The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of Chicago’s oldest public institutions. Founded in 1868, the zoo began with a symbolic gift, a pair of swans donated by the Central Park Commissioners of New York. From these modest beginnings, the zoo gradually expanded into a major urban wildlife center, reflecting Chicago’s commitment to public spaces and education in the late 19th century.
The zoo’s location within Lincoln Park is historically significant. The park was developed on land that once served as a city cemetery, which was gradually relocated as Chicago expanded northward after the Great Fire of 1871. As the park transformed into a public green space, the zoo became one of its central features, while emphasizing the idea that nature and recreation should be accessible to all residents, not just those who could afford the private institutions.
In its early years, the zoo resembled many 19th-century exhibitions, displaying animals in relatively small enclosures primarily for public viewing. As ideas about animal welfare and conservation evolved throughout the 20th century, so did the Lincoln Park Zoo. Enclosures were redesigned to better reflect natural habitats, and the institution began to prioritize education, and species conservation. This shift exemplified the changes in how zoos functioned worldwide from places of entertainment to centers of scientific responsibility.
One of the defining characteristics of Lincoln Park Zoo is that it has remained free and open to the public throughout its entire history. This commitment was influenced by figures like Daniel Burnham, that public spaces should be accessible and enriching for everyone. The zoo’s accessibility has made it an important part of the City families, students, or visitors exploring the lakefront.
The zoo has expanded to include a wide range of exhibits and facilities, such as the Regenstein Center for African Apes, the Kovler Lion House, and the Farm-in-the-Zoo, each designed to provide immersive and educational experiences. In addition to its exhibits, the zoo is also an active participant in global conservation efforts, contributing to research on endangered species and environmental sustainability.
Today, the Lincoln Park Zoo stands as a historical landmark and a modern scientific institution. Surrounded by the skyline on one side and Lake Michigan on the other, it shows a unique intersection of urban life and nature.
Author Review:
Lincoln Park Zoo is one of my favorite places to walk to, and I find myself going back again and again, especially because it is free and not far from DePaul. It’s easy to plan out an entire afternoon or a spontaneous walk through. There is a large variety of animals and exhibits which makes every visit stay interesting, and it is always changing depending on the season. My favorite is the bird house because of its open air aviary. You are really immersed with the animals. During the Holiday season they have a lot of fun events such as Zoo lights and festivals which are always great fun and add to the no two visits are the same dynamic.
About the Author
Hello my name is Simone Graczyk and I am originally from Denver Colorado. I am currently a music performance major with a minor in history. I love playing the flute, reading, and traveling!
Read more on the Honors Blog.
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