Brookfield Zoo , Chicago's largest zoo, opened its doors in 1934 and today offers a home to 2,300 animals from 450 species that enjoy naturalistic habitats spread over 216 acres. The zoo is famous for using ditches and moats instead of cages to protect both animals and visitors. It is the first American zoo to have giant pandas and the first to offer an indoor dolphin exhibit. In 1980, Brookfield Zoo opened the first indoor rainforest habitat as well as the world's largest indoor exhibit. The most famous exhibits are Australia House, Feathers and Scales, Big Cats, Fragile Desert, Clouded Leopard Rainforest, among many others. The zoo offers many activities, such as zoo camps and backstage adventures.
Brookfield Zoo, 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513, Phone: 708-688-8000
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