Adults-only: Learn to ballroom dance, sample wine & throwback to the ‘90s at Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is planning a slate of additional adult-only events this summer, giving guests ages 21 and older a chance to visit after hours for games, music, drinks, and animal experiences. The lineup includes themed parties, a ’90s night, and an open-air wine event across the zoo’s grounds at 2001 N. Clark St. in Chicago.

According to the zoo’s press release, the season begins on Friday, May 22, with Adults Night Out: Block Party, presented by Grey Goose Vodka, Patrón Tequila, and Angel’s Envy. The 6:30-10 p.m. event includes mini-golf, games, a live DJ, rides, food and drinks for purchase, complimentary face painting, and animal chats with zoo experts.

Tickets for that event are priced at $20 for members and $25 and up for nonmembers. Admission is limited to guests age 21 and older.

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Music, wine and more after-hours access

The next event, River North Fests Presents ’90s Night at the Zoo, is set for Saturday, June 13, from 6:30-10 p.m. The adults-only evening will feature live music, a DJ playing ’90s songs, karaoke, lawn games, and free rides on the Endangered Species Carousel, with food and alcohol available to purchase. Early bird tickets for that event start at $15, according to the release. 

A second 21-plus gathering, Summer Wine Fest: Flights of Fancy, is scheduled for Saturday, July 18, from 7-10 p.m. That event will offer open-air wine sampling in the zoo’s gardens, along with chats with winery representatives, a live string quartet, a ballroom dance workshop, garden tours led by a zoo horticulture expert, free carousel rides, and specialty food for purchase. Ticket prices are listed at $49.60 to $57.60 for members and $62 to $72 for nonmembers.

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What guests can expect

Lincoln Park Zoo said all of the summer programs are for adults 21 and older, creating late-night access to the grounds without family crowds. The events combine entertainment with the zoo’s gardens, animal habitats, and seasonal attractions.

For more information, the zoo directs guests to its event pages and calendar, including the summer wine fest listing at Lincoln Park Zoo.