An Urban Oasis in the Concrete Jungle. Take the half mile hike around the nature Boardwalk which is connected to the Lincoln Park Zoo. Take the Less Traveled fork to the right to go around the pond when coming from the south, as most people go left to go straight into Lincoln Park Zoo On a relaxing walk down the boardwalk around the pond, you will see some of the plants and wildlife native to Illinois. Look down in the water and you will see egrets, turtles, as well as fish. The vegetation is Lush and in some places currently taller than 8 ft. This is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, meet up with some friends, enjoy nature, or see the Fantastic Chicago skyline. Take time to stop and read the plaques around the pond it will give you some good insight into the care and thought that was put into this gorgeous location. A place to relax, unwind and enjoy the day.

This is going to become my favorite place to photograph the Chicago skyline. Located quite close to the Lincoln Park zoo, this is another hidden gem in Chicago. It is very popular among photographers - so many different perspectives and so many different locations. First there is the beautiful and lush garden/prairie - home to many varieties of plants, flowers and trees. Then there is the life thriving in and around the lake - fish, turtles, birds - teeming with life. Then there is the honeycomb structure - pavilion. It is a favorite spot for taking wedding photos. Then is the bridge across the pond with a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. Then you will see lots of people taking a walk or jogging - another favorite pastime.

This is a wonderful place to visit for everyone! Single, couples, friends, families with young children, etc. Even now at the start of November there is lots to see! It is FREE and there is lots to see. There are paid things here like telescope viewing, train rides, calliope. I think it was 0.50 cents for the telescopes. They have benches everywhere and lots of nature to see besides the zoo animals. Today November 5 2021 it opened at 10:00 A.M. ... Actually they had a gathering of people so they decided to open a few minutes early for us life around 5 minutes early! It's really accessable by bus. I only had to take one bus from my hotel around Ohio!

Beautiful, peaceful boardwalk around the south pond. With tall wildflower plantings all around, you can really feel at peace as you stroll around watching wildlife. The pond is full of turtles and fish, and birds hover near the water's edge and nest in the flowers and reeds. The boardwalk is all composite material, which is nice and level for toddlers, strollers and wheelchairs, or for those with infirm footing. As a caution, the boards can be quite slippery when wet, including after the morning dew. Plenty of benches line the path, with lookout points and railings all along.

Beautiful and relaxing as always. Other than the occasional idiots kicking garbage cans over at night it's a wonderful place to visit.
Restrooms
I can't say much about the women's bathroom but the men's bathroom always has broken toilets and they look as though they have never been cleaned so they have ample amount of stalactites and stalagmites forming in them.
Dog-friendliness
Dog walkers in the park are a little to cavalier about letting their dogs go free to do what they want regardless of anyone else's feeling. Weather

This is such a gorgeous site to stroll around and take photographs. There is a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline, pretty walking paths lined with flowers and an amazing wooden arbor structure by uber cool Studio Gang Architects (Lead by architect, Jeanne Gang), which lends different perspectives when viewed from opposite spots (i.e., across from or under it). In addition, you can enter the (free) Lincoln Park Zoo from this area...worth viewing rain or shine...so pretty here!

This is my favorite place to walk in Chicago because there are no cars or bikes to worry about while walking. I need to walk 5,000 steps and are three loops in the boardwalk. The for stars is that sometimes bikes come here and shouldn't and there is litter in the water that none cares for. Also, parking should be expanded and made FREE as the Boardwalk. The City of Chicago is always taking from people and never giving.

Gorilla exhibit is best part, hands down! We stopped by this weekend and we’re mesmerized watching the 10+ gorillas. They have baby gorillas which are so entertaining and fun to watch. This by far was the coolest part of the zoo. Strangely all cafes and food stops were closed when we went so make sure to bring food water and snacks. Otherwise the zoo is so fun and gorgeous to walk around!

Whether waiting for the zoo to open, looking for a place to take in nature, looking for some exercise or what have you, this is a well maintained and lovely little walk. It's especially beautiful in the summer when the cone flowers and such are blooming, but you really cannot go wrong even on a rainy spring morning. If you are zisiting the zoo don't miss it, it is next to the farm.

This is a restored prairie and a wild life research area for the zoo. Fishing is not allowed, dogs are requested to be on a leash (repeat: this is a wild life research area) and visitors should stay on the walking paths to prevent damaging plants. Many photographers come here with clients for the excellent city views.
Dog-friendliness
Great place to walk dogs on a leash.

Many complain that spending a day in the city is so expensive, but there are so many enjoyable things to do that are free! This is certainly one of them. Lovely place to walk around and enjoy the views (both natural and cityscape). It's right near the zoo, which is also free. The honeycomb structure is an awesome photoshoot spot, so make sure to take advantage of that!

I had a pretty nice time doing community service for this great NFP organization. The area is absolutely beautiful. I don’t know why people will litter there anyway. It was nice connecting with the animals as I did my work. To be honest, I might continue this on my spare time. Major eye opener to nature for me. The people here are great. I’ll be back soon.

This was a nice little curbside area with good food under a huge canopy right in front of a lake Varied collection of beer and other alcoholic beverages Nice stop point to sit, relax and have a good time reading good food
Features
Playground: No
Public restrooms: Yes
Off-leash dog area: No
Picnic tables: Yes
Barbecue grills: No

Lincoln Park Zoo and the surrounding area is PERFECTION. We are there almost weekly taking photos for engagement sessions, family photos, and weddings. It's got a distant skyline view, with a heavier focus on nature of course. lots of trees, secluded grassy areas, and a very cool stone structure as well as the famous honeycomb.

Right next to the Lincoln Park Zoo is the picturesque Nature Boardwalk. You can enjoy the scenic views of downtown Chicago while taking in the peaceful pond, lovely plants, and art. It's ideal for walking, jogging, and picnicking. Lincoln Park parking is pricey, but there's so much to do that you can spend a day there easily.

One of my favorite spots in the city, with lots of nature within feet of the path. The lake is so peaceful and the views of downtown can't be beat. Easy access to the zoo, the lakefront, and Lincoln Park. Highly recommended place for photoshoots as well. Go and discover this place if you haven't been. Parking is a nightmare.

This is always a wonderful place to go, if your planing on going to the zoo next door make sure you make a RESERVATION IN ADVANCE online !!!!! Also most the board walks and cool little areas around there are still closed . But no worries , it's still always a wonderful place to take the kids and walk around in !!!

I took my family out to see the Zoo lights and it was great! It felt a bit different walking around the zoo at night but we had a nice experience although the hot chocolate was $5, the beer was $9, the popcorn was $7, and the parking was $25. A little overpriced but overall a memorable evening with my family.

This is a delightful wooden structure that surrounds the South Pond in Lincoln Park, allowing visitors to walk close to its shores and spend time close to nature with minimal disturbance. It is a great endeavour, good for man and nature alike and one of the features I appreciated most about the Park and Zoo.

What a beautiful thing to put in a park! So nice to be able to walk and check out the animals at the zoo. The keepers there are very informative and do a great job also! Remember people quit throwing garbage in the Parks this is mother nature's home please take care of her!!!! …

The zoo is in transition so all is very familiar but the excitement was in the surrounding flowering areas where we discovered little gems like Hummingbird Hawk moths . Perfect insect mimics of their namesakes . Perfect day at LP Zoo ! …

One of the most picturesque places in Chicago. City in the background and nature in the foreground. I had my engagement photos done in and around the boardwalk and brought every visitor to this spot. My absolute favorite place in Chicago.

Nature’s Boardwalk in Chicago is a serene city escape, brimming with native plants and lively frogs. The well-maintained path winds through diverse local flora, offering glimpses of vibrant wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Awesome park with beautiful views and lush areas teaming with wild life. Great park to take your pup, kids, or just for a nice stroll. If you in Chicago don't shy away from this beautiful greenscape in the outskirts of city life.

Nice atmosphere..The place is wonderful to walk around and look at nature as well....Have a peaceful vibe.
Dog-friendliness
Definitely alot of people like to walk their dogs here.seems dog Friendly atmosphere.

Very beautiful nature walk. Got to see alot of different fish, turtles, and beautiful birds you normally don't see around the city. Just some feed the animals or birds. Signs are posted but still saw people doing it!

Such a beautiful walk, perfect for date night or just a walk in peace. Parking is free nearby, the beach is across the street. Highly recommend checking it out if you are in area, it really is amazingly beautiful.

I HAD SUCH AN AMAZINGLY AWESOME EXPERIENCE THERE. IT IS A GREAT PLACE TO TAKE THE FAMILY. THE RESTAURANTS SERVE GREAT FOOD AND THE STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS ARE SO HELPFUL AND FRIENDLY. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE.

Great place to take a leisure stroll, lots of wild flowers, lake with turtles and fish. Tranquil and relaxing spot with several different paths or trails to walk around and right next to the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Beautiful place surrounded by sculpture trees and can see skyline of downtown Chicago.zoo lights brights up the place. Looks like dreaming.If lucky You can find free parking on side roads.

This place is absolutely beautiful! It's a great place to take nice photos as well. I went for a stroll yesterday and saw two weddings being photographed here. Has nice views of the city!

Information boards posted all around the walkways with useful info and the viewing telescope now being free. Lots of turtles sunbathing too! Just try not to feed the animals please.

Beautiful boardwalk around the lagoon or pond, we saw frogs, and turtles one the size of a giant dinner platter! Be sure to stop in the LP Zoo and see the 3 new lion cubs :) …

Great little zoo. Free entry but still well maintained. They have a very chatty lion, circa Alex from Madegascar. Baby baboon and the little hippo were probably our highlight

Terrific experience. The lion enclosure was very beautiful especially as the new cub was playing around in full view. Well worth the effort to park in the surrounding streets

Great for kids! Viees of the skyline and the zoo. This was new since I was here a few years ago. Nice long circular boardwalk with turtles, fish, and a view of the skyline!

One of my favorite spot in the city where you can walk , enjoy seeing amazing creatures and capture breathtaking pictures . Walking paths are mostly shoveled and salted .

Lovely area to walk around and stroll and enjoy the beautiful city views in a natural habitat! Lots of different walkways and tons of animals! Very impressed every time!

Very well kept! In walking distance to Lincoln Park Zoo. Ideal to bring children, family. There is plenty of space for picnics, pet-play, outdoor activities and fun!

what can i say. great place to take your kids with, beautiful nature, and you really can spend a lot of fun time there. worth giving a try, your kids will thank you!

Wonderful walk around the lake. Natural plants fill the walk. Beautiful flowers, different birds, fish, turtles, frogs and butterflies and bees and people.

Such a beautiful path for after dinner walking. It is a perfect example of linking human beings and the nature. Reminds me of Central Park NYC.

Family friendly and free access, is a great place to enjoy with kids. Also, closed to one of the amazing city that maybe you have never meet

Can't go wrong with a free zoo! We enjoyed our walk through the park. Missed being able to see the lions due to construction, but that's ok!

We come here bright and early to enjoy the beauty and miracles that Chicago has to offer. You can feel the present moment at this location.

Such a beautiful spot in Lincoln Park! It's well kept, clean, serene, and a great place to walk surrounded by nature amidst big city life.

It was a very fun experience walking though the boardwalk. We got to see a lot of fun animals and it is a great place to bring kids.

The Italian food was great and the price very reasonable, however the desert and the icecream a little bit overpriced, great service

Beautiful venue with an amazing backdrop.... It's all connected to the Lincoln Park zoo. Is a real gem for the city of Chicago.

Nice little nature walk and zoo. Visited this place several months ago and just realized I had some pictures still on my phone.

It's a beautiful structure that everybody should visit when coming to Chicago. You can take amazing pictures there. Love it!!!

Very nice place to take or walk or have pictures taken. If you look closely you can see many types of fish swimming around.

They do not have cameras in the parking lot and someone broke our window and stole her our purse and the act like don't car

A spot to take photos with john hancock building-centerd Chicago skyline as the background. Come during the golden hour!

The visit at the zoo was very pleasant and relaxing, I enjoyed seeing the animals and the different plants and flowers.

I live around this neighborhood for over 15 years. We are very lucky to have this carved out in the middle of our city.

The walk was a lovely walk. Walked along the lake to get here lots of good sights and then the zoo was within it.

The best structure and location that makes any photoshoot look amazing. My favorite place to photograph :)

Amazing! Very beautiful and with good care, plants are very healthy in this garden! Loved the experience

One of my favorite spots to go to just sit and relax. A very good spot for pictures if you're into that

Beautiful gardens and pathways. Nice place to end my running, get a cold drink and head back home.

Hidden gem if you don't know it's already there. Very popular place for walking and taking photos.

Christmas light at the zoo is was awesome sauce family had a wonderful time …

Absolutely beautiful trail and park. On the bridge you get a gorgeous shot of the Chicago skyline

Lovely piece of nature right in the city. Also has a nice view of downtown from atop the bridge.

Even in winter, for a first time experience I loved it. Can't wait to go back in warmer weather!

It was quiet and Serene looking at the beautiful wildlife in its natural habitat was wonderful

One of the best photo opps from north toward John Hancock and downtown skyline with lake view.

It's a beautiful spot to take pictures with all the most important buildings on the background

The best Beautiful thing to do at the zoo. Really at least you get a great skyline picture.

It’s a good place to walk around there! You also can take some nice pics with the skyline.

Lovely place to take pictures and get some fresh air! Beautiful views of the city as well!

I had a great time... I haven't been here 23 years... Just spending time with my youngest

Very scenic. Great views. Also a good place to grind pokemon on event days in Pokemon Go!

We picked the perfect day. The skies were blue and trees were yellow, red, and orange.

Great zoo! Best of all there is no fee to enter the zoo. But you do pay for parking.

My family loved it! We had a beautiful day; a must go if you are in town with kids!

Beautiful park with a zoo attached. Open to the public. Free fun for everyone.

Excellent place. Good for walk and spend some good times. Fresher breathing.

Pleasant and good crowd - specially when weather gets nice - has good vibe

Fun place to enjoy a nice walk and take some fun pictures of the Pavilion.

It at the end of the zoo. Great place for photos with skyline in the back

Wonderful for handicapped to see the birds and enjoy the natural habitat.

Visiting early on a weekend morning is a fantastic experience year round.

One of the relaxing part of the city. We love walking around here. …

A beautiful place. Some animals were missing like monkeys and lions.

Love the view we didn't see a lot of animals due to there remodeling

Great views, in the city though so it's really not too much nature.

I love the view from the nature walk it really good for self care.

Perfect place to go and relax! My kids would have loved it here!

It's really a joyful place to visit and we do this often . …

Place is nice, Peaceful, and wonderful to sight seeing …

Lovely views! Very calming, serene place. Great for photos.

Beautiful green peaceful. Lots of turtles fish and birds.

A little piece of quiet in the midst of a chaotic city.

Great place to walk around right downtown in the city.

Very nice views, awesome job with the flower gardens!

Great Sound and Light show. Great winter lights.

Really pretty with lots of cool nature and facts

It’s a amazing place to enjoy with your family,