Mentioned by MommyPoppins
The Best Zoos and Aquariums for Chicago Kids
"Lincoln Park, Chicago—15 minutes from The Loop Lincoln Park Zoo is one of just a handful of free zoos left in America. Founded in 1868, it is home to more than 1,100 animals of about 200 species. One of the most popular exhibits (and my personal favorite) is the Regenstein Center for African Apes, which allows visitors to see gorillas and chimpanzees up close and personal—sometimes they're sitting just inches away on the other side of the glass."