Cosley Zoo

Cosley Zoo is an animal facility on about 5 acres in Wheaton featuring native species and farm animals. Visitors encounter white-tailed deer, red foxes, turtles, and other regional creatures in open enclosures.

The zoo was founded in 1974 and grew from a small farm exhibit to become an animal and education center. Over the decades, more species were added and programs expanded to serve community needs.

The zoo allows visitors to connect with regional animal species and plays a role in helping the community understand local nature. Daily work with these creatures demonstrates why protecting native wildlife matters for the area.

The zoo is open most days and is best visited in dry weather since many pathways are outdoors. Comfortable shoes are recommended and visitors can follow the paved paths that wind through the grounds.

From November through December, the grounds transform with holiday lights and become a place for festive shopping. Visitors can purchase Christmas trees there and experience a seasonal setting that is quite different from regular operation.

Location: Illinois

Inception: August 17, 1974

Email: cosleyzoo@wheatonparks.org

Website: https://cosleyzoo.org

GPS coordinates: 41.87810,-88.12080

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:01