Hotels near Lincoln Park and Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the last free zoos in the United States, set inside the larger Lincoln Park that runs for miles along the lakefront. Founded in 1868, it keeps lions, gorillas, polar bears and a working farm-in-the-zoo within easy reach of downtown, all without an admission fee.

The surrounding park adds the Lincoln Park Conservatory, the tranquil Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool, miles of walking and cycling paths, and a lagoon with the skyline rising behind it - a classic Chicago postcard view. Together they make an easy, low-cost half day, especially good for families.

Pro Tip: Because entry is free you can dip in for an hour without guilt, and the zoo opens earlier than most attractions, so start here. Walk south through the park afterwards to the Cafe Brauer lagoon for the famous skyline-behind-the-pond photo.