Dive into the authentic farm life at Cosley Zoo with the Morning Chores program. Spend two hours feeding, grooming, and caring for animals in this hands-on, educational adventure ideal for young outdoor enthusiasts.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for children and adults with basic mobility; involves light physical tasks like lifting feed bags and bending.
Wildlife
History
Cosley Zoo, part of Wheaton Park District, has focused on regional wildlife and farm animal education since its founding in the mid-20th century.
Conservation
The zoo promotes sustainable animal husbandry practices and educates visitors on responsible stewardship of native Illinois fauna.
Cosley Zoo
Dive into the authentic farm life at Cosley Zoo with the Morning Chores program. Spend two hours feeding, grooming, and caring for animals in this hands-on, educational adventure ideal for young outdoor enthusiasts.
Cosley Zoo in Wheaton, Illinois, is a neighborhood zoo focused on hands-on animal experiences, seasonal events, and educational programs. Visitors can purchase general admission or join specialty experiences designed for close-up learning and participation. Regular offerings include the Armadillo Adventure, a 30-minute guided session available Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays that highlights armadillo behavior, anatomy, and ecological roles. The Morning Chores program gives participants a two-hour, hands-on look at daily farm routines such as stall cleaning, feeding, and grooming, providing practical exposure to animal care.
Cosley Zoo also hosts seasonal celebrations that welcome families and community groups. The Spooktacular Halloween Stroll on October 17, 2025, features decorated pathways, pumpkin decorating, costume-friendly activities, and seasonal treats. The Christmas Tree Lane event runs November 30 through December 6, 2025, inviting groups to decorate lit five-foot trees with wildlife-friendly ornaments and enjoy hot chocolate while trees remain on display during December.
All programs are structured with clear schedules and stated participation requirements, such as closed-toed shoes for the Armadillo Adventure. Cosley Zoo’s combination of everyday animal care experiences and limited-run seasonal events offers accessible options for visitors seeking educational engagement, family activities, and community-oriented celebrations in Wheaton. For planning purposes, check specific trip availability, dates, and participation guidelines before attending.
Location
Wheaton, IL
Located in Wheaton, Illinois
Experiences Offered
5 Experiences
Admission plus four specialty programs
Program Lengths
30 min–2 hr
Short and structured sessions
Event Dates
Oct 17; Nov 30–Dec 6, 2025
Seasonal celebrations with family activities
Book Cosley Zoo Admission or register for specialty experiences and 2025 events — check availability and participation requirements before attending.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes
You'll be walking around the barn and working with animals, so solid footwear is essential.
Dress for mess
Tasks include cleaning stalls and feeding animals — expect dirt and fur, so old clothes are recommended.
Bring a water bottle
Keep hydrated during your two-hour hands-on session, especially in warmer months.
Allergy alert
If you have hay or animal allergies, take precautions as this activity involves direct contact with bedding and animals.
Closed-toe shoes
Protect your feet while working around animals and farm equipment.
Old, durable clothing
Ideal for messy chores like cleaning and grooming to avoid ruining good clothes.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during active participation in warmer weather.
summer
Light jacket or layers
Keep warm during cool mornings or breezy days on the farm.
fall|spring|winter