The zoo has reopened its doors to the public for the first time in over three months.
On March 12, the Lincoln Park Zoo closed its doors following an announcement by Gov. Pritzker, who declared that events with over 1,000 people in attendance would be postponed or canceled until further notice. Not wanting to risk the nearly average 8,200 visitors a day, nor 200 species inhabiting the grounds, the Lincoln Park Zoo closed their doors.
Originally, the zoo intended to remain closed for a month. Two-and-a-half months after the intended reopening date, the zoo is finally back open to the public.
While the most of the zoo is now, once again, accessible to the public, the zoo has made some changes in order to uphold safety standards and maintain social distancing. Among these new measures is the new reservation requirement. Current available dates are June 29 — September 30, 2020.
Furthermore, employees on the grounds will be wearing PPE. In accordance, visitors over the age of 2 will be required to wear a face mask “unless medically or physically unable”.
The zoo has designated paths on the grounds to aid foot traffic and closed off play areas and similar attractions. However, the Patio at Cafe Brauer and Park Place Cafe are open, along with retail kiosks on the grounds for contactless, grab-and-go orders. While visitors will be able to see the animals in their outdoor habitats, animal buildings will remain closed.
There is no time limit per visit, although the zoo does recommend that guests limit their stay to two hours so that they can maintain capacity limitations.
For more info on how the zoo has reopened, check out their new visiting guide here.
See also: Chicago Beaches Could Reopen In July, Officials Say
[Featured image via Ipzoo.org]