zoo. You can also use CTA Brown, Purple, and Red Lines. The Armitage and Fullerton train stations are about a mile from Lincoln Park Zoo, and the fare is $2.50.
Bottom Line
In general, getting to Lincoln Park Zoo is as simple as it gets! Whether you wish to drive or use public transit, the zoo is easily accessible and offers free admission. The official parking structure is convenient but sometimes too pricey, so you can turn to city parking garages, lots, or spots near Lincoln Park. Finally, if you wish to dodge parking altogether, hop on a CTA bus or train and reach the zoo hassle-free!
Parking Access is here to take you through any parking process! If you plan on flying out of Chicago, be sure to check out our comprehensive guides to O’Hare Airport Parking and Midway Airport Parking. Compare all the facilities and rates to quickly find the best spot near the airport!