Chicago Lincoln Park Nature and Zoo Tour

Discover the wild heart of Chicago on our guided walking tour through Lincoln Park, where nature and history meet in one unforgettable experience. What sets our tour apart is the seamless blend of three iconic destinations—the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, the lush Lincoln Park Conservatory, and the vibrant Lincoln Park Zoo—curated into one dynamic, story-filled journey led by a knowledgeable local guide. You'll marvel at the butterflies in flight, wander through exotic gardens under glass, and encounter wildlife from around the world—all while uncovering the hidden history and surprising beauty of this beloved urban oasis. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong Chicagoan, this tour offers fresh insights, natural wonders, and photo-worthy moments at every turn. Book now and see why Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s most treasured gems!

Meeting Point

2430 N Cannon Dr

2430 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

We will meet up outside the main entrance to the Nature Museum at 2430 N. Cannon Dr.
Street parking is available plus you can park at the Zoo which is close to where the tour concludes.

What's included:

• Expert Guide

What to expect:

Duration: 2 hours

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

2430 N Cannon Dr, , Chicago, 60614-2874, Illinois

Start your guided tour at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum with a walk up to the scenic rooftop, where native plants and panoramic views of Lincoln Park and the city skyline set the stage for your experience. From there, head down to explore the museum grounds, where curated gardens and natural landscapes showcase the region’s diverse ecosystems. Inside, step into the tranquil beauty of the Butterfly Haven, a living greenhouse where hundreds of butterflies flutter around you in a lush, tropical setting. Then discover the Birds of Chicago exhibit, where your guide highlights fascinating facts about local and migratory birds through engaging displays and interactive features.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Lincoln Park Conservatory

2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, 60614-3419, Illinois

Step inside the lush, glass-enclosed world of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, one of Chicago’s most vibrant botanical treasures. Your expert guide will lead you through the Conservatory’s historic Victorian-style greenhouses, pointing out exotic plants, rare orchids, and tropical palms that flourish year-round in this warm and fragrant oasis.
Begin in the Palm House, where towering palms and ancient cycads create a canopy above a carpet of green. Continue into the Fern Room, a serene space filled with prehistoric foliage and a cascading indoor waterfall. Next, explore the Orchid House, a colorful gallery of blooming orchids and other delicate flowers, and then wander through the Show House, which features seasonal floral displays and rotating exhibits.
Throughout the tour, your guide shares stories of the Conservatory’s 19th-century origins, the unique care these plants require, and the ecological importance of plant conservation.

25 minutes

Lincoln Park Zoo

2001 N Clark St, , Chicago, 60614-4757, Illinois

The last stop on our walking tour is Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in the country. Your expert guide will lead you through highlights of the zoo’s animal habitats, from majestic big cats to playful primates, sharing fun facts and conservation stories along the way. As we stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, you’ll get a glimpse into the zoo’s rich history and its mission of wildlife preservation. The tour concludes at the stunning Peoples Gas Education Pavilion, where you'll enjoy a peaceful view of the Nature Boardwalk and the Chicago skyline beyond.

30 minutes