Run for the Zoo 2026

Sun, May 31, 2026, 7:30 AM CDT

Location: 2300 N Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614
Type: Run

Race feel

Run a scenic 15K through Lincoln Park Zoo, enjoying Chicago's skyline and Lake Michigan views, all while supporting a beloved institution.

Scenic
For a Cause

Join the 48th annual Run for the Zoo, a cherished Chicago tradition supporting Lincoln Park Zoo. This 15K event welcomes runners of all levels to enjoy a flat, scenic course winding through the zoo grounds. Experience beautiful views of the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan, and diverse zoo habitats. Your participation directly helps fund vital animal care, conservation efforts, and educational programs, ensuring the zoo remains free and open to everyone, all year long.

What to expect

- Enjoy a flat, scenic 15K route through Lincoln Park Zoo.
- Take in beautiful views of Chicago's skyline, Lake Michigan, and zoo habitats.
- Receive a tech-blend shirt, special edition finisher medal, and digital swag bag.

From the organizer

For more than four decades, runners of all levels and abilities have been raising money to support Lincoln Park Zoo with Run for the Zoo, now in its 48th year! The race route is suitable for all experience levels and features a flat, scenic route that winds in and around the zoo, allowing for beautiful views of Chicago’s skyline, Lake Michigan, protected natural areas, and zoo habitats.

All participants receive:

Tech-blend shirt with 2026 animal theme

Special edition finisher medal

Digital swag bag

Access to the post-race party

(Wildlife Warriors only) Bonus piece of merch with 2026 animal theme

(Kids’ Course participants only) Kids’ Course T-shirt and medal

(Volunteers only) Crew T-shirt with 2026 animal theme It costs $108,000 a day to fund Lincoln Park Zoo operations—everything from state-of-the-art animal care and global conservation work to interactive learning programs and groundbreaking scientific research. More than 80% of that operating cost is funded by memberships, donations, guest visits, and events like Run for the Zoo. Your participation helps keep Lincoln Park Zoo free and open to all, 365 days a year!