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Peggy Notebaert Nature Center Description

Just a half-block or so from the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Notabaert Nature Center offers hands-on experience for budding naturalists and their parents. Kids can get up close and personal with colorful winged insects in the Butterfly Haven, learn about energy conservation in the Extreme Green House, and take a walk through recreations of three different Midwestern environments. The museum is mostly geared toward little kids, but older kids with younger siblings will find plenty to keep them interested.

Kid Tips

Toddlers & Pre-K: Make sure to head to the hands-on habitat, where young kids can climb, run, and slide.

School-Age Kids: They're fascinated by the Wilderness Walk, a recreation of three separate Midwestern habitats complete with sound, wildlife, and realistic lighting.

Pre-Teens & Teens: Young environmentalists will learn a lot from the Extreme Green House; for instance, why it's not eco-friendly to loiter in front of the fridge with the door open.

Planning Notes

Try not to use their parking lot. Before you head there, check for street parking on Cannon Drive, or head to the Lincoln Park Conservatory lot -- it's quite a bit cheaper.

Pack your own food, or eat before or after your visit. There's a café, but food options are very limited, not to mention overpriced. There's also a room with cafeteria-style seating and some vending machines in case you need a snack, but it might be best to pack your own food.

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