Zoo Teens Events

Zoo Teens Events

Select days

Free

For teens ages 13-18

Are you a teen interested in learning more about wildlife or fascinated by everything conservation-related? If you’d like to connect more to the work done at Lincoln Park Zoo while collaborating with like-minded peers, consider joining us for a Zoo Teens event.

Zoo Teens events is designed for teens ages 13–18 from across the Chicagoland region who want to learn from zoo experts. Explore a diverse range of activities: You can create art for conservation, learn how to coexist with urban animals such as bats and birds, or even get involved in a role-playing game.

Zoo Teens events take place throughout the year. Take a look at some of the past and upcoming events we’ve hosted below and plan to join us for one soon!

Upcoming Zoo Teens Events

 

Zoo Teens: Roll for Wildlife

Saturday, October 31
at Prism Games

Join Lincoln Park Zoo’s Teen Programs Team at Prism Games in Logan Square to play a session of Dungeons and Dragons-inspired roleplay and combat focused on a conservation topic. This event is open to beginning adventurers and experts alike.

Register Now

Zoo Teens: Plants & Prints

Saturday, November 7
at Lincoln Park Zoo

Come join teens from across Chicago in an activity that merges botanic knowledge and the Japanese art of tataki zome, or plant hammering, to create relief prints using natural dyes made from plants.

Register Now

Past Zoo Teens Events

Zoo Teens: Bat to School

Join Lincoln Park Zoo for this exclusive, after-hours teen event to celebrate these unsung and often misunderstood heroes of our ecosystem.

Zoo Teens: Camp It

Discover exactly why camping is a great way to see the country and gain confidence in skills like pitching a tent and camping on a small budget.

Zoo Teens: Duck, Duck, Heron!

Join teens from the zoo’s Conservation Ambassadors Board for an afternoon of learning, discovery, and action to celebrate the arrival of these state-endangered birds!

Zoo Teens: Saving the Planet Chicago Style

Slow down and experience Lake Michigan! Participants will discover how young people have made their mark in conservation, they’ll explore Lake Michigan, and use their imaginations to promote positive urban conservation messaging through the arts.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

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Can parents join in?

In order to maintain a safe space for teens, parents and guardians are not allowed at the event. However, anyone waiting for a teen participant is encouraged to explore the zoo.

Where can I park for a Zoo Teens program?

Parking is available in the zoo lot at 2400 N. Cannon Drive for any events in which teens meet on zoo grounds. Validation will be provided if needed.

How do I keep in touch?

Attending a Zoo Teens event automatically adds you to a list of people we reach out to when youth events take place. You will also receive notification when other teen opportunities, including internships and leadership programs, are available.

Who should I contact if I have further questions?

Reach out to us at [email protected].

Looking for More?

Malott Family Zoo Intern Program
During the summer

Chicago high school students, ages 16–18, work as on-grounds interpreters to inform the public about animal science and conservation. Teens also work on independent projects which promote positive conservation during this educational paid internship that lasts seven weeks.

Malott Family Research Apprenticeship Program
During the summer

Chicago high school students, ages 16–18, spend seven weeks working alongside zoo researchers and engaging in authentic scientific research during this rigorous paid apprenticeship. Applicants must be entering grades 11–12 or their freshman year of college.

Camp Teen Volunteer
During the summer

Chicago high school students, ages 13–18, spend five weeks assisting with the running of Conservation Camp for grades PreK–5. This is an unpaid service-learning opportunity for students entering grades 9–12 or their freshman year of college.

Conservation Ambassadors Board
During the school year

Chicago high school students, ages 16–18, contribute to the zoo’s public conservation programming by planning special events and outreach initiatives for their peers. This program runs twice each year from September to November and March to May, with most meetings taking place on Saturdays.

Stay in the Know

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