FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Margie Wilhelmi
Director of Marketing, Wheaton Park District
630.510.4984 | [email protected]

January 29, 2021

Cosley Zoo remains open seven days a week this winter and is committed to continuing to provide families with a fun, safe, socially-distanced outdoor experience.

On a footprint of approximately 5 acres, Cosley Zoo gives visitors an up-close interaction with nature in Wheaton, Illinois, right in the heart of DuPage County. Cosley Zoo is home to native Illinois wildlife and farm animals and offers natural habitats for white-tailed deer, red fox, bobcat, coyote, llama, horse and much more.

Pre-reserved, timed tickets are required for all admissions at Cosley Zoo. The zoo is open daily from 9A to 4P, with the last ticket time at 3P.

Admission is free for all children 17 and under, Wheaton Park District residents and zoo members. Admission is $8.00 for non-resident adults and $7.00 for seniors over 55.

Cosley Zoo has a host of safety measures in place to ensure the health and well being of the visitors, staff and animals. These measures include a one-way path through the zoo, signage encouraging social distancing between groups, increased cleaning and sanitation procedures, and the closure of some indoor spaces and high-touch areas. All guests over the age of 2 should wear a mask when a minimum of 6′ social distance cannot be maintained. Exceptions will be made for those with medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from safely wearing a face covering. The Wild Side Gift Shop is currently open with limited capacity.

“While many of us like to stay warm and cozy during cold weather, the winter is actually a great time to visit the zoo. Not only are the animals very active, but spending a little time outside in nature can do wonders for both our mental and physical health,” said Sue Wahlgren, Director of Cosley Zoo.

Last month, the zoo saw more than 31,000 visitors during its annual Festival of Lights & Christmas Tree Sale fundraiser.

The zoo is also offering a variety of virtual programming including behind the scenes tours, animal training and feeding demonstrations, science experiments and storytelling.