SPRINGFIELD,IL – Families looking for affordable ways to celebrate Father’s Day can enjoy a full day of free and low-cost activities thanks to the Springfield Park District.
From complimentary zoo admission for dads to a district-wide park scavenger hunt with prizes to win, there are plenty of ways to create memories outdoor this summer.
Free admission for dads at the Henson Robinson Zoo
The Henson Robinson Zoo, located at 1100 E. Lake Shore Drive, will offer free admission for dads on Sunday, June 15, with the purchase of one regular paid admission. The zoo will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with final entry at 4:30 p.m.
Guests can explore a wide range of animal exhibits. It’s a fun and interactive way to celebrate with the whole family.
Now underway: Park Quest 2025
The Springfield Park District’s Park Quest is now live and runs through July 31, 2025. As part of the district’s 125th anniversary celebration, the event encourages families to get outside and explore local parks in a fun and creative way.
To participate, visitors simply download a Park Quest Pass, visit any Springfield Park District park, and take a photo with a unique feature within that park. Participants then submit their photo using the “Share Your Park Pics” form online. Each submission becomes an entry into a drawing for one of five individual season passes to the Henson Robinson Zoo.
Photos must be appropriate, family-friendly, and highlight the beauty of each park. Entries must include the participant’s name, the park visited, and the park feature shown in the image.
How to Play:
- Download the Park Quest Passat springfieldparks.org
- Visit any Springfield Park District park between May 1 and July 31, 2025.
- Take a photo with a unique feature within the park.
- Submit your photo online through the Share Your Park Pics form.
Participating parks include:
Bergen, Bunn, Carpenter, Centennial, Comer Cox, Duncan, Dreamland, Eisenhower, Enos, Fairview, Gehrmann, Gietl, Gurgens, Hobbs, Iles, Indian Hills, Jaycee, Jefferson, Kennedy, Kiwanis, Lake Victoria, Lanphier, Lawless, Lincoln, Lindbergh, Cadigan, Barker, Rotary, Riverside, Schlitt, Southwind, Stuart, Timberbrooke, Vredenburgh, Washington and Westchester.
Other ways to celebrate with Dad
If you’re looking to keep the fun going, the park district offers additional ways to enjoy Father’s Day without spending a dime:
- Sangamon Valley Trail – A paved 11.5–mile path perfect for biking and walking.
- Carpenter Park Nature Preserve – Offers fostered trails and scenic river views.
- Washington Park Botanical Garden – Free daily admission to this lush public garden.
You can also catch a free carillon concert at the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon in Washington Park, weather permitting. Visit the district’s website for concert times.
Learn more
For full details on Father’s Day activities, Park Quest guidelines, or zoo hours, visit springfieldparks.org or follow @SpringfieldParkDistrict on Facebook.
Happy Father’s Day from the Springfield Park District!