The highlights of the Scovill Zoo are its frolicking creatures. More than 400 animals from nearly 100 species reside on the spacious lands, part of the Decatur Park District. Bring the family for a few hours of watching lively animals from six continents.
See the zoo’s cheetahs, the world’s fastest land animals. Scovill Zoo participates in conservation efforts for these vulnerable creatures. Other zoo mammals include lemurs, meerkats and sloths. In the reptile world, look for tiny geckos and a very large Argus monitor lizard. The zoo’s birds include Humboldt penguins, strutting peacocks, pink flamingoes, bald eagles and a laughing kookaburra.
The zoo offers several attractions in addition to its animal exhibits. Enjoy a musical ride on animal chariots on the Endangered Species Carousel. The 30 hand-carved wooden animals provide more opportunities for education and fun with animals, from a puffin to a zebra. Two positions on the carousel accommodate wheelchairs.
Take a 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) ride on the Z.O. & O. Express Train along Lake Decatur. From the train, see animals from six continents in their zoo habitats. The train is modeled after an 1863 C.P. Huntington steam train used by the Central Pacific Railroad. Ramp access and secure interior space provide the opportunity for those in wheelchairs to enjoy the train ride.
Community members built the zoo’s Project Playground II. This ADA-accessible space for kids has a music station, rock wall and several slides. Visit the playground year-round with no additional fee. If you have a group of 10 or more kids, reserve a spot to stay overnight at the zoo.
Decatur’s Scovill Zoo is open daily from mid-morning to late afternoon. Admission fees are reduced for seniors and children. Purchase tickets to ride the carousel or train. Combine your zoo visit with a trip to the Children’s Museum of Illinois. Follow the 800-foot (250-meter) path through the Scovill Sculpture Park between the two attractions and look for whimsical and thought-provoking works of art as you walk.
