The Explanation behind Lincoln Park Haunted Zoo in Chicago

The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the places to visit for free activities you can enjoy in Chicago. For 0$ you get to enjoy the wildlife and as if that is not interesting enough, you might obtain few ghost stories to share with your friends. People believe the high level of paranormality is linked to the land’s former function as the city’s main cemetery.

So, what happened there?

Photo: chascarper

А Short History about the Cemetery

Everything started back in the 1830s when thousands of victims lost their lives due to several cholera outbreaks. In 30 years the cemetary was filled with around 30.000 graves that had to be moved out of the town because there were health concerns since the bodies were buried close to the cities' main water supply. The families of the deceased were informed about the situation and they were responsible for making arrangements to move the bodies.

In 1871, the Chicago Fires took place leaving the cemetary unreckognizable. Most of the bodies were moved but one hyperbolized rumor declared that there were still 10,000 unmarked graves in the park.

The construction of the Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo was built in the 1870s directly over the old cemetery site. During construction in the park, few bodies were dug up. If their corpses couldn't be identified, they had to be left back where they were found. And finally, with many animals being donated, the zoo was opened for visitors.

Confirmed Paranormal Activity

The legends are that when you disrupt a body from its burial state, you upset the spirit of the people who have passed on and that is why we believe this place is haunted.

Witnesses report seeing ghosts walk by and dissapear. Near The Lion House, visitors have seen a specific lady, following them to the Ladies Room where they see her reflection in the mirror.

There are also reports about unknown voices, door slams, anomalies in the pictures taken within the area.

Reasons why you should visit the Zoo

In a city where skyscrapers are built every day, this is a place dedicated to wildlife. As mentioned before, there is no entrance fee. Not for citizens, not for tourists! You can make a donation and support them that way, but that is your choice.

The zoo's exhibits include big cats, polar bears, penguins, gorillas, reptiles, monkeys, and other species totaling about 1,100 animals from some 200 species. They offer guided tours that can be extremely educational for kids and adults too.

Read more on their website Lincoln Park Zoo and make your reservations here.

Photo: Christopher Bijalba

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