What is the schedule for race day?
6 a.m. Packet pickup opens; gear check opens
7:15 a.m. 5K Run/Walk participants at start line
7:25 a.m. Opening ceremonies at start line
7:30 a.m. 5K Run/Walk begins
8:15 a.m. 10K Run begins
9 a.m. Kids’ Course Heat No. 1
9:30 a.m. Packet pickup closes
9:45 a.m. Kids’ Course Heat No. 2
10 a.m. Awards announcements
11 a.m. Gear check closes
12 p.m. Post-race party concludes
Where are the start and finish lines?
The start line for the 5K Run/Walk and 10K Run is located at Stockton Drive just south of Webster Avenue, near the zoo’s West Gate. The finish line for both races is located on the east side of Pepper Family Wildlife Center on zoo grounds.
What streets will be closed? How will this impact getting to the race?
Street closures should be expected around the zoo on race day. Stockton Drive will be closed from LaSalle Drive to Fullerton Avenue (all lanes) from 4–9:30 a.m. Fullerton will be closed from Lincoln Park West to DuSable Lake Shore Drive (all lanes) from 7:45–9:15 a.m. Please note, this will also affect access to the zoo parking lot during portions of the race.
Is parking available at the event?
Street parking is available throughout the Lincoln Park neighborhood, although the race will close some routes. Additional parking is available in the zoo’s parking lot located at Fullerton Parkway and Cannon Drive (2400 N. Cannon Drive). Parking in the lot is first come, first served, and regular parking rates apply.
Important note: On the day of the race, Fullerton Avenue will be closed starting at 7:45 a.m., blocking the entrance to Cannon Drive and the zoo parking lot. The lot will be closed off until the street reopens at 9:15 a.m. If you plan to park in the zoo’s lot, you must arrive before the entrance closes at 7:45 a.m.
How can I find out if my car was towed?
Call 311 or visit the City of Chicago’s website at: findyourvehicle.cityofchicago.org
Can I use public transportation to get to the race?
Yes, public transportation is highly recommended for the best race day experience! The 22, 36, 151, and 156 buses all stop along the western edge of the zoo. To learn more about taking the CTA, call 312-836-7000 or use the CTA’s trip planner.
Is bike parking available?
Yes, bike parking is located outside the East Gate in the zoo’s parking lot. A limited number of spots are also available outside of the West Gate near the start line.
Where can I check my personal belongings while I participate in the race?
Complimentary gear check is located at Bird’s Eye Bar & Grill, above the zoo’s Gift Shop.
Where do I pick up my packet and T-shirt? What do I need to bring with me to pick up?
Packet pickup dates, times, and locations will be announced closer to the race date. Information will go to the email address you registered with.
You may pick up your packet and T-shirt using the QR code that will be emailed to you (please show a printed copy or an electronic version on your phone) or by providing your last name at pickup.
Can I pick up my friend's packet and T-shirt?
If you plan to pick up a packet and T-shirt for someone else, you must have a copy of that person’s unique confirmation QR code (a printed copy or an electronic version on your phone) or a photo of their ID.
