Zoo question and water taxi question

Question

I’m in downtown Chicago solo for a birthday trip with no car -is it worth it to go to the Lincoln park Zoo ? And are there water taxis to Navy pier running now ?

Answer

Visiting Lincoln Park Zoo as a solo traveler can definitely be worth it, depending on your interests and time. The zoo is free, centrally located, and set within Lincoln Park, which is a lovely area to explore with walking paths, gardens, and nearby cafés. Even if you’re not a huge animal enthusiast, it can be a relaxing, low-cost way to spend a few hours and enjoy the outdoors in the city.

Key points about Lincoln Park Zoo:

Admission is free, though donations are welcome.
It’s easily accessible by public transportation from downtown; the CTA bus or the red/purple/brown “El” lines to Fullerton, followed by a short walk, works well.
It’s a smaller, manageable zoo, so you won’t need a whole day—2–3 hours is usually sufficient.
The surrounding Lincoln Park area has nice walking paths, cafés, and the Lincoln Park Conservatory if you want to extend your visit.

Regarding water taxis:

Water taxis in Chicago do operate seasonally, typically from spring through fall. By November, service is generally reduced or stopped, as colder weather and lake conditions make it less practical.
Alternative: You can take a regular CTA bus, train, or rideshare from downtown to Navy Pier. Walking is also an option from the Loop or Michigan Avenue areas, which can be enjoyable on a clear day.

Additional tips for a solo birthday trip:

Consider combining Lincoln Park Zoo with a stroll through the park and maybe a quick stop at a nearby coffee shop or small museum.
Check the weather forecast; November can be chilly, so dress warmly if you plan to walk around outdoors.
Even without water taxis, Navy Pier is accessible and has shops, dining, and the Ferris wheel if you want a scenic city view.

Overall, Lincoln Park Zoo is worth a visit for a solo traveler, and while water taxi service to Navy Pier may not be running in November, there are convenient land-based alternatives.

Zoo question and water taxi question

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