Garden view
Founded in 1868, Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo is simultaneously one of the oldest and one of the most modern zoos in America. It is also the nation’s only privately-managed free zoo. The zoo’s landscape has transformed over the past 150 years amidst a historic oak canopy which pre-dates the founding of Chicago. Today, Lincoln Park Zoo welcomes over 3.6 million visitors to 49 acres gardens comprised of formal landscapes, animal habitats, and prairie themed gardens at Nature Boardwalk.
The zoo’s landscape is literally alive—bursting with the colors, textures, and scents of more than 850 plant species. This urban oasis is home to native birds, frogs, fish, turtles, insects, and more, and is a welcome escape from the bustling city. Use the tool below to search the unique plants and gardens that thrive in this accredited arboretum.

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Garden map
Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo Webpage and learn about our Plants & Gardens.
Please contact plantrecords@lpzoo.org for plant collection inquiries or questions.
The herbaceous perennial hibiscus collection at Lincoln Park Zoo is comprised of 100 individual taxa represented by over 300 plants. The collection showcases the level of diversity created by cultivation and breeding of four species of North American native hibiscus: Hibiscus moscheutos, Hibiscus coccineus, Hibiscus laevis and Hibiscus grandiflorus.
Lincoln Park Zoo Mission
Lincoln Park Zoo is dedicated to connecting people with nature by providing a free, family-oriented wildlife experience in the heart of Chicago and by advancing the highest quality of animal care, education, science, and conservation.