3 Best Places To See in Chicago, IL

“Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to nurturing a profound bond between individuals and the natural world by offering a free, family-friendly nature experience. The Zoo aims to inspire communities to cultivate flourishing environments for wildlife amid urbanization. The Zoo is celebrated for its dedication to free admission, distinguishing it as one of the few zoos in America accessible to everyone. Visitors to Lincoln Park Zoo can encounter diverse animals, birds, and plants. Among its attractions is an exceptional ape house housing an impressive collection of gorillas and chimpanzees, acclaimed as one of the world's finest. Exploring the Zoo enables guests to uncover specially tailored habitats that cater to the unique needs of each species. The Zoo features numerous exhibits, including majestic large cats, captivating gorillas, playful polar bears, endearing penguins, charming turtles, mischievous monkeys, and various other fascinating animals. Their world-class habitats allow guests to observe species up close while prioritizing the animals' well-being. Interactive programs at the Zoo include Groom the Goats, Feed the Cows, Feed the Chickens, and the Malott Family Penguin Encounter.”

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“Field Museum offers an enthralling journey through time, showcasing a wealth of natural wonders and cultural treasures. The Museum ranks among the largest in the world. Since its establishment, the Museum's collection has grown significantly, boasting an impressive assemblage of nearly 40 million artifacts and specimens. This remarkable collection traces back to items exhibited at the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893, where numerous historical sites and cultural artifacts were brought to the city and later found a permanent home at the Field Museum. The Museum's extensive collection is a testament to the dedicated work of over 150 scientists actively involved in ongoing discoveries and research. The Field Museum provides exciting opportunities for field trips, allowing students to engage in hands-on displays of science and social studies, all set within Chicago's rich historical backdrop. The Museum is committed to offering all visitors equal access to facilities, programs, and activities, with an all-gender, single-stall restroom on the ground level, situated on the south side near the James Simpson Theatre.”

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“Shedd Aquarium has earned numerous accolades for its commitment to excellence, including the prestigious "Best Exhibit" award from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for its captivating Seahorse Symphony display. A notable milestone in the Aquarium's history occurred in 1971 with the construction of a remarkable 90,000-gallon exhibit faithfully replicating the vibrant ecosystem of a Caribbean coral reef. This addition significantly expanded the Aquarium's diverse collection, which now boasts an impressive array of nearly 25,000 fish and species. The aquarium is crafted in the classical Beaux-Arts style, and it features white marble and terra cotta elements, exuding an elegant and distinguished presence. At its construction, the Shedd Aquarium was considered cutting-edge and stood as one of the city's most renowned and esteemed architectural achievements.”

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