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Top 9 Reasons to Visit Cosley Zoo

Visit with the animals, talk with the zookeepers, and attend a special event.

By Ann Piccininni, Marketing & Communications Assistant at Wheaton Park District August 31, 2022


1. The Animals!

Want to see a Canada lynx up close? The zoo is now home to two lynx, Sage and Poppy. You can also observe a variety of species including a selection of farm animals. There are cows, coyotes, hogs, llamas, goats, ponies, foxes, hawks, vultures, snakes, turtles, frogs, and tarantulas, just to name a few!





2. Beehive of Activity
With 20 exhibits and more than 200 animals, the zoo is a beehive of activity. Visitors can get in on the action with opportunities for duck and chicken feeding. Twice a day, visitors get a chance to observe a coyote training session through the Coyote Connection program.






3. Picnic Opportunity
Grab a hot dog, an ice cream treat, or a thirst-quenching drink at the Coyote Café Concession Stand. Enjoy outdoor dining in the zoo’s large picnic grove, equipped with picnic tables and washroom facilities.




4. Free parking
Free parking is available on site.


5. Conservation
Conservation is accentuated along with education and fun! Cosley Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, a designation that points to the zoo’s high standards of animal welfare, care, and management.


6. Gift shop!
The Wild Side Gift Shop is the perfect place for souvenir collectors to find a treasure to bring home from the zoo. Select from t-shirts, toys, jewelry, and more!





7. Certified Sensory Inclusive
Cosley Zoo is Certified Sensory Inclusive. Through partnering with KultureCity, the zoo provides positive experiences for all guests with special sensory needs. Walkways throughout the zoo are accessible for those with wheelchairs and strollers.


8. Special events
The zoo hosts seasonal events such as the Pumpkin Fest in October and the Festival of Lights and Christmas Tree Sale in December. There are also family events on select dates. Please visit cosleyzoo.org for details.


9. School and Scout programs!

School and scout group programs make Cosley Zoo the perfect destination for group experiences. If you’d rather the zoo to come to you, Cosley Zoo educators are available to present virtual and in-person learning experiences at your facility.

Come on out and get a little wild in the middle of suburbia!