Best Zoo in Glendale Heights

"In 37 acres and dating back to 1868, this zoo deserves extra credit as one of the last remaining free admission animal parks in the United States. There are more than 1,100 animals here, in habitats that are constantly being revamped. The polar bear and African penguin enclosures for instance have just been reopened, while a recent arrival in 2014 is the Regenstein Macaque Forest where you can see Japanese macaques bathing in a hot spring as they do in the wild."

"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."

"Lincoln Park Zoo has one of the most extensive zoo-based conservation and science programs in the US, and pledges to take the best care of its animal residents. Spend the day with black rhinos, zebra, sloths and the delightfully named Allen’s Swamp Monkey – all for the price of zero dollars."

"A Metra train ride out to the suburb of Brookfield, this zoo is in 216 acres of green parkland and boasts more than 450 species. The Brookfield Zoo made waves when it opened in 1934 as it pioneered the use of moats and ditches instead of cages, and was also the first in America to have giant pandas. One of the most recent additions is the Great Bear Wilderness, letting you get within inches of North Americas mightiest carnivores."

"Not only is Brookfield Zoo a wonderful place to visit the animals, it’s also a world leader in animal population management and wildlife conservation. Admission is free for zoo members and all active, reservist, and retired members of the military."

"Lincoln Park Zoo is a renowned 35-acre zoo in Lincoln Park and a hotspot for tourists. It’s the zoo’s pavilion, designed to provide shelter for open-air on-site classes, that offers such a fantastically picturesque snap. With the design drawing inspiration from the appearance of a tortoise’s shell, the stunning curved wooden pavilion elegantly frames the Chicago skyline."

"The Regenstein Center for African Apes is also part or rather an extension of the Lincoln Park Zoo, where the visitors can come close to the apes, chimpanzees and the gorillas that have found their home there. It is home to some of the endangered species of western lowland gorillas as well as chimpanzees and exists to provide with the most realistic looking environment for them to live in comfortably. Location: 2058-2156 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, USATimings: 10 AM to 5 PMEntry Fees : –"

"The Helen Brach Primate House is yet another extension of the Lincoln Park Zoo and is home to primates of varying shapes, sizes and colour. The area is made in a way to imitate the natural habitat for the primates to make them feel safe and familiar at the place that they are residing in. It was opened back in 1927 which finally underwent an extensive renovation in the year 1992."

"Creative Brazilian-style cakes and treats are baked at Fabiana’s Bakery, a cute space on 53rd Street in Hyde Park. Chocolate cakes and banana cream pies are highlights. Fabiana Carter also provides booze-infused desserts down the street at Bibliophile, the gastropub/cafe she and her husband run down the street."

"Chicago Bagel Authority — lovingly known as CBA — isn't just the perfect Insta, it's also the perfect bagel sandwich. As the NYC bagel trend has made its way to Chi, these bagels give the Big Apple a run for its money. Their Steamwiches offer almost every sammie combination you can imagine."

"Eat This Right Now:  Chia Bagel – Vegan Loaded Bagel ($7.50). I’m not sure what is the best part of Chicago Bagel Authority. Their laid back atmosphere with couches, writing on the wall, and board games paired with their extra late hours makes it a great place to hang out."

"Chicagoans love sandwiches, so it’s no surprise that bagel sandwiches are a must. Chicago Bagel Authority is just a friendly reminder that bagels can be eaten at any time of day."

"The Crepe Shop has the best crepes in the city, but did you know that their coffee is equally impressive?. They have a handful of flavored lattes on the menu, and they all taste excellent. It’s a one-stop-shop for breakfast/brunch, and they have the cutest space."

"You'll feel instantly uplifted upon entering Blue Door Farm Stand, a bright, two-story Lincoln Park restaurant outfitted with modern-meets-rustic touches like iron chandeliers, exposed wooden beams, plush seating, and a long marble bar. A local and seasonal approach drives the menu here, with a compilation of classic brunch plates that take some contemporary twists. Try the flavor-packed bell pepper and bacon Benedict (with chèvre, heirloom tomatoes, and spring onion), or go lighter with the veggie burger."

"As the name suggests, farm-to-table is the game at this rustic restaurant that pulls produce and other ingredients from nearby farms. For those whose resolutions are still intact, order the smoked chicken salad on multigrain bread. If not, opt for the apple pie and bacon grilled cheese."

"DuSable Museum of African American History is not only a site that houses valuable artifacts of African-American history, but the building itself is a structure of historical importance. Architect Daniel H Burnham had originally constructed the structure as horse stables, but the beautiful timber and limestone structure from the 19th century houses one of the best-curated museums today. Teenagers and preteens will be able to appreciate the art exhibitions and poetry reading sessions that capture the African-American experience."

"It was very informative with regards to the black soldiers during the war & their contributions. The DuSable Museum has jazz in the park and there was plenty of jazz lover’s there. The bands were fantastic and the weather was great."