Cosley Zoo

By Christine Escobar

Cosley Zoo opened nearly 33 years ago in suburban Wheaton, Illinois, several miles west of Chicago and is managed and maintained by the Park District of Wheaton.  

A favorite, inexpensive outing for area parents of preschoolers, Cosley Zoo is the ideal zoo for little feet. The wildlife exhibited here include fox, raccoon, owls, cows, a horse, donkey, sheep, ducks, goats, chickens, snakes, turtles, peacocks and llamas.

What Preschoolers Will Enjoy

The zoo is located on a shady, tree-lined 5 acres. Several picnic tables just inside the entrance make a great place to stop and eat a snack or lunch before making the rounds. Preschoolers are sure to notice the authentic bright red caboose parked just past the tables. The caboose is open for exploration, but its small staircase can be precarious for young preschoolers who may need help climbing up from an adult.

The duck pond at Cosley Zoo is also a preschooler favorite. It makes for a quiet and peaceful end to your visit. The ducks are easily viewable from behind the little foot-tall fence and many young children are just captivated watching them swim, preen their feathers and eat. There is also a quaint spinning water wheel and a small bridge at the pond that is sure to interest preschoolers, as well.

What Parents Should Know

Beginning in June, concessions are available for purchase daily from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A selection of lunch staples is offered, including hot dogs and pizza, as well as a variety of ice cream, snacks and fountain beverages. The concession stand is only open on weekends during the months of May, September and October. Vending beverages are available year round.

The Wild Side Gift Shop stocks a large assortment of miniature animal figures and many fine children's books, magazines, toys, t-shirts and games related to nature. Staff at the shop are always friendly and helpful. Birthday parties for all ages and classes for toddlers and preschoolers are also offered at Cosley Zoo through the Wheaton Park District.

Upcoming Events at Cosley Zoo

An Evening with the Animals 
July 20 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 
The evening features a look into behind-the-scenes areas. You can see where the fox sleep and what the barn owls eat. Animal visits, demonstrations and animal feedings are just a few of the special activities planned. Free, no registration is required.

Details

Address 1356 N. Gary Avenue Wheaton, Illinois 
Phone 630-665-5534
Hours Jan. to Mar. daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Apr.to Oct. daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. daily 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
After Thanksgiving through December 23rd daily 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Dec. 1st to 30th Daily, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Christmas Eve 9 a.m.to noon, New Years Eve 9 a.m. to noon, Cosley Zoo is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Years Day. 
Admission is free 
Diaper changing stations are available in the restrooms.
All paths are paved and accessible for those with strollers or disabilities.
Map