Nature Boardwalk with skyline view of Chicago skyscrapers

Keep Your Zoo Free

Join & Give Infographic that says: "1 person can make a difference for the zoo's animals, worldwide conservation efforts, and state-of-the-art learning programs. Your gift supports: food for every zoo animal, including 2,000+ pounds of hay, fish, romaine lettuce, insects, and peanut butter; 250 species studied in the wild, from Chicago to the Republic of Congo; 170+ animal species and 330 plant species in the zoo's care; 492,000 guests attending chats and other facilitated learning programs.

80% of the zoo’s operating costs are supported by zoo members, donors, and visitors.

Lincoln Park Zoo is free and open to the public 365 days a year, and your support makes it all possible. Together, we can inspire communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world.

DONATE NOW

Ways to Give

Become a Member

As a member, you’ll receive free or reduced parking rates, invitations to exclusive events, zoo-wide discounts, and more!

ADOPT an Animal

Animals Depend On People Too! When you ADOPT an animal, you support world-class animal care by helping to provide specially formulated diets, new habitat elements, and regular veterinary checkups.

Join a Donor Club

Donor Club members generously support the zoo with annual gifts of $365 or more. This special group is first in line for insider information and VIP experiences.

Support the Wish List

The Wish List is full of one-of-a-kind items for zoo animals—including nutritious snacks and enrichment items to keep them active and healthy.

Foundations and Grants

Through a grant, you can help fund a zoo project or program of your choice—from saving endangered species in Africa to connecting with communities in Chicago.

Chicago’s Free Zoo

When you donate to Lincoln Park Zoo, you inspire wonder and awe, nurture a love of animals, and keep the zoo free and open every day of the year.

LEARN ABOUT THE ZOO

Child watching African penguin in exhibit

Explore Dedication & Tribute Opportunities

Tribute gifts offer a unique way to celebrate a loved one, a special occasion, or your own love for the zoo. Choose from a variety of dedication opportunities or make a donation in honor of friends and family.

Make a Planned Gift

Make a lasting impact on our animal care, conservation, and learning programs by including the zoo in your estate plan. Heritage Society members also receive unique benefits, including invitations to special events.

Explore Corporate Partnership

Our corporate partners help fund the zoo and connect more people with wildlife through program and event sponsorships, philanthropic grants, and Corporate Membership. They also receive employee benefits, like free parking and volunteer opportunities.


More Information

For information on making a stock gift, scheduling monthly giving, or making your dollar go further with a matching gift, explore more ways to give.

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